ADHD assessments for adults

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects both children and adults. It can make it hard to pay attention, control impulses, and sit still. People with ADHD may struggle with staying focused, organizing tasks, and impulsiveness. An ADHD assessment with the right treatment can lead people towards the support and help they need.

Identifying ADHD in adults

ADHD can present with a wide range of signs and symptoms. Although many people with ADHD may experience similar struggles, each person has their own distinct difficulties. It is important for an ADHD diagnosis to be conducted by professionals who possess up-to-date expertise and knowledge in this field.

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FOCUS

ADHD can make it difficult to maintain attention and focus on tasks, often leading to difficulty staying on track

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IMPULSIVENESS

People with ADHD often struggle with impulsivity, finding it challenging to think before acting

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ORGANISATION

ADHD can affect the ability to be organised, with difficulty structuring tasks, managing time effectively, and keep track of belongings

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ANXIETY

Many people with ADHD experience anxiety, as the constant struggle with attention and organization can create a sense of unease and overwhelm

It is very common for symptoms of ADHD to first appear in early childhood and persist into adulthood. The way that these symptoms present and interfere with a person’s life may change as a person gets older.

While it is common to receive an ADHD diagnosis as a child, this is not always true. As people get older they may notice certain ADHD traits affecting them more, and an adult ADHD assessment with suitable treatment can make a positive difference.

Testimonials

While each person with ADHD is unique, it can be useful to listen to the feedback of other people who have been through similar experiences. The testimonials below are a small selection from several patients who very kindly agreed to feature in this section (certain personal details have been removed).

“I am incredibly grateful for the autism assessment with Dr Maritan, as it led to a life-changing discovery. While I initially expected to be diagnosed with autism, the doctor went above and beyond in her evaluation and identified that I had bipolar disorder. Her expertise and attention to detail allowed for an accurate diagnosis, which was pivotal for me. The whole team’s compassionate support and personalised advice have guided me towards effective treatments and strategies. Although the result was unexpected, it ultimately set me on the right path. I highly recommend that anyone seeking clarity and support gives it a shot, as it can genuinely make a difference.“

“Before my assessment, the only help I ever managed to get was a prescription for antidepressants. I think my GP did want to help, but they told me they’ve had patients on waiting lists for over 2 years and now with Covid it’s even worse. It was a lot of money, but the assessment with Harley Psychiatrists led to an autism diagnosis that changed everything. I have finally started therapy that’s actually tailored to my needs, and I am learning to stop blaming myself for “not trying hard enough”. The clinic’s understanding and guidance have empowered me to embrace my strengths and manage my challenges effectively. I highly recommend their assessments to anyone seeking the right support and understanding.“

“The assessment at Harley Psychiatrists was done at a complete low point in my life, and to be honest I didn’t think it would change anything. I was so wrong and I’m so glad my parents talked me into it. Dr Nigel did diagnose me with Asperger’s but also asked me to come back for an ADHD assessment too, and it turns out I have both. With Dr Nigel’s support, I started treatment for ADHD, and it has made a big positive difference in my life. I got a shared care agreement so I get prescriptions from my GP and the whole process has made me feel like a different person.“

NO REFERRAL NEEDED

A quick call to our friendly and professional team could lead to life-changing results.
We can connect you with experts in adult ADHD assessment who will listen, support, and guide you through the process, helping you understand your strengths, challenges, and needs.
Assessments are always concluded by a Consultant Psychiatrist who can offer treatment for ADHD where it is appropriate. By reaching out, you will open doors to tailored support and interventions that can make a positive difference.

ONLINE BOOKING

Diagnosis and treatment

No GP referral needed

Give our friendly team a call on 020 8158 6650 and we’ll help you arrange your appointment with complete discretion and professionalism.

Taking the first step towards an ADHD assessment can feel daunting, but accessing diagnosis and treatment from an expert Consultant Psychiatrist can make a real difference.

Your psychiatrist will take into account factors such as your physical health, family history and impact of symptoms. It is important for ADHD assessments to be bespoke and developed around your specific difficulties. During your assessment, particular attention will be given to comorbidities – related conditions (such as anxiety or mood disorder) so that the diagnosis is made as accurately as possible.

