ADHD Assessments

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition where an individual experiences traits of either one or both of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Individuals can struggle with focus, daydreaming, being easily distracted, and disorganisation (inattention); frequent moving, restlessness and difficulty with staying quiet (hyperactivity); tendency to interrupt others, acting without thinking, and being inpatient (impulsivity).

Traits of ADHD can impact an individual across their different contexts such as with education / work, family, social contacts, romantic relationships, hobbies / activities, or self-image.

I assess either adults or children for ADHD.

What is the process of ADHD assessment?

1) Screening assessment

If you think you or your child has ADHD, the first step is to complete a screening assessment which includes a 30 minute consultation. You will be sent the screening questionnaires ahead of time and will be asked to complete them before the initial meeting. If the results are indicative of ADHD then I will recommend a diagnostic assessment to give a definitive answer.

2) Information gathering

The assessment process includes talking to someone who knows you well since childhood to answer a response booklet and questionnaire. For adult assessments, this could include a parent, or grandparent. For child assessments, it would be helpful to discuss with your child’s school through questionnaire and school reports.

Neurodevelopmental conditions are lifelong so this information will help me understand your experiences since you were a child. If you do not have someone who can participate in this section, or your child is home-schooled then you can still be assessed for ADHD. I will ask you to bring as much information as possible to your assessment such as school reports, or ask to speak with someone who knows your child in a different context.

3) Diagnostic Assessment

The assessment will involve a clinical interview using the DIVA-5. This covers questions about your / your child’s symptoms that are impacting on your / their life and experiences. For adult assessments, you will also be asked about your experiences as a child. For child assessments, I will ask both you and your child questions as well as observing your child’s behaviour during the assessment. I will compile all the information gathered during the process and consider this information alongside the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD.

 

4) Diagnostic Report

Following the assessment, I will provide you with a comprehensive report giving a breakdown of the findings and any recommendations made. A further consultation session will be offered to you giving you opportunity to ask any questions or clarity.

5) Treatment and Support

If the outcome of the assessment show that you meet the diagnostic criteria of ADHD then potential treatment options will be shared with you. These could include therapeutic work and / or medication.

As I am a psychologist, I do not directly prescribe medication, but I do liaise with a prescribing psychiatrist. The psychiatry services charge a separate fee to evaluate and initiate education. As my assessment follows all NICE guidelines and the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, the psychiatrists are happy to accept my ADHD report and will not charge an additional fee for this. Once you are stabilised on the medication, the psychiatrist will refer to your local NHS ADHD service or GP to continue the management of your medication.

 

Cost

Screening Assessment - £150

Full Diagnostic Assessment - £750 (including screening assessment)

Combined ADHD and Autism Assessment - £2100 (adult only)