What is ADHD ?
ADHD is a brain-based difference which affects regulation of executive skills which include attention, focus, emotions and behaviours.
ADHD is characterised by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and in some cases hyperactivity, all of which can mean that getting started on things and staying on track can be tricky at times. Often, individuals with ADHD are also talented at sports, creative, funny and thoughtful. ADHD people are overrepresented in sports, creative and entrepreneurial roles.
How do we assess for ADHD?
Our specialist team of psychologists follow all NICE Guidelines and follow DSM 5 criteria for all our multi-professional assessments. We use NICE approved psychological tools, including rating scales, sensory assessment and QbCheck, an objective measure of ADHD symptoms. We also screen for autism, learning, sensory and emotional needs as part of the assessment.
QBCheck Assessment
We also use QbCheck for our ADHD assessments. This is an objective ADHD tests, and NICE approved for use for people aged 6-60. At times, subjective data from rating scales can provide conflicting information. By adding objective measures, with QbCheck, we can mitigate subjectivity and get a better understanding of core ADHD symptoms, increasing accuracy of the assessment.
Do we prescribe?
As we are a psychologist-lead service, we cannot directly prescribe, but we are able to liaise with prescribing psychiatrists. Our linked psychiatrists charge a separate fee to evaluate and then initiate medication. As our assessments follow all NICE guidelines and DSM 5 criteria, our linked psychiatrists are happy to accept our ADHD diagnostic reports.
What is the cost?
The cost is £1,500.
Can you combine assessments and support?
We are specialists in combining neurodevelopmental assessments (so, ADHD, and autism). We offer ongoing psychoeducation sessions which are strengths-based sessions to support ADHD. We also offer personality testing which can help with career decisions, as well as cognitive assessment. If this is something you are interested in, please get in touch.
What does it cover?
Assessment areas can include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fidgety, with high levels of movement
- Day dreams and seems to ‘zone out’
- Impulsive, with quick reactions
- Struggles to start tasks and to stay on track without help
- Difficulties regulating emotions
- Seems to get overwhelmed by everyday sensory experiences
What happens during the assessment?
All our assessments are in line with NICE guidelines and DSM V criteria. We use rating scales for you and a relative who knows you well, as well as QB Check, a new NICE approved objective measure of attention to support correct ADHD identification. Our ADHD service is supervised by a consultant psychologist and ADHD lead. She is a specialist and author of books relating to ADHD.
Our process is that if you would like to book in with us, we ask that you complete the following short survey for us and email us to let us know you have completed this.
https://questionnaire.semble.io/a1a1c148836d7217ba433f72b683a56c4d65e735
Once we have received and reviewed this screening information, we will book your appointments into our calendar with you and take payment. We ask for half the assessment costs when booking, and half when the diagnostic decision has been made and paperwork can be released. You will receive a diagnostic confirmation letter and a full report.
What happens after the assessment?
We offer continued psychoeducation in the form of single or ongoing 50-minute sessions with our Lead Psychologist, Dr Tamasine Black, or Dr Rachael Miller, Clinical Psychologist. Psychoeducation is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention for clients that provides information and support to better understand and cope with ADHD. These are charged separately at £130 per session.
Where can I find more information?
Please have a read of our ADHD FAQ section as this contains more detailed and specific information as to what is involved.
How much does it cost?
The price for the ADHD assessment is £1,800.
Adult ADHD Assessment FAQ
Who carries out the assessment?
Our ADHD assessment team includes Dr Tamasine Black (Lead Psychologist), and our team of Clinical Psychologists. All members of the team are additionally trained in ADHD assessment and diagnosis. They are registered with their professional bodies with enhanced DBS checks.
What happens during the assessment?
All our assessments are conducted in line with NICE guidelines and DSM V criteria. We use both QB Check and Conner’s rating scales to assess for adult ADHD, among other tools.
An initial phone call with Dr Tamasine Black is offered on Tuesdays between 10am and Midday. These are offered as part of a call list whereby Dr Tamasine Black will call you between these times. This is a relaxed, informal brief phone call whereby any questions can be answered, and any adaptations you may need from the appointment are noted. Next will be an in-person assessment appointment in our Hambledon clinic. This lasts 50 minutes. Following multi-disciplinary case discussion, you will subsequently receive a report detailing the assessment.
Following your assessment, we offer feedback and review sessions (50 minutes) which are additionally charged at £120.
What happens after the assessment?
We offer continued psychoeducation in the form of single or ongoing 50-minute sessions with our Lead Psychologist, Dr Tamasine Black, or a member of our Clinical Psychology team. Psychoeducation is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention for clients that provides information and support to better understand and cope with ADHD. These are charged separately at £120per session.
Does the assessment follow the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines?
We follow all NICE guidelines and DSM-5 criteria. Our team are additionally supervised by ADHD consultant psychologists.
Do you prescribe medication?
As we are a psychologist-lead service, we cannot directly prescribe, but we are able to liaise with prescribing psychiatrists. Our linked psychiatrists charge a separate fee to evaluate and then initiate medication. As our assessments follow all NICE guidelines and DSM 5 criteria, our linked psychiatrists are happy to accept our ADHD diagnostic reports.
What we cannot help with
As we are not a crisis service, we are unfortunately unable to offer assessment of mental illnesses including bipolar disorder, psychosis, an established eating disorder or in cases where there is extensive self-harm or suicidal ideation.
Who should I speak to in case of an emergency?
We are not a mental health crisis service so if you have immediate concerns about your child or young person’s wellbeing, please contact the emergency services or your local NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service crisis telephone line.
Other useful organisations include:
Childline: 0800 1111 https://www.childline.org.uk/get-support/contacting-childline/
Samaritans: 116 123 or text “Shout” to 85258.
Will other services accept our report?
We adhere to the guidelines and standards required for our report to be used in a range of settings.
