What to Expect at your Adult ADHD Assessment

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognised in adults, many of whom have spent years feeling misunderstood or unsupported. At Autism Kent, we provide fully NICE compliant adult ADHD assessments, designed to help individuals gain clarity and access appropriate support. Our assessment reports are accepted by the NHS, educational bodies and other organisations. 

If you are considering an ADHD assessment for yourself or a loved one, this guide explains what our adult ADHD assessment process involves and what you can expect.

Why seek an adult ADHD assessment?

Many adults seek an ADHD assessment after experiencing long-standing difficulties with concentration, organisation, time management, impulsivity, restlessness, emotional regulation, work performance, education, or relationships. An accurate diagnosis can provide understanding, validation, and access to workplace adjustments, educational support, or medical treatment where appropriate.

Our adult ADHD assessment process

The assessment process is thorough, structured, and aligned with NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults.

Following referral or self-referral, you will be asked to complete screening questionnaires and provide background information. This helps determine whether a full ADHD assessment is appropriate.

The next stage is a detailed developmental and clinical history. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, so understanding lifelong patterns is essential. The clinician will explore childhood experiences, school history, attention and activity levels over time, mental health history, family relationships, social functioning, and work or academic experiences. Where possible, information from someone who knew you in childhood can be helpful, though this is not essential.

Standardised ADHD assessment tools are used. These include validated adult ADHD rating scales and a structured clinical interview to assess symptoms across different settings and stages of life, ensuring the assessment is evidence-based and clinically robust.

The clinician will also consider other diagnoses and co-occurring conditions. Many adults with ADHD also experience anxiety, depression, autism, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Careful consideration is given to overlapping presentations to ensure diagnostic accuracy.

Following the assessment, feedback on the outcome is provided. This includes a clear explanation of whether diagnostic criteria for adult ADHD are met, how symptoms present for you in everyday life, and an overview of your individual strengths and challenges. A comprehensive written report is provided, suitable for employers, educational institutions, or healthcare professionals.

Recommendations and next steps are included in the report. These may cover workplace or academic adjustments, psychological support, ADHD coaching, skills-based interventions, and guidance around discussing medication options with your GP or psychiatrist. Our recommendations will be tailored to reflect your individual needs. 

A supportive, neuroafirming and person-centred approach

Seeking an adult ADHD assessment can feel overwhelming. Our clinicians take a respectful, neuroaffirmative, and person-centred approach, ensuring that every individual feels listened to, understood, and supported throughout the assessment process.

If you are looking for an adult ADHD assessment, please visit www.autismkent.co.uk to find out more or contact our team to discuss your needs:

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t: 01227 656953