Frequently Asked Questions
General
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No this isn't needed, but it can be helpful as it provides background information such as a medication history.
What happens when I contact you?
Your request is triaged by a senior clinician who will assess how best to assist you. Appointments with Dr Goel are made following this triage.
How can I pay?
Payments for appointments are payable in advance by BACS transfer, with any additional costs being payable within seven days of receipt of the invoice.
We accept payments by debit/credit card. Please note that card transactions are subject to a 2.5% additional service charge.
If your sessions are covered by private medical insurance then these sessions can be invoiced directly to the insurance company, if preferred, however prior authorisation is required. The insurance company will not cover any late cancellation or failure to attend charges. You will be responsible for this charge if you cancel within 48 hours, or do not attend your session (see cancellation policy below).
The payment for any consultation is always payable prior to the appointment. If we do not receive payment before the time of the appointment, with funds cleared into our bank, the appointment will be cancelled or postponed.
Please see our terms and conditions for more information.
Can I pay using private health insurance?
Yes, however authorisation letters and codes are required in advance of booking an appointment.
How much do sessions cost?
Please see our appointments and fees section for our current pricing.
ADHD Assessments
What is an ADHD assessment?
An ADHD assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a qualified psychiatrist to determine whether you meet the criteria for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It includes a clinical interview, validated questionnaires, and a review of your developmental, academic, and behavioural history.
Who can be assessed for ADHD?
We assess adults for ADHD. Each assessment is tailored to suit the individual's age, history, and presenting symptoms.
Do I need a referral for a private ADHD assessment?
No referral is required. You can self-refer by contacting us directly to book an appointment.
What does the ADHD assessment involve?
The assessment includes:
- A detailed clinical interview
- Standardised ADHD rating scales (completed by you and/or someone who knows you well)
- Review of relevant school or work reports (if available)
- A full diagnostic report with recommendations
How long does the assessment take?
The assessment typically takes 60–120 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case.
Can ADHD be diagnosed in adults?
Yes. Many adults are diagnosed later in life after recognising long-standing symptoms. Our psychiatrists are experienced in diagnosing and supporting adults with ADHD.
What happens if I receive an ADHD diagnosis?
If diagnosed, your psychiatrist will discuss treatment options with you, which may include medication, behavioural strategies, or psychological support. If you choose to begin treatment, we can arrange medication titration and follow-up care.
Is the assessment recognised by the NHS or my GP?
Our assessments are carried out by GMC-registered consultant psychiatrists. We use the DIVA-5, a trusted ADHD diagnostic tool. It is a gold-standard, internationally recognised interview for diagnosing ADHD. This tool is recommended by leading UK health organisations including NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), the Royal College of Psychiatrists, and the UK Adult ADHD Network (UKAAN). Our assessment are therefore generally accepted by GPs and NHS professionals. However, we recommend confirming with your GP if you plan to request shared care following a private diagnosis.
How much does a private ADHD assessment cost?
Assessment fees vary, but we provide clear, fixed pricing with no hidden costs. You can find full details on our Pricing page or by contacting us directly.
Can I access support if I’m not diagnosed with ADHD?
Yes. If ADHD is not diagnosed, we will provide a clear explanation of your symptoms and recommend alternative support options, such as therapy or referral to another specialist if appropriate.
ADHD Medication
What is ADHD medication titration?
Titration is the process of finding the right type and dose of medication to manage ADHD symptoms. It involves starting on a low dose and gradually adjusting it to achieve the best results with minimal side effects.
How long does titration take?
The titration process usually takes 6 to 12 weeks, depending on how you respond to the medication and how quickly a stable, effective dose is found. It can take longer, however.
Who will manage my titration?
Your titration will be closely supervised by a consultant psychiatrist with experience in treating ADHD. You’ll have regular check-ins to review your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Do I need a diagnosis before starting titration?
Yes. A confirmed diagnosis of ADHD is required before beginning medication. If you haven’t been diagnosed yet, we can arrange a private assessment for you.
Which medications are used during titration?
We use both stimulant (e.g., methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine) and non-stimulant (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine) medications. Your psychiatrist will recommend the most suitable option based on your individual needs and health history.
Can I get ADHD medication on the NHS after private titration?
Some GPs are willing to continue prescribing ADHD medication privately initiated, under shared care. We recommend discussing this with your GP before starting titration with us.
How much does private titration cost?
Costs vary depending on the number of appointments needed and your response to treatment. Most patients require at least two or three appointments provided the they respond well to, and don't get side effects, to the initial medication. Some patients require more appointments than this, and this is more likely to be the case if you are prescribed other medications or have other mental health diagnoses. You can see our appointment and prescription costs on our pricing page.
Privacy
Are my details confidential?
All sessions will be conducted in confidence. This confidence will be maintained and applied to all records in accordance with the Data Protection Act and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), except in the following instances:
- Where the patient gives consent for the confidence to be broken
- Where the doctor is compelled by a court of law
- When the patient indicates that there is a possibility of harm to themselves or others
- If at anytime the patient requires a report to be written for an agency etc. This will be discussed with the patient before the report is written. A copy of the report will be made available to the patient.
Please see our terms and conditions for more information.