How much does private ADHD assessment cost in Ireland?

Fees vary considerably between psychiatrists and clinics, and depend on how much testing and follow-up is included. We don't publish a price range because quoted figures date quickly. Ask each clinic for a written fee, including any follow-up or prescription reviews, before you book.

How long is the HSE waiting list?

It varies by region and changes over time, so any single national figure would be misleading. Your GP, or the local HSE adult mental health service, can give you the current local picture.

Can my GP diagnose ADHD?

No. In Ireland, adult ADHD is diagnosed by a consultant psychiatrist. Your GP can refer you, screen for other conditions, and (with shared care) manage prescriptions afterwards.

Do I need a diagnosis to access support?

No. Reasonable accommodations at work, peer support through ADHD Ireland, and coaching tools like Steady are all available without a formal diagnosis.

ADHD assessment in Ireland — public & private guide

Getting an adult ADHD assessment in Ireland is doable, but the system is uneven. The public pathway is free at the point of access but slow. The private route is faster but costs money. Most adults end up using a mix of both.

Steady doesn't run assessments — we're coaching, not clinical care. But we sit alongside a lot of people in this process, and the questions repeat. Here's a plain map.

If you're in distress and need urgent support, contact your GP or the Samaritans on 116 123. Assessment is not the right path during a crisis.

The public pathway (HSE)

Start with your GP. Ask for a referral to your local Adult Mental Health Service or specialist ADHD clinic.
Waiting times vary widely by area and change over time — we deliberately don't quote a national figure. Ask your GP or the local service for the current position.
Free at the point of access. Includes follow-up and shared-care options.
Best for: cost-constrained, time-flexible, complex co-occurring issues.

The private pathway

Self-refer or via GP to a consultant psychiatrist who assesses adult ADHD.
Usually faster than the public route, but timelines and fees differ by clinic — confirm both directly with the psychiatrist or clinic before booking.
Some psychiatrists arrange shared care with your GP for prescriptions.
Check the Medical Council register before booking.

How to prepare

Write a one-page life story: school, work, relationships, money, sleep.
Bring examples — concrete scenes, not just adjectives.
Ask a parent or sibling about your childhood if you can.
Bring any old school reports.

After the appointment

Diagnosis: discuss treatment options — medication, therapy, coaching.
No diagnosis: ask what was ruled in or out. Get the report.
Either way: it's data, not a verdict on who you are.
For the wider picture, see adult ADHD in Ireland; for the first three months afterwards, see newly diagnosed with ADHD and ADHD and medication in Ireland.

Your next-week action plan

Turn this guide into one workable week.

Tick the steps you'll try this week. Your progress is saved on this device. Download a clean printable copy to stick on the fridge or share with your coach.

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Frequently asked

Try Steady

Practical adult ADHD support, designed for Ireland.

Coaching, daily tools, and a calm operating system for your week. Non-diagnostic. Free to start. Full access €9.99/month — less than two cups of coffee.

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Steady provides coaching, tools and educational support. It does not diagnose ADHD or replace medical care. If you need assessment, medication advice or urgent mental health support, contact your GP, HSE services or, in an emergency, 112/999.