As a parent, watching your child face challenges can be tough. Whether it’s struggles with learning, behaviour, emotions, or social skills, you want to understand what’s going on beneath the surface. Psychological testing can provide clarity and guide the right support for your child’s unique needs. But how do you know when it’s the right time to consider this step?
In this blog, we’ll explore key signs and situations that suggest psychological testing might benefit your child and explain how the process can help families like yours.
Psychological testing is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a licensed psychologist to understand a child’s cognitive abilities, emotional functioning, behavior, and learning profile. It involves standardized tests, observations, and interviews that help identify strengths, challenges, and potential diagnoses such as learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or emotional difficulties.
If your child is consistently struggling to keep up with academic tasks despite extra help, testing can identify underlying learning disorders like dyslexia or processing challenges.
Frequent difficulties with concentration, impulsivity, or hyperactivity may indicate ADHD or related attention disorders that benefit from formal assessment.
If your child exhibits ongoing disruptive behaviors, aggression, or mood swings that interfere with daily life, psychological testing can help uncover underlying emotional or behavioral disorders.
Challenges with social interaction, communication, or repetitive behaviors could suggest autism spectrum disorder or social communication disorders requiring assessment.
Persistent anxiety, depression, or mood instability in a child warrant psychological evaluation to guide treatment and support.
Sometimes families seek testing when their child is transitioning schools, starting therapy, or when a previous diagnosis needs confirmation or clarification.
Psychological testing usually takes several sessions and may include cognitive tests, academic assessments, behavioral questionnaires, and interviews with you and your child. Licensed psychologists create a detailed report with results and recommendations.
At Grit Psychology, we ensure testing is child-friendly and supportive, focusing on building trust and making the process comfortable.
If you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your child’s development or learning, it may be time to consult a psychologist for an evaluation. Early assessment can open doors to effective supports and improve your child’s educational and emotional well-being.
Psychological testing is a powerful tool for understanding your child’s unique needs and strengths. At Grit Psychology, we’re dedicated to helping families navigate this journey with compassion and expertise. If you think your child may benefit from psychological testing, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact Grit Psychology today to schedule a consultation or ask questions about psychological testing for your child. Together, we can support your child’s growth and success.
As the new school year approaches, excitement mixes with nerves for students and families alike. Back to school season brings fresh opportunities, routines, and social connections—but it can also trigger stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Prioritizing mental health during this transition is key to helping students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
At Grit Psychology, we understand the unique pressures that come with returning to school. In this blog, we’ll share important insights and practical tips to support mental wellness for students of all ages as they navigate the back-to-school period.
Starting or returning to school means adjusting to new schedules, academic expectations, peer dynamics, and sometimes new environments. For many students, this can lead to:
These feelings are common, but when left unaddressed, they can affect concentration, motivation, and overall well-being.
Watch for changes such as irritability, withdrawal, declining grades, headaches or stomachaches, or trouble sleeping. These can indicate stress or anxiety related to school.
Teens may also experience mood swings, increased irritability, or express feelings of hopelessness. Open communication and observation are vital during this time.
Set regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules to help your child’s body and mind adjust.
Allow extra time in the morning to reduce rush and tension before school.
Ask about your child’s feelings, friendships, and any worries. Listen without judgment and validate their experiences.
Adequate sleep is crucial for emotional regulation and cognitive function.
Encourage screen-free wind-down routines to improve sleep quality.
Reducing last-minute stress helps set a positive tone.
Building a relationship with your child’s educators can provide insight and support.
Exercise releases mood-boosting endorphins and helps reduce stress.
Simple breathing exercises or guided meditations can help manage anxiety.
Students with ADHD, autism, or sensory sensitivities may face additional challenges transitioning back to school. Collaborate with educators to ensure accommodations and supports are in place, such as quiet spaces, sensory breaks, or flexible schedules.
If your child’s anxiety or mood significantly interferes with daily functioning, social interactions, or academic performance, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Early intervention can make a big difference.
At Grit Psychology, our therapists specialize in working with children, teens, and families to navigate school-related stress and mental health challenges. We offer individualized support tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Back to school is an important time for growth and learning, but it can also bring emotional challenges. By prioritizing mental health and creating supportive environments, parents and caregivers can help children build resilience and confidence for the year ahead.
Contact Grit Psychology to learn how our compassionate therapists can help your child manage stress and thrive emotionally this back-to-school season.
In today’s fast-paced world, mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness. Emotional health influences how we think, feel, and handle stress, making it essential for overall well-being. Just like you train your body, you can train your mind with simple, effective exercises to build emotional resilience, reduce anxiety, and enhance your quality of life. This blog explores the best mental fitness exercises to strengthen your emotional health and offers practical tips to integrate them into your daily routine.
Mental fitness refers to the state of well-being where you have the capacity to manage stress, maintain a positive outlook, and bounce back from adversity. It involves emotional regulation, self-awareness, and cognitive flexibility — all key components that contribute to healthy relationships, productivity, and life satisfaction.
Emotional health affects everything from how you cope with challenges to your physical health. Poor emotional health can lead to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and physical ailments like high blood pressure and weakened immune function. Strengthening your emotional health through mental fitness exercises supports a balanced mind and body.
Mindfulness involves paying full attention to the present moment without judgment. Practicing mindfulness meditation daily can lower stress hormones, improve focus, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Even just 5 to 10 minutes a day can make a big difference.
