ADHD Now — Frequently Asked Questions

The main assessment interviews and report writing are performed by a Clinical Psychologist specialising in Adult ADHD or an equivalent specialist in ADHD. Our service is overseen by our Clinical Director, Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Vishnu Pradeep.

Yes, in most cases, the assessment can be conducted entirely online via secure video conferencing, offering convenience and comfort. Suitability for an online assessment will be reviewed during your initial consultation.

We assess adults typically aged 18 and older.

Our comprehensive assessment is designed to take into account and identify co-occurring conditions (like anxiety, depression, or autism). We provide guidance on all findings and recommended next steps.

The assessment follows the evidence-based DSM-5 criteria, which is the gold standard for diagnosis and aligned with best-practice guidelines.

Research indicates that a formal diagnosis is often life-transforming, leading to marked improvements in functionality, productivity, and self-esteem. It provides a neurobiological explanation for lifelong struggles, allowing individuals to replace self-criticism with self-compassion and access specialised workplace or academic supports.

Our diagnoses are medically recognised and accepted by healthcare providers. The detailed report can be used to seek reasonable accommodations in higher education or the workplace.

Yes, our comprehensive reports are suitable for seeking reasonable accommodations in higher education, workplace supports, and RACE/DARE applications where clinically appropriate.

In many cases, ADHD Now services are fully or partially covered by health insurers. Please verify directly with your provider. Many patients also qualify for a 20% tax rebate from Revenue.

You'll receive a comprehensive report, feedback session with your clinician, and access to a free ADHD Group Coaching session. You may then consider coaching, therapy, or medication management (all available through ADHD Now).

Yes. Clinical reports from specialist-led services are recognised and accepted by GPs, workplaces, and universities across Ireland. These assessments follow the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines and the HSE Adult ADHD National Clinical Programme standards, ensuring they meet the highest medical criteria for credibility.

The first step is an initial consultation via video call with a specialist. This allows us to understand your concerns, review your history, and determine the next appropriate steps.

From initial consultation to final diagnostic report typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, subject to specialist availability. Initial consultation availability is within seven days.

No GP referral is required—you can self-refer directly. We encourage keeping your GP informed for coordinated care. GPs can refer directly via our Healthmail: adhdnow@healthmail.ie.

Come rested, in a quiet private space. Gather any relevant historical information, such as old school reports or accounts from family members, beforehand.

Adult ADHD is diagnosed through a structured three-step process:

Initial Consultation: A preliminary video screening to review history and appropriateness for assessment.

Full Clinical Assessment: An in-depth evaluation using gold-standard tools like the DIVA-5 interview and CAARS rating scales.

Report and Management Plan: The clinical team synthesises the data into a formal report recognised by medical and educational institutions.

Yes, flexible payment plans are available. Payments can be spread across the assessment process, and we offer options like Klarna to split payments further.

Yes. Post-diagnosis, if deemed clinically appropriate by the Consultant Psychiatrist, you can access our medication management service. Non-medical interventions like ADHD coaching and therapy are also available.

The total investment for a full three-step specialist diagnostic pathway is €1,279. This is broken down into an initial consultation (€89), a comprehensive assessment (€695), and the final formulation and reporting (€495). Many patients choose to manage this cost using flexible payment plans like Klarna, and Irish residents can claim 20% tax relief on these medical expenses through the Med 1 form.

Once a patient is stabilised on medication through a specialist titration period, many GPs accept a "shared-care" arrangement. In this model, the specialist provides detailed clinical correspondence to the GP, who then takes over the responsibility for issuing monthly repeat prescriptions.

Available options include stimulants, such as Methylphenidate (often branded as Ritalin or Concerta XL) and Tyvense, as well as non-stimulant alternatives like Atomoxetine (Strattera) or Guanfacine (Intuniv). The choice depends on the patient's medical history and individual response to treatment.

Yes, symptoms must have been present before age 12, even if never formally diagnosed. Many adults were missed as children, especially those with the predominantly inattentive type.

If ADHD is ruled out, you'll still receive a comprehensive report with findings and guidance on alternative explanations or conditions, along with recommended next steps for support.

Yes, ADHD has a strong genetic link with high heritability. It's common for adults seeking assessment to realise that one or both parents or siblings also display similar traits.

