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How to Get a Private Adult ADHD Assessment Finding out that you have ADHD can be difficult, especially as adults. Many healthcare professionals are not familiar with ADHD symptoms for adults, or might not have the right tools for diagnosing. Self-assessment tools can provide some clues, however the most accurate diagnosis can only be made by a certified professional. This includes clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologists) and doctors (psychiatrists) and medical social workers. What is a Private Assessment? Some people who suspect they have ADHD may seek out private medical attention to receive a diagnosis and prescription for medication. It is crucial to realize that the only doctors who can determine ADHD are psychiatrists who have completed specialist training and have gained experience working with ADHD in adults. Counsellors and other mental health professionals are able to talk about ADHD symptoms, but they are not able to provide a formally recognised diagnosis. The most effective method of diagnosing ADHD is through an organized interview and questionnaires. These are usually based on research comparing the behaviors of ADHD sufferers with those who do not have it. During the assessment it is crucial that the person be honest and open and not hold back information or conceal any issues they may be facing. The clinician will ask the patient about the severity and frequency of symptoms in various situations and over time. They will also discuss family history, any other mental problems or alcohol and/or drug use. A psychiatrist will evaluate the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning. It is usually more thorough than a typical psychiatric assessment, so it is important to make an appointment in advance and to allow sufficient time for the appointment. It is a good idea to bring a trusted friend or family member to assist the person and give feedback. Sometimes, additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities is used to complement the clinical assessment and help determine whether ADHD is present or other conditions are causing the symptoms. After the evaluation, the clinician will inform the patient what their next steps are. They will usually discuss whether the medication is appropriate and decide on a holistic plan of treatment. Some clinics provide a rapid stabilisation and titration program for those who wish to begin taking medication right immediately. This service is only available to a select amount of patients who meet certain criteria. For example they must be at least 18 years old and not have medical conditions that could prevent the treatment from beginning immediately. Hyperthyroidism or cardiovascular disease. How do I schedule a Private Assessment? If you suspect that you have ADHD and are concerned about the effects it may have on your work, relationships or general wellbeing, it is possible to have an assessment done privately. Alternatively, private adhd assessments can ask your GP to refer you to an expert. The NHS Right to Choose scheme allows them to do this. This means that you can select the wellness center or hospital you prefer. After you've been referred to the clinic for an appointment, it will be scheduled to complete the clinical assessment, which usually takes several weeks. This assessment can be done face-toface or online, and will involve an organized interview with an expert in the field. This appointment is essential because without it, a diagnosis will not be determined. You can also bring your loved ones along to gather additional information. It is not required. Your clinician will review your medical history and discuss your symptoms in depth and how they affect you right now and how long they've been present. You can expect to be asked questions about your social and personal life, how you deal with the symptoms, and whether they impact on your work or relationships. It's normal to be nervous at the first appointment Our psychiatrists have the experience to make you feel comfortable and secure. In addition to an organized interview, the test will include some diagnostic tests. In general, these tests include the QbCheck and QbTest. Both are CE certified, FDA/TGA approved and use a shortened form of the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD Adults Version 5(DIVA5) to diagnose adults with ADHD. The results of the test and clinical judgement are used to give an accurate diagnosis. It is very important to receive a correct diagnosis, as if left untreated, it can lead to serious difficulties with work, relationships and well-being. It is important to remember that medical staff may have preconceived notions about people they believe has ADHD and this could hinder their ability to provide a proper diagnosis. What happens during the course of a Private Assessment While each doctor has their own process for evaluating patients, there are some standard procedures that all doctors consider essential for a comprehensive ADHD assessment. These include a thorough diagnosis interview, information gathered from independent sources (such spouses or other family members) as well as typical behavior rating scales for ADHD and other types of tests for psychometrics that are considered appropriate by therapists. The diagnostic interview is usually the first step in the process. The person being evaluated will be asked several questions designed to get them to reflect on how they have been behaving and to discuss how those behaviours affect their lives. It could take up to an hour or more. It is essential to get a full and honest answer from the patient or a family member. Some patients may be uneasy or uncomfortable speaking about their behavior, which could negatively affect the quality of your assessment. During the interview, the examiner will ask questions about the effects of ADHD on the person's relationships and life. The examiner will also ask the individual about their medical history and the length of time they have been suffering from the symptoms of ADHD. This is an important part of the examination because it helps determine if a diagnosis of ADHD is necessary. At the end of the interview, the examiner will be asked to fill out a set of behavioral rating scales for ADHD. These questionnaires are based on research that compares the behaviours of those with ADHD to those of people who do not have ADHD and are a valuable source of objective information. Usually the person being assessed together with their significant other complete these rating scales together. Broad-spectrum scales that screen for depression or anxiety are often included in an ADHD assessment, as are tests of specific abilities (such as language development, vocabulary recall, memory recall and motor abilities). Sometimes, the doctor may decide that a different kind of psychological test or psychometric assessment is required and may order it. At Priory, we are highly skilled in examining differential diagnoses (what other conditions have symptom overlap with ADHD). For example, a person who is diagnosed with anxiety might be recommended psychotherapy as in a medication plan to enhance the treatment package. What happens following the Private Assessment? If you or someone you know suffer from ADHD, getting a diagnosis can help you manage the symptoms that negatively impact your life. This is particularly relevant for adults who experience difficulties working or in their relationships, are struggling to keep up with household tasks or lose track of things or struggle to plan or organise the day-to-day routine. Find a doctor certified to conduct an ADHD assessment for adults. You can ask your doctor for a recommendation, or a friend or relative. You can also call the mental health clinic or medical school to get suggestions. Participate in an ADHD support group to discuss issues with members. A thorough ADHD assessment can be done in person or via the internet. The clinician will conduct an interview, review your clinical background, and recommend psychometric tests to help you understand your the cognitive abilities. These tests often include standardized behavioural rating scales for ADHD psychometrics that cover a broad spectrum and tests for specific abilities. The clinician will integrate all the information from a variety of sources to provide diagnostic advice regarding your ADHD and any other learning or psychiatric disorder identified during the assessment. The doctor will discuss treatment options with you and help develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, or other psychosocial interventions. After a final diagnosis is made, the clinician will provide you and your GP an extensive report. The clinician will give your GP all the paperwork required for you to be able to receive prescription medication through the NHS. You'll have to make regular appointments with your GP to ensure that they monitor your progress and make sure the medication is working. You can decide to continue receiving private treatment or return to NHS care after your psychiatrist has given you a written summary of the examination and has agreed upon a holistic treatment plan. You'll need at least three months of stabilisation of your medication, and follow-up appointments before you can return to the NHS.