Online · UK-wide video assessment
Online ADHD Assessment UK
Direct answer
Can ADHD be assessed online?
Yes. For many adults and some young people, an ADHD assessment can be carried out by secure video with the same structured clinical interview, developmental history and collateral information as a face-to-face appointment. Online assessment is not suitable for everyone, and the clinician may recommend meeting in person.
- Same 11-step pathway as in clinic
- Identity confirmed before the appointment
- Informant and school information gathered securely
- Face-to-face may be advised for complex presentations
Who can be assessed online?
Most adults living in the UK with a private, quiet space and a reliable internet connection. For children, online assessment may be suitable for part or all of the process depending on age and presentation.
How identity is confirmed
We verify photo ID before the appointment and confirm identity at the start of the video call. For children, the parent or carer's identity and parental responsibility are confirmed.
How clinical information is gathered
Questionnaires are completed online beforehand. Developmental history is taken in the interview, and an informant — ideally someone who knew you as a child — can join the call or complete a questionnaire. School reports and previous records can be uploaded securely.
Limitations and when face-to-face is better
Video limits observation of some non-verbal behaviour and may be harder for young children. Face-to-face assessment may be recommended where information is limited, the presentation is complex, there are significant risk concerns, or communication by video is difficult.
How the report is delivered
You receive verbal feedback and a written report through a secure portal, with a follow-up call. The report is identical in format to face-to-face assessments.
The assessment pathway
Online assessments follow exactly the same steps:
- 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.
Book an ADHD Assessment
Structured clinical assessment and written outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Is an online ADHD diagnosis valid?
Yes, if made by an appropriately qualified clinician following a full clinical assessment.
Is an online ADHD test the same as an online assessment?
No. Online tests are screening questionnaires; an online assessment is a live clinical interview with a specialist.
What do I need?
A private room, a laptop or tablet with camera, stable internet and photo ID.
Can my parent join from another location?
Yes. Informants can join the video call from a separate device.
Can medication be started after an online assessment?
A medication assessment requires a physical health baseline (blood pressure, pulse, weight), which may be arranged locally or face to face.
Related questions
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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