Adults should consider an assessment if they experience persistent difficulties with focusing on non-stimulating tasks, chronic procrastination, or emotional dysregulation such as a quick temper or extreme impatience. Other indicators include being frequently labelled as "lazy" or "irresponsible" despite high capability, and engaging in impulsive or risky behaviours like reckless driving.

Untreated ADHD is closely correlated with higher rates of unemployment and workplace instability. It often manifests as relationship conflict due to impulsivity or forgetfulness, and can lead to secondary mental health issues such as chronic anxiety, depression, or burnout from "masking" symptoms.

The assessment is done using a Multi-Disciplinary Team approach, whereby two or more clinicians who specialise in Child and Adolescent ADHD conduct your child's assessment using evidence-based tools.

Yes—in the majority of cases assessments can be done entirely online via secure video conferencing, offering comfort and convenience at home. However not every child will be fit to access our services online; this will be assessed and discussed in your initial consultation.

While most assessments focus on children 8 and older, exceptions can be made if symptoms are clear and significant in children above six years old.

Our comprehensive assessment takes into account any existing conditions and can identify co-occurring issues. We'll provide guidance on all findings and recommended next steps, whether or not ADHD is diagnosed.

The assessment follows the evidence-based DSM-5 criteria which is aligned with best-practices for Ireland, and the process is conducted by a Multidisciplinary Team — best practice for a child ADHD assessment.

Absolutely—you'll gain understanding of both challenges and strengths, to help tailor supportive strategies.

Clinical consensus suggests that age six is an optimal time for assessment. At this stage, a child is usually in a formal school setting, which allows for the observation of symptoms across two different environments (home and school) as required for a robust diagnosis.

Yes, our diagnoses are HSE recognised and accepted by schools. They can be used for Student Support Plans, IEPs, and to access resource teaching hours or SNA support where appropriate.

Yes, our comprehensive reports are suitable for RACE (exam accommodations) and DARE (college access) applications. We provide all necessary documentation to support these applications where clinically appropriate.

In many cases yes, however we cannot guarantee cover from insurance companies. Please verify with your health insurance provider. If you intend on claiming, notify us in advance as our assessments are structured to accommodate insurance requirements.

You'll receive a comprehensive report with recommendations. Together with your clinician, you may consider coaching, therapy or medication options (all available through ADHD Now). Your report also includes access to community and parent-support resources.

An ADHD diagnosis can give clarity to teachers and parents about your child's needs. It can allow schools to put in place Student Support Plans or IEPs, with tailored strategies such as shorter tasks, movement breaks, or assistive technology. It can qualify your child for exam accommodations through the State Examinations Commission. A diagnosis also strengthens access to resource teaching hours or SNA support where needed.

In Ireland, ADHD is considered a disability under certain conditions, which may make a child eligible for supports and benefits. Parents should consult with their local social services to explore their options.

Typically, you begin with an initial consultation via video call with a specialist, allowing us to understand your child's needs and guide the next steps.

The process—from initial consultation to final diagnosis—usually spans 3 to 6 weeks, depending on specialist availability.

You'll receive a detailed report outlining your child's specific ADHD profile, how it affects daily life, educational functioning, and comprehensive recommendations for support.

Yes—with parental permission, schools complete questionnaires to offer a clearer picture of your child's functioning. Teachers provide valuable insights into school behaviour and performance.

No GP referral is required—you can self-refer directly. However, we encourage keeping your child's GP informed for coordinated care, and we may liaise with them during the process.

A thorough discussion about your child's behaviour history and current needs, to determine if a full diagnostic assessment is necessary. Suitability for your child to undergo the screening online is assessed.

Explain the process calmly and positively, ensuring your child is comfortable, rested, and understands that it's a safe space.

The vast majority of our assessments are typically conducted online, but in-person options may be available depending on availability and the outcome of the initial consultation.

Yes—our assessments gather reports from parents, teachers, and other environments to confirm consistent behaviour.

Yes—flexible payment options are available. Payments can be spread throughout the assessment process, and we offer Klarna which allows each payment to be split over three months.

Many patients qualify for a 20% tax rebate from Revenue. Additionally, prescribed medication may qualify under the Drug Payments Scheme (DPS) to cap costs at €80 per month.

Post-diagnosis, if the clinical team and consultant psychiatrist determine your child is suitable for online treatment, medication can be prescribed. Non-medical interventions like coaching and therapy are also available.

