Question 1

Who do you currently assess?

Accepted Answer

Lighthouse Pathways provides ADHD assessment and treatment for adults aged 18 and over, and for children and young people aged 6 and above. We also offer autism assessments and combined ADHD and autism assessments, all of which can be booked online via our services page.

Question 2

Do you assess children or adolescents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer ADHD, autism and combined ADHD and autism assessment pathways for children and young people aged 6 and above, all of which can be booked via our services page.

Question 3

Do you offer NHS Right to Choose (RTC)?

Accepted Answer

No. At present, Lighthouse Pathways provides private ADHD, autism and combined assessment services only and does not offer NHS Right to Choose referrals. Important: We are unable to accept RTC referrals or place patients on an RTC waiting list until this service is formally available.

Question 4

Is Lighthouse Pathways legitimate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Lighthouse Pathways is a legitimate UK provider of private ADHD and autism assessments, registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). All assessments are carried out by clinicians registered with UK professional bodies such as the NMC and HCPC, and our diagnostic process follows NICE guidelines. You can verify our registration independently on the CQC website at any time. We know it is sensible to check any provider carefully before booking an assessment online, and we would encourage you to do exactly that.

Question 5

Which NICE guidelines do your assessments follow?

Accepted Answer

All Lighthouse Pathways assessments are aligned with the relevant NICE guideline for the condition and age group being assessed: Adult ADHD: Our adult ADHD assessments follow NICE guideline NG87 and use the DIVA-5, alongside clinical history and supporting information where available., Child ADHD: Our child ADHD assessments follow NICE guideline NG87, considering developmental history and symptoms across home, education and other settings., Adult autism: Our adult autism assessments follow NICE guideline CG142, using clinical interviews, developmental history and recognised assessment tools., Child autism: Our child autism assessments follow NICE guideline CG128, considering development and presentation across home, education and other settings., Combined ADHD and autism: Our combined assessments follow NICE NG87 for ADHD, alongside CG142 for adults or CG128 for children for autism..

Question 6

What do I do if I think I have ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Many people seek assessment because they notice long-standing patterns affecting daily life. An assessment helps clarify whether ADHD or another condition may be contributing.

Question 7

What is ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a diagnosis given to people who have challenges with: inattention-finding it hard to concentrate; hyperactivity-feeling restless and struggling to sit still; impulsivity-saying or doing things without thinking about the consequences first. For people with ADHD, these challenges usually begin in childhood and for most people they continue as they grow up, though they may change or improve. These challenges will also affect someone in many areas of their life.

Question 8

How common is ADHD in adults?

Accepted Answer

ADHD affects about 3 to 4 in every 100 adults. It is more common in people who have a sibling or close family member with ADHD, epilepsy, neurodevelopmental conditions, mental illnesses, or a history of alcohol or drug misuse, or an acquired brain injury.

Question 9

When does ADHD start and how does it change over time?

Accepted Answer

General Presentation: ADHD symptoms are often first identified in childhood but can manifest or become challenging at any life stage. The expression is unique to the individual, influenced by personality, environment, and support systems., Childhood: Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms are typically more prominent during childhood. These symptoms may become less challenging for some individuals over time., Adolescence and Adulthood: Inattentive symptoms often become more pronounced during the teenage years and into adulthood. Life transitions, such as starting work or education, living independently, managing finances, and navigating relationships, can present new challenges. Increased responsibilities and stressors in adulthood, such as parenthood, may further exacerbate difficulties..

Question 10

Trusted Resources

Accepted Answer

Here are some trusted resources for learning more about ADHD: NHS - ADHD overview, NHS - ADHD in children, NICE - ADHD clinical guidance (NG87), ADHD UK.

Question 11

What is autism?

Accepted Answer

Autism (also referred to as autism spectrum condition, or ASC) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. It affects how a person communicates and interacts with others, and how they experience and make sense of the world around them. Autism is not an illness or disease. It is a difference in how the brain develops and processes information, and it presents differently in every person. Common experiences include: Differences in social communication and interaction, for example finding unwritten social rules difficult or finding small talk effortful, Sensory differences, such as heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, taste or smell, A strong preference for routines and predictability, and difficulty when things change unexpectedly, Repetitive behaviours or deeply focused interests, Differences in emotional regulation, Masking or camouflaging, meaning suppressing autistic traits to appear "neurotypical", often at significant personal cost. Autism is present across all genders, ethnicities and backgrounds. It is often identified in childhood, but many people, particularly women, girls and people who mask effectively, are not diagnosed until adulthood. Autism and ADHD frequently co-occur; where both may be present, a combined assessment considers the full neurodevelopmental picture in a joined-up way.

