ADHD Assessment Cost UK & Scotland 2025) ULTIMATE GUIDE™

ADHD assessment costs in the UK and Scotland can feel like a mystery wrapped in a riddle – endless Google searches, conflicting advice, misleading social media posts and memes by “experts”, and price tags that range from doable to an arm and both legs. So, let’s clear things up. This guide is a detailed break down of everything you need to know about getting an ADHD assessment and diagnosis in the UK. We’re talkingcosts, NHS vs private options, hidden fees, and what actually happens during an assessment. Thinking about going private but not sure if it’s worth it? This article will help you figure that out – without the jargon, the fluff, or the three-year wait. Let’s dive in.

How Much Does a Private ADHD Assessment Cost in the UK?

So, you’re thinking about an ADHD assessment. Maybe you’ve spent hours reading about ADHD symptoms, enjoying the ADHD related SM content, or wondering if your struggles are, well… something more. But now you’ve hit the big question:How much does it actually cost to get assessed and diagnosed?Here’s the short answer:Private ADHD assessments in the UK typically cost between £750 and £2000.The exact price depends on a few things – who’s doing the assessment (psychiatrist, psychologist, or specialist clinic), whether it’s online or in-person, and whether or not follow-up support is included. Now, why do so many people go private?

Simple: NHS waiting lists can stretch beyond three years(yes, really), while private clinics canoffer a diagnosis in as little as two to four weeks. If ADHD is already affecting your work, studies, or day-to-day life, waiting years probably isn’t ideal. Let’s break it all down – what you’re paying for, what to look out for, and whether private ADHD testing is actually worth it.

ADHD Assessment Cost by Location and Provider Type

Location	Private Psychiatrist	Private Clinic	Online Assessment
London	£1,200 – £2,000	£1,000 – £2,000	£700 – £1,900
Manchester	£900 – £1,400	£800 – £1,200	£600 – £1,000
Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee)	£750 – £1,900	£700 – £1,800	£600 – £1,200

Private ADHD clinics generally offer more personalized assessmentsandfaster diagnosis than NHS services, but costs vary based on factors such as location, provider qualifications, and whether medication reviews and follow-ups are included.

NHS ADHD assessment processvs Private ADHD Assessment: Which Is Right for You?

If you’re here, you’re probably weighing up your options.Go through the NHS and wait forever?Orpay privately and get answers now? It’s a tough call, so let’s break it down.

The NHS Route: Free, but Bring Snacks (You’ll Be Waiting a While)

Yes, an NHS ADHD assessment is free. But free comes at a cost – a waiting list that’s often 2 to 3 years long, and there is even one case where someone has been waiting over 8 year. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: See Your GP (If They Take You Seriously)

Your first hurdle?Getting past your GP.To be referred for an NHS ADHD assessment, you need your GP to agree that youmighthave ADHD. Sounds simple, but here’s the problem:

🔹Many people get turned awayat this stage because they don’t fit the outdated idea of what ADHD “should” look like. If you’ve managed to finish a degree, hold down a job, orlooklike you’re coping (even if you’re completely burnt out), you may be told that you’re not “struggling enough” for an assessment.
🔹 Your GP acts as a gatekeeper – but here’s the kicker: most GPs have little to no training in ADHD or mental health . They’re making life-changing calls about whodoesanddoesn’tneed an assessment, despite often havingzerospecialist knowledge.
🔹 Even if your GP agrees to refer you,some NHS trusts have additional screening questionnaires(which, again, can dismiss people who don’t fit the typical ADHD stereotype).

Step 2: The Wait Begins

Once referred, you join a queue that moves about as fast as a broadband connection in the 90s. The exact wait time depends on your location, but delays are common across the UK.

Step 3: The Assessment (Eventually)

If you make it this far, you’ll finally have your ADHD assessment with a psychiatrist or specialist team. But here’s another issue:even at this stage, many people are told they don’t qualify for a diagnosis because they’ve found ways tocompensatefor their struggles. It’s a frustrating, outdated view, but it happens. If you’re happy to wait, NHS diagnosis and medication is a great option. But if ADHD is already affecting your work, relationships, or mental health, that’s a long time to hit pause –especially if there’s a chance you won’t get the answers you need at the end of it.

What Makes Private ADHD Assessments Different?

