We regard the ADHD assessment as one of the most significant and comprehensive consultations in modern psychiatry. Prior to your appointment, we curate a detailed clinical picture using advanced pre-assessment questionnaires. This allows us to maximise our time together, focusing entirely on understanding you and your unique cognitive profile.
Unlike standard psychiatric evaluations, our ADHD assessment represents a substantial investment of clinical time, extending up to 2.5 hours. ADHD is intrinsically linked to neurodevelopment; our objective is to meticulously map your journey from childhood to your current professional and personal life.
To achieve optimal clinical outcomes, we commit to looking beyond the checklist. We understand the psychological profile and, where necessary, identify symptoms of associated conditions. By the conclusion of your appointment, you will have answers to your long-held questions and, most importantly, a strategic roadmap for the future.
Following the assessment, Dr. Ivantu dedicates significant time to crafting a comprehensive medical report. This serves as valid, clinical evidence of your diagnosis and a blueprint for your treatment. For every private ADHD assessment, we dedicate up to 4 hours of consultant time to:
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Diagnosing ADHD requires a rigorous clinical assessment, fusing standardized data with expert clinical judgement.
Dr. Stefan Ivantu utilises the DIVA-5 diagnostic interview the gold standard for adult ADHD assessment. This structured protocol ensures every significant symptom is evaluated with precision. This is particularly vital in high-functioning adults, where childhood symptoms may have been masked or historically overlooked. By leveraging the DIVA-5, Dr. Ivantu ensures the most accurate diagnosis possible, strictly adhering to DSM-5 criteria.
We integrate data from advanced screening tools such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and BAARS-IV. We also gather collateral history from loved ones or parents to gauge symptom severity across different environments.
Differential diagnosis—ruling out other conditions—is essential to our process. We use evidence-based tools and mental state examinations to ensure your symptoms are not better explained by burnout, anxiety, or other factors. We evaluate the impact of these symptoms on your executive function in both high-pressure work environments and personal life.
Collaboration is key. We work in concert with GPs, specialists, and therapists to ensure a holistic support network. However, we also respect that privacy is paramount; should you wish your case to remain entirely confidential, we will honour that choice.
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You may wonder how the adult assessment differs from a childhood evaluation. The distinction is critical. In adult life, symptoms manifest differently—often masked by high intelligence, anxiety, or coping mechanisms developed over decades.
Compared to paediatric evaluations, adult assessments require a more sophisticated, retrospective approach. We must unpack a longer personal history. Our process accounts for the unique challenges faced by modern adults—career pressure, relationship dynamics, and future aspirations.
We look beyond the core symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity to understand the subtle ways neurodivergence impacts your executive presence, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.
Our private medical secretary will guide you seamlessly through the administrative process, ensuring a friction-free experience. We will provide you with the pre-assessment questionnaires for you and a close relative to complete, alongside instructions for establishing communication with your GP.
We fully appreciate that for some clients, absolute discretion is required. We are happy to discuss a private route where clinically safe to do so, adhering to controlled drug safety protocols.
To prepare for your video assessment, please ensure you are in a private, comfortable environment with a reliable internet connection and a device (Mac, PC, or laptop) capable of high-quality video calls.
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Screening tools are the first step in identifying cognitive patterns. These instruments are utilised by both patients and the assessing psychiatrist to establish a baseline.
We utilise industry-leading tools including:
While these tests provide initial data, they represent only a fraction of the diagnostic process.
True diagnostic tools are far more comprehensive. They involve a clinical interview by a specialist to confirm or rule out ADHD against DSM-5 criteria. A robust diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation of:
These tools ensure an evidence-based outcome. Once a diagnosis and treatment plan are established, we support our patients through Shared Care Agreements, working collaboratively with your GP without imposing additional administrative fees. This ensures your transition to long-term management is as smooth as possible.
Dr. Ivantu’s expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of the adult mind, providing a tailored assessment that caters to your unique neurological profile.
Your journey to understanding begins today. Reserve Your Assessment.
Before investing in an assessment, it is helpful to understand the potential clinical conclusions:
The purpose of this evaluation is clarity. Whether the answer is ADHD or something else, the ultimate goal is an improvement in your quality of life, performance, and well-being.