ADHD Now is Ireland's largest specialist-led private ADHD service, overseen by our full-time Clinical Director, Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Vishnu Pradeep. Since inception in 2023, ADHD Now has seen thousands of patients and holds an average review score of 4.9 out of 5.0.

Look for persistent inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and academic or social challenges, despite effort. Please visit our knowledge hub for an in-depth answer.

Early identification helps improve academic performance and social functioning—waiting can worsen outcomes.

If ADHD is ruled out, you'll receive guidance on alternative explanations or findings and recommended next steps.

If ADHD medication is clinically appropriate, yes. Your psychiatrist will review your diagnosis, medical history, and current symptoms before recommending treatment. Medication is never automatic, but for many adults it is a core part of effective ADHD management.

If medication is prescribed, it will follow Irish clinical guidelines and be closely monitored, especially during the initial titration phase.

Most patients have their first appointment within seven days.

• First appointment: typically within seven days.
• Medication initiation (if appropriate): often shortly after the initial consultation.
• Stabilisation: usually over several months with follow-ups in our structured programme.

This is significantly faster than public adult ADHD services in Ireland.

This service is for adults (18+) who already have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis and are seeking:

• Psychiatric review
• Medication initiation or adjustment
• Ongoing ADHD treatment and prescriptions

If you do not yet have a diagnosis, you'll need to start with an adult ADHD assessment instead — we will direct you to the correct pathway.

Yes, in many cases we can. We accept diagnoses from recognised clinics and specialists provided appropriate documentation is supplied. The ADHD Now psychiatry team will review your previous assessment, treatment history, and any current prescriptions before confirming next steps.

If documentation is incomplete or doesn't meet clinical standards, we'll let you know upfront what's needed — no surprises — and provide you with a pathway to access care.

Costs depend on the level of support you need, but we aim to be fully transparent.

Please view our pathways for clear and transparent pricing information. We'll clearly explain costs before you proceed so you can make an informed decision, and we encourage you to phone ADHD Now if you need any further clarity around your personal situation when it comes to your ADHD care.

Yes, if you require ongoing prescriptions or follow-ups. Once your treatment is stable, many patients move onto a repeat prescription plan, billed quarterly at €39.99 every 3 months (works out at €13.33/month). Alternatively your care can be transferred back to your GP at the end of the titration period at no further cost from ADHD Now. Follow-up appointments are only needed when clinically required.

The initiation and titration period costs €289 and includes your first 3 appointments. Once you're stable, you can move to repeat prescriptions, billed quarterly at €39.99 every 3 months (works out at €13.33/month). If you need additional follow-up appointments, these are €125 each.

Patients can claim back up to 20% of total cost under medical expenses through Revenue, and prescribed medication may qualify under the Drug Payment Scheme to assist with medication costs. We recommend speaking to your accountant or checking the Revenue guidelines for your personal situation.

ADHD Now services are accommodated to meet insurance company requirements; many patients are able to claim back significant amounts of their medical costs from their insurer. Please contact your insurer to confirm, as everyone's plan is different.

Yes — ADHD Now's treatment plans are all under specialist, consultant-led care.

We provide detailed clinical correspondence to your GP outlining your diagnosis, treatment plan, and medication. While shared-care arrangements depend on individual GP practices, many patients successfully coordinate care with their GP. Please note, you can opt to continue your care with ADHD Now if you do not wish to coordinate with your GP.

At the end of the titration period, the specialist clinic provides your GP with a comprehensive treatment plan and clinical correspondence. While it depends on the individual GP practice, most patients successfully transition to a shared-care arrangement for long-term prescribing.

Yes. Our psychiatrists are fully registered and authorised to prescribe ADHD medications in accordance with Irish regulations and clinical guidelines. ADHD Now is Ireland's largest Consultant-Led ADHD Service and has a large psychiatry and support team.

Our care team consists of 25+ staff members dedicated to ADHD Care in Ireland. Our service is overseen by our full-time Clinical Director and Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Vishnu Pradeep.

Medication is never mandatory. If medication isn't effective or causes side effects, your psychiatrist will review your treatment plan and discuss alternatives.

ADHD treatment is personalised — it's adjusted based on how you respond, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Your care is discussed closely with your specialist and a plan is created in your first consultation.