1️⃣ You’re Taken Seriously from the Start

Private ADHD cliniciansunderstand ADHD deeply– not just the textbook symptoms, but how it actually affects your life. There’s no“You’re too successful to have ADHD”or“You don’t seem hyperactive enough”dismissal.

🔹They listen.No rushing, no assumptions, no GP acting as a gatekeeper.
🔹They recognise different ADHD presentations. Inattentive ADHD? Masking? High-achieving but still struggling? They see the full picture.
🔹They get how exhausting it is to constantly overcompensate– just because you’ve learned ways to manage doesn’t mean ADHD isn’t making life so much harder than it needs to be.

2️⃣Specialists Who Actually Know ADHD

Unlike GPs, who often harbour outdated biases and havelittle to no formal ADHD training, private ADHD clinicians areexperts in neurodevelopmental conditions.

Many have dedicated their entire careers to understanding, diagnosing, and treating ADHD in adults.

🔹Extensive training in ADHD,beyond just a few hours in medical school.
🔹Experience assessing thousands of adults,not just children (many NHS services still focus mainly on kids).
🔹Up-to-date knowledge of ADHD researchand
🔹NICE guidelines on ADHD diagnosis they don’t rely on outdated stereotypes. This means you’re being assessed bysomeone who actually understands ADHD in all its forms, not someone who’s ticking boxes on a generic mental health questionnaire.

3️⃣ A Deeper, More Personalised Assessment

NHS ADHD assessments, when you finally get one, are oftenrusheddue to time constraints. Many people get asingle 60-90 minute sessionwith a psychiatrist who’s trying to determinea yes/no diagnosisas quickly as possible. With a private ADHDassessment, you get:

🔹A thorough 90–120 minute consultation(sometimes longer)
🔹A detailed exploration of your symptoms, past and present– including school, work, relationships, and daily life
🔹An in-depth discussion of emotional regulation, executive function, and coping mechanisms(things the NHS often overlooks)
🔹Space to talk, explain, and actually be heard– without feeling like you’re being rushed out the door By the end of it, you don’t just get a diagnosis (if ADHD is confirmed). You getreal clarity on how your brain works, what’s been making things harder, and – most importantly – what can help.

4️⃣ Immediate Access to Next Steps (Instead of More Waiting)

One of the biggest frustrations with the NHS is that even if you get a diagnosis,there’s often another long wait for treatmentSome people are left in limbo for months, unable to access medication or proper support. With a private ADHD assessment:

✅You get a prescriber consultation as part of your package(some clinics charge extra – ADHDdegree includes it).
✅You can discuss adhd medication– no extra wait times.
✅You receive a detailed diagnostic report– fully recognised for workplace and university accommodations.
✅You’re not left wondering “What now?” – you get clear next steps for treatment, adhdcoaching, and further support.

Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on your situation. If you’re comfortable waiting 2–3 years and your GP is supportive, the NHS is a great option. But if ADHD is affecting your work, studies, relationships, or mental healthright now, private assessment gets you answers –and support– in weeks, not years. Whichever route you choose, getting assessed is the first step toward making sense of your brain – and that’s something worth doing.

Key Differences Between NHS and Private ADHD Assessments

Factor	NHS ADHD Diagnosis	Private ADHD Assessment
Waiting Time	Two to three years	Two to four weeks
Cost	Free	£750 – £2,000
Medication Access	Delayed (6-12 months)	Immediate or via GP
Follow-Ups Included?	No	Sometimes
Recognized for Workplace & University Accommodations?	Sometimes	Yes

For individuals who need anurgent diagnosisfor workplace or academic support, private assessments are often theonly viable option. Learn more about how UK ADHD clinics are regulated. Tired of waiting? Book a private ADHD assessment today (next-day slots available)

The Hidden Costs of ADHD Assessments: What No One Tells You

How to Avoid Surprise ADHD Prescription Fees So, you’ve seen a clinic offering” affordable ADHD assessments”and thought,Great, that seems reasonable!But here’s the thing – just like budget airlines that charge extra for luggage, legroom, andbreathing, some clinics advertise a lower upfront fee while quietly stacking on extra costs. Before you book, make sure you knowexactly what’s included– because nobody likes surprise bills. Here’s what to watch out for:

What Can Add to the Cost of an ADHD Assessment?

