ADHD Medication Titration in Berkshire

Specialist ADHD medication titration for children and adults across Berkshire, with expert monitoring and clear support
Check your suitability for titration

Safe, structured medication support with clear guidance at every step

Thinking about starting ADHD medication – but not sure how it works or what to expect?

If you’ve recently been diagnosed, titration is the next step if you’re considering medication.

Titration is a structured process that helps you find the right medication and dose safely, with specialist support throughout.

It typically takes a few months, with regular reviews to make sure the medication is working well for you.

When done properly, medication can make everyday life feel more manageable – helping with focus, organisation, and emotional regulation.

This service supports you to:

  • understand medication options
  • start medication safely
  • find the right dose
  • decide on the right ongoing support

Many people feel unsure about starting medication. Our role is to guide you through the process carefully, so you understand your options and feel confident in any decisions you make. 

At Total Health West Berkshire, we provide a structured ADHD medication titration service delivered by Psychiatrist Dr Eleanor Akaho, supporting clients across Berkshire, including Newbury, Thatcham and surrounding areas.

“The psychiatrist was superb and provided a lot of information about the titration process.”

Check your suitability for titration

A clear first step to begin your medication journey.

During this appointment, we will:

  • review your diagnosis and medical history
  • discuss whether medication is appropriate for you
  • explain options, benefits, and potential side effects
  • agree on a safe starting plan

Medication is only prescribed where clinically appropriate.

What Is ADHD Medication Titration?

Titration is the process of starting medication at a low dose and gradually adjusting it to find the level that provides the best benefit with the fewest side effects.

This is not rushed.

The goal is to find your optimal dose – not simply increase medication.

During this process, we monitor:

  • symptom improvement
  • side effects
  • sleep and appetite
  • mood and wellbeing
  • physical health (e.g. blood pressure, pulse, weight)
adhd titration medication berkshire
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If your ADHD assessment was completed elsewhere, we can often still support your titration. We will review your assessment report and relevant medical history to ensure safe prescribing.

Who Is This Service For?

Our Berkshire-based ADHD titration service is suitable for:

  • adults or children with a confirmed ADHD diagnosis
  • patients starting medication for the first time
  • those who have previously tried medication and want a structured restart
  • patients diagnosed elsewhere (subject to review of your report)

How ADHD Titration Works

Titration usually takes 3–4 months, though this varies between individuals. Some need a shorter period, while others benefit from closer or longer-term adjustments.

1. Pre-treatment checks

We carry out appropriate health checks in line with national guidance. This may include:

  • medical questionnaire
  • GP Summary Care Record
  • blood pressure, weight, pulse
  • blood tests or ECG if needed
2. First Consultation with the Psychiatrist

 

Once screening is complete, you will meet with Dr Eleanor Akaho.
During this appointment, you will:
  • discuss symptoms and daily impact
  • explore medication options
  • agree on a safe starting dose (if medication is suitable)
  • plan how progress will be monitored

Medication is only prescribed where clinically appropriate and is not guaranteed following the initial appointment. You are always in control of decisions about medication, and there is no pressure to continue if it’s not right for you.

If additional information is needed, or if medication is not appropriate, the psychiatrist will discuss this with you sensitively.

3. Ongoing Monitoring and Dose Adjustment

Once medication begins, we monitor your progress closely.

This may include:

  • tracking symptoms and side effects
  • reviewing sleep, appetite, and mood
  • adjusting dosage gradually
  • regular follow-up appointments (typically monthly)

4. Reaching a Stable Dose

The aim is to find a dose that provides good symptom control with minimal side effects.

Once stabilised, we will discuss next steps

Titration is typically delivered over several months, with structured follow-up appointments. Full pricing is explained clearly before you start, so you can make an informed decision.

Titration requires regular follow-up and some monitoring at home (such as blood pressure), so we can adjust medication safely.

What happens after titration?

Many patients move to a shared care agreement with their NHS GP.

