ADHD Therapy for Adults in Alberta
Maybe you've always felt like you're working twice as hard to keep up. Deadlines sneak up, keys go missing, and your mind jumps ahead before you've finished the last thought. Maybe you were only diagnosed as an adult, or you're still wondering.
ADHD isn't a lack of effort or character. KP Psychological offers online therapy and support for adults living with ADHD across Alberta, including Edmonton and Calgary. Sessions are by secure video, for people who are physically in Alberta at the time of each session.
What ADHD is
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a condition where the brain works differently to most people. The Centre for ADHD Awareness, Canada (CADDAC) describes it as one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in Canada, affecting about 4 to 6% of adults.
ADHD often starts in childhood and continues into adult life. CADDAC notes that at least 65% of children with ADHD are still affected by symptoms as adults. Many adults aren't diagnosed until later in life.
How ADHD can show up in adult life
The NHS describes signs such as:
- being easily distracted or forgetful
- finding it hard to organize your time, follow instructions or finish tasks
- losing things often, like your wallet, phone or keys
- having a lot of energy, or feeling restless inside
- talking a lot or interrupting conversations
- making quick decisions without thinking through what might happen
Emotions are part of it too. CADDAC notes that many people with ADHD have a harder time regulating their emotions, and become frustrated, overwhelmed or angry more easily.
Over the years, this can take a toll: on self-esteem, work, money, relationships and stress levels. Many adults with ADHD have also been criticized for things that were never about trying hard enough.
ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma
ADHD often comes with other struggles, such as anxiety and stress or depression. Some signs of trauma, like trouble concentrating or feeling on edge, can look similar to ADHD, and some people live with both. Sorting out what's what is part of good care, and we'll take the time to understand your whole story.
What the research says helps
Medication. Medication is a common part of ADHD care for many adults. The NHS notes that ADHD medicines must be started and monitored by a doctor who focuses on ADHD. We don't prescribe, but we're happy to work alongside your doctor with your consent.
Talking therapies. The NHS lists cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness among the talking therapies that may be recommended for adults with ADHD. CBT for ADHD is practical. It helps you build systems for time, tasks and planning, and it works on the unhelpful thoughts and habits that build up after years of struggling.
Everyday supports. The NHS also suggests exercise, enough sleep, a balanced diet and talking with friends and family about ADHD. At work, adjustments such as a quiet workspace and written as well as spoken instructions can help.
Things that can help day to day
- Get it out of your head. Use one calendar and one to-do list you'll actually see.
- Make tasks smaller. Break big jobs into the very next step, and set short timers.
- Build in reminders. Alarms, sticky notes and "launch pads" by the door for keys and wallet.
- Look after the basics. Movement, sleep and regular meals make focus easier.
- Calm the overwhelm. When emotions spike, a grounding skill can help you pause. In this video, Kyle explains grounding and how it can help.
How we can help
We start by understanding where you are now, what you have been carrying, and what you want to feel different. Then we plan together, in a way that works with your brain rather than against it.
Therapy may include:
- practical systems for planning, time and follow-through
- skills for managing strong emotions and frustration
- rebuilding self-esteem after years of feeling "not enough"
- communication and relationship skills
- support with anxiety, low mood or stress that comes along with ADHD
- trauma-focused work, such as EMDR, when past experiences are also part of the picture
We offer therapy and support only. We don't provide ADHD assessments or diagnosis. If you're looking for an assessment, your family doctor is a good place to start.
Who you'd see
Both of our psychologists work with ADHD.
- Marissa Whalley, R.Psych sees individuals aged 16 and older. She currently has openings, often as soon as the following week.
- Kyle Poon, R.Psych sees adults, including older adults (65+). Kyle currently has a waitlist.
What therapy looks like here
Sessions are 50 minutes, by secure video, which can be easier to fit into a busy life. How often we meet is up to you. We work it out together, based on what fits you best, including your finances and your coverage.
A session is $235 with Marissa and $250 with Kyle. Alberta Health Care doesn't cover psychologists, but many extended health plans do, and we can bill most insurance companies directly. See fees and insurance for details.
Common questions
Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?
No. You can start therapy whether you've been diagnosed, suspect ADHD, or just know that focus and organization are hard for you. We'll work on what's getting in your way.
Do you do ADHD assessments?
No. We offer therapy and support only. If you're looking for an assessment or diagnosis, your family doctor is a good place to start. You don't need a diagnosis to start therapy with us.
Isn't medication enough?
For many adults, medication helps a lot. Therapy can add practical skills, help with emotions and self-esteem, and support you with anxiety or low mood. Many people find the two work well together.
I was diagnosed as an adult. Is that common?
Yes. Many adults aren't diagnosed until later in life. A late diagnosis can bring relief and grief at the same time. Therapy can help you make sense of both.
Do you bill insurance directly?
We can bill most insurance companies directly, so you only pay the part your plan doesn't cover. Tell us your plan at your free consult, and we'll confirm before your first session.
Book a free 15-minute consultation
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