Once an ADHD diagnosis is given, your psychiatrist will consider your individual needs when suggesting any kind of treatment plan to manage your specific symptoms. This ADHD treatment plan will be personalised to you. Although an “ADHD cure” doesn’t exist, with appropriate medical treatment and psychological support it is possible to lessen the impact of many associated symptoms.

Common questions and answers

What is involved in an adult ADHD assessment?

ADHD assessments can be carried out in various different ways and are tailored towards the individual needs of each patient. The thorough assessment is carried out in four parts, usually totalling 3 hours of appointment time:

1) Prior to the appointments going ahead, we will send you out a series of questionnaires and rating scales, all of which can be answered through your phone or computer.

1) You will initially meet with a specialist clinician for a 1-hour 'Part 1' appointment, where they will expertly guide you through the highly respected 'gold standard' DIVA-5 assessment.

2) You will meet with an expert Consultant Psychiatrist with extensive NHS assessment experience for 1-hour 'Part 2' appointment. The psychiatrist will carry out a diagnostic assessment, calling on the significant amount of evidence gathered prior to this stage. They will aim to reach a conclusion on your diagnosis during this appointment. Where a diagnosis is made and medical treatment is agreed as a suitable option by both the psychiatrist and yourself, this will commence immediately following this appointment.

3) When you are ready, you will return for 'Part 3' appointment to meet with a specialist psychologist, who will carry out a 1-hour initial therapy session, particularly focusing around your ADHD-related difficulties (although you are welcome to raise any issues that you wish to seek help with at this appointment). The aim of this appointment is to offer the most up-to-date ADHD treatment methods by demonstrating how psychological therapy can be of great benefit, either along-side or as an alternative to medical treatment.

Where possible and deemed necessary, information may be gathered about your childhood experiences by consulting with someone familiar with your behaviour during childhood (normally a parent, where possible). This will normally be done via remote rating scales that are sent by email.

Where desired, you may wish to book an additional brief feedback session (this carries additional fees) where you can discuss various aspects in more detail or raise any further questions that you may have.

Do I need a referral to book an assessment?

A referral is not typically required, and you may book an assessment directly.

If you do already have a referral, this may prove useful and we would be happy to pass the details on to your psychiatrist.

If the psychiatrist requires any additional information from your GP or any other sources, we will let you know.

Are the assessments conducted in person or online?

The Adult ADHD assessment is carried out remotely by video call.

You will see a Consultant Psychiatrist as well as other specialist clinicians for your appointments. The psychiatrist will further discuss your history and symptoms in order to gather enough information to make an informed diagnosis.

Face-to-face appointments at our prestigious Harley Street premises are currently unavailable in most cases. We will inform patients when this option becomes available once again.

What qualifications do the professionals have?

Your diagnostic assessment will be conducted by a GMC-registered Consultant Psychiatrist, following DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as well as the guidelines set out by all major organisations such as NICE (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), RCPsych (The Royal College of Psychiatrists), the NHS and others.

The 'Part 1' and 'Part 3' appointments are typically carried out by specialist clinicians such as Associate Specialists in Psychiatry and/or Psychologists. However, the diagnosis is always concluded by a Consultant Psychiatrist.

Will the assessment provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD?

Many people undergoing ADHD assessments will receive a formal diagnosis during their 'Part 2' appointment with a Consultant Psychiatrist.

In some cases, the psychiatrist may advise that a different diagnosis is more suitable, or even a combination of diagnoses.

It is also possible that no diagnosis is given, in which case the psychiatrist will aim to provide practical guidance regarding the next steps that the patient should consider. This may involve further testing and/or assessments.

Types of ADHD

ADHD encompasses three main types: predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type.

The predominantly inattentive type is characterized by difficulties sustaining attention, being easily distracted, and struggling with organisation and follow-through.

The predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type involves excessive physical activity, restlessness, impulsivity, and difficulty with self-control. The combined type presents a combination of symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.

It is important to note that ADHD is a spectrum, and individuals may exhibit symptoms that fall within different types or experience symptom variations over time. A comprehensive assessment by a Consultant Psychiatrist specialising in ADHD is crucial to determine the specific type and tailor appropriate treatment and support.

By recognizing the diverse nature of ADHD, we can appreciate the unique strengths and challenges each person brings and therefore their support and interventions can be tailored accordingly.