You may have spent years wondering about whether you had ADHD or not. Accessing an assessment can be a daunting idea. Here we tried to answer all of the Frequently Asked Questions that might be on your mind.
- What is an ADHD assessment for adults? An ADHD assessment for adults is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a trained professional to determine whether you have ADHD. It involves gathering detailed information about your symptoms, childhood behavior, and how ADHD might be affecting your life today. The process includes questionnaires, interviews, and a review of relevant history, followed by a thorough report with findings and recommendations.
- Why should I seek an ADHD assessment? If you’ve been experiencing difficulties with focus, organization, time management, impulsivity, or emotional regulation, an ADHD assessment can help clarify whether ADHD is the cause. Getting an accurate diagnosis can lead to tailored support, coping strategies, and treatment options that can improve both personal and professional aspects of your life.
- How is the ADHD assessment conducted? The assessment typically involves a free initial consultation, completion of screening questionnaires, and interviews with both you and someone who knew you during childhood. These steps help the clinician gather a comprehensive understanding of your symptoms and behaviors. A final written report is provided with the diagnosis and recommended next steps.
- How long does the ADHD assessment take? The entire assessment process usually takes a few hours, spread over multiple stages. The initial consultation call is typically around 15-20 minutes, followed by the completion of questionnaires which you complete in your own time. A detailed interview with the clinician can take an hour to 2 hours, and an interview with a person who knew you as a child can take up to an hour. A final report is typically prepared within a few days to a week after the assessment.
- How much does the ADHD assessment cost? Our ADHD assessment service is priced at £500, which includes the free consultation call, completion of screening questionnaires, interviews with both you and a person who knew you as a child, and the final detailed report.
- Do I need a referral for an ADHD assessment? No, you do not need a referral for an ADHD assessment. You can contact our team directly to schedule your consultation. We are able to assess adults privately without the need for a referral from a GP or other healthcare provider.
- What should I expect during the ADHD assessment interview? During the interview, you will discuss your symptoms, challenges, and experiences in detail with the clinician. The clinician will ask questions to explore your history, including any childhood symptoms or behaviors that may have indicated ADHD. This is a collaborative conversation where you can share your perspective, and the clinician will guide the discussion to ensure all relevant information is covered.
- Can I receive treatment after the assessment? Following the assessment, you will receive a report with a diagnosis and recommendations. While we do not provide medical treatments, the report may suggest treatment options, including referrals for medication, therapy, or strategies for managing ADHD. You can take this information to your GP or a specialist for further support.
- How accurate are ADHD assessments for adults? Our ADHD assessments are based on established diagnostic criteria, including NICE guidelines, and are conducted by qualified professionals with experience in adult ADHD. The process is thorough and ensures an accurate evaluation, but it’s important to note that ADHD can sometimes be challenging to diagnose in adults due to the overlap with other conditions or the presence of coping mechanisms that may mask symptoms.
- What happens if I’m diagnosed with ADHD? If you are diagnosed with ADHD, you will receive a detailed report outlining the findings. The report will include personalized recommendations for managing the condition, which may involve lifestyle adjustments, behavioral strategies, therapy, or referrals for medication. Your clinician can help guide you through your options for treatment and support.
- Is the ADHD assessment confidential? Yes, all information shared during the assessment process is treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Your personal and medical information will not be shared without your consent, and the final report will only be provided to you or others you choose to share it with.
- Do you provide ‘Shared Care’ Agreements working with the NHS? A shared care agreement (SCA) is an agreement between a patient, their GP, and a psychiatrist to share ADHD care and medical treatment. We are not psychiatrists so do not provide SCAs. We provide ADHD diagnoses for which a psychiatrist can prescribe medication if you wish.
If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us!