Getting a Diagnosis

Seeking understanding

A diagnosis is not just a label. For many people, it is the key to understanding years of struggle, self-doubt, and unanswered questions.

But the diagnostic process in the UK is not straightforward. Waiting times are long. Pathways vary by condition and region. And the emotional weight of seeking recognition can be significant.

This page offers a practical, honest guide to what the process looks like - across all neurodivergent conditions.

The current picture

The scale of demand for neurodivergence assessments in the UK has never been higher.

• Some NHS services have paused new referrals entirely.
• The number of people waiting for an autism assessment is 13 times higher than in April 2019.4

The NHS pathway

How it works

For most neurodivergent conditions, the process starts with your GP. The GP does not diagnose you - they refer you to a specialist who does.

For ADHD: Your GP refers you to a specialist ADHD service or a psychiatrist. In England, you have the legal right to choose your provider under the Right to Choose pathway, which can sometimes offer shorter waits.

For autism: Your GP refers you to a specialist autism assessment service, usually a multidisciplinary team. Assessment involves a detailed developmental history, observation, and screening for other conditions.

For dyslexia: Assessment is typically carried out by an educational psychologist, either through your school, university, or privately. It is not usually part of NHS mental health services.

For dyspraxia (DCD): Assessment may be through an occupational therapist or physiotherapist. Adult diagnostic pathways are limited and vary significantly by region.

For tic disorders and Tourette syndrome: Diagnosis is clinical, based on history and observation, typically through a neurologist or paediatrician.

For DLD: Assessment is through speech and language therapy services. Many adults with DLD remain undiagnosed.

What to do if your GP is unsupportive

Not all GPs are familiar with neurodevelopmental conditions. If your concerns are dismissed, you are entitled to:

• Ask for a second opinion
• Request a referral in writing, citing NICE guidelines
• Use the Right to Choose pathway (for ADHD in England)
• Contact PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) if you feel your concerns are not being heard

Private assessment

Private assessment is an option for people who cannot wait, or who want a faster route to understanding.

How it works

You can self-refer to a private clinician for most conditions. Assessment typically takes one or two sessions. Costs vary considerably - ADHD assessments, for example, typically range from £500 to £1,500.

Shared care agreements

If you receive a private diagnosis for ADHD, you can ask your GP to enter into a shared care agreement. This means the GP takes over prescribing and monitoring once your medication is stabilised by the specialist.

This is not guaranteed. Some GPs or local areas decline shared care. If this happens, ask your GP to explain the reasons in writing and consider escalating through PALS.

Important caveats

• A private diagnosis should carry the same weight as an NHS diagnosis, though some services may query it

If you cannot afford private assessment

Financial barriers are real and significant. Some charities offer supported assessments. The Right to Choose pathway (for ADHD) provides an NHS-funded route to independent providers. Universities often offer funded dyslexia assessments for students.

Preparing for an assessment

Preparation can help you get the most out of your assessment and reduce anxiety.

What assessors are looking for

They want to understand how your traits affect your daily life - now and historically. They are not trying to catch you out. The assessment is a conversation, not a test.

How to prepare

• Gather examples from your life: school reports, past mental health records, workplace difficulties, relationship patterns
• Write down your experiences - it is easy to forget things in the moment
• Ask someone who knew you in childhood (parent, sibling, old friend) if they would be willing to provide information. For some assessments, this is requested
• Note what you are struggling with now - be specific and honest
• Prepare emotionally - the process can bring up difficult memories and strong feelings

What to expect on the day

Assessments usually involve a detailed interview about your developmental history, current functioning, and how traits affect different areas of your life. Some assessments include questionnaires or observation tasks. It is okay to ask for breaks or accommodations.

After diagnosis

What happens next

A diagnosis opens doors. Depending on the condition, you may gain access to:

• Medication (for ADHD, tic disorders)
• Therapeutic support (for any condition)
• Reasonable adjustments at work or in education (protected under the Equality Act 2010)
• Access to Work funding for workplace support
• Benefits and support (PIP, ESA, and others)
• Self-understanding - perhaps the most important outcome of all

Post-diagnostic support - or lack of it

One of the biggest gaps in the current system is what happens after diagnosis. Many people report being diagnosed and then left without follow-up, guidance, or support.

The ADHD Taskforce identified this as a critical area for improvement.¹ neurobetter exists to help fill this gap - with information, community, and access to support.

The ongoing journey

A diagnosis is a beginning, not an ending. Understanding your neurodivergence is a process that unfolds over time. Be patient with yourself. Seek connection. And remember: you deserved answers a long time ago.

You deserve answers

neurobetter believes that everyone who needs an assessment should be able to get one - without years of waiting, financial barriers, or having to prove their struggle.

A diagnosis is not a luxury. It changes lives.

• Use our Local Services directory to find NHS and private assessment services near you
• Read about late diagnosis if you are discovering neurodivergence as an adult
• Explore our Advice Hub for information about specific conditions
• Our online community - connect with others who understand
• Ask a Counsellor - private, confidential guidance