💡Follow-up Sessions(£100 – £250 per appointment) Even if you get a diagnosis, some clinicswon’t discuss treatment options in the initial assessment– you’ll need a follow-up for that. Check whether follow-ups are included or charged separately.

💊Medication Reviews(£100 – £200 per session) If you’re considering ADHD medication, you’ll likely needongoingcheck-ins with a prescriber to adjust dosage and monitor side effects. Some clinics include the first review, others don’t. 📜Each Prescription (£40 – £100)Yes, you pay for the medication itself, but some private clinicsalsocharge for writing the prescription.

🏢Reports for Workplace & University Accommodations(£25 – £100) If you needadjustmentsat work oruniversity(like deadline extensions or flexible working), you’ll need an official diagnostic report. Some clinics include this as standard. Others? You guessed it – extra charge.

🩺Insurance & ADHD Treatment Costs(varies by provider) Some private insurers partially cover ADHD assessments– but many don’t. Check with your provider before booking to avoid unexpected costs -BUPA-AXA -Vitality

Why Do Medication Reviews & Prescriptions Cost Money?

It’s easy to see the price of a medication review or a prescription and think, Hold on, I’m just paying for a piece of paper? But here’s what you’re actually paying for – and why private ADHD clinics charge for ADHD medication management.

💡What’s Included in an ADHD Medication Review?

🔬Specialist Expertise – ADHD specialists and prescribers don’t just tick a few boxes and hand over a prescription. They’ve gone through years of training in mental health, neurodevelopmental conditions, and pharmacology to make safe, informed decisions about your care.

⚖️Liability, Safety, & Prescribing Regulations – Every time aprescriber writes an ADHD prescription, theylegally and medically take responsibilityfor ensuring it’ssafe and appropriate for you. That’s why they don’t just rubber-stamp prescriptions – it’s theirjob to assess risks, monitor side effects, and check for interactions with any other medications you might be taking.

⏳Time & Personalised CareADHD medication isn’t aone-size-fits-allsolution. Your prescriber will:

✔Review your health records & blood pressure
✔Assess how well the medication is working
✔Check for side effects & adjust the dosage if neededThis process takesexpertise, time, and attention to detail- becauseno two ADHD brains are exactly the same.

💊 ADHD Medication & Ongoing Monitoring

Why ADHD Medication Reviews Matter

Getting therightADHD medicationis rarely aone-and-donesituation. It’s aprocess of fine-tuningto make sure: ✔ Thedosage is correct✔ Side effects areminimised✔ You’re gettingthe best possible resultsWithoutongoing reviews, many people either:

❌Stay on the wrong dose too long(which means their symptoms aren’t properly managed)

❌Give up on medicationbefore trying adjustments that could work betterFind out more about private ADHD medication reviews and adjustments.

🏛️ Government Fees & Quality Control: The Hidden Costs of ADHD Prescribing

What many people don’t realise is that private clinics don’t just charge for the prescriber’s time. The UK government (CQC in England,HIS in Scotland) requires clinics to pay thousands of pounds per year for the legal right to prescribe ADHD medication. On top of that:

✔ Every practice must go through rigorous annual inspections to ensure compliance with strict prescribing laws

✔ They must hire staff to handle paperwork, safety checks, and quality control processes These regulations exist to protect patients – but they also contribute to the overall cost of private ADHD care .

❌ How to Avoid Surprise ADHD Fees

Not all private ADHD clinics charge the same way. Some offerall-inclusive assessment packages, while otherscharge separatelyfor every step. Before booking, ask these questions:

✅Is the prescriber consultation included in the ADHD assessment cost?

✅Are follow-ups an extra fee?

✅How much do you charge for private ADHD prescriptions?

✅Do you provide a full diagnostic report, or is that an add-on?Areputable private ADHD clinicwill betransparent about pricing upfront- because no one wants anADHD diagnosis AND a financial headache.Looking for a straightforward, all-inclusive ADHD assessment?Book yours here no hidden fees, no nasty surprises.

ADHD Assessments for Adults vs Children: Why the Price Tag is Different

Ever noticed thatchild ADHD assessmentscost more than adult ADHD assessments? No, it’s not because kids are more expensive in general (though, let’s be honest, they kind of are). It’s because diagnosing ADHD in children is awhole different ball game– one that takes more time, more detective work, and a lot more patience.

