CHILD ADHD Assessments in the UK
Our Preston clinic supports families across the UK who seek a private ADHD assessment for their child. Many parents first notice changes in their child's behaviour at school or at home. Such changes may include difficulties with attention, emotional regulation, impulsivity, or struggles with learning and friendships.
The Therapy Company work with children, teenagers, parents, schools and SENCOs to offer a safe, structured and evidence-based ADHD assessment process. Our private child ADHD assessments provide a clear, professional diagnosis for children and young people, helping families understand what’s really going on and what support is needed next.
Signs of ADHD in children
Parents begin considering a private ADHD assessment after noticing patterns in their child’s behaviour at home or at school.
Common signs of ADHD in children include:
- difficulty concentrating or staying focused on tasks
- frequent distraction or losing things easily
- impulsive behaviour or speaking out of turn
- emotional outbursts or difficulty regulating feelings
- constant movement, fidgeting or restlessness
- struggling to follow instructions or complete tasks
- challenges with friendships or social situations
Every child is different, and many of these behaviours can occur occasionally during development. However, when these difficulties are persistent and affecting learning, relationships or emotional wellbeing, a professional ADHD assessment can help provide the answers.
When signs of ADHD begin to affect a child’s learning, friendships or emotional wellbeing, many parents decide to seek a professional assessment. Teachers or SENCOs may also raise concerns when attention, impulsivity or behavioural patterns begin impacting classroom learning.
A structured ADHD assessment helps families move from uncertainty to clear understanding.
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
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 and young people 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.
In some cases, children being assessed for ADHD may also show signs of autism and parents may wish to explore both. If you’re weighing up your options, our article on how to choose the right specialist for your child explains complex conditions, the assessment process, medication when appropriate, and how The Therapy Company supports with communication between therapists, schools, and your GP.
how adhd is diagnosed in children
ADHD assessments are based on internationally recognised clinical guidelines. Our clinicians follow established diagnostic frameworks including:
DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
NICE guidelines used across the UK healthcare system
Diagnosis involves gathering information from several sources, including parents, teachers and clinical observation. This ensures that the assessment provides a balanced and evidence-based understanding of your child’s behaviour, development and needs. A professional ADHD diagnosis is not based on a quick questionnaire. It involves a structured clinical process designed to ensure accuracy and appropriate support.
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 provides faster access to diagnosis, clearer communication, detailed reports and greater flexibility around appointment times.
For many families, early diagnosis leads to earlier support, better school outcomes and reduced long-term stress. While NHS waiting lists can extend to 12–24 months or longer, private ADHD assessments can be arranged much sooner - often within 10 days - helping children access appropriate support earlier in their education.
Early diagnosis can make a significant difference to performance at school, emotional wellbeing, family understanding and access to educational support.
Cost of a private child ADHD assessment
Private ADHD assessments in the UK can vary depending on the complexity of the assessment, the involvement of schools, and the level of clinical input required.
A comprehensive ADHD assessment includes:
- An initial consultation with parents or carers.
- A structured clinical assessment with the child.
- Input from teachers or schools where appropriate.
- Diagnostic feedback and recommendations.
- A detailed written clinical report.
Our team always explains the process and expected costs clearly before any assessment takes place, allowing families to make an informed decision about next steps.
Support for schools, teachers and SENCOs
We regularly work alongside: teachers, SENCOs, educational psychologists and local authorities.
Our ADHD assessment 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, The Therapy Company supports families with advice on behavioural strategies, emotional wellbeing support, school recommendations, referrals for ongoing therapy or coaching and 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.
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
You can learn more about our clinicians and their experience on our meet the team page.
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.
ASK ABOUT A CHILD ADHD ASSESSMENT
Not sure whether an ADHD assessment is the right next step for your child? Send a short message and the team can guide you towards the most suitable option.
If you'd prefer to speak to someone, you can also call us on 01772 440321.
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 a child ADHD assessment take?
Most ADHD assessments involve an initial consultation, a structured clinical assessment with the child, and time for clinicians to review information from parents and schools. A full assessment and written report may take several hours across multiple stages to ensure a thorough and accurate diagnosis.
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.
Can teachers or SENCOs provide information for the assessment?
Yes. Where appropriate, information from teachers, SENCOs or school staff can help build a clearer picture of how a child’s behaviour, learning and attention may present in different settings.