This means:

  • your GP continues prescribing
  • we provide specialist oversight and reviews

If shared care is not available in your area, we can continue prescribing privately.

Medication should always be reviewed regularly, even after stabilisation.

gp adhd medication coordination

Safety and clinical oversight

Your safety is central to this process.

Medication is:

  • prescribed only when clinically appropriate
  • introduced gradually
  • monitored closely throughout

If medication is not suitable, we will discuss alternative options with you.

Why choose Total Health West Berkshire

  • Consultant-led ADHD medication management
  • Structured, guideline-based titration process
  • Clear explanations at every stage
  • Ongoing monitoring and support
  • Coordination with your GP where possible

We support patients across Berkshire, including Newbury, Thatcham, and surrounding areas.

Check your suitability for titration

Before arranging your appointment, we need to review your diagnosis and ensure this service is appropriate for you. This is the safest way to make sure you’re getting the right support – not just being prescribed medication quickly.

Complete the short form below and our team will review your information and confirm whether this service is appropriate for you.

This helps ensure safe and appropriate prescribing from the start.

12 + 14 =

We review your diagnosis and medical history first to make sure this is safe and appropriate for you.

If you’re unsure whether your diagnosis is suitable, you can still complete the form – we’ll guide you on the next steps.

Meet Dr Eleanor Akaho

Child & Adult Psychiatrist | MRCPsych

Dr Eleanor Akaho is an experienced Psychiatrist specialising in neurodiversity, with over a decade of work across NHS and private mental health settings. She has extensive experience in ADHD and Autism assessment and medication management for both children and adults.

Her training includes:

  • University of Manchester medical degree (2011)
  • Core Psychiatry Training in West London
  • Roles across Older Adults, Crisis & Home Treatment, CAMHS, General Adult Psychiatry, Adolescent Forensics and Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
  • Awarded MRCPsych in 2016
  • Has held Locum Consultant Psychiatrist roles *within the NHS* 2020-2025
Dr Akaho’s approach to titration is:
  • Holistic – looking at symptoms, lifestyle, physical health, and environment
  • Compassionate – grounded in lived experience and neurodiversity advocacy
  • Collaborative – involving families and working closely with GPs
Dr Eleanor Akaho psychiatrist adhd medication titration
She also contributes to medical school interviewing, charity governance and coaching for young women, supporting education and health initiatives internationally.

Areas We Serve

 Dr Akaho provides medication titration for clients across the local area, including:

  • West Berkshire
  • Newbury
  • Thatcham
  • Hungerford
  • Surrounding villages

If you’re looking for specialist ADHD support close to home, we’re easy to reach and offer clear, supportive guidance throughout the titration process. We also provide related services, including Adult ADHD Assessments and Child ADHD Assessments, if you’re seeking further help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does titration take?

Typically 3–4 months, though this varies. NHS guidance notes that titration can take several months while your team safely adjusts the dose.

Will I receive a prescription for ADHD Medication after the first consultation appointment?

In most appointments medication will be prescribed. But it is important to note that medication will only be prescribed if it is clincially appropriate and is not guaranteed as a result of this appointment. Sometimes further tests or clincial information is required in order for medication to be safely prescribed. 

What happens during titration?

You start at a low dose, make gradual adjustments, and monitor symptoms and physical measures. Regular appointments help decide whether to increase, reduce, or change medication.

Is ADHD medication titration safe?

Titration is the safest way to start ADHD medication, ensuring careful monitoring and reducing risk. NICE emphasises the importance of health checks and close review.

Can you provide titration if my ADHD assessment was done elsewhere?

Often, yes. We review your report, health information and any additional details needed before agreeing a plan.

What if my GP cannot offer shared care?

Some GPs cannot enter shared care agreements due to local policies. In these cases, we can continue prescribing privately. ADHD UK highlights this as a common issue nationwide.

Where can I learn more about ADHD and medication?

  • Royal College of Psychiatrists – ADHD in adults and children
  • NHS resources on ADHD and treatment options
  • ADHD UK – Shared care, medication, and Right to Choose information