How ADHD can show up in adults
Adult ADHD often looks very different from childhood ADHD. Hyperactivity may reduce outwardly, but is frequently replaced by internal restlessness and mental overactivity. As responsibilities increase, difficulties with organisation, time management and emotional regulation often become more pronounced.
- Poor concentration and distractibility
- Forgetfulness and misplacing items
- Difficulty with organisation and prioritising
- Struggling to meet deadlines
- Starting tasks but finding them hard to finish
- Feeling mentally overloaded or exhausted
- Restlessness or feeling constantly on edge
- Emotional reactivity or mood swings
- Difficulty coping with stress
- Impulsive decisions or risk-taking
Many adults — particularly women and high achievers — cope by masking: over-preparing, perfectionism or overworking to avoid mistakes. This often leads to exhaustion, anxiety or burnout, and is a common reason ADHD is recognised later in life.
How the assessment works
Every adult assessment follows the same clear, five-stage pathway, so you always know what is happening and why.
Initial contact with our team
We start with a calm, friendly conversation to understand your concerns and decide the best next steps for you or your child. You can contact us by phone or email.
Screening forms
We email you digital forms to complete. These help us understand your or your child's experiences.
- ADHD/autism rating scales (for you or your child, and someone who knows you well)
- Developmental history
- School or teacher questionnaires (if assessing a child)
- Background and wellbeing information
Diagnostic interview
You attend a structured diagnostic interview with one of our clinicians — a calm, supportive conversation. Alongside it we use evidence-based tools suited to age and presentation.
- Standardised ADHD/autism questionnaires
- QbCheck (for ADHD, if appropriate)
- ABAS-3 adaptive functioning tools
- Observational and developmental assessments
- Screening for co-existing or overlapping conditions
Multidisciplinary team (MDT) review
Your assessment is reviewed by our multidisciplinary team, which may include psychiatrists, psychologists and specialist clinicians. This ensures every assessment is NICE-compliant, thorough and clinically safe.
Diagnostic outcome & detailed report
You receive a comprehensive clinical report within 21 working days, including the diagnostic conclusion, a clear explanation of the evidence, tailored recommendations for school, work and home, and signposting to further support. If criteria are not met, we still provide clear guidance and next steps.
After your diagnosis
If ADHD is diagnosed, we can offer a medication prescribing plan in line with NICE NG87 guidelines, together with coaching and psychoeducation to help you build strategies that genuinely work for you.
Fees
Cancellations within 7 working days, or non-attendance, are charged in full. Rescheduling within 4 weeks of your appointment incurs a £150 fee. Changes to booked consultation dates outside four weeks incur a £55 administration fee.
We offer a free initial telephone chat to help you understand your options and choose the most suitable pathway.
Why a diagnosis matters
Receiving a diagnosis is not simply a label — it is a framework for understanding yourself. It can:
- Provide long-overdue clarity and self-understanding
- Explain lifelong patterns in learning, behaviour or emotional responses
- Unlock tailored support, coaching and practical strategies
- Improve wellbeing, confidence and day-to-day functioning
- Help schools, employers or families support you better
- Open access to treatment or accommodations where needed