HealthHarmonie Minds

What to Expect: Your Journey Through the ADHD Service

Our service is designed to assess and support adults with suspected ADHD. The process includes several key stages, each with a specific purpose. Below is a guide to help you understand what to expect at each step.

Assessment A – Initial Interview


Purpose:
Assessment A focuses on taking a detailed developmental and psychological history, including completion of the DIVA-5 (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults). We will explore how symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity have affected you both in childhood and adulthood.

What to Expect:

  • You’ll be asked about your education, behaviour growing up, work history, relationships, and coping strategies.
  • If possible, an informant (e.g. parent or someone who knew you as a child) should attend or provide collateral history.
  • You do not need to prepare in advance, but feel free to note down any concerns or relevant past experiences.
  • A formal written report will be prepared after this session, contributing to the final diagnostic decision.
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Assessment B – Diagnostic Review


Purpose:
Assessment B is a clinical evaluation by a senior clinician. It focuses on confirming the diagnosis (if appropriate) and ruling out other possible conditions using DSM-5 / ICD-11 criteria.

What to Expect:

  • The clinician will review your background, previous assessments, and the DIVA-5 findings.
  • You’ll be asked about your current symptoms, mental health, substance use, risk factors, family history, and coping mechanisms.
  • A mental state examination will be completed.
  • Based on this session, a formal diagnosis (or alternative explanation) will be offered, and next steps discussed.
  • If ADHD is diagnosed, a treatment plan will be proposed, which may include medication or psychoeducation.
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Titration A – Initial Medication Review


Purpose:
If you choose to begin ADHD medication, this appointment is the first step. A prescriber will discuss the treatment options and begin the process of finding the right dose and medication for you.

What to Expect:

  • You’ll receive information leaflets in advance about stimulant and non-stimulant medications.
  • The prescriber will review your physical health history and any recent tests (e.g. ECG, blood pressure, pulse).
  • A mental state examination and risk formulation will be completed.
  • The clinician will recommend a starting dose and medication based on your preferences and medical background.
  • You will be asked to monitor your blood pressure, pulse, and symptom response at home.
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Titration Follow-Up Appointments


Purpose:
These are brief reviews to assess how you’re responding to medication and make any needed changes.

What to Expect:

  • You will be asked to submit a weekly Medication Monitoring Form before each follow-up (includes BP, pulse, symptoms, side effects).
  • The clinician will discuss improvements, any side effects, and make dose adjustments if needed.
  • You may have several follow-ups until the optimal dose is reached and symptoms are well-managed.
  • Once stable, we may begin discussions with your GP about shared care prescribing arrangements.
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Psychoeducation Programme


Format: 4 sessions, each 60 minutes, group-based (max 5 people), online

Purpose:
Our psychoeducation group helps you understand ADHD and manage it effectively. It complements medication or can be a standalone intervention.

What to Expect:

  • Session 1: Understanding Inattention – strategies for managing focus and organisation
  • Session 2: Understanding Hyperactivity – managing restlessness and physical energy
  • Session 3: Understanding Impulsivity – improving decision-making and self-control
  • Session 4: FAQ and Consolidation – myths, common concerns, Q&A, and next steps

The group is supportive, interactive, and run by a trained facilitator. You will receive handouts and practical tips in each session.