How to Get a Private Adult ADHD Assessment

It can be difficult to diagnose ADHD particularly for adults. Many healthcare professionals aren't aware of how to recognize ADHD in adults or may only have a limited set of tools for diagnosing.

Self-assessment may give some clues, however a valid diagnosis is only achievable by a trained professional. This includes physicians, clinical psychologists (psychiatrist or neurologists) and medical social workers.

What is a Private Assessment?

Many people who suspect they have ADHD might seek out private medical attention in order to receive a diagnosis as well as the prescription for medication. It is important to remember that only psychiatrists who have professional training and experience in working with ADHD in adult patients can diagnose ADHD. Mental health professionals and counselors are able to discuss ADHD symptoms, but they cannot give a formal diagnosis.

The primary method for diagnosing ADHD is through a structured interview and questionnaires. They are typically based on research comparing the behaviours of ADHD patients with and without it. During the assessment it is essential for the individual to be honest and open and not hold back details or conceal any difficulties they may be facing. The doctor will ask the patient about the severity and frequency of symptoms in various situations and over time. They will also discuss family history, any other mental problems or alcohol or drug abuse.

A psychiatrist will evaluate the symptoms and their impact on daily life. This is a more detailed assessment than a standard assessment of psychiatric disorders, so it's important to make an appointment prior to the time. It is recommended to bring a friend or family member to support the individual and to provide feedback. Sometimes an additional neuropsychological, psychosocial or testing for learning disabilities is used to complement the clinical evaluation and help determine if ADHD is present or if other conditions are causing the symptoms.

After the evaluation the doctor will inform the patient what the next steps will be. In most cases, they will discuss whether medication is necessary and come up with a holistic treatment plan. Some clinics provide a rapid stabilisation and titration program for those who wish to start taking medications right away. This service is only available to a small number of patients who meet certain requirements. For example, they must be over 18 years old and have no existing conditions that would hinder the treatment from beginning immediately. Cardiovascular disease or hyperthyroidism.

How do I book a Private Assessment?

If you think you may have ADHD and are concerned about the effects it might have on your relationships, work or general wellbeing you can request an assessment privately. You can also request your GP for the referral to an expert. You can do this via the NHS "Right to Choose" scheme, which means that you can pick the hospital or wellbeing centre of your choice.

Once you've been recommended for an appointment, it is scheduled to complete the clinical assessment, usually within several weeks. It can be done face-toface or via the internet, or by a specialist in the field. This appointment is vital as without it, a diagnosis can't be determined. You may also bring your family member along to collect collateral information. This is not required.

Your clinician will go over your medical history and discuss your symptoms in depth and how they affect you now and how long they have been present. You should expect to answer questions about your personal and social life, your ability to cope with symptoms, and how they affect your work and relationships. It's normal to feel nervous about your first consultation, but our psychiatrists have the expertise to make you feel relaxed and secure.

The test will also comprise diagnostic tests, in addition to the structured interview. Most often, these tests will comprise the QbCheck and QbTest. Both tests are CE marked and FDA/TGA approved to aid in the diagnosis of adults with ADHD and use a simplified version of the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults Version 5 (DIVA5). The results of the test and clinical judgement are used to give an accurate diagnosis.

It is essential to receive a correct diagnosis, as if it is not treated the condition can lead to serious issues at relationships and work. It can also affect your wellbeing. It is important to be aware that medical professionals may have preconceived notions about who they believe has ADHD This can hinder their ability to provide a proper diagnosis.

What happens at the time of a Private Assessment?

While every doctor will have their own process for evaluating patients but there are certain processes that all physicians believe to be necessary for a complete ADHD evaluation. These include an exhaustive diagnosis interview, data gathered from outside sources (such a spouse or other family members), standard behavior rating scales for ADHD and other types of tests for psychometrics that are considered appropriate by the therapists.

The diagnostic interview is typically the first step in the process. The person being evaluated is asked a series of questions designed to get the person to consider their actions and then describe how that behavior impacts their lives. It could take up to about an hour or more. It is essential that the patient or family members answer honestly and thoroughly. Some patients may be embarrassed or reluctant to discuss how they are behaving, and this could negatively impact the quality of the evaluation.

During the interview, the examiner will ask about how the symptoms of ADHD have affected the person's life and relationships. The examiner will also inquire of the individual about their medical history and duration of time they've suffered from the symptoms of ADHD. This is a vital part of the evaluation, because it will determine whether an assessment of ADHD should be made.

The examiner will then complete the scales of behavioral ratings that are standardized for ADHD. These tests are founded on research that compared people who suffer from ADHD with those who do not suffer from ADHD. private adhd assessment provide important reliable information. These scales of rating are typically completed by the person being rated as well as their partner.

Broad-spectrum scales for screening for depression or anxiety are usually included in an ADHD assessment as are tests of specific abilities (such as the development of language, vocabulary, memory recall and motor skills). Sometimes, the doctor will decide that a new type of psychological or psychometric test is required and order one in accordance with the need.

Priory is extremely experienced in exploring differential diagnosis. (What other conditions may share symptoms with ADHD). For instance, a person who has been diagnosed with anxiety might be recommended psychotherapy as in a medication plan to enhance the treatment program.

What happens after a Private Assessment?

If you or someone you know suffers from ADHD The diagnosis can aid in managing the symptoms that negatively affect your life. This is particularly true for people who struggle in their relationships or at work and feel they are unable to keep up with the demands at home, get lost of their time easily, or struggle to plan and organize their day-to-day activities. The first step is to find an expert doctor to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. Your general practitioner may be able to make recommendations or ask a friend or family member for a referral. You can also ask the medical school or mental health clinic to get recommendations. Participate in an ADHD support group to discuss issues with other members.

Online or face-to-face An in-depth ADHD assessment is available. The psychologist will conduct an interview, review your medical history, and recommend psychometric tests to help you understand your cognitive abilities. These tests include the standardized behavioural rating for ADHD, broad spectrum psychometrics and specific ability tests.

The doctor will combine all the data from various sources to offer diagnostic opinions regarding your ADHD and any other learning or psychiatric disorder identified during the assessment. The doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you and help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include therapy, medication, or other psychosocial interventions.


After a final diagnosis is made, the clinician will provide you and your GP the full report. The doctor will provide your GP all the paperwork required for you to be able to receive prescription medication via the NHS. You'll need to attend follow-up appointments with your GP in order for them to track your progress and ensure that the medications are working.

You may choose to continue with private care or return to NHS treatment once your doctor has provided you with a written summary of the examination and has agreed on a comprehensive treatment plan. You'll need at least three months of stabilisation of your medication, and follow-up appointments before you can be admitted to the NHS.