10 Things Your Competitors Can Teach You About Private ADHD Diagnosis
How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD an assessment of psychiatric disorders will need to take place. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could require some red tape like the requirement for old school reports to be supplied. You can cut down on the waiting time by booking a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting in which you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms as well as how they affect your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS psychotherapy assessment. The process consists of a structured interview with an expert who will review your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also determine if there are other disorders of the brain or mental issues that could cause your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy. Many people diagnosed with the condition suffer from an undiagnosed diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can be characterized by restlessness or a constant rush around. Inattention can also manifest in an inability to concentrate on tasks, organising or sitting down.
If you think that medication could aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will enable you to apply for reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to accomplish this is to speak with your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
If your GP refuses to refer you, or cannot offer you an appointment in a hurry you might want to change GPs. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile to switch GPs - you can find out more about how to exercise your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may also be able make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider via the NHS system or on your own. Some providers do not require a referral letter from your GP, but most do. Be sure to consult with your selected provider prior to making a booking.
How can I get an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a complicated mental disorder that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can cause issues in many areas. A private ADHD assessment will aid you in understanding the impact of these symptoms on your life and can be useful in identifying the best ways to treat them.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to make this request you might want to find a different GP willing to help.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a consultation with a doctor, either in-person or via video call. This will usually last for 45 to 90 minutes.
adhd assessment private cost will be asked about your current issues and any previous issues you have had from childhood if you're an adult. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the characteristics that are characteristic of ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. You will be asked for instances of when you've demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will use this information to diagnose and suggest treatments.
If you're struggling with a chronic illness and don't want to wait for an appointment from the NHS seeking an assessment privately is advisable. However, it is important to remember that an assessment done privately does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll have to discuss the issue with them, and if you decide to take medication, you should negotiate a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers if your GP in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a 'Right to choose" process that allows you to request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This will significantly cut down on the time it takes to wait. Private providers can also provide an immediate diagnosis.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist with had experience with adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, since they can be difficult to come by. Some will insist that you have a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment, but this is not always required.
Psychiatrists are able to provide an evaluation of your symptoms, however, they are unable to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, like Psychologists, can help you manage symptoms. However, they are unable to offer a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be eligible for assistance such as the Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is experienced will be able determine and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are a result of ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues that you might have. Your Psychiatrist will be capable of providing you with the most effective treatment if you're honest and open.
You will need to pay for your assessment. If you're diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication under a shared-care agreement with your doctor. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking with your GP about the possibility of a private diagnosis prior to making an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you're doing and give their consent when needed.
Joining a support group is another option to meet other adults with ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, comforting, and inspiring. You can find online groups through Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?

A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over assertion that private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, even though the patient did not have ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were rushed, and didn't take into account the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. The report also raised concerns about patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or a medication.
There is no doubt that your doctor will refer you to one of the major private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) however, they will tell you there is a waiting time. This differs from provider to provider and is usually around six weeks. Ask private adhd assessment cost and friends for recommendations and do thorough research about the provider. Choosing an experienced and well-established firm will likely mean that you will experience a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
In the course of the evaluation, a psychiatrist will, in a way determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption to your daily functioning. They will want to rule out other causes such as anxiety, depression, or thyroid problems and will typically ask you to supply supporting evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood) and school records if necessary. This could be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complex family circumstances or for those who aren't successful in finding their school reports from their childhood.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare provider You can apply for disability benefits through your local authority. It is important to be aware that the majority of GPs won't sign a document known as a shared-care arrangement if you were diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors lack the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.