In-Home ADHD Assessments

Our clinician will carry out a structured but friendly assessment, including:

• A developmental history (with the individual and/or parent/carer)
• The DIVA – 5 assessment interview (a structured specialist interview for ADHD)
• Observations and informal discussion

We will take breaks as needed and move at a comfortable pace. The environment is kept calm, respectful, and person-centred.

Depending on age and needs, we may ask you to complete one or more brief questionnaires before the assessment. For school age children we also require their school or educational setting to complete a set of questionnaires (typically these are the Connors questionnaire and the SNAP – IV parent / teacher questionnaire). We will explain exactly what is needed during your initial telephone consultation.

We will take breaks as needed and move at a comfortable pace. The environment is kept calm, respectful, and person-centred.

DIVA-5 stands for Diagnostic Interview for ADHD. It is a structured diagnostic ADHD assessment designed specifically for evaluating ADHD in both children (the Young DIVA – 5) and adults. Developed by experts in the field, including researchers and clinicians, this tool is tailored to address the unique challenges and manifestations of ADHD in both children and adults.

While our standalone ADHD assessments focus on ADHD, we are highly experienced in recognising signs of co-occurring conditions such as:

• Autism
• Learning Disability
• Anxiety and mood differences
• Sensory processing challenges

If we observe traits consistent with another neurotype during the assessment, we will:

• Note this in your report
• Provide thoughtful commentary on how these traits may be impacting day-to-day life
• Offer clear, tailored recommendations for further assessment or support.

Our goal is to see the whole person, not just a diagnosis, and to help you find clarity and direction, whatever your support needs may be.

No referral is required. You can self-refer at any time. However, we’re happy to collaborate with your GP, NHS professionals, or school.

For many people, a diagnosis brings relief, clarity, and a deeper understanding of themselves or their child. It can open doors to support, accommodations, and connection with others. We also provide practical recommendations for school, work or family settings based on the outcome.

Yes. Many children with ADHD compensate well in structured environments like school but struggle at home. We take input from both settings to build an accurate picture.

Yes. Our reports are detailed and professional, and are often used to support SEN provision, EHCP applications, University disability services, or workplace accommodations.

If the assessment does not indicate ADHD, we will still provide a detailed report outlining observations and possible next steps for further support (e.g. Autism, anxiety, trauma-informed care). We aim to make the process helpful regardless of the outcome.

Yes. We regularly assess teenagers and adults who may be seeking a diagnosis later in life. Our process takes into account masking, burnout, and emotional regulation difficulties, which are common among those lately-diagnosed with ADHD (especially women and those from underrepresented backgrounds).

Preparation is simple! Generally, it’s useful to:

• Find a quiet, comfortable space at home for the clinician’s visit
• Gather any relevant reports, school records, or previous assessments if you have them
• Think about key developmental milestones and challenges you want to discuss
• Have favourite toys, books, or activities ready (especially for children)
• Talk with your child about the visit in a calm, positive way — reassuring them that the clinician is there to help and that there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answer
• Complete any pre-assessment questionnaires we send

Feel free to ask us any questions before the day — we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Waiting for assessment results can be a stressful time. Here are some things that might help:

• Keep a journal or notes on your experiences, feelings, and any questions you want to ask at the feedback session
• Reach out to peer support groups or local ADHD organisations for community and advice
• Consider self-help resources focusing on wellbeing, sensory needs, or social skills (we can recommend trusted materials)
• Maintain routines and strategies that support comfort and reduce anxiety
• Contact us anytime if you have urgent concerns or need guidance during the waiting period

Remember, the wait is temporary, and we’re committed to providing timely, thorough feedback to help you move forward with confidence.

For most people with ADHD, the condition is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Genetics – The genetic factors that lead to someone developing ADHD are generally made up of lots of small genetic differences rather one single gene.

Environmental factors – environmental factors can include things like:

• difficulties when you were in the womb
• birth complications
• exposure to toxins
• nutritional deficiencies
• brain injury.

Studies have shown that the genetic and environmental factors leading to ADHD are also found in other common mental and physical health conditions.

ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than in girls. However, in adults the diagnosis of ADHD in men and women is more equal. This might be because, as children, boys are more likely to show hyperactive and impulsive symptoms, which are more noticeable.

When it comes to diagnosis, girls and women might be more likely to:

have undiagnosed ADHD; not be referred for assessment for ADHD; receive an incorrect diagnosis of another mental health or neuro-developmental condition.

In recent years, ADHD services across the UK have seen an increase in the number of referrals. There are lots of possible reasons for this, including:

• more widespread awareness of ADHD amongst the general public and healthcare professionals
• the COVID-19 pandemic, which has meant that working and educational environments have changed. This may have made ADHD behaviours more noticeable.

More people being referred for ADHD assessments is a positive thing, because it means that those who do have ADHD can receive the support they need. Those who find out that they don’t have ADHD, but have related support needs, can also get help.

We are aware that some people incorrectly say that ADHD is ‘fashionable’ or ‘made up’. In fact, the first description by a doctor of a disorder resembling ADHD was in the 18th century. The name of the disorder has changed over time but the same challenges are described that we recognise as ADHD today.

There is agreement between health care professionals and scientists around the world that ADHD is a valid diagnosis. There are clear guidelines describing how ADHD is diagnosed, and how it should be assessed, supported and treated.

ADHD can start to show itself at an early age, however this is often first noticed when someone is at school. However, some people might not experience challenges until adulthood, or these challenges might not be noticed until they are much older.

Although people with ADHD share common, ‘typical’ symptoms, ADHD can look different from person to person. What ADHD looks like can depend on a person’s:
• background
• personality
• fit with their environment
• level of support and structure
• positive and negative life experiences
• stage of life

Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms tend to be more common in childhood and be less of a challenge for some people over time. Inattentive symptoms tend to become more of an issue in teenage years and adulthood.

Growing up
Usually, as young people grow up, they experience more challenges and receive less support. For example, if someone has lived at home and had lots of support, their ADHD might not cause them problems until they move out of home.

Young adults with ADHD often face new challenges, such as:
• work or education
• living independently
• relationships
• finances

In adulthood
Throughout life, new challenges like parenthood might further increase a person’s overall level of stress. This can mean that their ADHD causes more challenges as they get older.

As the overall level of demand and stress increases, people with ADHD are more likely to struggle to keep up. When this happens, they can become overwhelmed and unwell. This can be avoided through appropriate support.