How Much Does an 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 attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) assessment and diagnosis in the UK. ADHD, which stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (the full form of ADHD), is increasingly recognized as a neurodivergent condition. We’re talking costs, 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 into understanding ADHD and the assessment process, including what happens in an ADHD assessment and how to book an ADHD appointment.

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 social media content, or wondering if your struggles are, well… something more. Perhaps you’ve been researching ADHD traits in adults and trying to make sense of your experiences. But now you’ve hit the big question:

How much does it actually cost to get assessed and diagnosed?

ADHD assessments can range from £530 to £2,300 depending on the provider and type of assessment. Private ADHD assessments in the UK typically cost between £750 and £2000. The average cost of a private ADHD assessment for adults is around £1,200. 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 a follow-up appointment is included. Some clinics offer initial assessment packages starting at £530, which typically includes the assessment fee. Now, why do so many people go private?

Simple: NHS waiting lists can stretch beyond three years (yes, really), leaving many individuals turning to private assessments due to dissatisfaction with NHS waiting times. In Scotland, waiting times for private ADHD assessments average 71 days, the longest in the UK. However, the average waiting time for a private ADHD assessment in the UK is approximately 43 days. But in reality, these averages are misleading as waiting times for ADHD assessments through the NHS may reach up to five years in some areas. The lack of NHS ADHD waiting time data has led to increased scrutiny and dissatisfaction among patients seeking assessments. While private clinics can offer 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

Private ADHD clinics generally offer more personalized assessments and faster diagnosis than NHS services, but costs vary based on factors such as location, provider qualifications, and whether medication reviews and follow-ups are included. Private ADHD assessments are often conducted by specialists with extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD, ensuring a thorough and expert evaluation. These assessments often include a comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessment to understand the full cognitive profile of the individual, which is crucial for determining if ADHD is neurodivergent in each case.

NHS ADHD assessment process vs 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? Or pay privately and get answers now? It’s a tough call, so let’s break it down. While most private ADHD assessments do not require a GP referral, it is generally recommended to consult your GP first to discuss your concerns and explore all available options, including the possibility of an ADHD screening test NHS or a neurodivergent test NHS.

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 years. 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 you might have ADHD. Sounds simple, but here’s the problem:

• 🔹 Many people get turned away at 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, or look like 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 who does and doesn’t need an assessment, despite often having zero specialist 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). This might include the Conners questionnaire NHS uses as part of their screening process.

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 evaluation 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 to compensate for their struggles. It’s a frustrating, outdated view, but it happens. NHS diagnoses must meet specific clinical thresholds based on recognized symptoms of ADHD. If you’re happy to wait, NHS diagnosis and medication is a great option. The NHS lists numerous treatment options for people with ADHD, stating that a combination of medicine and therapy is usually best. 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 clinicians understand 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. Private ADHD assessments typically involve a more comprehensive evaluation than NHS assessments, allowing for a deeper understanding of the individual’s unique challenges and needs, including their executive function skills and inattentiveness.

• 🔹 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.

2️⃣ Specialists Who Actually Know ADHD

Unlike GPs, who often harbour outdated biases and have little to no formal ADHD training, private ADHD clinicians are experts in neurodevelopmental conditions.

Many have dedicated their entire careers to understanding, diagnosing, and treating ADHD in adults. They understand that ADHD is neurodivergent and part of the broader neurodiversity spectrum.

• 🔹 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 research and

• 🔹 NICE guidelines on ADHD diagnosis they don’t rely on outdated stereotypes. This means you’re being assessed by someone 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 often rushed due to time constraints. Many people get a single 60-90 minute session with a psychiatrist who’s trying to determine a yes/no diagnosis as quickly as possible. With a private ADHD assessment, 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 get real 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 diagnosed, there’s often another long wait for treatment. Some people are left in limbo for months, unable to access medication or proper support. With a private ADHD evaluation:

• ✅ 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. However, opting for private prescriptions can incur additional costs for medication, which may vary and could be a financial burden if shared care agreements are refused. Private prescription costs for ADHD medications typically range from £25 to £250 per month, with individual prescriptions costing between £25 and £125 depending on the chosen medication.

• ✅ 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, ADHD coaching, and further support. This may include recommendations for behavioural therapies and support groups.

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 health right 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

For individuals who need an urgent ADHD evaluation for workplace or academic support, private assessments are often the only 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, and breathing, some clinics advertise a lower upfront fee while quietly stacking on extra costs. Before you book, make sure you know exactly what’s included – because nobody likes surprise bills. Here’s what to watch out for: Many private ADHD assessments occur quickly, which may not provide a thorough examination of a patient’s history and symptoms. Some private clinics prioritize profitability, which can result in a faster diagnosis process that may not always meet clinical standards.

Check whether follow-ups are included or charged separately. Comprehensive care packages that include test, treatment support, and personalized plans are crucial for effective medical treatment.

What Can Add to the Cost of an ADHD Assessment?

💡 Follow-up Sessions (£100 – £250 per appointment) Even if you get a diagnosis, some clinics won’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. The average cost of a follow-up consultation after a private ADHD assessment is £173.

💊 Medication Reviews (£100 – £200 per session) If you’re considering ADHD medication, you’ll likely need ongoing check-ins with a prescriber to adjust dosage and monitor side effects as part of your treatment plan. Some clinics include the first review, others don’t. 📜 Each Prescription (£40 – £100) Yes, you pay for the medication itself, but some private clinics also charge for writing the prescription. Titration, the process of finding the correct dosage of ADHD medicine, involves careful monitoring and regular follow-up consultations to ensure the treatment is effective and safe.

