ADHD diagnostics for adults in Cologne and Frechen
At our practices in Cologne and Frechen, we offer ADHD consultations where we are available as experts in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in adults. Our treatments are based on individualized treatment plans developed in close collaboration with the patient. We provide our patients with comprehensive consultations and offer both medication-based and non-medication-based therapy options.
Diagnosing ADHD in adulthood requires a thorough medical history and testing that considers the DSM-5 and ICD-10 criteria. We place great emphasis on providing treatment tailored to the individual's needs in order to best support our patients. Our practice is multilingual, and we offer consultations in German, English, and Persian.
Diagnosing ADHD in adulthood requires a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. This includes a structured biographical history, a structured diagnostic interview, and standardized psychological testing.
In our practices we offer ADHD diagnostics both within the framework of statutory health insurance (only at the Frechen location) and for privately insured patients and self-payers (at the Frechen and Cologne locations).
Billing for privately insured patients and self-payers is based on the German fee schedule for physicians (GOÄ). Privately insured patients are generally reimbursed by their health insurance company.
We are available to answer any further questions you may have.Here
You can find more information about the Costs of diagnostics.
Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, statutory health insurance usually covers the costs of any necessary drug treatment.
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ADHD diagnostic procedure
The diagnostic process for ADHD in adulthood typically begins with an initial consultation with a psychiatrist. During this consultation, a detailed medical history is taken, and the reasons for further evaluation are explained to the patient. Questions are asked about the patient's current and past health, family history, and developmental history.
An important part of the diagnostic process is a self-assessment questionnaire. This questionnaire allows the patient to evaluate and assess their own symptoms. This questionnaire gives the doctor insight into the patient's perspective and can help to understand the symptoms more precisely. If available, school or work certificates are also reviewed.
Another important component of the diagnostic process is a structured interview. This involves asking specific questions about symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity, and closely examining the patient's symptoms.
All the information gathered is then assessed and evaluated by the treating physician. A diagnosis is subsequently made and an individualized treatment plan is developed. It is important to note that diagnosing ADHD in adulthood requires a thorough and comprehensive diagnostic process involving several steps and taking into account the DSM-5 and ICD-10 criteria.
Symptoms
Adults with ADHD can suffer from a variety of symptoms that can affect their daily lives. These include:
- Difficulties focusing attention on a specific task
- Forgetfulness in everyday activities
- Difficulty understanding and following instructions
- Inability to organize, plan, and complete tasks
- Constant movement, difficulty sitting still, restlessness
- Difficulties focusing attention on details
If you feel affected by these symptoms, make an appointment at our practice today.
We offer individualized treatment strategies and the best care for adult patients with ADHD.
Diagnostic criteria for ADHD
The diagnosis of ADHD according to DSM-V
requires the presence of at least six of the following symptoms of hyperactivity/inattention and impulsivity/inattention, which are present and debilitating in multiple areas of life over a period of at least six months:
Hyperactivity:
- Incessant movement,
- Difficulty sitting still,
- Unrest
Impulsiveness:
- Difficulties in focusing attention on details,
- Difficulties following instructions,
- Inability to complete tasks,
- Difficulties in planning the organization of tasks and activities
Inattention:
- Difficulties focusing attention on a specific task,
- Forgetfulness in everyday activities,
- Difficulties understanding and following the instructions,
- Inability to organize, plan, and complete tasks
The diagnosis of ADHD according to ICD-10
requires the presence of at least six of the following symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention, which are present in multiple areas of life and are debilitating:
Hyperactivity: Incessant movement, difficulty sitting still, restlessness
Inattention: Difficulty focusing attention on a specific task, forgetfulness in everyday activities, difficulty understanding and following instructions, inability to organize, plan and complete tasks.
It is important to note that both the DSM-5 and the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified professional and that the diagnosis is based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient, including clinical, psychological, social and educational data.
Drug treatment
The pharmacological treatment of ADHD in adulthood primarily involves the use of stimulants. These medications can help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention and improve the ability to complete tasks and concentrate.
It is important to note that the choice of medication and dosage must be individually tailored, and several attempts and adjustments may be necessary to achieve the best effect. Medication treatment should always be carried out in consultation with a specialist in psychiatry and psychotherapy.
Psychotherapeutic treatment
Psychotherapeutic treatments can be an important complement to medication for ADHD in adulthood. Several different approaches have proven effective:
- Behavioral therapy: This approach focuses on identifying and changing negative behavior patterns by setting specific goals and steps to achieve those goals.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: This approach combines elements of behavior therapy with the review and modification of negative thoughts and beliefs that can influence behavior.
- Adult ADHD-specific therapy: There are specific therapeutic approaches that have been developed specifically for adults with ADHD, which target the specific challenges and needs of adults with ADHD.
- Family therapy: This approach can help reduce the impact of ADHD on the patient's relationships with their family and friends and improve support from the social environment.
- Coaching: A coach can help the patient define their goals and priorities, develop organizational skills, and support the implementation of changes in everyday life.
- Psychotherapeutic groups: offered specifically for adults with ADHD, these groups can help reduce symptoms and improve social skills by providing the opportunity to exchange experiences with and learn from other affected individuals.
It is important to note that the choice of therapeutic approach and the duration of therapy must be individually tailored to achieve the best results. Psychotherapeutic treatment should always be supervised by a specialist in psychiatry and psychotherapy.
Costs of diagnostics
In our practices we offer ADHD diagnostics both within the framework of statutory health insurance (only at the Frechen location) and for privately insured patients and self-payers.
For privately insured persons and self-payers, the Total costs are typically around €730. The diagnostic process begins with an initial consultation. If only the initial consultation is required, the cost is €189.91.
Privately insured patients are usually reimbursed by their health insurance company. Appointments can be booked online via our website (ADHD consultation for new patients or video consultation for new patients). Appointments can also be conducted via video consultation.
Answers to frequently asked questions about ADHD diagnosis can be found on our ADHD FAQ page.