How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric assessment is required to diagnose ADHD. This is performed by a psychiatrist, or an expert ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy procedure, since old school records may need to be provided. However, you can skip the wait and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment for ADHD is a meeting with a specialist to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically takes two sessions and is much more detailed than a NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process will involve a structured clinical interview with a specialist, and they will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also look at other neurological or mental health issues that may be causing your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in different areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight up and down one. A lot of people who are told that they are suffering from the condition have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It could be present as an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Inattention may also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, organising or sitting down.
If you think that medication could aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to talk to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
You may find that your GP doesn't want to refer you or can't give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it could be worth switching GPs - you can learn more about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You might also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist via the NHS or independently. Some providers do not require a letter of referral from your GP but the majority of them will. Check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How do I obtain an evaluation from a private person?
ADHD is a complex mental illness that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. It can cause problems in a wide range of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment can help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your life and could be useful in identifying ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choice (RTC) when you ask your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you it could be worth finding another GP who will.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse will usually conduct the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or over video call. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
If you are an adult you will be asked questions about your current difficulties as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare professional will then determine if you exhibit any of the symptoms that are characteristic of ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide examples of times when you displayed these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then use these to make a diagnosis and recommend treatments.
A private assessment can be helpful if you've been having a difficult time and do not want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to remember that the results of a private assessment do not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You will have to discuss the issue with them, and if you decide to take medication, you should seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England will send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer online assessments and have much shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a variety of methods to receive an ADHD evaluation. The NHS offers a 'Right to Choose" process where you can request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This can drastically reduce the time it takes to wait. There are also private providers who can offer a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's best to locate an expert psychiatrist with expertise in adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one since they aren't easy to come by. Some will insist on an GP referral letter before they will see you for an examination however, this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms but cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals - like Psychologists - can help you manage your symptoms, but they cannot provide you with a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD which is required to access private adhd assessment assistance services such as Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments to work.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to identify and describe your symptoms, determine whether they're consistent with ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist is in a position to give you the best treatment if you are honest and open.
You'll have to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're considering paying for a private diagnosis, we would advise you to talk with your GP prior to booking an appointment so they know what you're doing, and provide their consent if needed.
Joining a support group is another option to meet others who have ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be very helpful, comforting and motivating. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was identified by all of them with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were rushed, and did not consider the full range of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns that patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pockets to get a diagnosis and medication.
There is no doubt that your doctor will refer you to one of the leading private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory), but they will tell you that there will be a possible waiting period. This varies from provider to provider, but is typically approximately six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask family and friends members for word of mouth recommendations. Selecting a reputable and experienced firm will likely mean that you will experience less wait time than if you go through your GP.
During the assessment your psychiatrist will evaluate in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily activities. They will try to rule out other reasons, like anxiety, depression, or thyroid issues and will usually require evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school records if necessary. This can be a difficult procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or those who have not been able to find their childhood school reports.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by an experienced healthcare professional you may apply for disability benefits through your local authority. However, you should be aware that most GPs will not sign a document referred to as an agreement for shared care in the event that you were diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.