Question 12

Who is an autism assessment suitable for?

Accepted Answer

An autism assessment may be suitable for people who experience some or many of the following: Social communication or social interaction differences, Sensory sensitivities, for example to sounds, lights, textures, taste or smell, A strong preference for routines, difficulty with transitions, or significant distress when plans change, Repetitive behaviours or intensely focused interests, Difficulty navigating social rules and expectations, Emotional regulation difficulties, Masking, camouflaging or burnout, meaning expending significant effort to appear "neurotypical", Unexplained difficulties at school, work, in relationships or in daily functioning. These experiences are not a checklist. A formal assessment considers your individual presentation, developmental history and current functioning. If you are unsure whether an autism assessment is right for you or your child, contact us via our enquiry form and our team will help.

Question 13

Do you offer autism assessments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer autism assessments for adults (18+) and for children and young people aged 6 to 17. You can book online directly - no GP referral needed. If you would like to talk it through first, our team is happy to help. Book your autism assessment, Or contact us with any questions.

Question 14

Do you offer combined ADHD and autism assessments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer combined pathways for adults and children (ages 6 to 17) where both ADHD and autism may be present, considering the full neurodevelopmental picture in one joined-up assessment. See "How much does a combined ADHD and autism assessment cost?" in Pricing & Payment for current pricing. Book your combined ADHD and autism assessment.

Question 15

How do I get an ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

You can self-refer directly. The process includes questionnaires and a detailed clinical history before your appointment. You do not need a letter from your GP to get a private ADHD assessment.

Question 16

What happens during the assessment?

Accepted Answer

A structured clinical conversation explores symptoms, childhood history, and current functioning, supported by evidence-based tools and clinical judgement.

Question 17

What diagnostic tools are used?

Accepted Answer

Clinicians may use validated assessment tools, which may include: QbCheck or QbTest: Computerised objective testing of attention and activity, DIVA-5: Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in adults, Rating scales and questionnaires, Collateral history where appropriate.

Question 18

Is the assessment online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, assessments are delivered via secure video consultation.

Question 19

Who will carry out my assessment?

Accepted Answer

Your assessment will be conducted by an experienced specialist clinician registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), or the General Medical Council (GMC).

Question 20

What happens during a child or young person's ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

A child ADHD assessment involves more than one stage. This typically includes a structured clinical conversation with a parent or carer covering developmental history, behaviour and education, a conversation with the young person where age and circumstances allow, and review of school information and age-appropriate rating scales. The clinician will consider all likely explanations for the difficulties, not only ADHD. A written report with recommendations is provided following the assessment.

Question 21

How much is a private ADHD assessment with Lighthouse Pathways?

Accepted Answer

The Diagnostic Assessment is a one-time fee of £750

Question 22

How much is a fast-track private ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

Our Fast-Track Diagnostic Assessment (within 7 days) is £975. Following your diagnosis, subsequent treatment is available at £550.

Question 23

How much is a child ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

Child ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis Pathway (ages 6 to 17): £950.

Question 24

Are autism and combined ADHD and autism assessments carried out face to face?

Accepted Answer

Our autism and combined ADHD and autism assessments are currently completed online through secure video appointments. A standard autism assessment is usually completed over two clinical appointments: An autism-focused observation, A developmental history interview. When you book online, you are booking the first appointment (the autism-focused observation); your developmental history interview is then arranged with you after that appointment. Combined ADHD and autism assessments may take place over two to three appointments, depending on age, complexity and clinical need. If an online assessment is not clinically suitable, we will discuss this with you and advise on the most appropriate next step. We do not currently offer routine face-to-face autism assessments.

Question 25

Why are there no local professionals available in person?

