Irish assessment route
ADHD assessment in Ireland: where to start
An ADHD assessment is more than a short attention test. In Ireland, the route varies by age, local public service and whether you seek a private psychologist- or psychiatrist-led pathway. Start by defining why you want an assessment and what you need the resulting report to do.
Your first step
ADHD Ireland advises adults and parents to discuss concerns with a GP and seek the appropriate referral. For a young person, a GP or other medical doctor is the gateway to CAMHS or other public assessment services, while school information may contribute to the history and support plan.
Public access and waiting times vary. Ask the referring professional which local service is responsible, what eligibility applies, what information is required and what support can begin now.
What an ADHD assessment should explore
ADHD Ireland describes a process that includes clinical interview and case history, including when patterns began, how long they have been present and how they affect different parts of life. For children, parents and teachers commonly contribute information. For adults, information from someone who knew the person earlier in life may be requested where available.
Psychologist or psychiatrist?
The provider should explain who is clinically responsible and what their professional role permits. ADHD Ireland notes that psychologists and psychiatrists may both be involved in ADHD assessment, but prescribing is a medical function. If medication is one of your goals, ask before booking whether a separate medical or psychiatric assessment will be required and whether another clinician will accept the report.
Questions for a private ADHD provider
- Which ages and presentations do you assess?
- Who conducts and signs each stage, and what are their qualifications and professional registrations?
- What history, questionnaires, interviews and collateral information are normally included?
- What does the total fee include: screening, assessment, feedback, report and follow-up?
- What happens if the evidence does not support ADHD or points to another need?
- Is the report suitable for my intended clinical, educational or workplace purpose?
- If medication is relevant, what separate medical steps may be needed?
Adult and child pathways are not identical
| Area | Adult assessment | Child or adolescent assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Developmental history | Personal history and, where possible, information from earlier life | Parent/carer and school information commonly contribute |
| Public starting point | GP and the relevant local adult pathway | GP/medical referral and the relevant child service; school support continues separately |
| Report use | Clarify workplace, college, clinical or personal purpose | Clarify clinical purpose and what school or other service requires |
Compare providers without relying on rankings
Use the Divergent.ie ADHD directory for source-checked provider facts, then confirm everything directly. Published fees can describe different pathways, so compare scope rather than the headline number. Our ADHD cost guide and online assessment guide provide additional questions.
Sources and review date
- ADHD Ireland: diagnosis
- ADHD Ireland: assessing a young person
- ADHD Ireland: clinician-list caveats and assessment questions
- Psychological Society of Ireland: Chartered Member directory
Frequently asked questions
Where do I start an ADHD assessment in Ireland?
ADHD Ireland advises discussing concerns with a GP and seeking the appropriate referral. The exact public route depends on age and local service.
Can a psychologist prescribe ADHD medication?
No. Prescribing is a medical function. Ask whether a separate medical or psychiatric assessment would be needed if medication is a goal.
What should a private ADHD quote include?
Ask whether screening, clinical assessment, collateral information, feedback, the written report, follow-up and any medical review are included.
Reviewed: 31 July 2026. Routes and services can change; confirm current requirements with the relevant Irish service or provider.
Information boundary
This is general Irish information, not a diagnosis or personal medical, psychological, educational, legal or workplace advice. Divergent.ie does not provide assessments and does not endorse listed providers.