The process generally begins shortly after a confirmed diagnosis. Following the initial appointment, which is often available within seven days, patients enter a titration phase that typically lasts approximately three months to find the most effective and safe dosage.

Methylphenidate is the first-line pharmacological treatment for ADHD in Ireland. It is available under various brand names, most commonly Ritalin and Concerta XL.

Neither is objectively "better" as both contain the active ingredient methylphenidate. Concerta XL uses an osmotic release system to provide a steady therapeutic effect for 10 to 12 hours, while Ritalin is available in different release formats that may suit different lifestyle needs. The best option is determined by individual response during titration.

Common side effects can include suppressed appetite, mild insomnia, a slight increase in heart rate, or dry mouth. These are monitored closely during the titration phase, and clinicians can adjust the dose or change the medication if side effects become problematic.

Medication should help manage symptoms without altering a person's fundamental personality. If a patient feels "zombified" or experiences a loss of their natural personality, this is usually a clinical sign that the dosage is too high or the specific medication is not the correct fit, requiring a psychiatric review.

The need for medication is determined during a clinical review with a Consultant Psychiatrist, who evaluates your diagnosis, medical history, and the impact of symptoms on your daily life. Medication is never mandatory; it is presented as a tool to help balance brain chemistry if other supports are insufficient.

After booking:

• You'll receive instructions on submitting your documentation
• Your clinician reviews your information before the appointment
• You attend your online consultation
• A personalised treatment plan is created

Clear next steps are always explained before you move forward.

That's completely normal. If you're unsure, we recommend calling the clinic to discuss your personal situation, or booking an initial psychiatry intake consultation to discuss your situation with one of the psychiatry team. You're never locked into ongoing treatment unless it's appropriate and helpful for you.

If medication is clinically appropriate and deemed safe by the psychiatry team, yes — but it is never automatic. Your clinician will review diagnosis documentation, physical health information, your child's needs, and family preferences before recommending a plan. Where medication is prescribed, it is monitored closely, especially during titration.

Most families can access a first appointment within seven days. If medication is appropriate, it is typically initiated shortly after the initial consultation, with stabilisation usually taking place over several months through structured follow-ups.

This service is for children and adolescents (under 18) who already have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis and are seeking:

• Child psychiatry review
• Medication initiation or adjustment
• Ongoing treatment and prescriptions

If your child does not yet have a diagnosis, start with a Child ADHD Assessment first.

In many cases, yes. We accept diagnoses from recognised clinics and specialists provided appropriate documentation is supplied. We review your child's assessment, history, and any previous treatment before confirming next steps. If documentation doesn't meet clinical standards, we'll tell you upfront what's needed.

Typically:

• Your child's ADHD diagnostic report
• Relevant GP/paediatric correspondence (if available)
• Any prior medication details (if applicable)

Exact requirements depend on your child's situation and will be confirmed at your initial appointment.

Costs depend on the pathway and level of support required. See the pathway section on the service page for transparent pricing. If you're unsure which pathway fits or have any questions at all, please call the clinic and we'll point you to the right start point.

All costs are outlined in the pathway section on the service page. Typically, this involves monthly fees during initiation and stabilisation, moving to quarterly check-ins once stable.

Yes. We provide clear clinical correspondence outlining diagnosis, treatment plan, and medication. Shared-care arrangements depend on individual GP practices, but many families coordinate successfully. If you prefer, you can continue follow-up care with ADHD Now.

Medication is optional. If it isn't effective or causes side effects, your clinician will adjust the plan and discuss alternatives such as behavioural supports, school strategies, parent guidance, therapy/coaching, or other recommendations.

After booking:

• You'll receive instructions on submitting documentation
• Your clinician reviews information before the appointment
• You attend the online consultation (parent/guardian attends)
• A personalised treatment plan is created with clear next steps

Yes. Many children successfully manage ADHD through non-pharmacological interventions such as behavioural supports, parent training programmes like Parents Plus, and school-based strategies. For older children (aged 13+), specialist coaching and therapy can also be highly effective.

Methylphenidate (Ritalin or Concerta XL) is recognised as the first-line stimulant treatment for children in Ireland due to its long-standing safety record. If stimulants are not suitable, non-stimulants like Atomoxetine or Guanfacine are effective alternatives.

No — a diagnosis through ADHD Now is not formally required to start ADHD Therapy.

