How to Get an Adult ADHD Assessment in Ireland (2026 Guide)
If you have always struggled with focus, organisation or restlessness, you may be wondering whether ADHD could be part of the picture. More adults in Ireland are asking that question than ever before. This guide explains the two routes to an adult ADHD assessment in Ireland, what happens during the assessment, and how to choose the right option for you.
What is adult ADHD?
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition. It begins in childhood, but many people are not diagnosed until adulthood. In adults it often shows up as difficulty staying focused, forgetfulness, poor time management, restlessness and acting on impulse.
Many adults have spent years building coping strategies. Others were told they were “lazy” or “not trying hard enough”. A proper assessment can finally explain long-standing patterns and open the door to the right support.
Your two options in Ireland
In Ireland you can be assessed through the public system (the HSE) or through a private clinic.
1. The public route (HSE)
The HSE runs a National Clinical Programme for ADHD in Adults. The planned model is 11 adult ADHD clinics across the country, and several are already running. Each team includes a consultant psychiatrist, a senior psychologist and other specialists.
To reach a public adult ADHD clinic you usually need to:
- See your GP, who refers you to your local Community Adult Mental Health Team.
- Be screened by that team, which then decides whether to refer you on.
- Meet the clinic’s criteria, which include moderate to severe symptoms that affect two or more areas of your life.
The public route is free, but access depends on where you live, and waiting times in some areas can be long. You can read the HSE’s own description of the programme on the HSE website.
2. The private route
A private ADHD assessment lets you book directly, choose your own time, and usually be seen far sooner. At ADHD Point you do not need a GP referral, and appointments are available within 3 days.
Private assessments are paid for by you. Some health insurance plans contribute towards the cost, and you may be able to claim tax relief (see our ADHD assessment cost guide).
Who can diagnose ADHD in adults?
In Ireland, an adult ADHD assessment should be carried out by a qualified clinician with specific training in adult ADHD, such as a registered psychologist or a consultant psychiatrist.
When you choose a clinic, check that:
- Psychologists are registered with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI)
- Psychiatrists are registered with the Irish Medical Council (IMC)
- The assessment uses recognised tools, not just a short online quiz
What happens during an adult ADHD assessment?
A thorough assessment looks at your whole life, not just how you feel today. At ADHD Point the process has four steps.
- Book online. Choose a time and complete a short intake form.
- Your assessment. A 60 to 90 minute DIVA-5 diagnostic interview by video with a PSI registered psychologist. The DIVA-5 is a structured interview based on the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD. It looks at your symptoms now and in childhood.
- Report and feedback. Your psychologist writes a full diagnostic report and talks you through the results.
- Treatment with a psychiatrist. If appropriate, you can see our IMC registered consultant psychiatrist to discuss your treatment options.
It can help to have someone who knew you as a child, such as a parent or older sibling, available to share their memories. Old school reports can be useful too.
Is an online assessment valid?
Yes. A video assessment follows the same structured interview and diagnostic criteria as an in-person one. For many adults it is easier, because you can take part from home without travelling or taking extra time off work.
How to prepare
- Write down the difficulties you notice at work, at home and in relationships
- Think about how you were as a child, before age 12
- Gather any old school reports if you have them
- Ask a family member if they can share their memories
- Find a quiet, private space with a stable internet connection
Not sure if you need a full assessment?
If you are unsure, start with our online ADHD pre-assessment for €8.99. It is a short screening questionnaire that shows whether a full assessment is likely to be helpful. It is not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD in Ireland? Yes. Adults of any age can be assessed and diagnosed with ADHD, through the HSE or privately.
Do I need a GP referral for a private ADHD assessment? No. At ADHD Point you can book directly, with no GP letter needed. Read more in our GP referral guide.
How long does an adult ADHD assessment take? The diagnostic interview takes 60 to 90 minutes, followed by your written report and a feedback session.
Can I get an assessment if I live outside Dublin? Yes. Our assessments are fully online, so you can be seen from anywhere in Ireland, including Cork, Galway and Limerick.
Book your adult ADHD assessment
Ready for answers? Book your full adult ADHD assessment online today. Appointments are available within 3 days, and you can pay in 3 interest free instalments with Klarna.
Private adult ADHD assessment online. No GP referral, appointments within 3 days.