Accepted Answer

Lighthouse Pathways is a digital-first service, so our assessments are delivered remotely rather than through local clinics. This allows patients and families to access UK-registered specialist clinicians without travelling, and can make appointments easier to attend from home or another private space. Although the assessment is online, it is still completed by appropriately qualified clinicians working within our clinical governance framework.

Question 26

What is included in an autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

An autism assessment includes pre-assessment questionnaires, a developmental history review, an autism-focused clinical interview, and a written diagnostic report with recommendations. Parent or carer input is included for children. For adults, informant input is included where available.

Question 27

What do I need to prepare for my child's online autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

Before the assessment, we will usually ask for: A parent or carer autism questionnaire, Information about your child's developmental history, School or SENCO information, where available, Previous reports, such as CAMHS, EHCP, IEP, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, psychology or paediatric reports, Details of any current medical, mental health, risk or safeguarding concerns, A short "About Me" form for your child, where appropriate. You do not need to have every document before contacting us. Please send what is available, and we will let you know if anything essential is missing.

Question 28

Can my child have an autism assessment if they already have another diagnosis, such as OCD, anxiety or ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Having an existing diagnosis does not automatically prevent a child from having an autism assessment. The clinician will consider the child's full developmental and clinical picture, including: Existing diagnoses, Current symptoms and difficulties, Developmental history, Presentation at home and school, Sensory and communication needs, Emotional wellbeing, Previous professional reports. Some features of autism can overlap with OCD, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, learning needs or other conditions. The purpose of the assessment is to understand which explanation, or combination of explanations, best fits the child's experiences. Where a child's presentation is particularly complex, the clinical team may request further information or recommend additional specialist input before confirming an outcome.

Question 29

Can adults be assessed for autism if they do not have a parent or childhood informant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in many cases. Developmental history is an important part of autism assessment but not every adult has access to a parent or family member who knew them as a child. Where a childhood informant is not available, the clinician may use school records, input from a partner or close friend who has known you for a long time, or a detailed self-reported developmental history. Please raise this at enquiry stage and our team will advise on the right approach.

Question 30

How much does an autism assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

The current published prices are: Adult Autism Assessment and Diagnosis Pathway: £1,795, Child Autism Assessment and Diagnosis Pathway (ages 6 to 17): £1,995. Fees cover the pre-assessment questionnaires, clinical consultation, developmental review, diagnostic outcome and written report with recommendations. Prices and offers may change, so please check the website before booking. You can book online via our services page, or contact the team with any questions.

Question 31

How much does a combined ADHD and autism assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

The current published prices are: Adult Combined ADHD and Autism Pathway: £2,195, Child Combined ADHD and Autism Pathway (ages 6 to 17): £2,495. Combined assessments are completed over 2 to 3 online appointments, usually totalling around 3 to 5 hours of clinical assessment time. The fee covers all clinical appointments, the full diagnostic assessment and a written report with outcome and recommendations. Prices and offers may change, so please check the website or contact the team before booking.

Question 32

How long does the assessment take?

Accepted Answer

The clinical appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes for adults, 90 to 120 minutes for children. The diagnostic outcome will be given on the same day if possible.

Question 33

How long are the waiting times?

Accepted Answer

Your assessment is scheduled within 14 days of booking, or within 7 days on our Fast-Track pathway. For comparison, NHS ADHD assessment waits can exceed 2 years (NHS England independent ADHD Taskforce, June 2025). Many private clinics also carry long waits for a first appointment. See: How long will I have to wait for an NHS ADHD assessment?

Question 34

Do you offer a Fast Track option?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Fast-Track pathway offers priority booking, with your assessment within 7 days of booking and your written report following within a further 7 days. It's built for deadlines: a Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) application, evidence to support exam access arrangements, a university start date, or starting a new job.

Question 35

Is the price the same wherever I live in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a fully remote service, our pricing is the same across the UK.

Question 36

Can I be assessed if I live outside the UK?

Accepted Answer

Assessments may be offered remotely but we will be unable to prescribe medication as regulations vary internationally.

Question 37

How long will I have to wait for an NHS ADHD assessment?