Why Do Child ADHD Assessments Cost More?

📝 More Comprehensive Evaluations Withadult ADHD assessments, you can ask, “So, what’s your experience of focus and impulsivity?” and most of the time, they’ll have an answer. Kids? Not so much. Children oftenlack the self-awareness or vocabularyto explain their experiences in a way that fits neatly into ADHD diagnostic criteria. That meansADHD specialistshave todig deeper, looking at:

✔Behaviour patterns in different settings
✔Parent and teacher reports
✔Developmental history…working harder topiece together the full picture.

📚 School Reports & External Feedback

Unlike adults, who can self-report their symptoms, diagnosing ADHD in children requires amulti-source approach. Clinicians gather and analyse:

✔School reports
✔Teacher observations
✔Parental feedback

This extra step takes time, increasing the overall cost of child ADHD assessmentscompared toadult ADHD diagnoses.

⏳Longer Sessions & More Observations (With Breaks!)– ADHD in children doesn’t always show up in the neat, obvious ways we see in diagnostic manuals. Childrenexperience ADHD differentlydepending on the environment. They might:

✔Mask symptoms at schoolbut struggle at home
✔ Befidgety in one setting

but hyper-focused in another Because of this, ADHD assessments for children may require the clinician to takemore timeto observe their behaviour, ask the right questions, and ensure nothing is overlooked. And since long assessments can be overwhelming for kids, sessions may need to be broken up with breaks to help them recharge, move around, or just have a moment to reset.

💬 Extra Questionnaires & Parental Interviews

Since kids can’t always explain what’s going on for them, ADHD specialists rely on additional sourcesto piece together an accurate diagnosis. This includes:

✔Parental structured interviews
✔Standardised ADHD questionnaires
✔Comparison of parent vs teacher observations

Adult ADHD Assessments: Why They Cost Less

Compared to children, adults usually:

✔Have more self-awareness of their ADHD symptoms
✔Can describe their experiences more accurately
✔Don’t need school reports or teacher feedback

This streamlines the assessment process, makingprivate ADHD assessments for adultsfaster andmore affordable than child ADHD diagnoses.

🧠 No Need for School Reports or Teacher Feedback

One of the biggest reasons adult ADHD assessmentscost less? They don’t require third-party reportsto confirm symptoms. With child ADHD testing, external sources are essential– but foradults seeking an ADHD diagnosis, clinicians can rely onself-reported experiencesand structured diagnostic tools like DIVA 2.0 or QB testing.

⏳ Shorter Assessment Times

Because adults can self-report symptoms accurately, the whole process moves faster. Clinicians don’t have to rely on lengthy observations or multiple external sources to reach a diagnosis. Aprivate adult ADHD assessmentusually takes90-120 minutes, whilechild ADHD assessmentsoften require multiple sessions and additional reports.

Bottom Line? It’s Not Just About Time – It’s About Getting It Right

ADHD assessmentsaren’t just tick-box exercises. They requirespecialist expertiseto understand how ADHD symptoms show up across different ages and environments.

Key Differences:

✔Child ADHD assessmentsinvolvelonger observations, teacher reports, and extra interviews– making themmore expensive
✔Adult ADHD assessmentsarefaster, more direct, and cost lessbecauseself-reporting is more reliable

Thinking About Booking an ADHD Assessment?

Whether you’rean adult looking for clarity or a parent seeking answers for your child, an ADHD assessment is the first step toward getting the right support.

👉Book an ADHD assessment today – fast, expert-led, and no hidden fees.Ways to Make ADHD Assessments More Affordable(Because Clarity Shouldn’t Break the Bank) We get it –private ADHD assessments aren’t cheap.

If the thought of spending that kind of money makes your bank account break into a nervous sweat, don’t panic just yet. There are several ways to reduce the cost or evenget funding for your ADHD assessment,coaching, or therapy in the UK.

Employer-Funded ADHD Workplace Assessments

Did you know that your employer might help cover the cost of your ADHD assessment?