Try This: Find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath. When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breathing.
Writing down your thoughts and feelings helps process emotions and identify patterns. Journaling can serve as a safe outlet for stress and promote self-awareness.
Try This: Set aside time each day to write about your experiences and feelings. Try gratitude journaling by listing three things you’re thankful for.
Controlled breathing techniques activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping calm the body and mind during stressful moments.
Try This: Practice the 4-7-8 technique — inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale slowly for 8 seconds.
This involves identifying negative or unhelpful thoughts and replacing them with more balanced, positive ones. It’s a core component of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Try This: When you catch a negative thought, challenge it by asking if it’s true or if there’s another way to view the situation.
Physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood boosters. Even light exercise like walking or yoga can improve emotional well-being.
Try This: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Building and maintaining supportive relationships fosters emotional resilience and reduces feelings of loneliness.
Try This: Schedule regular time to connect with friends or family, either in person or virtually.
Therapy can complement mental fitness exercises by offering tailored strategies to manage emotional challenges. Psychologists and counselors provide a safe space to explore your feelings, develop coping skills, and build resilience.
At Grit Psychology, our experienced therapists specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress management, all critical areas for mental fitness. Whether in-person or online, we’re here to help you strengthen your emotional health for lasting well-being.
Mental fitness is a vital part of living a balanced, fulfilling life. By practicing exercises like mindfulness, journaling, and cognitive restructuring, you can build emotional strength, manage stress, and improve your overall health. Remember, just like physical fitness, mental fitness requires consistent effort, but the rewards are well worth it.
Start today by choosing one exercise to try, and watch your emotional health transform over time.
Contact Grit Psychology to learn how our therapists can support your emotional health journey. Together, we’ll build the mental resilience you need to thrive.
Neurodiversity encompasses a range of differences in thinking, development, and behaviour — including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, learning disabilities, and other neurological variations. Calgary and the surrounding region offer a wide variety of resources to support neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, including assessment supports, community programs, educational help, and family services. Here’s a breakdown of key local and provincial resources you can access today.
Autism Calgary Association
A well‑established local nonprofit providing community support, social groups, and counselling for autistic individuals and their families. They offer individual and family counselling with sliding scale options and support groups for adults and caregivers.
Learning Disabilities & ADHD Network (Calgary)
A collaborative network focused on learning disabilities and ADHD. They offer resources, events, and workshops designed to help individuals, families, and educators better understand and support neurodiversity.
SAIT Neurodiversity Alliance
Based at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, this group supports neurodivergent students with executive functioning strategies, peer connections, and access to Calgary community resources.
Autism Society Alberta
Offers toolkits, videos, and support materials for autistic individuals and their families across Alberta. Events and provincial networks help foster community engagement.
The Ability Hub (Sinneave Family Foundation)
This included space on the University of Calgary campus offers skill development, employment readiness programs, life skills coaching, and neuroinclusive workplace support services for autistic individuals and those with neurodivergent traits.
Centre for Autism Services Alberta
Provides personalized services in Calgary, including in‑home and community supports funded through Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD). Programs focus on daily living skills, family coaching, and developmental assistance.
Psychological Assessment & Therapy Providers
Local clinics and directories can help you find clinicians who specialize in neurodiversity‑affirming assessment and support (including diagnostic evaluations for ASD and ADHD). Look for listings via provincial directories like the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta or online directories where you can filter for neurodiversity expertise.
Some psychology clinics in Calgary also offer neurodivergent‑affirming assessments and therapy directly, helping individuals better understand their cognitive profiles and access targeted supports.
Children’s Link Society
A trusted information hub for families with children with disabilities — including guidance about available programs, transition planning, and local service directories.
Government Supports (FSCD & Alberta Education)
Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) provides funding options, family support workers, and specialized services tailored to each child’s needs. The Ministry of Education also outlines supports for diverse learners within local schools.
Inclusion Alberta and Inclusion Calgary
These organizations advocate for inclusive education, employment, and community participation for people with developmental disabilities and neurodiverse profiles.
We Rock the Spectrum (Calgary)
A fully inclusive play space designed for children with autism and neurodiversity — offering sensory‑friendly equipment and supportive programs.
City of Calgary Inclusive Recreation
City recreation centres provide adapted and inclusive activities, camps, and sports programs, often with fee assistance available.
Between Friends Programs
Offers social and recreational programs that foster belonging and peer connection for people of all ages with disabilities and neurodiversity.
Neurodiversity Resource Packages & Reading Materials
SAIT and other community partners curate tools like reading lists, guides on executive functioning, and peer support resources to help individuals understand strengths and challenges related to neurodiversity.
Online Provider Directories & Tools
Platforms like online neurodiversity‑affirming provider directories can help you locate clinicians, coaches, or community supports suited to your needs — including both in‑person and virtual options.
Calgary’s neurodiversity community is rich with programs, advocates, and services designed to support people across the lifespan — from early childhood to adulthood. Whether you need assessment, skill building, community connection, or inclusive activities, there are resources ready to help. If you ever feel unsure where to start, reaching out to regional networks like Autism Calgary, the Learning Disabilities & ADHD Network, or the Sinneave Family Foundation can provide a helpful first step on your journey.