Accepted Answer

NHS waits for an ADHD assessment are long, and for many people they run into years rather than months. A national survey for NHS England's independent ADHD Taskforce (June 2025) found that 40% of respondents had waited two years or more, with some adults facing waits of up to eight years, and figures as high as 10 to 15 years reported in parts of the country. If you're currently on that list, we understand how draining that uncertainty can be. At Lighthouse Pathways, your assessment is scheduled within 14 days of booking, or within 7 days on our Fast-Track pathway. Independent ADHD Taskforce report (NHS England, June 2025).

Question 38

How long will I have to wait for an NHS autism assessment?

Accepted Answer

NHS autism assessment waiting lists are under real strain. As of June 2026, almost 295,000 people were waiting for an assessment, and around 9 in 10 had already waited longer than the 13-week standard recommended by NICE, with average waits in some areas reported as high as three years. If that wait sounds familiar from your own experience, you're far from alone. At Lighthouse Pathways, your first assessment appointment is scheduled within 14 days of booking. NHS autism statistics (NHS Digital, July 2025 to June 2026).

Question 39

What happens after my assessment?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a comprehensive written diagnostic report summarising the findings and conclusion. This includes guidance on next steps, treatment recommendations, signposting, or practical strategies.

Question 40

What if I'm not diagnosed with ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Not receiving a diagnosis does not mean your difficulties are not real or valid. Your clinician will explain the outcome and may suggest alternative explanations or next steps. Trusted Support Resources: NHS self-help, NHS Talking Therapies, Mind, National Autistic Society, Mental Health Foundation, Rethink Mental Illness, YoungMinds.

Question 41

Will a private autism or combined diagnosis be accepted by my GP, school, university or employer?

Accepted Answer

Our assessments are completed by appropriately qualified clinicians. Our reports are comprehensive, aligned with relevant NICE guidance and produced within our CQC-regulated clinical governance framework. They include the assessment findings, diagnostic formulation, outcome and practical recommendations. Many patients use their report to support discussions with: GPs, Schools and SENCOs, Colleges and universities, Employers and occupational health teams, Other healthcare professionals. However, each organisation has its own policies and decision-making processes. Lighthouse Pathways cannot guarantee that every GP, school, university or employer will automatically accept the diagnosis or act on every recommendation. For children and young people, the report can provide supporting clinical evidence for school support, reasonable adjustments and discussions about SEN or EHCP processes. It is not the same as an educational psychology report, specialist therapy assessment or tribunal-specific expert report.

Question 42

Can autism be treated with medication?

Accepted Answer

No - autism itself is not treated with medication. Some people have co-occurring ADHD, anxiety or other conditions that may benefit from separate treatment. If ADHD is also diagnosed, titration is available from £550.

Question 43

What treatment options are available?

Accepted Answer

Treatment is personalised and may include medication (stimulants or non-stimulants), psychological support, psychoeducation, lifestyle strategies, ADHD coaching, or a combination of approaches.

Question 44

Will I be offered medication?

Accepted Answer

Medication is discussed if clinically appropriate, but it is always optional and based on shared decision-making. Your clinician will explain the potential benefits and risks.

Question 45

What tests are needed before starting medication?

Accepted Answer

Baseline health checks are required for safe prescribing, typically including blood pressure, pulse, height and weight, and a cardiovascular and medical history review. An ECG or blood tests may be requested where clinically indicated, for example where there is a personal or family cardiac history or other clinical risk factors. We can help you arrange these if you are unable to use your GP for baseline checks.

Question 46

What is titration?

Accepted Answer

Titration is the process of gradually adjusting your medication dose to find the optimal level that provides the most benefit with manageable side effects. This involves starting at a low dose and increasing slowly under medical supervision.

Question 47

Can I stop medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medication is never mandatory, but this should be a decision made with your clinician. Some medications need to be stopped gradually to avoid withdrawal effects.

Question 48

Do you offer ADHD coaching?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ADHD coaching is available as practical, goal-focused support for adults, young people, and families. Sessions are 50 minutes online, from £120 per session or 6 sessions for £680. Coaching is not a diagnostic assessment and is not the same as therapy - it focuses on everyday challenges and strategies. You do not need a diagnosis to access coaching. Enquire about coaching.

Question 49

How long does ADHD medication titration take?

Accepted Answer

Titration commonly takes around 8 to 12 weeks, though this varies from person to person. Some people stabilise sooner; others may take longer depending on side effects, dose adjustments or medication switches. Your clinician will monitor your progress throughout. Once medication is stable, you and your clinician can discuss next steps, which may include a GP Shared Care arrangement.