If ADHD symptoms like difficulty focusing, meeting deadlines, or staying organised affect your productivity,you could be eligible for workplace adjustments– andsome companies will pay for an ADHD evaluationas part of their employee support programs. Even if your employer doesn’t offer direct funding,you might be able to claim the cost as a work expense (especially if you’re self-employed). Certain mental health and neurodiversity-related costs may even be tax-deductible, so it’s worth checking with your accountant or a tax professional.

Insurance: Will They Cover an ADHD Assessment?

Some private health insurance providers in the UKwill partially or fully cover ADHD assessments- but coverage varies by policy. It’s always worth checking with your provider to ask if they cover:

✔ The initial ADHD diagnostic assessment
✔ Follow-up appointments & medication reviews
✔ ADHD coaching or therapy after diagnosis Even if your plan doesn’t cover the full cost,some insurers offer partial reimbursement for assessments or ongoing support like ADHD therapy or executive function coaching.

ADHD Charities & Subsidised Assessments

If private ADHD assessments feel out of reach financially, there are charities and organisations that may be able to help. Some UK-based charities offer free or subsidised ADHD assessments – especially for those facing financial hardship. It’s worth checking with:

✔ The ADHD Foundation – Occasionally offers funding for assessments.
✔ Local neurodiversity charities – Some provide grants for ADHD diagnosis and post-diagnostic support.
✔ Crowdfunding & community support – Sites likeGoFundMehave helped many people access private ADHD assessments.

Access to Work ADHD Support: Government Support for ADHD Coaching & Therapy (But NOT Assessments)

Here’s something many people don’t know -the UK government offers funding for ADHD support in the workplace and ADHD coaching and workplace support through Access to Work (A2W).

🛑 But before you get excited -Access to Work WILL NOT cover the cost of an ADHD diagnosis. However, if ADHD impacts your job, you might qualify for: ✔ Funding forADHD coaching(to help with focus, time management, and organisation)

✔ Workplace adjustments(assistive tech, software, or even a support worker)

✔ Apersonal assistant(if you’re self-employed- although they are currently trying to cut this, so stay tuned…) The best part?Access to Work is NOT means-tested, so your income won’t affect your eligibility. If ADHD symptoms make work harder, this is worth applying for – but the wait times are long, so most providers require upfront payment, after which you can submit an invoice for reimbursement.

Still Worried About Cost? Let’s Talk.

At ADHDdegree, we believe getting diagnosed shouldn’t break the bank. That’s why we:

✔ Offerone of the most affordable ADHD assessments in the UK (£895, all-inclusive)

✔ Provideflexible paymentoptions (you can set up a payment plan withKlarna)

✔ Help younavigate funding optionslike Access to Work 👉Book your ADHD assessment today – and let’s get you the support you deserve.

TL;DR (Frequently Asked Questions)

Everything you need to know, without the fluff.

1️⃣ How much does a private ADHD diagnosis cost in Scotland?

Private ADHD assessments in Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen)typically costbetween £750 and £2,000, depending on:

✔️ The clinic
✔️ Whether follow-up appointments are included
✔️ Ifmedication reviews are part of the package Larger cities like Edinburgh and Glasgowtend to be on the higher end, while smaller cities may offer slightly lower prices.

2️⃣ Can I get an ADHD assessment without a GP referral?

Yes! Unlike the NHS, private ADHD clinics allow self-referrals- so youdon’t need your GP’s approval. That meansno months of back-and-forth,no GP gatekeeping, andno waiting years for a referral.

✔Book directly

✔Skip the NHS queues

✔Get assessed in 2-4 weeks instead of 2-8 years

3️⃣ Is ADHD medication included in the assessment fee?

It depends on the clinic. Somecharge extra for medication reviews, while others include it.

✔️ADHDdegree includes a prescriber consultationin its £895 package

✔️ Medication itself is aseparate cost, whether through aprivate prescriptionor anNHS Shared Care Agreement

4️⃣ How long does it take to get diagnosed privately?

⏳Private ADHD assessment stake2-10 days from booking to diagnosisand another1-3 weeks for a prescriber appointment. Compared to theNHS waiting list of 2-8 years, it’spractically light speed.

5️⃣ Can a private ADHD diagnosis be used for workplace or university adjustments?

