CHILD ADHD Assessments in the UK
If you’re concerned that your child may have ADHD, you’re not alone. Many parents first notice changes in behaviour at school or at home - difficulties with attention, emotional regulation, impulsivity, or struggles with learning and friendships.
Our private child ADHD assessments in the UK provide a clear, professional diagnosis for children and young people, helping families understand what’s really going on and what support is needed next.
We work with children, teenagers, parents, schools and SENCOs to offer a safe, structured and evidence-based assessment process.
Many parents tell us they’ve had a gut feeling for a long time that something isn’t quite right, but weren’t sure where to turn.
When should you consider a child ADHD assessment?
Every child develops differently, but some signs may suggest the need for a professional assessment:
- ongoing problems with concentration or focus
- Impulsive or risk-taking behaviour
- emotional outbursts or difficulty regulating feelings
- struggles with learning or keeping up in school
- behavioural issues in the classroom
- social difficulties or low self-esteem
- constant restlessness or hyperactivity
These challenges often become more noticeable during key stages of development, particularly in primary school and early secondary years.
A child ADHD diagnosis isn’t about labelling, it’s about understanding.
Find out more about The Therapy Company and our approach to care on our about us page.
Your Child, Clear Answers
At The Therapy Company, our clinicians provide private ADHD assessments for children and young people, offering personalised support to help families understand behaviour, learning and emotional wellbeing.
ADHD assessment for children and teenagers
Our ADHD assessment for children and teenagers is designed to be:
Age-appropriate
Clinically robust
Supportive rather than intimidating
We assess children and young people from 7 years old through to late teens, adapting our approach depending on developmental stage and individual needs.
This includes ADHD assessment for young people preparing for GCSEs, A-levels or transitions into adulthood.
We also offer dedicated support for adults, with a separate adult ADHD assessment service.
what does a private child ADHD assessment involve?
A private ADHD assessment for children typically involves:
We start by speaking with parents or carers to understand concerns, background, and development history.
Your child or teenager meets with a qualified clinician specialising in ADHD. This may involve structured interviews, observation, and evidence-based assessment tools.
Where appropriate, we gather feedback from teachers or SENCOs to understand behaviour and learning in the classroom.
You'll receive a clear diagnosis, explanation of findings, and professional recommendations.
A detailed written report is provided, suitable for schools, GPs, or future support planning.
This is comprehensive ADHD testing for children, not a quick questionnaire.
In some cases, children being assessed for ADHD may also show signs of autism, or parents may wish to explore both.
If you’re weighing up your options, our article on choosing between NHS and private autism assessments explains the key differences in waiting times, costs, and the assessment process.
Safeguarding, wellbeing and clinical standards
Safeguarding is central to everything we do.
All assessments are delivered by trained mental health professionals with experience working with children and young people. We follow strict clinical protocols and ethical guidelines, ensuring:
Confidentiality and child protection
Age-appropriate communication
Supportive and non-judgemental approach
Clear parental involvement
We understand that this can be an emotional process for families. Our role is to guide, not overwhelm.
You can learn more about our clinicians and their experience on our meet the team page.
ADHD ASSESSMENT VS NHS WAITING TIMES
Many parents choose private assessment because of long NHS waiting lists, which can often stretch to 12–24 months or more. During this time, many children continue to struggle at school without formal support or understanding.
A private child ADHD assessment UK allows:
Faster access to diagnosis
Clearer communication
More detailed reports
Greater flexibility around appointment times
For many families, early diagnosis leads to earlier support, better school outcomes and reduced long-term stress.
Support for schools, teachers and SENCOs
We regularly work alongside: teachers, SENCOs, educational psychologists and local authorities.
Our reports are written in a way that schools can use to:
Apply for additional support
Develop individual education plans (IEPs)
Adjust learning strategies
Improve classroom behaviour outcomes
This is particularly valuable where children are struggling academically or socially.
What happens after diagnosis?
Following a diagnosis, we can support families with:
Advice on behavioural strategies
Emotional wellbeing support
School recommendations
Referrals for ongoing therapy or coaching
Medication pathways (where appropriate)
Diagnosis is not the end, it’s the starting point for meaningful support.
We also offer ongoing therapy and emotional wellbeing support for children and young people.
Pricing - private child ADHD assessments
Private assessments are not one-size-fits-all.
Pricing depends on:
Age of the child or young person.
Complexity of presentation.
School involvement required.
Report length and clinical input.
We always explain costs clearly in advance so families can make an informed decision.
We'll always explain whether a full assessment is appropriate before any commitment.
What Our Clients Say
Book a child ADHD assessment
If you’re worried about your child’s behaviour, learning or emotional wellbeing, the most important step is having a professional conversation.
Our team is here to help you understand your options and decide whether a formal assessment is right for your family.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked questions
Below are a selection of our most frequently asked questions. We hope that you get your questions answered below, but if not, please do reach out to us and we’ll be more than happy to help. Alternatively, if you’re ready to book your initial consultation with our team, please call us on 01772 440321.
What age can a child be assessed for ADHD?
Children can usually be assessed from early primary school age onwards. We also provide ADHD assessment for teenagers and young people preparing for adulthood.
Is a private ADHD assessment recognised by schools?
Yes. Our reports are written to clinical standards and are suitable for schools, SENCOs and local authorities.
Do you involve teachers or schools?
Where appropriate, yes. School feedback often plays a valuable role in understanding classroom behaviour and learning needs.
How long does the assessment take?
This varies, but most assessments involve multiple stages and may take several weeks from initial consultation to final report.
What’s the difference between NHS and private assessments?
Private assessments offer faster access, more detailed reporting, and greater flexibility. NHS routes may involve long waiting times.
Can girls be assessed for ADHD?
Absolutely. ADHD often presents differently in girls and is frequently underdiagnosed.
Will my child need medication?
Not necessarily. Medication is only one possible option and is never the starting point. Many children benefit from behavioural strategies and school-based support.