United Kingdom
Castle Craig, Scotland
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Page last updated
Friday 9th Oct 2026
Page written on 30th June 2026 by
Victoria McCann, Communications Director
Clinically reviewed on 9th October 2026 by
Dr. Peter McCann, Medical Director MBBS, MSc, MRCPsych
You may have noticed a low mood that doesn’t lift, anxiety that feels more constant, more difficulty sleeping, or thoughts that are harder to manage than usual.
If your mental health or wellbeing has changed and you’re not sure why, a structured assessment can help bring clarity.
Sometimes these changes happen gradually. At other times, they follow stress, loss, or a significant life event. A mental health assessment provides a calm, confidential space to understand what is happening and what kind of support may be appropriate.
At Castle Health, we offer private mental health assessments for adults across the UK and Europe. Assessments are available as a standalone outpatient service and also form part of our wider residential treatment programmes where needed.
What is a private mental health assessment?
A private mental health assessment is a private consultation with an experienced mental health professional. At Castle Health we offer assessments with either a Consultant Psychiatrist or a Senior Psychotherapist.
It’s a conversation designed to help our team understand what you’re feeling, and how it might be tied to your experiences and circumstances. The outcome is to provide a confidential diagnosis of your situation to help decide on the treatment you need and the next steps we take.
This can comprise either a psychiatric assessment or psychotherapy assessment – each is tailored to different things and an individual’s specific needs.
During your private psychiatric assessment with Castle Health, we may explore:
- Mood changes, including depression or emotional flatness
- Anxiety, panic, or persistent worry
- Obsessive or intrusive thoughts
- Stress and burnout
- Trauma-related symptoms
- Sleep disturbance
- Changes in concentration, motivation, or daily functioning
We will also consider relevant medical history, previous treatment, and any current medications. The aim is to build a full and accurate picture of your mental health and to connect you with the right mental health services to support your needs.
The process is collaborative and respectful. You will have time and space to explain what has been happening in your own words
Who is this assessment for and why would I need one?
A mental health assessment is for anyone over the age of 16 who has concerns about their mental health, and it may be a good starting point if:
- Your symptoms are affecting work, relationships, or daily life
- You feel unsure whether you are experiencing a specific condition
- Previous support has not fully resolved your difficulties
- A GP, therapist, or other professional has suggested a specialist opinion
- You would like a clearer treatment plan
We also welcome referrals from GPs, insurers, and clinical partners seeking a comprehensive private assessment for their patients. In most cases, though, a GP referral is not required to access a private mental health assessment at Castle Health.
Many patients contact us directly. However, we are happy to work alongside your GP or other healthcare professionals if you would like your assessment findings shared as part of ongoing care.
“Real change starts with a conversation.”
Psychiatric versus psychotherapy assessment
At Castle Health, we offer two distinct pathways depending on your wants and needs. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right starting point.
A psychiatric assessment is conducted by a consultant psychiatrist.
It is a clinical evaluation designed to reach a diagnosis, consider whether medication may be appropriate, and inform the wider structure of your treatment plan.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may have a neurological or biological component, or where medication could play a role in your care, a psychiatric assessment is typically the right first step.
A psychotherapy assessment takes a different approach
Our Initial Psychotherapy Consultation is a comprehensive 60 to 90-minute assessment with one of our experienced senior clinicians. It provides an opportunity to discuss your current difficulties, mental health history, life circumstances, and treatment goals in a supportive and confidential environment.
Following the consultation, you will receive a personalised written report with recommendations tailored to your needs, helping us create the most appropriate treatment plan for your recovery and wellbeing.
If you are unsure which assessment is right for you, our team is happy to talk it through before you book.
What is the cost of a psychiatric assessment?
A private mental health assessment in the UK typically costs between £250 and £500.
At Castle Health, you are welcome to pay privately or through your health insurance provider, if applicable.
We accept many major international providers, and our team can help you confirm your cover and set this up quickly over the phone.
What is the cost of a psychotherapy consultation?
Our Initial Psychotherapy Consultation is priced at £250 for a 90-minute session.
This includes a comprehensive assessment with one of our senior clinicians and a personalised written report with tailored recommendations following your consultation.
Making sense of what you’re experiencing
It can be difficult to know when to seek help for mental health concerns. Many people wait, hoping their symptoms will improve on their own.
A mental health assessment does not commit you to treatment; it simply provides some clarity for you. Understanding what you are experiencing can reduce uncertainty, and make the next steps better informed and feel more manageable.
All enquiries are handled with discretion and care. If you would like to arrange a confidential mental health assessment, our team is available to speak with you by phone or online.
Assessments within outpatient and residential care
Outpatient assessment
Many people access their mental health assessment through our outpatient service, receiving expert clinical input while continuing with their daily responsibilities.
Castle Health Outpatient Services provide specialist mental health and addiction treatment through a team of therapists, psychiatrists, recovery coaches, and family practitioners.
We offer evidence-based support for a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, and emotional wellbeing.
When you contact us, a member of our team will take the time to understand your situation before arranging an Initial Psychotherapy Consultation. This is a 60 to 90-minute structured assessment with a senior clinician, concluding with a personalised written report and recommendations for your care.
Inpatient assessment
For those requiring more intensive support, a full assessment is carried out as part of admission into our residential programmes at Castle Craig or Smarmore Castle. In these settings, assessment informs personalised treatment planning from the outset.
In both cases, the focus remains the same: understanding you as an individual and recommending appropriate, evidence-based care.
What happens after the assessment?
Following your consultation, we will explain our clinical impressions clearly and carefully. Where appropriate, we may recommend:
- Individual therapy
- Psychiatric review
- Medication guidance
- Structured outpatient treatment
- Residential care for more complex or persistent conditions
Some people benefit from short-term therapeutic support. Others may need a more structured approach. Recommendations are always tailored to your needs and discussed openly with you.
Taking the next step with confidence
By this point, you probably have a clearer sense of what a private mental health assessment involves and whether it might be right for you. If it feels like the right next step, we’re here to help you take it.
At Castle Health, our experienced clinicians offer thorough, evidence-based assessments by phone, online, or in person at our private mental health centres, so you can choose the format that feels most comfortable. Every assessment is tailored to your circumstances, conducted with discretion, and free from judgement.
If you would like to find out more, our team is happy to answer any questions you may have.
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Frequently asked questions about mental health assessments
How much does a private mental health assessment cost?
The cost of a psychological assessment depends on the complexity of your concerns and the level of specialist input required. Before booking, our team will explain fees clearly so you understand what is included. Some patients use private health insurance for mental health assessments, and we can provide documentation where required. Please note that coverage varies depending on your individual policy.
Can I get assessed for adult ADHD during a private assessment?
If you are concerned about attention difficulties, impulsivity, or long-standing concentration problems, these can be discussed during your assessment. Our mental health professionals can explore whether further evaluation for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including adult ADHD, may be appropriate and advise on next steps.
How do I find a private mental health assessment near me?
Finding the right assessment starts with knowing what you need. A good private mental health assessment should be conducted by a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist, give you enough time to talk through your concerns properly, and leave you with a clear picture of the next steps.
Castle Health offers private mental health assessments across the UK and Europe. If you’re unsure where to start, you can contact us directly, and we’ll help you find the right option for your circumstances.