We understand that the assessment process can be confusing at times.
Below we have included answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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From the point of referral we aim to deliver an outcome of your assessment within 4 weeks (this could be shorter or longer depending on the complexities of your individual case). It is important to remember that your clinical interview is only one piece of the jigsaw that forms your full assessment. Unlike some other services or providers, where you may expect a 90-minute video call, we really want to understand your unique story and how ADHD has shaped this. Your assessing clinician will spend a good proportion of this time reviewing your pre-assessment information, considering the role of developmental experiences from birth to adulthood to inform your diagnosis.
The Agreed Quality Assurance Standard (AQAS) recently published by UKAAN outlines the ‘gold-standard’ of ADHD assessment and recommends that:
“Assessments should be completed in the context of a full psychiatric and neurodevelopmental review… It is recommended that 2 hours or more is required for an adequate assessment including both the diagnostic assessment and post-assessment discussions”.
They also assert that:
“it is essential to screen for other mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders and evaluate whether the presenting symptoms may be better explained by another condition”
By following this guidance, we can ensure you receive a high quality, robust assessment, that meets the current NICE guidance.
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For local clients we prefer to complete assessments face-to-face, however we recognise that people may have a preference for video call, we are happy to support your choice where possible (your clinician will discuss this further when they contact you to book your appointment).
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We aim to complete your clinical assessment within 4 weeks of referral, but this could be sooner.
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You will only have one clinical interview; however, this is supported by completion of a pre-assessment pack and a post-diagnostic review. It is important to remember that your clinical interview is only one piece of the jigsaw that forms your full assessment. Unlike some other services or providers, where you may expect a 90-minute video call, we really want to understand your unique story and how ADHD has shaped this. Your assessing clinician will spend a good proportion of this time reviewing your pre-assessment information, considering the role of developmental experiences from birth to adulthood to inform your diagnosis.
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We are currently only an assessment service, however it may be that as part of your post-diagnostic review where required we will discuss options around medication including where and how to get support.
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We are not currently an NHS Right to Choose provider, however we are able to accept professional referrals providing your client has given their consent and is willing to self-fund their assessment.
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We aim to provide a thorough and robust evidence-based assessment, using a range of high quality narrow & broad-band assessment tools, semi-structured interview, formulation and post-diagnostic review, meaning your diagnosis should be recognised by your GP. It is worth having a discussion with your GP about whether they will accept a private diagnosis of ADHD, or whether they have any specific requirements before financially investing in an assessment.
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Your assessment will include a review of your developmental history, physical health, mental health and psychological wellbeing. Whilst we do not diagnose other conditions or disorders, we are able to give advice and make further recommendations around support options. Our clinicians also engage in regular supervision.
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We aim to deliver the ‘gold-standard’ of assessment as described in the newest Quality Assurance Standards. Our assessments are regularly audited to a rigorous standard to ensure you receive the highest quality assessment.
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If the outcome of your assessment is that you do not have ADHD don’t worry. We are experienced in a variety of areas such as mental health & psychology. As part of your post-diagnostic review, our clinician will explore other potential causes for your symptoms and talk through other support options and next steps.