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Do I Need Multiple Appointments for an ADHD Diagnosis? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, in most cases, the ADHD assessment process involves more than one appointment. Diagnosing ADHD is not something that can typically be done in a single visit, as it requires gathering a full picture of your symptoms, background, and overall mental health. The number of sessions will vary depending on the clinic, provider, and complexity of your case. 

During the step-by-step ADHD diagnosis, your first appointment is usually an initial consultation where you discuss your concerns and why you think ADHD may be affecting you. Follow-up sessions may include in-depth interviews, symptom questionnaires, and sometimes gathering information from family members or past school or work reports. This stepwise approach helps ensure the diagnosis is accurate and thorough. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

How It Helps to Be Patient with the Process 

Knowing what to expect from the ADHD assessment process helps you prepare and stay focused. 

Initial Appointment 

This is where your concerns are heard and basic information is collected to begin the step-by-step ADHD diagnosis. 

Follow-Up Visits 

You may be asked to complete symptom checklists or attend further interviews, helping build a clearer view of your experience. 

Final Diagnosis and Plan 

Once all information is gathered, your provider will confirm the diagnosis and discuss next steps. 

Understanding the likely number of appointments ADHD assessments involve can reduce frustration and help you feel more in control throughout the process. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.