Adult ADHD Assessments

At Oak Grove Psychology, we provide adult ADHD assessments in Reading and the wider UK, for individuals seeking clarity and support.

What is involved in the assessment process?

Our comprehensive ADHD assessment and diagnostic process adheres to the guidelines established by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guideline NG87 on ADHD: Diagnosis and Management, and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), alongside the Royal College of Psychiatrists guidelines. This thorough approach considers various factors that may contribute to or explain your difficulties.

It is a comprehensive process, considering various factors that could be contributing/explaining some of your difficulties. The process includes a detailed clinical history, a diagnostic interview (DIVA-5), and the review of standardised questionnaires, a computerised task, and collateral information. This may include input from parent/s if possible, partners, close friends, school reports, mental health service reports, and neurodevelopmental assessment reports where available (e.g., dyslexia or cognitive assessments).

Step-by-Step Process for ADHD Assessments

Step 1: Screening 

The first phase of the ADHD assessment involves a ‘screening’ process. You will be asked to complete some forms and validated questionnaires, before meeting with one of our psychologists, to determine whether further assessment appears warranted. If you need any support in completing the paperwork we can provide this. If there is enough evidence to suggest a full assessment is warranted, you will proceed to the next stage of assessment.

Step 2: Computerised Task - QB Check

Following the screening, you will be asked to complete the QBCheck which is a computer-based assessment tool which provides objective information as part of the assessment process (it is not a diagnostic tool but can complement an assessment). The test measures the core symptoms of ADHD including hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention/distractibility. It uses age and gender matched comparisons to produce reliable data to aid clinical judgment. You will be sent instructions and a link to complete the QbCheck at home. We ask for your consent to us receiving the results securely. Again, if you would like support to complete this test we can offer this. 

Step 3: Diagnostic and Clinical Interview

Following the computerised task you will meet virtually with one of our psychologists for a clinical interview and full diagnostic assessment. This will take up to 3 hours and will include the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults (DIVA-5), alongside a clinical interview exploring your developmental and mental health history, life experiences and current difficulties. You will be invited to bring along someone who knows you well to this appointment.

Step 4: Data Review and Report

Your psychologist will then spend time reviewing the information and data that has been collected to consider a formal diagnosis. One full and comprehensive report will be provided and a shorter report that can be shared with employers (if needed).

Step 5: Feedback and Signposting Meeting

Our psychologist will then meet with you for about an hour to discuss the findings and recommendations, as well as helpful resources you can access independently. If you wish to explore the option of medication, we can direct you to our prescribing colleagues. We will also discuss psychological therapy that our team can offer, as well as the option for ADHD coaching, to address areas such as organisational skills, emotional regulation, and relationship support.

Post-Diagnostic Support

Here at Oak Grove Psychology, we offer a range of post-diagnostic services to help you navigate life after an ADHD diagnosis. Our support includes:

  • Resource Guidance: Providing you with information about various resources you can access, including podcasts, books and websites.

  • Medication Referrals: Signposting you to prescribing colleagues if you are interested in exploring medication options.

  • Psychological Therapy and/or ADHD Coaching: Tailored support to help you to understand ADHD better and the impact this has on you. Our therapists can help you to make sense of your diagnosis and reflect on your life through a different lens. Additionally, our ADHD coaching can help with procrastination, study or work habits, developing organisational tools, managing impulsivity, understanding and managing your emotions and relationships, managing your inner critic, and developing self-compassion.

  • Rights Awareness: Guidance on how ADHD is protected under the Equalities Act, including your rights regarding reasonable adjustments in education, employment, and public services.

Our psychologists take a strength-based stance to assessment and treatment. We believe that although there are certainly challenges associated with meeting the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD, there are often many associated strengths, including creativity, spontaneity, conversational skills, imagination, and the ability to hyper-focus.

Enquire About ADHD Assessments in Reading

If you’re interested in pursuing an ADHD assessment or have any questions about the process, we’re here to help. Contact us today via email at drannanorris@oakgrovepsychology.co.uk, or by phone at 07359 577 510.