This Is The Private ADHD Diagnosis Case Study You'll Never Forget How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis

If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment is required. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.

It can be a long process, as old school records may need to be supplied. But, you can avoid the wait and get private assessments by registering directly through an online ADHD clinic.

What is a private appraisal?

A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically takes two sessions, and is more detailed than a NHS psychiatric evaluation. The procedure involves an in-depth clinical interview with a specialist who will evaluate your symptoms from your childhood through adulthood. They will also consider if there are other neurological or mental health issues that could cause your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, such as work or relationships and will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.

It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy up and down one. A lot of people who are told they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity usually appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity seen in children, and may be manifested as a sense of restlessness or constantly rushing around. In addition, inattention can manifest as difficulty sitting still and being organised, or difficulty focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.

If you decide that medication might be beneficial for your condition, you will require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.

If your GP refuses to refer you, or if they are unable to provide you with an appointment within a short time you might want to change GPs. If this is the case, it might be worthwhile changing GPs and you can find more information about how to make use of your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.

You may also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric practitioner using the NHS system or independently. Some providers may not require a letter of referral from your GP, but most will. Check with your chosen provider prior to booking.

How can I get an evaluation from a private person?

ADHD is a complicated mental disorder that affects the function of brain processes like motivation, working memory, and attention. It can cause issues in a wide range of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and can be helpful in determining how they could be managed.

There are a number of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can assert your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do so it might be worth finding another GP who is willing to.

Typically, an assessment will be carried out by a psychiatrist, or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level according to NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a consultation with a doctor either in person or via video conference. It will typically last 45 to 90 minutes.

If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked regarding your current problems and your background from your childhood. private adhd assessment adults will determine if exhibit any of the traits associated with ADHD like hyperactivity, inattention, or an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide examples of when you have displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine an assessment and recommend treatment options.

A private evaluation can be beneficial if you've been struggling for a long time and do not wish to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to remember that the private diagnosis does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. It is still necessary to discuss this with them and if you decide to test medication, it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.

You can see a list of providers in case your GP in England will recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.

How do I get a private diagnosis?

There are a number of ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a 'Right to choose" procedure where you can request a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. Private providers can also offer an immediate diagnosis.

In general, it's best to locate a specialist psychiatrist with expertise in adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, as they are not easily accessible. Some will insist on an GP referral letter before they will see you for an examination however this is not always required.

Psychiatrists can provide an assessment of your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists can help you manage your symptoms, but they will not give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be able to access assistance services such as Disabled Students' Allowance and reasonable adjustments to work.


A Psychiatrist who is experienced will be able identify and explain your symptoms. They will also evaluate whether they are consistent ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist will be capable of providing you with the best treatment if your open and honest.

You'll have to pay for the assessment. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it may be possible to obtain medication under a shared-care agreement with your GP. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). We recommend that you speak to your GP regarding an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you are doing and give their consent should it be required.

It's also worth looking into joining a support group to connect with other adults who have ADHD, and hear their stories and solutions. They can be incredibly supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local in person groups.

Are private assessments valid?

Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics provide a faulty diagnosis. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, despite the fact that he didn't have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were not thorough and did not take into consideration the full range of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who are not qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.

It is true that GPs may recommend an ADHD evaluation with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) but they usually inform you that there will likely be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting is different from one company to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and then do a thorough research on the provider. Picking a reputable, experienced company will probably mean you will have an easier time waiting than if you choose to go through your GP.

In the course of the evaluation the psychiatrist will, in a way examine whether your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will ask you to rule out any other causes, like anxiety or depression. If needed they will request proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a stressful time, especially for those with complicated family relationships or who can't locate their school records from their childhood.

After you have been evaluated and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified health professional, you'll be eligible to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. You should be aware that the majority of GPs will not sign a document known as a shared-care arrangement in the event that you were diagnosed by a private doctor and haven't been titrated fully to your dosage. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.