Complete Adult ADHD Assessment Guide in Nottingham

Written By Sharon Shergill

If you're reading this, there's a good chance you've been wondering whether you might have ADHD. Perhaps you've struggled for years with focus, organisation, or feeling like everyone else has life figured out. You're not alone, and more importantly, seeking an adult ADHD assessment in Nottingham is a brave and important step toward understanding yourself better.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting an ADHD diagnosis in Nottingham, from recognising the signs to understanding the assessment process, and what comes next.

What Is Adult ADHD?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) isn't just a childhood condition. Many adults live with ADHD without realising it, often having developed coping mechanisms that mask their symptoms.

Adult ADHD typically presents in three ways:

  • Inattentive type: Difficulty focusing, easily distracted, forgetful

  • Hyperactive-impulsive type: Restlessness, impulsivity, difficulty staying still

  • Combined type: A mixture of both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms

Unlike the stereotype of hyperactive children, adult ADHD often shows up as internal restlessness, chronic disorganisation, relationship difficulties, and a persistent feeling of underachievement despite intelligence and effort.

Signs You Might Need an Adult ADHD Assessment

Many adults seek an ADHD assessment in Nottingham after years of struggling with symptoms they couldn't quite explain. Here are some common signs that an assessment might be helpful:

Concentration and Focus Issues:

  • Difficulty completing tasks or projects

  • Easily distracted by external stimuli or your own thoughts

  • Struggling to pay attention during meetings or conversations

  • Reading the same paragraph multiple times without absorbing it

Organisation and Time Management:

  • Chronic lateness despite your best intentions

  • Difficulty prioritising tasks

  • Procrastination, especially with boring or complex tasks

  • Losing items regularly (keys, phone, wallet)

  • Messy or chaotic living spaces

Emotional and Social Challenges:

  • Impulsive decisions you later regret

  • Difficulty managing emotions or prone to outbursts

  • Interrupting others during conversations

  • Restlessness or feeling "on edge"

  • Relationship difficulties due to forgetfulness or inattention

Work-Related Struggles:

  • Underperforming despite capability

  • Difficulty with paperwork or administrative tasks

  • Missing deadlines or forgetting commitments

  • Job-hopping due to boredom or difficulty

If several of these resonate with you, an ADHD assessment could provide clarity and open doors to effective treatment.

Private vs NHS ADHD Assessment in Nottingham: Understanding Your Options

When seeking an adult ADHD diagnosis in Nottingham, you have two main pathways: NHS or private assessment.

NHS ADHD Assessment in Nottingham

The NHS provides free ADHD assessments, but there are significant considerations:

Pros:

  • No cost for the assessment

  • Access to ongoing NHS support and medication

Cons:

  • Long waiting times (currently 24+ months in many areas)

  • Requires GP referral

  • Stricter criteria may be applied

  • Limited appointment flexibility

To access NHS ADHD assessment services in Nottingham, you'll need to speak with your GP, who can refer you to the local adult ADHD service, typically through Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Private ADHD Assessment in Nottingham

Private assessment offers a faster alternative:

Pros:

  • Significantly shorter wait times (often 2-6 weeks)

  • More flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends

  • Comprehensive assessment process

  • Detailed written report

  • No GP referral typically required

Cons:

  • Cost (typically £600-£1,500 depending on provider)

  • May need to go back to NHS for ongoing prescriptions (though many private providers offer this service)

As a CBT therapist offering private adult ADHD assessments in Nottingham, I understand that the decision between NHS and private care is personal and depends on your individual circumstances, urgency, and financial situation.

The Adult ADHD Assessment Process: What Actually Happens

Many people feel anxious about their ADHD assessment. Understanding what to expect can help ease those nerves.

Before Your Assessment

1. Initial Enquiry and Booking When you contact a provider for an ADHD assessment in Nottingham, you'll typically have a brief discussion about your concerns and be given information about the process, timeline, and costs.

