The Quality of Private ADHD Assessments Has Come Under Questioning

A BBC Panorama investigation has recently exposed the poor quality of private clinic ADHD assessment under scrutiny. The investigation revealed that an undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three different private clinics, even though he had a more detailed face-to-face NHS assessment that found he did not have the condition.

Many patients are forced, however, to seek private treatment and diagnosis because of the long NHS waiting list. What are private assessments however?

What is a Private Assessment?

A private ADHD assessment is a thorough process that begins with a clinical interview, whether in person or over the phone or video link. The psychiatrist or psychologist conducting the assessment will also take a comprehensive medical history and may conduct additional tests such as neuropsychological testing to offer insights into your strengths, weaknesses, and any comorbidities that you may have.

During your examination your doctor will discuss the way your symptoms impact your life and help you find the most effective treatment for you. It could be CBT or medication, but it's essential to determine which is the most effective for you.

Our team of psychologists, psychiatrists and other professionals are experts in the diagnosis of adult ADHD. Our clinics have been certified by NHS England's "Right to Choose' legislation, which gives you the legal right to seek out specialist mental health care outside of your general practitioner. This is a huge benefit, since the NHS can be extremely slow.

Untreated ADHD can cause serious issues in the personal and professional life of many people. This can have a negative impact on their self-esteem as well as their overall wellbeing. If not treated, ADHD can cause anxiety or depression. This is why we believe that an adult-only ADHD assessment is so beneficial, it can help you get the answers you need sooner, and find the best solution for you.

After you've received a diagnosis you can then return to your GP under what's called a shared care agreement. The psychiatrist or psychologist who diagnosed you will write to your GP with paperwork for you to sign that states that you're returning to their treatment. You can visit your GP and continue treatment.

It is important to keep it in mind that only psychiatrists or psychologist who is a specialist in the field can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, including psychologists, can conduct an assessment for ADHD however they are unable to prescribe medications.

Benefits of an assessment by a private person

Many people require an individual ADHD assessment due to the fact that they are tired of waiting for years for an NHS referral. This can be especially frustrating for those who are adults who have seen how untreated ADHD affects their work life and relationships as well as their financial security.

Private assessments are usually shorter than NHS ones, and they can be done at a time that works for the client. Some clinics will accept insurance or offer flexible payment plans. Private assessments vary in price from one provider to another, so you should search around for the one that best meets your requirements.

A private ADHD assessment will usually be completed by a psychologist or psychiatrist, as they are the only healthcare professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. These professionals are trained in observation conducting interviews and administering psychometric tests that assess for the symptoms of ADHD. The assessment process includes questionnaires to determine if you show enough signs for ADHD, observations in school and at home (if appropriate) and a psychological assessment with a thorough discussion of your family's mental health history.


Psychologists are also able identify comorbid conditions that can coexist with ADHD, such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can have a significant impact on a person's health and can reduce the necessity for GPs prescribing other medications.

After a diagnosis is established, the physician will recommend treatment options and suggest ways to manage the symptoms, including education, support at workplace or at home exercising, diet and lifestyle adjustments. If medication is prescribed, a shared care agreement could be required between the GP and patient.

It is important to keep in mind that an untreated diagnosis of ADHD can lead to serious and long-lasting problems, including criminal activity or substance abuse, as well as a reduction in life longevity. Untreated ADHD can have a similar impact to untreated Type 2 Diabetes in middle age. Therefore, it is crucial that patients receive the support and assistance they require.

What to Expect What to Expect During a Private Assessment

If you suspect that you may have ADHD or believe your child is suffering from ADHD, scheduling an evaluation can feel overwhelming. Once you've got an appointment booked, though you can breathe a sigh of relief.

It is essential to select the right specialist who is trained in conducting an ADHD assessment. They are medical professionals, usually psychologists or psychiatrists. They will look over your symptoms, history and conduct a medical exam. They will also ask you to complete one or more of the standardized behavior rating scales that are based on research comparing behaviors of people with and without ADHD.

The results of these evaluations will be discussed with you during the time of your consultation. Based on the outcome of your assessment, you may receive a diagnosis of ADHD or a different problem such as depression, anxiety or learning disabilities as well as alcohol and drug abuse or other mental health issues. If you are diagnosed with ADHD and your psychiatrist will discuss your treatment options with you. It is generally recommended to combine a medication regime with specialized coaching. This approach has been proven to be the most effective approach to controlling symptoms for clients with ADHD.

When choosing a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct your assessment, ask for recommendations from other patients or healthcare professionals you trust. Check the specialist's professional certification, academic qualifications, and experience treating adults with ADHD.

Your appointment will be scheduled and confirmed after you have completed the pre-screening forms. These are accessible on your portal dashboard after you have scheduled an appointment and must be returned by the date specified by your clinician. They are crucial to the appointment, as your physician will not see you until the forms have been inspected and approved.

It is important to be honest in your assessment with the psychologist or psychiatrist who is conducting the assessment. This will allow them reach a correct diagnosis and identify the most effective treatment plan for you. It is crucial to discuss your symptoms and how they impact on your life. You may want to speak with the doctor you struggle to keep the track of your finances or working at home or work.

What to Expect Following a Private Assessment?

A private assessment begins with a consultation focused on medical history and symptoms. During this time it is crucial for the person being assessed to be open and honest. They shouldn't hide information out of guilt or fear of being criticised. This is because the accuracy of the evaluation and treatment recommendations will be contingent on the accuracy of the information provided.

A questionnaire is often provided to the patient by the psychiatrist. This questionnaire is designed to help doctors identify and evaluate the various symptoms of adult ADHD including the inattention and impulsivity. The psychiatrist will interview the patient about the symptoms and how they've affected their lives. They will also discuss their relationships with others.

Many private assessments will ask an immediate family member or friend for additional information. The psychiatrist will need to determine if the symptoms are present at home or if the patient is under a lot of stress. It can be difficult to know how significant these effects are when a patient is in an office with psychiatrists, which is why it's important for those who know them well to give feedback.

Some professionals will use additional tools, such as an assessment of cognitive function or a neuropsychological test, when conducting an assessment. private adhd assessment can give an even more complete picture of the person's strengths, weaknesses, and any other comorbid conditions that could contribute to the symptoms.

The final stage of an examination is usually the writing of the report. The report should include an assessment and, should it be necessary the treatment plan. It is also typical for the report to contain recommendations on how to manage the symptoms of ADHD and ways to improve functioning at home, school, and work.

If you suspect that you or your child could be suffering from ADHD an assessment by a private specialist is a good option. While it is possible to get an ADHD diagnosis through the NHS, waiting times can be long. A private assessment can be more efficient and you will be able choose your own doctor and make the process less stressful.