All ADHD Now therapists are fully accredited by the Irish Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (IACP) and trained in ADHD-specific approaches.

Yes. You can usually claim back up to 20% of therapy costs from Revenue through the Med1 form. Many private health insurers in Ireland also fully or partially cover sessions with our accredited therapists — check your policy for details.

Absolutely. Our sessions are delivered securely online, and clients consistently report the same (or better) progress compared to in-person therapy. Online therapy offers flexibility, privacy, and access to ADHD specialists across Ireland.

Choosing an ADHD specialist therapist at ADHD Now means you're working with a professional who has dedicated expertise and experience in ADHD treatment. We offer tailored approaches, a non-judgmental understanding of the lived experience of ADHD, and practical, evidence-based strategies. Our goal is to provide effective ADHD support that leads to tangible improvements in your life.

Many clients notice improvements in focus, structure, and self-awareness within the first couple of sessions. Our 6-session programme is designed to help you build practical tools quickly — and you can continue for ongoing support if you wish.

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), ADHD-focused coaching, and executive function strategies — often referred to as ADHD counselling or adult ADHD treatment — is a collaborative process designed to help you understand and manage the unique challenges of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Our therapists use evidence-based approaches to address core symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. We focus on building practical skills for managing ADHD symptoms, improving executive function (planning, organisation, time management, and tackling procrastination), and enhancing emotional regulation.

Yes, absolutely. Receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis can bring a mix of emotions and questions. Post-diagnosis therapy is invaluable — it provides a space for psychoeducation, helping you understand what ADHD means for you. Our therapists can help you process your diagnosis, develop personalised strategies, and address any co-occurring challenges such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.

Several therapeutic approaches are effective for ADHD. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT for ADHD) is widely recognised for helping change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours. Mindfulness-based practices can improve attention and emotional regulation. Skills-based coaching, often integrated into therapy, focuses on practical strategies for executive functions. At ADHD Now, our fully-accredited therapists are trained in these evidence-based methods and will tailor the approach to your specific needs and preferences.

Therapy focuses on emotions, patterns, and regulation. Coaching is action- and habit-based. Our approach blends both for maximum results.

Procrastination and time management are common struggles for adults with ADHD due to executive function challenges. ADHD therapy can directly address these by helping you identify triggers for procrastination, learn to break down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps, implement effective planning and prioritisation systems, build motivation, and develop routines that support productivity.

Yes. Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity are significant aspects of ADHD for many individuals. Therapy can teach you techniques to improve emotional awareness, identify emotional triggers, manage frustration or anger more effectively, and develop strategies to pause and think before acting impulsively. This can lead to improved relationships and reduced stress from ADHD anxiety.

While general counselling can be helpful, therapy for ADHD is specialised. Our ADHD therapists have a deep understanding of ADHD neurobiology, the specific ways ADHD symptoms manifest in adults, common co-occurring conditions, and evidence-based therapeutic tools designed for ADHD. This specialised knowledge allows for a more targeted and effective approach.

Our pricing can be viewed transparently under the "Therapy Options & Pricing" section on the therapy service page.

Yes — we can adapt your plan based on your needs and progress.

The duration of ADHD therapy is highly individual and depends on your specific goals, the complexity of your challenges, and your engagement in the process. Many individuals find significant benefit from our structured six-session programme. Others prefer longer-term support for ongoing ADHD management, deeper personal growth, and continued refinement of coping strategies. This can be discussed collaboratively with your ADHD therapist.

You don't need to be sure. Many adults come to therapy because they relate to ADHD symptoms but haven't had a formal assessment. Therapy can help you explore your patterns, get clarity, and develop strategies that work — diagnosis or not.

ADHD therapy is different from general counselling. Our therapists specialise in the ADHD brain — combining practical, skills-based work with emotional support. Clients often say, "This finally makes sense for how my brain works."

Occupational Therapy (OT) focuses on "functional life engineering". An OT helps individuals redesign their environments and routines to manage executive dysfunction, addressing areas such as sensory integration, workplace ergonomics, and building sustainable habits for daily tasks like cooking or self-care.

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is not listed as a primary service within the ADHD Now specialist framework. The clinical model instead prioritises neuro-affirming, evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Occupational Therapy, which focus on empowering individuals rather than suppressing neurodivergent traits.