Question 50

How does medication payment work?

Accepted Answer

When medication is prescribed, Lighthouse Pathways sends the private prescription directly to the pharmacy. The pharmacy will then contact you with the medication cost and a payment link. Once payment is completed, the pharmacy dispenses and delivers the medication to you. The cost of medication is paid directly to the pharmacy and is separate from your Lighthouse Pathways pathway fee.

Question 51

Will you share information with my GP?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend sharing your report to ensure coordinated care. This will only be done with your explicit consent.

Question 52

Will my GP be informed if I start ADHD medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If medication is initiated, we will notify your GP as part of standard clinical practice and patient safety requirements.

Question 53

What if I do not want my GP informed?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, GP notification is required to ensure safe prescribing. If you have concerns, medication may not be able to proceed without appropriate information sharing.

Question 54

Will you need information from my GP before starting medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We will usually need access to your Summary Care Record (SCR) or equivalent medical history to check current medical conditions and medications you are already taking.

Question 55

What is a Shared Care Agreement?

Accepted Answer

This is an agreement between your specialist clinician and your GP that allows your GP to take over prescribing once your medication is stable. This is a key step that can help you access medication at the standard NHS prescription cost. You will still need an annual review with Lighthouse Pathways all the time that we are part of your Shared Care Agreement. To read our Shared Care explained in 5 minutes guide, click here.

Question 56

Is shared care guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

No. Acceptance is at your GP's discretion. We recommend discussing shared care with your GP in advance. To read our Shared Care & GP Working Policy, click here.

Question 57

What if my GP refuses Shared Care?

Accepted Answer

Shared Care is always at your GP's discretion and is not guaranteed. If your GP declines, you may be able to continue with Lighthouse Pathways privately, subject to clinical suitability. This would mean continuing to pay privately for prescription issue fees, medication costs and any required review appointments. We recommend speaking to your GP early in the process to understand their position before medication is started.

Question 58

Does the Diagnostic Assessment fee include medication?

Accepted Answer

No. The £750 fee covers the assessment, diagnosis confirmation, written report, and the treatment planning discussion. Medication initiation and titration are separate services starting from £550.

Question 59

How much is an ADHD assessment and treatment in total?

Accepted Answer

The Diagnostic Assessment is £750. A common route is the Assessment plus the Titration Pathway (£550), totalling £1,300. The first private prescription issue fee is included in the pathway. Further prescriptions are subject to a £50 prescription issue fee. The cost of medication itself is separate and paid directly to the pharmacy.

Question 60

What are the ongoing costs?

Accepted Answer

Additional costs include titration appointments, a £50 prescription issue fee for each prescription after the first, medication costs from the pharmacy, monitoring appointments and annual reviews, and baseline health tests.

Question 61

Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

All fees are required upfront. Klarna is available at checkout, allowing you to split the cost into 3 instalments at 0% interest or defer payment by 30 days. Klarna is only available to individuals aged 18 and over - this applies if you are paying on behalf of a child. Subject to Klarna's terms and conditions.

Question 62

Is there a fee for ongoing private prescriptions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A £50 prescription issue fee applies each time a private prescription is issued by a Lighthouse Pathways clinician, after the first. The first prescription issue fee is included in the relevant medication pathway. The cost of medication itself is separate and paid directly to the pharmacy.

Question 63

Do I need a referral from my GP?

Accepted Answer

No. For a private assessment, you can book directly with us. You do not need a letter from your doctor to get started, which helps avoid any unnecessary delays.

Question 64

Is my information kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We adhere to strict confidentiality protocols in accordance with UK GDPR and NHS standards.

Your Questions Answered:

Navigating the ADHD Pathway

About Our ADHD Self Screening Tool

ADHD Treatment & Medication

How the ADHD Assessment Works

How the Autism & Combined Assessment Works

Pricing & Payment

Security, Crisis Support & Useful Tools

Service Scope & Eligibility

Understanding ADHD

Understanding Autism

Wait Times

Working With Your GP

Your ADHD Appointment & Waiting Times

Your ADHD Results & Next Steps

Your Autism Results & Next Steps

Ready to Find Clarity?