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Private ADHD assessment UK — how much does it cost in 2026?

A complete breakdown of private ADHD assessment costs in the UK in 2025 — what's included, how to compare clinics, and how to avoid hidden fees.

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ADHD Navigator Editorial
Clinical content team · 30 March 2026 · 5 min read

Private ADHD assessment UK — how much does it cost in 2026?

If you're considering a private ADHD assessment in the UK, cost is almost certainly one of your first questions. Prices vary more than you might expect — and not always in ways that reflect quality. This guide breaks down exactly what you should expect to pay, what's included, and how to make sure you're not caught out by hidden fees.

What does a private adult ADHD assessment cost in 2026?

For adults, private ADHD assessments in the UK currently range from around £495 to £1,200, with the national average sitting at approximately £700–£900 for a comprehensive assessment.

The wide range reflects several factors: location (London clinics tend to charge more), whether the assessment is online or in-person, the seniority of the assessing clinician, and what's included in the package.

Online vs in-person: Online assessments (conducted via video call) are typically 10–15% cheaper than in-person assessments at equivalent clinics. The quality of the clinical assessment is not meaningfully different — online ADHD assessments are fully legitimate and widely accepted by GPs and employers.

What should be included in the price?

A thorough ADHD assessment should include all of the following — check carefully before booking whether any of these are listed as extras:

Included as standard at most reputable clinics:

Sometimes charged separately — ask before you book:

The costs beyond the initial assessment

For many people, the initial assessment is just the beginning of the financial picture. If you're diagnosed with ADHD and want to try medication, be prepared for:

Titration: This is the process of finding the right medication and dosage for you. It involves regular appointments — typically every 3–4 weeks — until your medication is stabilised. Each appointment typically costs £80–£200. Most people need 3–6 titration appointments.

Prescriptions: Private ADHD medication prescriptions typically cost £15–£30 per prescription, plus the medication itself. ADHD medications are not currently available free on a private prescription — however, if your GP agrees to shared care, they'll take over prescribing via the NHS, meaning you pay only the standard NHS prescription charge (currently £9.90 per item, or free if you hold a prepayment certificate).

Shared care — the most important question to ask: Before you pay for any private assessment, ask your GP whether they will agree to shared care if you're diagnosed. Some GPs refuse, and if yours does, you'll be paying private prescription costs indefinitely. Getting clarity on this upfront could save you thousands.

Are cheaper clinics worse?

Not necessarily. Price reflects many factors beyond clinical quality — overheads, location, marketing spend, and the seniority of the assessing clinician. A £595 online assessment from a CQC-registered clinic with GMC-registered psychiatrists can be every bit as thorough as a £1,200 in-person assessment in Harley Street.

What matters more than price:

  1. CQC registration — check on cqc.org.uk
  2. GMC-registered assessing clinician — check on the GMC register
  3. NICE guideline compliance — ask the clinic directly
  4. Turnaround time for the diagnostic report — some clinics take 6–8 weeks; others deliver within a week
  5. Reviews from real patients — look for verified reviews on Trustpilot or Google

Can I get funding for a private assessment?

Right to Choose (England only): If your GP refers you for ADHD assessment, you have the right to choose any NHS-contracted provider — including some private clinics like Psychiatry UK and ADHD 360. If this route is available to you, it means a private-standard assessment at no personal cost. Ask your GP specifically about Right to Choose.

Health insurance: Most standard UK health insurance policies do not cover ADHD assessments as standard, but some policies do. Check your policy documents or call your insurer directly.

Employer occupational health: Some larger employers will fund an assessment through occupational health, particularly if ADHD is affecting your work performance. Worth asking your HR department.

How to compare clinics fairly

When comparing clinics, make sure you're comparing like for like. The useful questions to ask:

Finding and comparing clinics

ADHD Navigator lists accredited private ADHD assessment clinics across England with upfront pricing, wait times, and delivery method. The free screener takes three minutes and matches you with the most relevant options for your location and needs.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or financial advice. Prices correct as of early 2026 and subject to change. Always verify current pricing directly with the clinic.

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