2. Pre-Assessment Questionnaires You'll usually be asked to complete questionnaires before your appointment, such as:

  • Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS)

  • Childhood symptom questionnaire

  • Current symptom checklist

  • Information about your medical history

3. Gathering Collateral Information ADHD is a lifelong condition that must have been present since childhood. You may be asked to provide:

  • School reports or academic records

  • Information from a parent or someone who knew you as a child

  • Input from a current partner or close friend (optional but helpful)

During Your Assessment

A comprehensive ADHD assessment typically takes 1-3 hours and includes:

1. Detailed Clinical Interview Your assessor will ask about:

  • Your current symptoms and how they impact daily life

  • Your childhood and developmental history

  • Educational and work history

  • Relationships and social functioning

  • Medical history and current medications

  • Mental health history (as conditions like anxiety and depression often coexist with ADHD)

2. Symptom Evaluation The assessment follows diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5 or ICD-11, examining:

  • How many symptoms you experience

  • How long you've experienced them

  • The severity and impact on your life

  • Whether symptoms were present before age 12

  • Whether symptoms occur across multiple settings (work, home, relationships)

3. Differential Diagnosis A thorough assessment rules out other conditions that can mimic ADHD, such as:

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Depression

  • Sleep disorders

  • Thyroid problems

  • Substance use

  • Bipolar disorder

4. Discussion of Findings Many assessors provide initial feedback during your appointment, though a full written report typically follows within 1-2 weeks.

After Your Assessment

1. Receiving Your Report You'll receive a comprehensive written report that includes:

  • Your diagnosis (or explanation if ADHD isn't diagnosed)

  • Detailed analysis of your symptoms

  • Recommendations for treatment and support

  • Information about next steps

2. Understanding Your Diagnosis If you're diagnosed with ADHD, your report will specify the type:

  • Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

  • Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

  • Combined Presentation

3. Treatment Options ADHD is highly treatable. Your options may include:

  • Medication: Stimulants (methylphenidate/Ritalin, lisdexamfetamine/Vyvanse) or non-stimulants (atomoxetine)

  • CBT for ADHD: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specifically adapted for ADHD

  • Coaching and skills training: Learning strategies for organisation and time management

  • Lifestyle modifications: Exercise, sleep hygiene, nutrition

  • Workplace accommodations: Adjustments to support your success at work

How Long Does an ADHD Assessment Take in Nottingham?

Private Assessment Timeline:

  • Initial enquiry to appointment: 1-6 weeks

  • Assessment appointment: 1-3 hours

  • Written report: 1-2 weeks after assessment

  • Total time: 2-8 weeks from enquiry to diagnosis

NHS Assessment Timeline:

  • GP appointment and referral: 1-4 weeks

  • Waiting for assessment: 12-24+ months

  • Assessment and report: 2-4 weeks

  • Total time: 12-24+ months

How Much Does a Private ADHD Assessment Cost in Nottingham?

Private ADHD assessment costs in Nottingham typically range from £500-£1,500, depending on:

  • The comprehensiveness of the assessment

  • The assessor's qualifications and experience

  • Whether follow-up appointments are included

  • Additional services (medication initiation, therapy sessions)

While this is a significant investment, many people find the shorter wait time and comprehensive support worth the cost, particularly if ADHD is significantly impacting their work, relationships, or wellbeing.

What Documents Should I Bring to My ADHD Assessment?

Come prepared with:

  • Completed pre-assessment questionnaires

  • Old school reports or academic records (if available)

  • Any previous mental health assessments or reports

  • List of current medications

  • Information from family members about childhood behaviour

  • Notes about specific examples of how symptoms affect your daily life

Don't worry if you can't find everything—assessors are experienced in working with incomplete historical information.

Can I Get an ADHD Assessment Without a GP Referral in Nottingham?

Yes, if you're pursuing private assessment. Most private ADHD clinics in Nottingham don't require a GP referral, making the process quicker and more straightforward.

However, it's worth informing your GP about your assessment plans, as you may need their support for:

  • Shared care arrangements for medication prescribing

  • Access to NHS follow-up services

  • Integration with your overall healthcare

What If I'm Not Diagnosed with ADHD?