🏢 Reports for Workplace & University Accommodations (£25 – £100) If you need adjustments at work or university (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. This report can be crucial for a workplace needs assessment.

🩺 Insurance & ADHD Treatment Costs (varies by provider) Some private insurers partially cover ADHD assessments – but many don’t. Most private health insurance plans do not cover ADHD assessments or treatment costs. 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 a prescriber writes an ADHD prescription, they legally and medically take responsibility for ensuring it’s safe and appropriate for you. That’s why they don’t just rubber-stamp prescriptions – it’s their job to assess risks, monitor side effects, and check for interactions with any other medications you might be taking. Regular follow-ups during titration typically occur every three weeks to track treatment progress and adjust dosages as necessary. However, ADHD medication prescribed through private assessments can have serious side effects, and it is crucial that these are thoroughly discussed with patients to ensure informed decision-making.

⏳ Time & Personalised Care ADHD medication isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Your prescriber will:

• ✔ Review your health records & blood pressure

• ✔ Assess how well the medication is working

• ✔ Check for side effects & adjust the dosage if needed

• ✔ Develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique lifestyle, goals, and health profile

This process takes expertise, time, and attention to detail – because no two ADHD brains are exactly the same.

💊 ADHD Medical Treatment & Ongoing Monitoring

Why ADHD Medication Reviews Matter

Getting the right ADHD medication is rarely a one-and-done situation. It’s a process of fine-tuning to make sure: ✔ The dosage is correct ✔ Side effects are minimised ✔ You’re getting the best possible results Without ongoing reviews, many people either:

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

❌ Give up on medication before trying adjustments that could work better Find 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 offer all-inclusive assessment packages, while others charge separately for 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? A reputable private ADHD clinic will be transparent about pricing upfront- because no one wants to go through this assessment alongside a financial headache. Looking for a straightforward, all-inclusive ADHD assessment? Book yours here no hidden fees, no nasty surprises.

What is a Shared Care Agreement?

A relationship between yourself and your doctor that allows sharing of prescribing and monitoring. Depending on your patient’s age, the time needed to get titrated can range from three weeks to six months. The average price of the Private Consultation is around £173 plus private prescribing charges, ranging around £250 and £375 depending on the medication you’re taking.

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

Ever noticed that assessments for children cost more than adult 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 a whole 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 With adult 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 often lack the self-awareness or vocabulary to explain their experiences in a way that fits neatly into ADHD diagnostic criteria. That means ADHD specialists have to dig deeper, looking at:

• ✔ Behaviour patterns in different settings

• ✔ Parent and teacher reports

• ✔ Developmental history …working harder to piece together the full picture.

📚 School Reports & External Feedback

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

• ✔ School reports

• ✔ Teacher observations

• ✔ Parental feedback

This extra step takes time, increasing the overall cost of child ADHD assessments compared to adult 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. Children experience ADHD differently depending on the environment. They might:

• ✔ Mask symptoms at school but struggle at home

• ✔ Be fidgety in one setting

but hyper-focused in another Because of this, ADHD assessments for children may require the clinician to take more time to 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 sources to 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, making private ADHD assessments for adults faster and more affordable than child ADHD diagnoses.

🧠 No Need for School Reports or Teacher Feedback

One of the biggest reasons adult ADHD assessments cost less? They don’t require third-party reports to confirm symptoms. With child ADHD testing, external sources are essential – but for adults seeking an ADHD diagnosis, clinicians can rely on self-reported experiences and 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. A private adult ADHD assessment usually takes 90-120 minutes, while child ADHD assessments often require multiple sessions and additional reports.

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

ADHD assessments aren’t just tick-box exercises. They require specialist expertise to understand how ADHD symptoms show up across different ages and environments.

Key Differences:

• ✔ Child ADHD assessments involve longer observations, teacher reports, and extra interviews – making them more expensive

• ✔ Adult ADHD assessments are faster, more direct, and cost less because self-reporting is more reliable

Thinking About Booking an ADHD Assessment?

Whether you’re an 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 even get 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 – and some companies will pay for an ADHD evaluation as 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 UK will 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 like GoFundMe have 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 for ADHD coaching (to help with focus, time management, and organisation)

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

✔ A personal 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 Payment Options.

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

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

✔ Provide flexible payment options (you can set up a payment plan with Klarna)

✔ Help you navigate funding options like 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 cost between £750 and £2,000, depending on:

• ✔️ The clinic

• ✔️ Whether follow-up appointments are included

• ✔️ If medication reviews are part of the package Larger cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow tend 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 you don’t need your GP’s approval. That means no months of back-and-forth, no GP gatekeeping, and no 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. Some charge extra for medication reviews, while others include it.

✔️ ADHDdegree includes a prescriber consultation in its £895 package

✔️ Medication itself is a separate cost, whether through a private prescription or an NHS Shared Care Agreement

4️⃣ How long does it take to get diagnosed privately?

⏳ Private ADHD assessments take 2-10 days from booking to diagnosis and another 1-3 weeks for a prescriber appointment. Compared to the NHS waiting list of 2-8 years, it’s practically light speed.

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

Yes! A proper private ADHD diagnosis is valid for:

• ✔️ Workplace accommodations under the Equality Act 2010

• ✔️ Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for university support

• ✔️ Adjustments for exams, work deadlines, and focus support Just make sure your clinic follows NICE guidelines and provides a full diagnostic report – which ADHDdegree does. A Shared Care Agreement is an arrangement between a GP and psychiatrist that allows for the sharing of responsibility for prescribing ADHD medication.

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

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 pricing transparent, offer appointments within weeks (sometimes next-day!),and – most importantly -we understand ADHD, because we’ve been there, too. Self-pay is the most common method for financing a private ADHD assessment.

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