Yes! Aproper private ADHD diagnosis is validfor:

✔️Workplace accommodationsunder the Equality Act 2010
✔️Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)for university support
✔️Adjustments for exams, work deadlines, and focus supportJustmake sureyourclinic follows NICE guidelines and provides afull diagnostic report– whichADHDdegree does.

6️⃣ Will my GP accept a private ADHD diagnosis for medication?

🤷‍♂️Maybe.Some GPsaccept private diagnosesand willprescribe ADHD medication through the NHS, but othersinsist on an NHS assessment first. If your GP refuses, you can:

✔️Continue privately with a prescriber
✔️Request a Shared Care Agreement (SCA), which ADHDdegree can support

7️⃣ What is a Shared Care Agreement?

A Shared Care Agreement (SCA) lets youget ADHD medication through the NHS in England or Scotland after a private diagnosis. 🚨BUT… not all GPs will approve it.✔️ Someaccept private diagnoses and take over prescribing✔️ Othersrequire an NHS assessment first✔️ ADHDdegreecan help with SCA applications

8️⃣ How much does ADHD medication cost privately?

💰ADHD medication costs vary depending on the type & dosage. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ADHD medications in the UK:

💊Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Xaggitin, Equasym XL, Medikinet, Delmosart) – £40-£100 per month ➡How it works: A stimulant that increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, helping with focus, impulse control, and hyperactivity. Available in short-acting and long-acting forms.
💊Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse, Vyvanse)– £70-£150 per month ➡How it works: A long-acting stimulant that converts into dexamphetamine in the body, offering smoother symptom control throughout the day withless chance of sudden crashes. Often used when methylphenidate isn’t effective.
💊Atomoxetine (Strattera) – £80-£120 per month ➡How it works: Anon-stimulantADHD medication that increases norepinephrine levels in the brain. It takes a few weeks to build up, but it can be a good option for those who don’t tolerate stimulants or who have co-existing anxiety.
💊Guanfacine (Intuniv) – £80-£150 per month ➡How it works: A non-stimulant that affects receptors in the brain responsible for emotional regulation and impulse control. Often prescribed forADHD with anxiety or sleep issues.

💡The good news?If you get aShared Care Agreement, your GP can take over prescribing, meaning you’llonly pay NHS prescription charges (£9.65 per month) instead of private prices.

9️⃣ Is there still an ADHD Medication Shortage in the UK?

Yes, some ADHD medications are in short supply due to manufacturing delays & demand spikes.

🚨Current UK ADHD medication shortages (as of 2024):

✔ Methylphenidate(Concerta XL, Xaggitin XL, Xenidate XL) →Some strengths are out of stock
✔ Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse)→Limited availability in certain doses
✔ Atomoxetine (Strattera)→Generally available, but can fluctuate
✔ Guanfacine (Intuniv)→Currently in stock, but unpredictable

What Does This Mean If You Haven’t Started Medication Yet?

If you’re considering ADHD medication for the first time, shortages can feel discouraging – but they don’t have to be a dealbreaker. Here’s what you can do:

✔ Talk to a specialist– ADHD clinicians know the latest on medication availability and can help you navigate options.
✔ Be flexible – If one medication is out of stock, alternatives might be available. Different dosages, brands, or non-stimulant options could still work for you.
✔ Stay updated– Stock levels shift constantly. Your pharmacy, prescriber, or NHS guidance will have the latest updates.
✔ Plan ahead– If you’re starting medication soon, work with your prescriber to create a backup plan in case your first-choice option isn’t available. ADHD medication shortages are frustrating, but they’re not insurmountable. A good clinician will guide you through it, and with a bit of planning, you’ll still be able to access the treatment that works for you.

🔟 Does Insurance Cover Private ADHD Assessments?

Maybe.It depends onyour policy and provider. ✔Bupa, AXA, and Vitality sometimes cover ADHD assessments, follow-ups, and even therapy ✔Some policies offer partial reimbursement✔Employer health plans may include ADHD support

How to Find Out If You’re Covered

✔Check your policy– Look for anything mentioning “mental health,” “neurodevelopmental disorders,” or “psychiatric assessments.” If ADHD isn’t specifically excluded, you might be in luck.
✔Call your provider– Yes, you’ll probably be on hold for ages, but it’s the best way to get a straight answer. Ask about ADHD assessments, follow-ups, medication reviews, and therapy– some insurers cover one but not the others.
✔Ask about reimbursement– Some policies won’t pay upfront but might refund you after the assessment. Keep those receipts. ✔Check employer benefits– Some workplace health schemes include ADHD assessments under their mental health support. Worth a look.

