United Kingdom
Castle Craig, Scotland
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Page last updated
Wednesday 24th Jun 2026
Page written by
Victoria McCann
If your mental health has changed and you are not sure why, a structured assessment can help bring clarity.
You may have noticed a low mood that does not lift, anxiety that feels constant, difficulty sleeping, or thoughts that are harder to manage than usual. 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 specialist 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 mental health assessment?
A private mental health assessment is a private consultation with an experienced clinician. It is not a test or an exam. It is a conversation designed to help our team understand your symptoms, experiences, and current 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.
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 to explain what has been happening in your own words.
What is the cost of a psychological assessment?
A mental health assessment in the UK can cost anywhere between £250 and £400. At Castle Health, patients are invited to either pay privately or through their health insurance provider. We accept many major international providers, and this can be set up easily over the phone with a member of our team.
“I contacted Castle Health [formerly CATCH Recovery] seeking guidance and options to support a relative who was having a difficult time both with addiction and other mental health concerns. The team were incredibly kind and informed, they took the time to go through all the options with me and helped us plan how to approach the matter. Fortunately the person has now been receiving care from [Castle] for several months and is doing really well. A big thank you to the wonderful team. I would highly recommend this service.”
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 clarity. Understanding what you are experiencing often reduces uncertainty and makes the next steps 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.
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.
our locations
Where we offer a mental health assessment
Assessment within outpatient and residential care
Many people access their mental health assessment through our outpatient service, allowing them to receive expert input while continuing with daily responsibilities.
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, the assessment helps guide personalised treatment planning from the outset.
In both cases, the focus remains the same: understanding the 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.
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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.