Do I Need a GP Referral for an ADHD Assessment in Ireland?
The short answer: you need a GP referral for the public HSE route, but not for most private clinics. At ADHD Point you can book your adult ADHD assessment directly, with no GP letter needed. Here is how each route works.
The public route: a GP referral is needed
To be assessed through the HSE’s adult ADHD service, the usual pathway is:
- Your GP refers you to your local Community Adult Mental Health Team, based on your home address.
- That team screens you for possible ADHD.
- If appropriate, the team refers you on to the adult ADHD clinic for your area.
The HSE explains that going through the mental health team is an important part of the process, because adults with ADHD often also experience anxiety or depression. The service is aimed at adults with moderate to severe symptoms that affect two or more areas of life, such as work, relationships or managing money. You can read the criteria on the HSE website.
The private route: you can usually refer yourself
Most private clinics accept self-referrals. That means you can contact the clinic and book an appointment without seeing your GP first.
At ADHD Point:
- You book online, with no GP referral
- Appointments are available within 3 days
- Your assessment is carried out by a PSI registered psychologist, using the DIVA-5 diagnostic interview
- You receive a full written diagnostic report
Should I still tell my GP?
Even though you do not need a referral, it is a good idea to keep your GP in the loop. Your GP knows your medical history, and your diagnostic report can be shared with them on request. This helps keep your care joined up, especially if you later see a consultant psychiatrist to discuss treatment options.
When a GP visit makes sense first
Speak to your GP before booking if:
- You are experiencing severe low mood, panic or thoughts of harming yourself
- You have a physical health condition that could explain your symptoms
- You want to explore the free public route first
If you are in crisis, call 112 or 999, or contact Samaritans on 116 123.
Does a referral affect tax relief?
Revenue lists psychologist treatment as a qualifying health expense where the psychologist is a registered practitioner, or where a practitioner refers you for a diagnostic procedure. A GP referral can therefore matter for some claims. Check Revenue’s guidance or ask an accountant about your situation. See also our cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I self-refer for an ADHD assessment in Ireland? Yes, for most private clinics. At ADHD Point you can book directly online.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist after my diagnosis? No. If appropriate, you can book a consultation with our IMC registered consultant psychiatrist directly after your assessment.
Will my GP be told about my assessment? Only if you want them to. Your report can be shared with your GP on request.
Is a private diagnosis accepted in Ireland? A diagnosis made by a qualified, registered clinician using recognised criteria is a valid clinical diagnosis. Individual services may have their own requirements, so check with them if you need the report for a specific purpose.
Book without a referral
Book your adult ADHD assessment online today. No GP referral needed and appointments within 3 days. Not sure yet? Try our €8.99 pre-assessment. For the full picture, read our guide to adult ADHD assessment in Ireland.
Private adult ADHD assessment online. No GP referral, appointments within 3 days.