The Reality Check

Not all insurance plans cover ADHD, and some havefrustratingrestrictions – like only funding an assessment if you were referred by an NHS doctor, which we’ve already learned is difficult to come by. But if your policy does offer coverage, it can take a significant chunk out of the cost. So, if you’re considering a private ADHD assessment, checking your insurance could be well worth the hassle.

1️⃣1️⃣ What happens during a private ADHD assessment?

So, you’ve booked a private ADHD assessment –what actually happens in that appointment? No, it’s not just ticking a few boxes and calling it a day. This is acomprehensive, specialist-led processdesigned togive you real answers, not guesswork.Expect a 90–120 minute deep dive into how your brain works, how ADHD affects your daily life, and what kind of support might help. Here’s what’s involved:

✅ Step 1: Understanding Your ADHD Symptoms & HistoryThe specialist will ask about your:

✔ Childhood experiences – Were you the daydreamer? A fidgeter? DId you get in trouble often for talking too much or daydreaming?
✔ Work life – How’s your inbox? Do you hyperfocus on random tasks while procrastinating on more important ones? Are you forgetful of important dates or tasks?
✔ Relationships – Does ADHD impact friendships, family dynamics, or your ability to stay in touch with people you care about?
✔ Mental health– Many ADHDers also deal with anxiety, depression, or burnout, so this is part of the discussion.

✅ Step 2: The Diagnostic Process (It’s Not Just a Quick Quiz) Your clinician will use a structured ADHD diagnostic tool, such as:

✔ DIVA 2.0 – A gold-standard interview-based assessment for adults. Some clinics also add: ✔ QB Test or Conners CPT – A computer-based attention and impulse control test (used by some clinics).

✅ Step 3: Confirming ADHD & Discussing Next Steps If ADHD is confirmed, your clinician will explain: ✔ How ADHD is impacting your life (not just “yep, you have it”). ✔ Treatment options – Including coaching, lifestyle strategies, and whether medication might help. ✔ What happens next – Some clinics provide medication prescriptions directly, while others help with NHS Shared Care Agreements.

💡 The Private vs NHS Experience Unlike NHS assessments – where you might feel like you have to “prove” you have ADHD – private assessments are supportive, validating, and solution-focused. The goal isnotto gatekeep a diagnosis, but tohelp you understand your brain and what works for you.

📌Tired of waiting? Get clarity in weeks, not years.

👉Book Your ADHD Assessment in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, or London Today

1️⃣2️⃣ Do private ADHD assessments diagnose co-existing conditions?

Short answer? Not usually. Most private ADHD assessments focus purely on ADHD – because that’s what they’re designed for. Some clinics canassess for anxiety, depression, and autismalongside ADHD, but not all do. If yoususpect multiple conditions, check that your provider offers comprehensive mental health assessments. ADHD Rarely Travels Alone Many people with ADHD also experience:

✔Anxiety & Depression– Common but sometimescaused by untreated ADHD.
✔Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) – ADHD and autism overlapbut require separate assessments.
✔Bipolar Disorder – Often confused with ADHD due to emotional ups and downs. 💡 What If I Think I Have More Than Just ADHD?
✔Check before booking– Some clinics offerdual assessmentsfor ADHD + ASC orrefer you for further evaluation.
✔Ask about mental health screening– Some clinics willflag concerns and recommend next steps.
📌If you think something more is going on, choose a clinic that offers multiple evaluations – or be prepared to book a follow-up assessment.
🚀 ADHD & Co-Existing Conditions: What You Need to Know
✔Anxiety & Depression– Common in people with ADHD, but not always a separate condition. Sometimes, treating ADHD improves anxiety or mood symptoms.
✔Autism Spectrum Conditions(ASC) – ADHD and autism overlap a lot, but require separate diagnostic criteria. Not all ADHD specialists diagnose autism. Clinicians train separately to qualify to do ADHD assessments and ASC assessments.
✔Bipolar Disorder – Often confused with ADHD due to emotional dysregulation, but requires a different type of assessment. If you think something more is going on, choose a clinic that provides multiple evaluations – or be prepared to seek additional assessments after your ADHD assessment.

