ADHD
We can empower you to thrive despite ADHD. Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents unique challenges, but with the right support and strategies, you can overcome obstacles and unlock your full potential. Together, we can turn ADHD into a strength and help you thrive in all aspects of your life.
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties with focus, organisation, impulse control, and emotion regulation.
Although symptoms often appear in childhood, many individuals are not diagnosed until adulthood when the pressures of work, school, or family life highlight these challenges. Adults with ADHD may struggle with attention, organization, time management, impulsivity, and emotional regulation.
Causes of ADHD
The exact cause of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not fully understood, but it often has a familial component, leading some adults to seek assessment after a child or family member is diagnosed. This complexity highlights the importance of considering a range of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors in understanding ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD
The assessment process typically involves 2 x 1 hour appointments with a Consultant Psychiatrist. We will discuss your current difficulties and take a comprehensive history including details of your childhood development, family and past medical history.
You will be given a questionnaire for you and family members to complete. We will ask you to provide edited school reports where available.
During the course of the assessment the presence of other mental health conditions may be identified. When this occurs we will discuss your options for further assessment and treatment.
At the end of the assessment process you will be provided with a comprehensive assessment letter, which would usually also be sent to your GP. If a diagnosis is made then there will be opportunity to discuss this and to briefly discuss treatment options.
Treatment of ADHD
Medication
For most people seeking to explore treatment for ADHD we would advise they consider a trial of medication. National guidelines suggest stimulant medications Dexamfetamine and Methylphenidate as first line treatments. These medicines are Controlled Drugs and therefore require to be initiated by a specialist. After diagnosis some of our patients opt to be referred to NHS services for initiation of treatment. Most however prefer to initiate treatment under the supervision of our team. We can provide private prescriptions for these medicines, fees apply. You will also need to meet the cost of the medication at the dispensing pharmacy.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation can help adults make sense of ADHD and can help you to cope and live better with condition. We can provide you with a letter confirming the diagnosis for education and work place support.
Your journey
Referral
We accept self referrals although would prefer to receive referrals from your GP or other healthcare provider, outlining relevant clinical background.
Your first assessment
You can choose to meet your doctor in person at our consulting room in Edinburgh's New Town; or by secure video call from the comfort of your own home. Our initial appointments last one hour. This will afford you plenty of time to discuss your current difficulties and your goals for treatment. We will spend the final 15 minutes discussing our formulation and treatment options. You will subsequently receive a copy of your assessment letter and treatment plan (by secure email). If you have multiple or complex issues a further assessment appointment may be required, this will be discussed with you at the start of the appointment.
Follow up
Subsequent 30 minute follow up appointments will usually be carried out by video consultation (face to face is also possible) and will be more focused on medication titration and symptom review.
Our clinical team
Dr John Ferguson
MBChB BsCMed Sci (neuroscience) MRCPsych
Dr. Ferguson is a Consultant Psychiatrist with extensive experience and a deep commitment to patient care. His journey began with a dual degree in Medicine and Neuroscience from the University of Aberdeen, driven by a fascination with consciousness and the brain. Drawn to psychiatry for its focus on understanding patients' lives, he commenced his training in Edinburgh in the early 2000s.
Throughout his career, Dr. Ferguson has remained dedicated to both public and private practice, specializing in mood disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and sports psychiatry. His personal connection to mood disorders and ADHD motivates him to provide the best possible care, aiming for full recovery for his patients.
Beyond psychiatry, Dr. Ferguson enjoys open water swimming, chess, and mindfulness. He resides in East Lothian with his family and beloved dog, Maisie.
Dr David Crocker
MBBS, BSc (Hons) PgDip IDEWM & MRCPsych
Dr David Crocker studied Medicine at King’s College London, where he soon developed a fascination with the mind and an appreciation of the fundamental importance of mental health in peoples lives. After graduating in 2013, he completed his early years as a doctor in Cornwall, before undertaking training in expedition medicine.
He moved to Edinburgh in 2018 to undertake core training in psychiatry, and in the ensuing years he gained extensive experience of psychiatric practice in various settings. He successfully qualified as a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatry in 2022.
David has a family history of ADHD and recognises first-hand how difficult it can be to feel heard, with this often poorly understood and under diagnosed condition. He prides himself on being a good listener and having a non-judgemental and personalised approach. He lives in Edinburgh and enjoys mountaineering, racquet sports, and spending time with his dog Winston.
Fees
New patient psychiatric assessment (one hour) - £350
Adult ADHD assessment (2 x 1 hr plus report) Consultant - £1050
ADHD assessment (2 x 1 hr plus report) Associate Specialist - £750
Adult ASD assessment (2 x 1 hr plus report) - £850
Follow up consultation (30 mins) Consultant - £170
ADHD video Follow Up (30 mins) Associate Specialist - £120
All payments must be made at the time of booking by card payment.
Cancellation Policy
We operate a strict cancellation policy for appointments. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the appointment will be charged the full rate. Failure to attend appointments will also be charged the full rate. Cancellations can be made by emailing admin@edinburghadultpsychiatry.co.uk or phoning 0131 364 4758