Dr. Mahmoud Barakat

I am often sought by families looking for a thoughtful, neuro-affirmative approach, particularly where standard pathways have not fully captured the complexity of a young person's needs. I am known for my calm, engaging style and for helping children and parents feel heard, understood, and supported.

My assessments focus on how an individual functions in everyday life—emotionally, academically, socially, and at home—with careful attention to strengths as well as difficulties. I bring consultant-level clinical judgement, strong medical governance, and close liaison with NHS services into every assessment.

I lead a multidisciplinary approach to ADHD and Autism assessments, working closely with experienced psychologists to develop a nuanced, developmentally informed understanding of each young person. A particular area of expertise is identifying high-masking and twice-exceptional (2e) presentations, where underlying ADHD or Autism may be overlooked until anxiety, burnout, or loss of confidence emerges.

Uniquely for a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, I hold advanced certification in paediatric sleep medicine through the European Sleep Research Society and regularly support families where sleep difficulties are compounding attention, emotional regulation, or behaviour.

My practice is grounded in NICE-compliant, evidence-based care, with patient safety at the forefront. I work closely with medical colleagues and NHS GPs to ensure appropriate physical health monitoring, sleep optimisation, and shared-care planning where indicated.

Alongside my clinical work, I contribute to peer-reviewed publications, present at national and international conferences, and am involved in teaching and service leadership. I view the diagnostic process as a pivotal turning point, aiming to provide families with a clear, safe, and supportive roadmap to move forward with confidence and understanding.