Question 1

What Is ADHD in Adults?

Accepted Answer

Many adults don’t realise they have ADHD until later in life. For some, it’s been masked by coping strategies or misdiagnosed as anxiety, depression or even burnout. A nADHD assessment can help you understand your challenges, build on your strengths and access appropriate support.

ADHD; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts focus, attention, memory, and impulse control. While it is commonly identified in childhood, a significant number of adults remain undiagnosed into their 20s, 30s or beyond. In adults, ADHD symptoms often present differently to children. Instead of hyperactivity, you might experience:
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 • Chronic disorganisation
 • Difficulty with timekeeping
 • Forgetfulness
 • Trouble following through on tasks
 • Impulsive decisions
 • Feeling mentally restless or overwhelmed
 
These symptoms can affect personal relationships, careers, and mental health. Left untreated, ADHD can lead to stress, anxiety, and a reduced sense of self-worth.
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However, many adults with ADHD also have strengths – creativity, high energy, strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think differently. The key is understanding how ADHD affects you and learning how to work with your brain, not against it.

Question 2

How Long Can ADHD Go Undiagnosed?

Accepted Answer

ADHD can go undetected for years, even decades. It’s especially common for symptoms to be missed in childhood, particularly in women and girls, where traits may present more subtly or be masked through coping strategies. Many people learn to internalise their struggles, putting on a front of being “fine” while feeling overwhelmed inside.
By adulthood, it’s not unusual to look back and see a pattern of challenges that were never properly understood. You might recognise yourself in the following:
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 • Ongoing difficulties with studying, organisation or meeting deadlines
 • A history of switching jobs or feeling unfulfilled in your career
 • Struggles with maintaining relationships or feeling misunderstood
 • Being labelled as “lazy”, “inconsistent”, or “not living up to your potential”
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Many adults only begin to consider ADHD after a child, friend or partner receives a diagnosis, which can trigger a moment of clarity about their own experiences. For others, the tipping point comes during a crisis, burnout, anxiety, depression or feeling stuck despite trying therapy or medication with limited results.
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Receiving a diagnosis later in life can bring a huge sense of relief. It offers an explanation, not an excuse, and helps you understand yourself through a different lens. If this sounds familiar, a private adult ADHD assessment can give you the clarity and direction you’ve been looking for.

Question 3

How the ADHD Assessment Works

Accepted Answer

I offer comprehensive private ADHD assessments tailored for adults.
The process involves approximately two appointments and includes:
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 • Use of gold-standard diagnostic tools
 • A clinical interview exploring your current and historical difficulties
 • In some cases, input from a parent or someone who knew you in childhood
 • Consideration of other possible explanations (e.g. anxiety, trauma, autism)
 
The aim is to establish:
1. Whether your current difficulties meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD
2. Whether these difficulties are clinically significant and impact your daily functioning
 
After your assessment, you’ll receive:
 • A written diagnostic report
 • A feedback session to go through the findings and recommendations
 • Signposting to treatment options, therapy or further support
 • ​
Important Note: If you are considering medication post-diagnosis via the NHS, I recommend checking with your GP or NHS Trust beforehand to ensure a private assessment will be accepted for this purpose.
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Question 4

How long does an ADHD assessment take?

Accepted Answer

The assessment is typically completed over two appointments. Each session lasts around 90 minutes. You’ll also receive a detailed report and feedback session.

Question 5

Is the assessment suitable for women and non-binary people?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ADHD often presents differently in women, trans and non-binary people. I have extensive experience in recognising these presentations.

Question 6

Will I get a formal ADHD diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes , if you meet the clinical criteria, you’ll receive a formal diagnosis and a comprehensive report which may be used to access support at work or university, and in some cases for treatment.

Question 7

Is the online ADHD assessment as valid as face-to-face?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Online ADHD assessments use the same validated tools and clinical rigour as in-person assessments. They are suitable for clients across the UK.

Question 8

Can I access therapy or coaching after my diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Post-diagnostic therapy may be available, including ACT and EMDR. I can also signpost you to ADHD coaching or support networks if appropriate.​​​​

Private Adult ADHD Assessments

The Benefits of an ADHD Diagnosis

Getting Started
To begin, simply email me at pathnorthwest@protonmail.com with any questions or to ask for further information.If you wish to have a telephone or video call discussion, this can also be arranged.

Why Choose PATH North West?

HCPC-Registered Clinical Psychologist:

Private ADHD and Autism Assessments:

In-Person or Online:

Insurance registered Health Provider:

Specialist in ADHD & Autism:

Evidence-Based Therapy Available:

Contact details

The Wellbeing Place, Wilbraham Road, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester, M21 0AE, UK (Mondays)
4th Floor, Royal Exchange theatre , Manchester city centre (Tuesdays)
1, Regent Street, Preston, PR1 3LX