Not everyone who seeks an assessment will receive an ADHD diagnosis, and that's okay. If your symptoms don't meet the diagnostic criteria, your assessor should:

  • Explain clearly why ADHD isn't the right diagnosis

  • Explore alternative explanations for your symptoms

  • Recommend appropriate support or referrals (e.g., for anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders)

  • Provide strategies to address your specific challenges

Sometimes the assessment process itself provides valuable insights, even without an ADHD diagnosis.

Life After Diagnosis: What Comes Next?

Receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis can be life-changing. Many people describe feeling a mix of relief, validation, and grief for the years they struggled without understanding why.

Immediate Next Steps:

1. Process Your Emotions Give yourself time to adjust to the diagnosis. It's normal to feel a range of emotions.

2. Explore Treatment Options Discuss medication, therapy, and other interventions with your assessor. CBT for ADHD is particularly effective at developing practical strategies for daily challenges.

3. Educate Yourself Learn about ADHD through reputable sources. Understanding your brain helps you develop self-compassion and effective strategies.

4. Build Your Support Network Consider joining ADHD support groups in Nottingham or online communities where you can connect with others who understand your experience.

5. Make Necessary Life Adjustments Think about reasonable adjustments at work, changes to your daily routines, or relationship conversations that might be helpful.

ADHD Support and Resources in Nottingham

Beyond assessment and diagnosis, Nottingham offers various support options:

  • ADHD medication management: Available through private providers or NHS (via shared care)

  • CBT for ADHD: Specialist therapy focused on developing coping strategies

  • ADHD coaching: Practical support with organisation and goal-setting

  • Support groups: Local and online communities

  • Workplace support: Advice on requesting reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010

Why Choose CBT for ADHD?

As a CBT therapist specialising in adult ADHD, I've seen firsthand how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can transform lives. While medication can be incredibly helpful for managing ADHD symptoms, CBT teaches you practical skills that last a lifetime:

  • Organisational systems that work with your ADHD brain

  • Strategies for managing time and reducing procrastination

  • Emotional regulation techniques

  • Ways to challenge unhelpful thinking patterns

  • Communication skills for relationships

  • Methods to build and maintain helpful habits

CBT for ADHD is evidence-based and specifically adapted to address the unique challenges adults with ADHD face.

Common Questions About Adult ADHD Assessment in Nottingham

Can you be diagnosed with ADHD as an adult if you weren't diagnosed as a child? Absolutely. Many people, particularly women, were missed in childhood and only recognise their symptoms later in life.

Will I have to take medication if I'm diagnosed? No. Treatment is your choice. Many people benefit from a combination of approaches including therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication.

Can ADHD go away? ADHD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, but symptoms often change with age and can be effectively managed with the right support.

Will my employer find out about my diagnosis? Your diagnosis is confidential unless you choose to disclose it. Some people find it helpful to request workplace accommodations, but this is entirely your decision.

Taking the First Step: Booking Your ADHD Assessment in Nottingham

If you've recognised yourself in these pages, it might be time to take the next step. Seeking an adult ADHD assessment in Nottingham is an investment in understanding yourself and accessing the support you deserve.

Whether you choose NHS or private assessment, the most important thing is that you're taking action. Years of struggling don't have to define your future. With the right diagnosis and support, adults with ADHD can thrive in their careers, relationships, and personal lives.

Ready to Book Your Adult ADHD Assessment?

If you're in Nottingham or the surrounding areas (including Derby, Leicester, Mansfield, or Newark), a private ADHD assessment could provide the answers and support you've been looking for. As a qualified CBT therapist with expertise in adult ADHD, I offer comprehensive, compassionate ADHD assessments that give you clarity and a clear path forward. All my assessments include a 30-minute follow-up appointment and a FREE 60-minute therapy session.

Don't wait months or years to understand your brain. Contact me today to discuss your concerns and book your adult ADHD assessment in Nottingham.

This guide is for informational purposes and doesn't replace professional medical advice. If you're experiencing mental health difficulties, please speak with a qualified healthcare provider.

 

Sharon Shergill