1️⃣3️⃣ Is it more difficult for women & non-binary people to get diagnosed?

Short answer? Unfortunately, yes.For decades, ADHD has beenwrongly stereotyped as a “hyperactive boy” disorder. If you weren’t bouncing off the walls, getting sent out of class, or climbing furniture, you probablyflew under the radar.

💡 Why Is ADHD Harder to Spot in Women & Non-Binary People?

✔ Masking is a survival skill– Many learn early on to hide their struggles, working twice as hard to stay organised, meet deadlines, and “keep it together.”
✔ Inattentive ADHD is misunderstood– Daydreaming, forgetfulness, and zoning out don’t scream “ADHD” the way hyperactivity does – so they’re ignored.
✔ Misdiagnosis is common– Many are first told they haveanxiety, depression, or even personality disordersbefore ADHD is even considered.
✔ Hormones play a role– ADHD symptoms canflare up or worsendue to hormonal changes (puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, HRT, menopause).

🚀 Getting the Right Diagnosis in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen & London

If this sounds like you, finding the right ADHD specialist is crucial. Many GPs stilldon’t recognise ADHD in women and non-binary people, so choosing aprivate ADHD clinic with experience in late-diagnosed ADHDerscan make all the difference. AtADHDdegree, our assessments are built with this in mind- we don’t just look forhyperactive little boys, we look forreal-world ADHD in adults of all backgrounds. 📌ADHD isn’t just for kids – and getting the right diagnosis can be life-changing.

Book Your ADHD Assessment in Scotland or London Today

1️⃣4️⃣ Can I be denied an ADHD diagnosis if I’m successful in work or school?

You’d think ADHD diagnosis would be based on, well… ADHD symptoms. But sometimes, that’s not the case. If you’ve managed to hold down a job, get through school, or even smash it in your career, some doctors – especially in NHS settings – still believe ADHD = failure at school. The outdated idea?If you were struggling enough, you wouldn’t have achieved so much. If you’ve managed to hold down a job, graduate, or even smash it in your career, they may question whether you “really” have ADHD.

🚨 Why This Shouldn’t Happen (But Sometimes Does)
✔Masking & Overcompensating– Many people with ADHD develop coping mechanisms to push through, but at what cost? Exhaustion, burnout, and anxiety are often hiding under the surface.
✔Success Doesn’t Cancel Out ADHD– You canbe brilliant at your job and still forget every deadline. You canace exams but struggle to start simple tasks.
✔NHS Gatekeeping– Some doctors still work off the outdated belief that ADHD =poor grades, unemployment, or chaos, ignoring the fact that many adultsforcethemselves to function – until they can’t.

🔍 The Private ADHD Assessment Difference in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen & London

Unlike the NHS, private ADHD clinics assess your full experience – not just your grades or job title. If symptoms areaffecting your life, stress levels, relationships, or mental health, you deserve a proper evaluation.

At ADHDdegree, we understand that ADHD doesn’t look one way. Whether you’rehigh-achieving, struggling, or somewhere in between, we take your experience seriously – because ADHD is abouthow your brain works, not whether you’ve managed to keep up.

1️⃣5️⃣ How do I book a private ADHD assessment?

Good news: No NHS waiting lists. No begging or “convincing” your GP that you are struggling. No years of delays. At ADHDdegree, we offer: ✔ One of the most affordable ADHD assessments in the UK (£895 all-inclusive)

✔ Online & in-person assessments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen & London
✔ Appointments within 2-3 weeks (sometimes next-day!)
✔ Medication consultations included
✔ University & workplace reports at no extra cost Book An ADHD Assessment Now

Why ADHDdegree Stands Out

If you’re looking for afast, stress-free ADHD assessment that won’t cost £1,500+, ADHDdegree is one of thebest-value private clinics in the UK. We keep our pricingtransparent, offerappointments within weeks (sometimes next-day!),and – most importantly -we understand ADHD, because we’ve been there, too.

👉Book Your ADHD Assessment Today and get clarity in just a fewweeks- not2-3 years.

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ADHD Assessment Costs UK & Scotland 2025 ULTIMATE GUIDE™