Expert ADHD Assessment & Diagnosis with a Clinical Psychologist - Book Online Today
If you’re seeking clarity and an expert opinion concerning symptoms of adult ADHD, I can help. Click below to schedule your ADHD test online.
Meet Dr Lorna Otway, Clinical Psychologist & ADHD Specialist
Hello, I’m Lorna and I specialise in adult ADHD assessment and diagnosis online. Getting the right diagnosis and self-knowledge can be a hugely important first step towards increased self-acceptance, clarity and self-worth.
I have many years experience as a Clinical Psychologist and a PhD in Psychology. My other areas of clinical expertise are trauma, PTSD and attachment issues in adults.
I am here to help you make sense of what is causing your struggles & what might be most helpful for you moving forward.
Areas of Expertise
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Adult ADHD Diagnosis
All ADHD Assessments are carried by Clinical Psychologist and ADHD Specialist Dr Lorna Otway-Kerr. We follow the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines for ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis. Our process is entirely online for your convenience and confidentiality. Click below to book your ADHD screening consultation.
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High Functioning ADHD
One of the biggest misconceptions about ADHD is that it prevents people from succeeding. In reality, many high-achieving individuals with ADHD have developed coping strategies such as perfectionism or overworking, which come at a cost. If you are high achieving and suspect you are struggling with ADHD, I’d love to help you get the clarity and guidance you need.
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ADHD in Women
ADHD in women is often misunderstood, overlooked, and under diagnosed, although thankfully awareness is improving and more women are getting the support they need. ADHD diagnostic criteria was originally based on research with boys and we now understand that ADHD symptoms can be different for girls and women. Understanding the signs of ADHD in women can be the first step toward clarity and self-acceptance.
What is Adult ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is estimated to affect 2 - 4 % of adults in the UK. ADHD in adults is far more nuanced than the hyperactive behaviours typically associated with children.
The diagnostic criteria, as outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), focus on symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
These symptoms may manifest differently in adults than in children, often blending into personality traits or coping mechanisms, making ADHD challenging to identify.
When left undiagnosed and untreated, ADHD can significantly affect education, careers, relationships, self-esteem, and overall mental health. However, with the right diagnosis and support, individuals with ADHD can thrive.
Signs of ADHD in Adults
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Inattentive signs of ADHD in adults may include:
Making frequent mistakes when working or studying (e.g., missing details, overlooking important details)
Frequently losing focus during conversations or meetings.
Difficulty starting or completing tasks, especially ones that require sustained attention.
Frequently misplacing items like keys, glasses, or important paperwork.
A tendency to become easily distracted by external stimuli or internal thoughts.
Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or commitments, even with reminders in place.
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• Restlessness: Feeling a constant need to move, fidget, or adjust position. This may include tapping your hands or feet or changing seats frequently.
• Pacing Thoughts and Actions: Friends or colleagues may find it hard to keep up with your pace or describe you as “always on the go.”
• Difficulty Pausing Conversations: Speaking over others or being perceived as overly talkative or “chatty.”
• Over-Sharing: Impulsively revealing too much personal information and later feeling embarrassment or regret.
• Boundary Challenges: Struggling to respect others’ boundaries or making impulsive decisions that might negatively affect relationships or work situations.
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ADHD is associated with challenges with managing emotions, which can amplify stress and negatively impact relationships and self-esteem. Signs include:
• Low Self-Esteem: Feeling a lack of confidence or struggling to trust yourself to follow through on commitments.
• Difficulty Managing Stress: Becoming easily overwhelmed in busy or high-pressure situations.
• Emotional Overload: Feeling intense emotions that are hard to control, such as anger, frustration, or sadness, often triggered by small events.
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Many adults with ADHD experience Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), an intense emotional response to real or perceived rejection or criticism. RSD is more than just being sensitive—it can feel overwhelming and can interfere with relationships and functioning day-to-day. While RSD is not currently included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) criteria for ADHD, it is something that many people with lived experience of ADHD can relate to.
Everyday Examples of RSD:
Immediately worrying if someone doesn’t reply to a text or email within an expected time frame (“Are they upset with me?”)
Being extremely sensitive to any form of criticism (even if is constructive)
Avoiding new relationships or opportunities due to fear of rejection or failure
Feeling intense shame or worry after socialising, especially if you feel you may have overshared or embarrassed yourself in some way
Being extremely sensitive to changes in your partner’s mood, and immediately worrying that they are mad at you if they seem unhappy or distracted.
RSD and Attachment Anxiety
RSD is correlated with attachment anxiety and can contribute to relationship difficulties for those with RSD. For example, someone with RSD might interpret neutral behaviours as signs of rejection.
Understanding and addressing RSD can be life-changing, offering a pathway to healthier relationships and greater emotional balance.
ADHD Assessment & Diagnosis
Choosing to undergo an ADHD assessment is an important step toward understanding yourself and ensuring you receive the right support. Below you’ll find further information about the assessment process at our clinic.
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1. Complete ADHD Screening Questionnaires
Complete our straightforward online screening process by clicking on the button below. This process involves completing some online questionnaires.
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2. Comprehensive Assessment with Clinical Psychologist
Meet with our Clinical Psychologist for a 2.5-hour in-depth assessment, which includes the DIVA-5, a gold-standard ADHD diagnostic tool.
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3. Psychological Report & Recommendations
Receive a comprehensive psychological report documenting the results of your assessment (including formal diagnosis, where relevant) and any clinical recommendations.
Why Choose Our Clinic?
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Expert Assessment ✓
Assessments are conducted by Dr Otway-Kerr, a Clinical Psychologist & adult ADHD specialist.
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Confidential & Convenient ✓
The entire process is conducted online, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your home.
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Clear & Comprehensive ✓
From the initial screening to your detailed report, we ensure you leave with greater clarity and insight.
ADHD Assessment Fee: £1300
INCLUDES:
✔ ADHD Screening Process (including scoring of your ADHD screening questionnaires and an optional pre assessment telephone call with Clinical Psychologist Dr Lorna Otway.
✔ Online Diagnostic Interview with Clinical Psychologist (2.5-hour in-depth clinical assessment using the DIVA-5, a gold-standard ADHD diagnostic tool.
✔ Clinical Psychologist Review of Supporting Information (e.g., you may choose to provide us with your school records, previous assessments, or informant feedback (e.g., from family or close friends) to provide additional context for the assessment. This is throughly reviewed and considered as part of your assessment.
✔ Follow Up Appointment (Optional) with Clinical Psychologist (30 minutes, via video call) to discuss the outcome of your assessment, ask any questions you may have, and discuss recommendations/next steps.
✔ Comprehensive Report prepared by Clinical Psychologist including diagnosis (where applicable) and recommendations. We also provide an additional summary report for sharing with your GP/others involved in your care, if required.
✔Insight and Clarity concerning whether ADHD is contributing to your challenges, as well as guidance on potential next steps for improving your symptoms and quality of life.
Book Your ADHD Assessment
If you’re ready to go ahead and book an initial ADHD screening appointment, simply click on the button below to book this online.
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