Adult ADHD assessment

The ADHD assessment journey

Going through an ADHD diagnostic assessment can feel overwhelming, especially as an adult when you've spent years wondering if your struggles are real or just personal failings. The assessment covers all aspects of your life, from childhood to the present day, and it can bring up old feelings — please be compassionate towards yourself during this process.

We know, because ADHD Services was created by people with ADHD who have been through the assessment process themselves. Understanding what actually happens during the diagnostic process helps ease anxiety and ensures you get the most out of your assessment.

A multidisciplinary team, not a single opinion

Our assessments use a comprehensive, multimodal and multidisciplinary approach. A specialist team of two to three practitioners — which might include an ADHD clinician, a clinical psychologist and/or a consultant psychiatrist — works together to review your specific situation. This collaborative approach ensures maximum accuracy and attention to detail. You will receive a written report that is valid for submission to the HSE (or NHS) and other relevant bodies.

The clinical interview

The structured interview explores six areas: your childhood history (early signs around attention, hyperactivity or impulsivity, school performance and family dynamics); family history (ADHD has a strong genetic component); relationships (family, friends, partners, colleagues); daily life (planning, organisation, household tasks, time management); emotional regulation (how you manage stress and emotions); and physical and mental health (sleep, energy, medical history).

After your assessment

You'll receive your personalised, comprehensive diagnostic report within 6 weeks of your first appointment — guaranteed. If you wish to explore medication, our resident psychiatrist provides expert guidance on options and supports you through a personalised titration period, typically lasting 4–12 weeks.