ADHD assessment for adults
A thorough, consultant-led assessment by video for anyone aged 18 or over. You’ll come away with a clear answer, the reasons behind it, and a plan for what happens next.
| Who it’s for | Adults aged 18 and over living in the UK |
| Who you’ll see | A consultant psychiatrist specialising in adult ADHD |
| How | Secure video call, about 90 minutes |
| Your report | Within 10 working days of your assessment |
| Wait | Usually 2 to 4 weeks |
| Fee | £895, paid when you book |
Does this sound familiar?
Adults often get in touch after years of feeling that they work twice as hard as everyone else to keep on top of things. People commonly tell us about:
- Starting lots of things and finishing few of them
- Losing track of time, appointments or belongings
- Finding it hard to focus on dull tasks, but losing hours to interesting ones
- Feeling restless, fidgety or unable to switch off
- Acting or speaking on impulse, then regretting it
- Strong emotions that flare up quickly
- Bills, forms and emails piling up despite good intentions
Everyone has some of these some of the time.
ADHD is diagnosed when difficulties have been there since childhood, show up in more than one part of life, and cause real problems. That’s what a proper assessment looks at.
Diagnosed later in life?
Many adults, especially women, are only recognised in their 30s or 40s, often after being treated for anxiety or low mood. It’s never too late to understand yourself better.
What your assessment includes
Everything below is included in the assessment fee.
- Pre-assessment questionnaires about your current difficulties, your childhood and your health, completed online before the appointment
- A view from someone who knew you as a child, such as a parent or older sibling. If that isn’t possible, we’ll find another way, such as old school reports
- A structured diagnostic interview with a consultant psychiatrist, using a recognised tool such as the DIVA-5
- Checks for other conditions that can look like ADHD or come alongside it, including anxiety, depression, autism, sleep problems and substance use
- A written report explaining the outcome, how it was reached and our recommendations
- A letter for your GP, sent with your consent
Step by step
It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks from your first call to your assessment, then up to 10 working days for your report.
- Free 15-minute call We talk through what’s been happening and check that an assessment is the right next step.
- Book and pay You choose an appointment time and receive your questionnaires and a secure login.
- Complete your questionnaires Usually takes about an hour in total, and you can save and come back. Your informant completes theirs separately.
- Assessment by video About 90 minutes with your psychiatrist. Take breaks whenever you need to.
- Your report and next steps We send your report and, if ADHD is diagnosed, talk through treatment options with you.
Is a private assessment right for you?
It may suit you if
- You’re 18 or over and live in the UK
- You’ve wondered for a while whether ADHD explains long-standing difficulties
- You’d like to be assessed without a long wait
- You’re registered with a UK GP and happy for us to share your report with them
It may not be right for you if
- You need urgent help. Please see urgent help or call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option
- You’d prefer an NHS-funded assessment. In England, ask your GP about Right to Choose
- You’re mainly struggling with drug or alcohol use right now. Your GP can help you get support first
- You already have a diagnosis and want treatment. See transferring your care
Private or NHS: how the routes compare
You can be assessed for ADHD through the NHS or privately. Both should follow the same NICE guidance. The main differences are cost, waiting time and how prescriptions work.
| What | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of assessment | Free | Fixed fee, £895 with us |
| Typical wait | Often months or years for adults, depending on where you live | Usually 2 to 4 weeks with us |
| How to start | GP referral | Book directly. No GP referral needed |
| Medication while your dose is adjusted | NHS prescriptions | Private prescriptions, which you pay for |
| After that | Usually your GP, with specialist reviews | Your GP may agree to share care. If not, private prescriptions continue |
In England you may also be able to use NHS Right to Choose. Read our guides to private assessment or Right to Choose and what a private ADHD assessment costs.
Adult assessment questions
More answers on our FAQs page.
How long does the assessment take?
The appointment itself is about 90 minutes. Allow about an hour beforehand for questionnaires, which you can complete in stages.
Who can be my informant?
Ideally a parent or someone who knew you well before the age of 12. If that isn’t possible, an older sibling, a long-term partner or school reports can help. Talk to us if you’re unsure.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You’re welcome to have someone you trust with you for all or part of the appointment.
Will a diagnosis affect my job or driving?
A diagnosis is confidential. You don’t have to tell your employer, though doing so can help you get reasonable adjustments. You must tell the DVLA if your ADHD affects your ability to drive safely. Your clinician can talk you through medication and driving.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can book directly. We’ll ask for your GP’s details so we can share your report with them, with your consent, and keep your care safe.
What if I’m not diagnosed with ADHD?
You’ll still get a full explanation and a written report. If something else better explains your difficulties, such as anxiety, low mood or autism, we’ll tell you and suggest next steps.
Can I be assessed if I live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?
Yes. We see adults across the UK by video. Some things, such as shared care with your GP, work differently in each nation. Read ADHD assessment in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Will the NHS accept my diagnosis?
A thorough private diagnosis is valid, but your GP decides whether to prescribe. Read is a private ADHD diagnosis recognised by the NHS?
Not sure if an assessment is right for you?
Book a free 15-minute call. We’ll talk through what’s been happening, explain your options and answer your questions. There’s no pressure to book.
Or call us on 0306 999 0123, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.