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There are several different types of ADHD seen in adults, which present in different ways and vary in prevalence according to each individual:
Often described as the "daydreaming" presentation, this is dominated by subtle symptoms: careless errors, drifting focus, losing items, or appearing withdrawn. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates this affects 20-30% of cases. In our practice, we see this frequently in high-functioning women and professionals whose symptoms have flown under the radar, masked by anxiety or high intelligence, often leading to a later-in-life diagnosis.
The most common presentation, characterized by a mix of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. NICE suggests this accounts for 50-75% of cases. For adults, the inattentive symptoms are often the most disruptive, impacting relationship stability, workplace performance, and organizational management.
The least common (approx. 15%) and often the easiest to identify due to visible restlessness or impulsivity. While historically associated with male presentations in childhood, it occurs across all genders. In adults, this may manifest as inner restlessness, an inability to relax, or excessive talking.
The brain is complex, and ADHD rarely exists in a vacuum. In cases of co-occurrence, the specialist will determine the clinical priority—whether to treat the ADHD first or address underlying issues. Dr. Ivantu’s role is to guide you through this hierarchy of treatment.
Common associated conditions include:
At the conclusion of your appointment, we will clearly communicate the diagnostic outcome. Our priority is to co-create a holistic plan that helps you achieve your personal and professional goals. We are also available to provide necessary documentation for universities or employers.
You will receive your Comprehensive Medical Report within 5 working days. With your consent, we will share this with your GP to facilitate ongoing care.
We recognise that for many of our clients, the preferred path to optimisation is non-pharmaceutical. You may wish to prioritise lifestyle architecture, executive coaching, or technology optimisation to manage your cognitive performance naturally. Dr. Ivantu is a strong advocate for these sustainable, holistic interventions and fully supports your decision—whether you choose a purely lifestyle-based approach, medication, or a hybrid of both.
If pharmaceutical treatment is your choice, and it is clinically indicated and safe, we can initiate this within 3 working days. Private medication costs are settled directly with our partner pharmacy.
Medication is a tool, not a mandate. Our duty is to empower you with the data to make an informed choice. We prescribe ADHD medication only when it is clinically appropriate, safe, and fully consented to.
Many of our clients prefer to manage symptoms holistically, requesting a multi-faceted approach. Regardless of your decision, we provide robust aftercare, offering alternatives such as lifestyle architecture, coaching, and therapy.
Executive Coaching: A high-impact intervention that yields rapid results for specific goals, though it requires personal commitment.
Lifestyle Changes: Adapting sleep hygiene and daily routines specifically for the neurodivergent brain. Managing work-life balance and "to-do" paralysis to create a more frictionless existence.
Sleep optimisation: We are tackling sleep issues from a non-medication perspective, optimising the environmental factors, technology, sustainable and productive routines.
Technology Hygiene: We refuse to view technology as the enemy. Instead, we teach you to leverage it. We advocate for improving your discretionary attention. We will help you build sustainable, goal-oriented workflows that work for you, not against you.
Bio-Optimisation: Exercise, nature exposure, and nutrition are pillars of the holistic approach. Physical exertion has proven benefits in mitigating both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.
There is a common misconception regarding ADHD medication and dependency. Stimulant medication is not considered addictive when taken as prescribed for therapeutic purposes. Conversely, studies indicate that untreated ADHD carries a higher risk of substance misuse; appropriate treatment can reduce this risk by up to 30%.
Some patients report functioning less effectively without medication—this is not addiction, but rather similar to a visual impairment requiring glasses to focus. We respect that some clients prefer a purely holistic approach, and we are fully equipped to support that path.
Where clinically indicated, our patients can have an in-person follow-up appointment and meet their private consultant psychiatrist. The in-person follow-up sessions occur weekly at our office at 10 Harley Street, London.
We maintain the same exacting standards for our virtual clients across the UK. Video consultations offer a discreet, time-efficient solution for busy professionals, removing the barriers of travel and scheduling conflicts.
Mental health is multifactorial. Every client has unique circumstances and goals, making it difficult to predict exact timelines.
In summary, following the diagnosis, it typically takes an average of 4 sessions to establish an effective, stable, and safe treatment plan. These usually occur every 2–4 weeks, tailored to your clinical needs and rate of progress.
