At Healios, an online ADHD assessment for a child or young person is delivered through a series of structured video appointments with specialist clinicians.
These assessments aim to understand a child’s attention, activity levels, behaviour, and everyday challenges as well as strengths. While some children receive a formal ADHD diagnosis, others may not meet the diagnostic criteria. Even if your child does not receive a diagnosis, the assessment and report can provide valuable insights and a richer understanding of your child or young person’s strengths and difficulties.
Many families begin exploring an ADHD assessment after noticing differences in how their child focuses, behaves, or manages daily tasks. Some children appear restless or impulsive, while others primarily struggle with attention, organisation, or sustaining focus. For families, the assessment process can bring clarity, reassurance, and actionable advice, regardless of whether a diagnosis is given.
We know this process can feel overwhelming. At Healios, we aim to make ADHD assessments clear, supportive, and compassionate, helping children and young people to thrive and gain the support and understanding they need.
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, activity levels, emotional regulation and behaviour. Around 5% of children in the UK are believed to have ADHD, though experiences differ widely.
The exact cause of ADHD is still being studied, but research suggests a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. ADHD can also present differently across genders, with girls sometimes showing more subtle signs of inattentiveness, which historically may have gone unrecognised. At Healios our specialist clinicians are trained to understand the subtleties of how ADHD can present across a diverse range of children/young people.
ADHD can affect everyday life, including concentration, planning, managing tasks, mood and social interactions. With the right guidance and support, children can learn strategies to manage these challenges effectively.
What are the signs of ADHD in children and young people?
ADHD symptoms are often grouped into two categories: inattentiveness and hyperactivity or impulsiveness. Some children show more signs in one area, while others may display a combination of both.
Signs of inattentiveness may include:
- Shorter attention span than peers
- Getting easily distracted
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Frequently switching between activities
Signs of hyperactivity and impulsiveness may include:
- Difficulty sitting still
- Fidgeting
- Feeling constantly “on the go”
- Talking or moving excessively
- Acting without thinking or considering potential risks
- Struggling to manage emotions.
Because these behaviours can also appear in children without ADHD, it is important to choose an experienced, accredited provider. A diagnosis is only made when symptoms have been present over time, in more than one setting, and clearly impact daily life.
Accessing ADHD assessments at Healios
Healios provides online ADHD assessments in the UK for children and young people aged six and above. We work in partnership with NHS services and Health Boards, including CAMHS and other local pathways that refer children for ADHD, autism, or mental health support.
If Healios is available in your area, your local service may refer your child for an online ADHD assessment. Once the referral is received, our team will contact you to schedule appointments.
We also offer private ADHD assessments for children and families where needed.
What is an online ADHD assessment?
An online ADHD assessment at Healios follows a similar structure to in-person assessments but takes place over secure video calls rather than in a clinic.
Clinicians use our digital platform, Panacea, where families can:
- Join video sessions
- View session notes
- Manage appointments
- Invite parents, carers, or supporters to take part
Completing assessments at home can help children feel more comfortable, while also giving clinicians a clear understanding of how they typically behave and manage daily tasks.
How do online ADHD assessments work at Healios?
Step 1
Complete questionnaires
Before the assessment, parents or carers complete a small number of online questionnaires about the child’s strengths, challenges, and needs. We will also request information from someone who knows the child well, such as a teacher, social worker or Education Psychologist.
Step 2
Attend assessment sessions
Online ADHD assessments usually include two key appointments:
- Initial session
Parents or carers meet the clinician to discuss concerns, explain how the assessment works, and review the child’s developmental, educational, and medical history.
- ADHD assessment session
This session typically lasts around two hours and involves structured conversations with the child and, where appropriate, a parent or carer. Clinicians explore attention, organisation, impulsivity, and daily functioning. They also consider whether other neurodevelopmental or mental health conditions may be contributing to the child’s challenges.
Step 3
Receive outcome and discuss next steps
After the appointments, the clinician meets with a multidisciplinary team to review findings and agree on an outcome. A detailed report is prepared, and a follow-up session is arranged to explain the outcome, answer questions, and discuss recommended next steps, including strategies, therapies, or medication options where relevant.
What happens next?
Receiving the outcome of an ADHD assessment can be an important moment for families. Whether a diagnosis is given or not, Healios ensures parents and carers feel supported and informed.
If your child receives an ADHD diagnosis
A diagnosis can help families, schools, and professionals understand the child’s experiences, strengths, and needs. It can also guide access to school adjustments, therapies, and practical strategies for everyday life.
Where available, Healios provides post-assessment support for children and young people. These online sessions allow families to explore the diagnosis, ask questions, and develop helpful strategies for home and school.
If NHS-funded post-assessment support is unavailable in your area, we provide information about alternative services and charities, and your local NHS team may offer further guidance. Private post-assessment support, including ADHD medication guidance, is also available.
If your child does not receive an ADHD diagnosis
Not receiving a diagnosis does not mean a child’s experiences are less valid or that support is unavailable. Some children may have traits or difficulties that do not meet the threshold for ADHD.
In these cases, clinicians provide a detailed report explaining the findings and reasoning. Families may also receive recommendations for:
- Further assessments (e.g., for anxiety, autism, or learning differences)
- Practical strategies for attention, organisation, and daily routines
- Signposting to local services, charities, or support organisations
Clinicians take time to discuss the outcome with families, helping them understand what it means and what support options are available.
Beginning the process of an ADHD assessment for your child can feel daunting, but families do not have to navigate it alone. Healios is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care that helps children and young people feel understood and supported.
Frequently asked questions about online ADHD assessments
How long does an online ADHD assessment take at Healios?
Online ADHD assessments usually take place over two main appointments: an initial session to gather background information, followed by a longer ADHD assessment session of around two hours. A separate feedback appointment is then offered to discuss the outcome and next steps.
Are online ADHD assessments as robust as in-person assessments?
Yes. Healios’ online ADHD assessments follow the same clinical standards as in-person assessments. Clinicians use structured interviews, validated questionnaires, and expert clinical judgement.
Who can refer a child for an online ADHD assessment at Healios?
Referrals are usually made via NHS services such as CAMHS or other local mental health teams. Private online ADHD assessments are also available for families seeking an independent route.