ADHD referral

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Hi all,

I've asked for DD to be referred to CAMHS for an ADHD assessment, after the GP said this was the best route (i.e. better than the GP referring). I'm due to have a meeting with the SENCO to discuss it and she's mentioned that we should discuss whether CAMHS or private would be a better option. So that I'm prepared for the meeting, I wondered whether anyone with experience would be able to advise. Obviously you don't know DD's SENCO, but is there a significant problem with going through CAMHS that would make someone suggest private? Is it just that there'll be a long waiting list, or is there some known issue? Does it depend on the LA?

TIA for any help!

The drawback of waiting for CAMHS is the waiting list. But private can sometimes have drawbacks too. If you are thinking of medication some people find they are stuck paying for private prescriptions (short or long term) because the GP refuses to take on shared care - if that would be a problem you should speak to your GP beforehand. You would also need to make sure you use someone who will follow the NICE guidelines when assessing otherwise you may find the validity of any diagnosis is questioned.

Thanks. I should have said that I don't have a lot of spare money so would prefer not to pay private unless I really have to. I just assumed it would be through CAMHS and was a little thrown by the mention of private.

I've just paid privately for ADD/ adhd assessment. Just check Gp and School accept diagnosis. It cost £700 but I think it was definitely worth it if you can pull the money together. I used Psychaitry- Uk and would recommend.

They can’t refuse to accept the diagnosis just because it is a private diagnosis.

Thanks all. Turns out I was worrying for nothing - she didn't actually mean NHS or private, it turned out that she justed wanted to know which specialist(s) to refer to - ADHD/ASD/psychiatric etc.