Question 1

What mental health services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support for conditions such as ADHD, Autism and addictive behaviour, sleep and stress/burnout.

Question 2

Do you offer support services for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide specialised support services for children, including assessments and interventions tailored to their developmental needs. Our team includes psychiatrists, coaches and therapists experienced in working with young people.

Question 3

Do you treat/diagnose women differently to men?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we recognise that mental health conditions can present differently in women and men. Our assessments and treatment plans are tailored to consider these differences, ensuring that each individual receives personalised care based on their unique needs and symptoms. We have a female specific and sensitive approach for autism and ADHD assessment.

Question 4

Can I have an online appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer online appointments for those who prefer virtual consultations. Our telehealth services allow you to access our mental health professionals from the comfort of your home, ensuring convenience and accessibility.

Question 5

What should I expect during my first visit?

Accepted Answer

During your first visit, you will undergo a comprehensive assessment with one of our mental health professionals. This session will involve discussing your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you may have.

Question 6

Are your services confidential?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We adhere to strict confidentiality policies to ensure your privacy and the security of your personal information. All sessions and records are kept confidential in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines.

Question 7

Where are you based?

Accepted Answer

We are based in Wilmslow and Manchester, but we offer services to clients from various locations through our online appointment system. Please visit our contact page for more details and directions to our office.

Question 8

How quickly will I see results?

Accepted Answer

The time it takes to see results varies depending on the individual and the nature of their condition. Some people may notice improvements within a weeks, while others may require a longer-term approach. Our team will work with you to develop a treatment plan that aims for the best possible outcomes in a realistic timeframe.

Question 9

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Appointments can be booked through our website using our online booking system, or by calling our office directly. Our staff is available to assist you with scheduling and answer any questions you may have.

Question 10

What are your office hours?

Accepted Answer

Our office hours are 0900 to 1700.  We also offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate different schedules. Please check our contact page for specific hours and availability.

Question 11

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept a variety of insurance plans. Please contact our office or visit our insurance information page to see if we accept your specific insurance provider.

Question 12

What age groups do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We provide services for individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Our team is trained to address the unique mental health needs of each age group.

Question 13

Is there parking available at your location?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have ample parking available for our clients. Please refer to our contact page for detailed parking instructions and directions.

Question 14

Do you offer bilingual or multilingual services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have staff members who are fluent in multiple languages. Please let us know if you require services in a specific language, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Question 15

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

Accepted Answer

We understand that sometimes plans change. Please contact our office in advance to cancel or reschedule your appointment to avoid any cancellation fees.

Question 16

What follow-up care do you provide?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up care is an essential part of our treatment process. Depending on your treatment plan, this may include regular reviews, medication management, or periodic assessments to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

Question 17

Can family members be involved in the treatment process?

Accepted Answer

Yes, involving family members can be beneficial, especially for children and adolescents. Family therapy sessions are available, and we encourage family involvement when appropriate to support the treatment process.

Question 18

Do I have to tell my employer about my condition?

Accepted Answer

No, you are not legally required to disclose your condition to your employer. However, there are circumstances where sharing this information can be beneficial, such as when you need reasonable accommodations to perform your job effectively. Under the Equality Act 2010, you are entitled to adjustments that can help you work more efficiently. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your workplace environment before deciding to disclose.

Question 19

Do I have to tell my GP about my condition?

Accepted Answer

While you are not required to disclose your condition to your employer or GP, doing so can provide significant benefits in terms of support, accommodations, and comprehensive healthcare. Carefully consider your individual circumstances, and if you decide to disclose, approach the conversation with preparation and confidence. If you need advice on how to proceed, consulting with a mental health professional or legal advisor can be helpful.

Question 20

Who are Sanctum Healthcare?

Accepted Answer

Sanctum Healthcare is a specialised mental health service provider offering comprehensive assessments, diagnoses, and treatments for various mental health conditions. Our team consists of highly qualified professionals dedicated to providing personalised care to individuals of all ages.

Question 21

Who does the assessment?

Accepted Answer

Assessments at Sanctum Healthcare are conducted by experienced specialists, including psychiatrists, psychologists and ADHD specialist clinicians, depending on the age and needs of the individual being assessed.

Question 22

How soon can I get an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Appointment availability varies, but we strive to offer timely consultations. Please contact our office directly or check our online booking system for the most current availability.

Question 23

What if I can’t get collateral information?

Accepted Answer

While collateral information is helpful, it is not always necessary. Our specialists can still conduct a thorough assessment based on available information and direct observation.

Question 24

What will happen after the assessment?

Accepted Answer

After the assessment, our specialists will provide a detailed report with the diagnosis and recommended treatment plan. We will discuss the findings with you and outline the next steps, including any necessary follow-up appointments or referrals.

Question 25

Can I / How can I contact my consultant outside of appointments?

