Step by step
ADHD Assessment Process
Direct answer
What happens during an ADHD assessment?
During an ADHD assessment, a specialist gathers information about your current symptoms, childhood development, how difficulties affect daily life across settings, and other possible explanations. A structured interview is used to organise this evidence, and the clinician then forms a diagnostic conclusion, gives feedback and writes a report.
- 11 structured steps
- Questionnaires before, interview on the day
- Feedback on the outcome and written report
- Next steps tailored to the outcome
The 11-step ADHD assessment pathway
NICE describes ADHD assessment as a comprehensive clinical and psychosocial assessment, not simply completion of a questionnaire. Our process reflects that.
- 1
Initial information
questionnaires, consent, identity check and, where available, school reports or previous records.
- 2
Developmental history
early childhood, school years and family history, ideally with input from someone who knew you as a child.
- 3
Current symptoms
inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity explored in detail with real-life examples.
- 4
Functional impairment
how symptoms affect work, education, relationships, finances, driving and daily life.
- 5
Assessment across relevant settings
evidence that difficulties occur in more than one setting (e.g. home and school/work).
- 6
Differential diagnosis
considering whether anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep problems, substance use or other conditions better explain symptoms.
- 7
Structured interview
DIVA-5 for adults or age-appropriate structured interview for children, used to organise evidence against diagnostic criteria.
- 8
Clinical formulation
the clinician integrates all evidence using clinical judgement.
- 9
Diagnostic outcome
whether recognised criteria (DSM-5-TR / ICD-11) are met, not met, or further information is needed.
- 10
Written report
formulation, outcome, reasoning and recommendations.
- 11
Next steps
psychoeducation, support options, medication assessment where appropriate, or signposting.
Before the appointment
After booking you receive secure online questionnaires for you and, ideally, an informant. We confirm your identity, GP details and consent, and ask for any school reports or previous assessments.
On the day
Allow 2–3 hours for adults (longer for children). Breaks are available. You can bring someone with you for part of the appointment.
Possible outcomes
- Criteria for ADHD are met
- Criteria are not met — with explanation and alternative recommendations
- More information is needed before a conclusion can be reached
What to bring
- Photo ID
- School reports, if available
- Previous assessment reports
- List of current medications
- Contact details of an informant
Book an ADHD Assessment
Structured clinical assessment and written outcome.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an ADHD assessment take?
Typically 2–3 hours for adults and 2.5–3.5 hours for children, plus questionnaires beforehand.
Can I bring someone?
Yes. An informant who knew you as a child is especially helpful.
Will I be told the outcome on the day?
Usually, if sufficient information is available. Sometimes the clinician needs to review further information first.
What if I feel anxious about the assessment?
Let us know. You can take breaks and ask questions at any point.
Is the assessment recorded?
No, assessments are not recorded. The clinician takes notes.
How is my information stored?
Securely and in line with UK GDPR. See our privacy policy.
Related questions
Related ADHD Path services
Clinical authorship & review
Clinically reviewed by
Shamir PatelMPharm, Independent Prescriber · CQC Registered Manager & Clinical Pharmacist
GPhC 2049338- Published
- 1 September 2026
- Last reviewed
- 28 September 2026
- Next review
- 28 September 2027
References
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management (NG87). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2018, updated 2019. Source
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — Diagnosis. NHS. Source
- DIVA-5: Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults. DIVA Foundation. Source