10 Top Mobile Apps For Private Assessments For ADHD The Quality of Private ADHD Assessments Has Come Under Questioning

The quality of private clinic ADHD assessments has recently come under scrutiny following an BBC Panorama investigation. The investigation by BBC Panorama revealed that an undercover journalist was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics despite a more thorough NHS evaluation that found he didn't have the condition.

However there are many patients who are forced to seek out private diagnosis and treatment due to the long NHS waiting lists. But how do private assessments function?

What is an assessment that is private?

A private ADHD assessment is a comprehensive process that begins with a clinical interview, either in person, over the phone or via video link. The psychologist or psychiatrist who will be conducting the assessment will collect a detailed medical history and may also conduct additional tests like neuropsychological testing in order to gain insight into your strengths and weaknesses, as and any comorbid disorders that you might be suffering from.

During the assessment your doctor will talk about the impact that your symptoms have on your life and will work towards finding the most effective form of treatment for you. It could be CBT or medication, but it's crucial to find what works best for you.


We have a dedicated team of psychiatrists and psychologists who are experts in the assessment and treatment of adult ADHD. Our clinics are accredited by NHS England’s"Right to Choose" legislation, which gives you the right to access specialist mental healthcare outside of your GP. This is an enormous benefit because the NHS can have extremely long waiting times.

Many people with unmanaged ADHD have serious issues with their professional and personal lives. This can have a major impact on self-esteem and well-being. This can then lead to depression and anxiety that are common side effects of untreated ADHD. This is the reason we believe that an adult private ADHD assessment is so important as it will assist you in obtaining the answers you require earlier, and help you find the most effective solution for you.

After you've received a diagnosis you can then return to your GP in the form of a shared care agreement. The psychiatrist or psychologist that diagnosed you will send a letter to your GP to sign stating you are returning to his treatment. You are able to return to your GP and continue treatment.

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

private adult adhd assessment of private assessments

Many people who want an independent ADHD assessment do so because they are fed up with waiting years on an NHS referral to get diagnosed. This can be particularly difficult 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 tend to be shorter than NHS assessments, and can be done at a time that works for the patient. Some clinics accept insurance or offer flexible payment plans. The cost of a private assessment will vary from provider provider, so it is important to shop around and find a clinic that is suitable for your needs and budget.

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 to observe, talk to and administer psychometric tests which evaluate ADHD symptoms. The assessment process includes questionnaires to determine if you have enough symptoms of ADHD, observations in school and at home (if appropriate) and a psychological assessment with a thorough review of your family's history of mental health.

Psychologists can also identify comorbid conditions that can coexist with ADHD, such as depression and anxiety. Having these conditions identified and treated can have significant benefits to a person's well-being and can decrease the necessity for GPs to prescribe additional medication.

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

Untreated ADHD can result in serious and lasting problems, such as criminal activity as well as substance abuse and even a decline in life expectancy. Untreated ADHD could have the same impact as untreated Type 2 Diabetes in middle age. Therefore, it is crucial that patients are given the support and assistance they need.

What to Expect When you take a private assessment

If you suspect that you may have ADHD, or think your child might be suffering from it, scheduling an evaluation may be overwhelming. When you've got an appointment set you can breathe a sigh relief.

It is important to choose an expert who is trained in conducting an ADHD assessment. They are medical professionals, generally psychiatrists or psychologists. They will look over your history, symptoms and conduct a medical exam. You will be asked to fill out one or several standardized behavior evaluation scores based upon research comparing the behaviors of people suffering from ADHD and those who do not.

These assessments will be discussed during your appointment. You could be diagnosed with ADHD or another mental health issue, like depression or learning disabilities, as well as drinking and drug addiction, or anxiety. If you are diagnosed with ADHD or other mental health issues, you and your doctor will discuss the options for treatment. In general, it is recommended to combine a treatment plan with expert coaching. This approach has been shown to provide the best long-term results in controlling symptoms for people suffering from ADHD.

When selecting a psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct your assessment, ask for recommendations from other patients or healthcare professionals you are comfortable with. Examine the professional's accreditation, academic credentials, and experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.

Your appointment will be scheduled and confirmed once you have completed the pre-screening forms. These can be found on your portal dashboard after you have booked an appointment and must be returned by a date set by your doctor. These forms are crucial to your appointment since your physician will not be able to meet you until they have been approved and reviewed.

It is essential to be completely honest in your assessment with the psychiatrist or psychologist who is conducting the assessment. This will help them arrive at a precise diagnosis and determine the most effective treatment option for you. It is crucial to discuss your symptoms and how they impact on your daily life. For instance, if are having difficulty keeping track of your finances or performing tasks at home or at work you must inform the doctor.

What to Expect Following a Private Assessment

A private assessment begins with a clinical interview focusing on symptoms and medical histories. During this time, it is crucial for the person being evaluated to be candid and honest. They shouldn't hide information out of shame or concern about criticism. The accuracy of information will determine the quality of the evaluation and treatment recommendations.

It is also typical for the psychiatrist to ask the patient to fill out a questionnaire. It is designed to assist the doctor in identifying and assess the severity of adult ADHD such as impulsivity and inattention. The psychiatrist will inquire with the patient to describe the symptoms and how they have affected their life. They will also discuss their personal relationships.

A majority of private assessments will involve an immediate family member or friend for collateral information. The psychiatrist will want to determine if symptoms are present at home or if the person is under high stress. It is often difficult to know the extent of these effects when the person is alone in a room with psychiatrists, which is why it's important for those who know them well to give feedback.

Some doctors will employ additional tools, like an assessment of cognitive function or a neuropsychological test, when conducting an evaluation. These tests can provide a more comprehensive view of the person's strengths, weaknesses, and any other comorbid conditions which may be contributing to the symptoms.

Report writing is usually the final stage of an evaluation. The report should include the diagnosis, and an appropriate treatment plan. It is also normal for the report to contain recommendations on how to manage the symptoms of ADHD and ways to improve performance at home, school, and work.

If you suspect you or your child may have ADHD or other disorders, a private assessment can be a great option. The NHS can diagnose ADHD however the waiting times are long. Private assessments can be more efficient, and you can pick your own specialist. This can make the process less stressful.