The clinic’s FAQ page says every clinician holds a licence from the DHA or the CDA. The screening page also says different UAE clinics use different methods to diagnose ADHD, because no universal consensus exists on how to do it. Check the steps before you book.
Why does adult ADHD need a targeted assessment?
The clinic says adult ADHD presents differently. Adults frequently show nuanced symptoms, so a targeted assessment helps separate ADHD from conditions with similar symptoms: insomnia, depression, anxiety and substance use disorder. The screening page names two further conditions. Bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder can mimic ADHD symptoms.
ADHD also frequently coexists with depression, anxiety disorders and substance use, which complicates diagnosis and treatment. Some ADHD medication can worsen other conditions, such as anxiety. The clinic says it adopts the UKAAN and NICE guidelines in place in the United Kingdom.
What happens in the first appointment?
For adult ADHD screening, the clinic recommends booking a psychiatrist first. The appointment lasts one hour. It leads to a decision on whether to progress to the more comprehensive assessment.
Your assessment goes beyond symptom checklists, the adult ADHD treatment page says. The clinic looks at your history, your current challenges and how ADHD affects work, daily life and relationships, with attention to executive function and focus patterns. The same page says adult ADHD is not laziness or lack of discipline.
Many of the adults the clinic sees are high-functioning professionals who have learned to push through, the page adds. It says the team understands the realities of Dubai’s fast-paced work culture and the hesitation some people feel about seeking help.
Where does the psychologist fit in?
After the screening, the psychiatrist refers you to one of the clinic’s trained psychologists for standardised testing. The clinic’s psychologist page says psychologists assess mental health through psychological tests, interviews and observation. The same page says a psychologist cannot prescribe medication.
A feedback session then closes the process and advises on diagnosis and treatment for ADHD when appropriate. In the clinic’s process, the psychiatrist makes the referral to the psychologist.
The treatment page says DHA-licensed psychiatrists and psychologists with experience supporting neurodiversity lead adult ADHD care. At the time of writing, it names three specialists, all psychiatrists: a specialist psychiatrist and two consultant psychiatrists.
What treatment follows an assessment?
After assessment, the treatment page lists ADHD-focused CBT, medication management when appropriate, lifestyle and environment support, and coaching and practical systems. ADHD-specific CBT works on coping strategies and patterns such as procrastination and overwhelm. The practical coaching covers time management, organisation, prioritisation and follow-through. Lifestyle support looks at sleep, stress, exercise, nutrition and distractions.
Medication may join the plan when clinically appropriate. The page names stimulants such as methylphenidate and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, with careful monitoring for safety and fit. Psychiatrists consider your medical history, symptoms and potential side effects before recommending a treatment plan, the psychiatry page says.
When should you book an assessment?
The clinic lists four patterns to watch for. Career and workplace problems include missed deadlines despite strong effort. Executive function struggles include trouble planning and following through. Relationship strain includes forgetting details and losing track in conversations. Internal restlessness means a busy mind which never fully slows down.
The clinic advises booking a professional assessment when the patterns affect your work, daily life or relationships.
Book an adult ADHD screening
The Valens Clinic offers adult ADHD screening, assessment and treatment, and every clinician holds a licence from the DHA or the CDA. Book your appointment on the adult ADHD treatment page.