ADHD Specialist is a private service fully registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England. Our assessment protocols are rigorous, exceeding standard NHS foundations.
We conduct periodic clinical audits and solicit feedback to maintain the highest calibre of service. We deliberately maintain a manageable caseload to ensure every client receives attentive, unhurried care.
Our Consultant, Dr. Stefan Ivantu, completed his specialist training in Oxford, UK, and holds membership with the Royal College of Psychiatrists. He brings years of experience in establishing Adult NHS ADHD services to his private practice.
We offer enduring support following diagnosis. This may include therapy, medication management, or holistic strategy sessions.
Continuity of care is vital for monitoring symptoms and adjusting treatment as your life evolves. Research indicates that untreated ADHD correlates with higher risks of burnout, anxiety, and other co-occurring conditions. ADHD is not "cured" by a pill; it is managed through a partnership. Given the complexity of the condition, having a dedicated Consultant Psychiatrist managing your care offers significant long-term value.
ADHD is not static; its manifestation evolves alongside your life. Having a dedicated Consultant who understands your unique longitudinal history is invaluable when navigating high-stakes transitions, whether in your career, relationships, or personal growth.
Furthermore, as medically trained physicians, we provide a tier of oversight that extends beyond psychology. We are uniquely positioned to monitor your physical health—specifically cardiovascular vigilance—which is essential when utilising stimulant medications. We coordinate seamlessly with top-tier Cardiologists and GPs to ensure your physical safety matches your mental optimisation.
While emerging research highlights a correlation between unmanaged ADHD and reduced life expectancy, our philosophy is rooted in prevention. Through rigorous ongoing monitoring and proactive adjustments to your holistic plan, we aim to mitigate these risks, future-proofing your health and maximising your longevity.
Quality & Depth: Private care allows for a forensic, personalised approach. We have the time to understand the nuance of your case.
Flexibility: We work around the schedules of busy executives and students, offering timely access to care.
Expertise: As per the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the Consultant Psychiatrist is a "clinical scientist," able to critically assess complex information and apply the best treatment strategies—a vital role in an age of internet misinformation.
Continuity: You work with Dr. Ivantu from day one. You are not passed between clinicians, ensuring a consistent, deep therapeutic relationship.
Bespoke Options: We offer access to treatments often unavailable on the NHS, including genetic testing, advanced coaching, and personalised therapy.
Book your trusted assessment today. Contact ADHD Specialist.
Investment: Private excellence comes with a cost. We are transparent with our fees. Most of our clients decide to self-fund their private care. Additionally, we work with major insurers (WPA, Cigna, Bupa Global, Aviva, Allianz), though we advise checking your policy details.
Medication Hesitancy: We understand the fear of "changing your personality" or side effects. We offer a safe space to discuss these concerns and fully support non-medication pathways.
Shared Care Agreements: While we maintain the highest regulatory standards (GMC, CQC, RCPsych), some GPs may still hesitate to share care. However, the majority of our stable patients successfully enter these agreements.
Trust: Trust is the currency of our practice. Without it, we cannot provide personalised care. We value your trust above all else.
ADHD is a lifelong condition, but it doesn't have to be an obstacle. With effective holistic support, you can grow and live a fulfilling life. At the heart of our practice is the passion for our patients to live well and achieve their goals.
Your privacy is paramount, and we ensure the utmost discretion and confidentiality throughout your assessment.
Work with a trusted private psychiatrist who you can connect with on a personal level.
Our comprehensive Adult ADHD Assessment fee is £1,600. We accept self-funded patients and those covered by our partner private medical insurers.
If you have private medical insurance with WPA, Bupa Global, Cigna, Aviva, or Allianz Care, we recommend contacting your provider prior to booking.
We understand that obtaining a referral can sometimes be a barrier to timely care. Therefore, we fully accept self-referrals, allowing you to book your assessment directly.
That said, if you are able to obtain a GP referral, we highly encourage it. This helps Dr. Ivantu build a comprehensive picture of your medical history and paves the way for a smoother collaboration with your NHS GP—particularly if we aim to transfer your prescribing care to them in the future.
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