Accepted Answer

You can contact your consultant through our office during business hours. For urgent matters, please use the contact information provided at your initial consultation. We strive to provide prompt responses to all queries.

Question 26

Can I take my letter to my GP, and will they prescribe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can take the assessment report to your GP. We operate under a shared care approach, where your GP can take over prescribing medication after an initial period of monitoring and adjustment by our specialists. This shared care agreement ensures that you continue to receive the medication you need with the convenience of obtaining it through your GP. We have an 85% success rate in establishing shared care agreements with GPs, ensuring continuity of care and convenient access to medications.

Question 27

I’m not resident in the United Kingdom – can you still see me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer online consultations for international clients. Please contact our office to discuss how we can accommodate your needs.

Question 28

Do you offer any discounts or payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans and may provide discounts in certain circumstances. Please contact our office for more information on available options.

Question 29

Will my diagnosis be recognised by schools/GPs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our diagnoses are recognised by schools and GPs. We provide detailed reports that can be used to support educational accommodations and medical treatment plans.

Question 30

Will my child be eligible for extra support at school?

Accepted Answer

A diagnosis from Sanctum Healthcare can help your child become eligible for extra support at school. This can include Individualised Education Plans or other accommodations to assist with their learning needs.

Question 31

What if I’m diagnosed with something other than ADHD?

Accepted Answer

If you are diagnosed with a condition other than ADHD, we will provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific diagnosis. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of mental health conditions.

Question 32

How does ADHD affect learning and everyday life?

Accepted Answer

Underachievement: Despite having the intellectual capacity, individuals with ADHD might not reach their full potential in academics or their careers due to the challenges posed by their symptoms.
Stressful Success: Even when individuals with ADHD do succeed, the journey can be fraught with stress, overexertion, and burnout due to the constant need to navigate and manage their symptoms.
Latent Skills: Skills and talents may remain underdeveloped or unrecognized due to the overshadowing difficulties in attention and organisation.

Question 33

Isn't ADHD just about naughty boys running around a classroom who can't concentrate?

Accepted Answer

ADHD affects multiple domains of an individual’s life, including relationships, career, self-esteem, and mental health
Beyond academics, ADHD can affect every element of a person’s functioning, including time management, organisation, social interactions, and emotional regulation.
Recognising that ADHD is not just about hyperactive behaviour or inattention is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and support. By understanding the diverse ways in which ADHD can manifest, including rejection sensitivity and addictive behaviours, society can better support individuals with ADHD to lead fulfilling lives.
Rejection sensitivity is characterised by extreme emotional sensitivity and emotional pain associated with the perception of being rejected or criticised. This is common among individuals with ADHD and can significantly impact their self-esteem and interpersonal relationship. 
ADHD often co-exists with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, learning disorders, and more, making the diagnosis and management complex.

Question 34

Do the assessments meet NICE guidance?

Accepted Answer

The Sanctum ADHD/Autism Assessment pathway is a comprehensive process which collates multiple sources of evidence, objective testing, a data driven approach, completed by a multidisciplinary team. We are proud to say our assessments for ADHD and ASD surpass the NICE guidance. The assessment and treatment protocol at Sanctum not only aligns with, but surpasses the NICE guidelines. Our assessment and treatment plans are held to the highest standards of professionalism and care, where all regulated activity is carried out by a specialist healthcare professional and overseen by a specialist GMC-registered consultant clinician within our CQC-registered facility.

Question 35

Will the NHS accept this diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

We have a very high success rate in achieving shared care agreements with primary care.In some circumstances, it is pertinent for us to understand why the GP is reluctant to take on shared care. If they have no previous experience of working with an established provider like Sanctum, they may have concerns about quality of care or our approach. We are happy to provide any reassurance in this domain. It is important that media reports about private providers had painted a negative portrayal of the services available and this may be impacting the GP’s consideration towards agreeing SCA. Not all providers are the same and all sectors of healthcare have good and poorly performing providers. Any concerns or queries we can address on request. The GP may not have a good knowledge or experience of how debilitating ADHD is and how treatment is fundamental to good quality of life. We are happy to provide education to any primary care provider to address knowledge gaps, at no cost.

Question 36

Will the NHS accept this diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

We have a very high success rate in achieving shared care agreements with primary care. In some circumstances, it is pertinent for us to understand why the GP is reluctant to take on shared care. If they have no previous experience of working with an established provider like Sanctum, they may have concerns about quality of care or our approach. We are happy to provide any reassurance in this domain. It is important that media reports about private providers had painted a negative portrayal of the services available and this may be impacting the GP’s consideration towards agreeing SCA. Not all providers are the same and all sectors of healthcare have good and poorly performing providers. Any concerns or queries we can address on request. The GP may not have a good knowledge or experience of how debilitating ADHD is and how treatment is fundamental to good quality of life. We are happy to provide education to any primary care provider to address knowledge gaps, at no cost.

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