Evolve Child Psychology — Technology Addiction
Technology Addiction Help for Children and Teens in Calgary
"They say I'm old-fashioned, and live in the past, but sometimes I think progress progresses too fast!"
— Dr. Seuss
"They say I'm old-fashioned, and live in the past, but sometimes I think progress progresses too fast!"
— Dr. Seuss
Technology has brought extraordinary benefits to our lives — and Dr. Kincade genuinely values the tools it provides for learning, connection, and creativity. But she also sees, in her clinical work and in the world around her, how easily technology use can shift from intentional to habitual, and from helpful to harmful — particularly for children and teens whose brains and social skills are still developing.
If you are concerned about your child's or teen's relationship with technology — whether it's gaming, social media, or general screen time — Dr. Kincade offers specialized assessment and evidence-based treatment for technology addiction and problematic use in Calgary and throughout Alberta.
I am especially concerned about the effects of frequent and unmanaged technology use on the social, emotional, and cognitive development of young people. Left unchecked, I believe we risk raising a generation of individuals who face significant challenges in building meaningful relationships and thinking deeply and creatively.
For this reason, helping children, teens, and families find a healthier and more intentional relationship with technology has become an important focus of my practice. Technology is designed to be compelling — social media platforms, video games, and apps are built to capture attention and keep users engaged. For a growing number of children and teens, use crosses the line from habit into something that feels genuinely difficult to control.
Preoccupation with screens — thinking about or anticipating technology use even when not using it
Difficulty stopping or setting limits on use despite wanting to
Irritability, anger, or significant distress when access to technology is restricted
Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities previously enjoyed
Declining school performance or persistent homework avoidance
Sleep disruption due to late-night device use
Using technology to escape from stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions
Dishonesty about the amount of time spent online or gaming
Dr. Kincade offers individualized assessment and treatment tailored to the specific needs of each child, teen, or young adult. Treatment begins with a thorough assessment of technology use patterns and the underlying psychological factors contributing to the problem — because understanding the why is just as important as addressing the behaviour itself.
Treatment draws on ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) strategies to help young people develop insight, build healthier habits, and strengthen the real-world connections and skills that make balance possible.
Parent involvement is an integral part of the process. Dr. Kincade works with families to develop consistent home strategies, improve communication around technology use, and create an environment that supports healthier habits for everyone — not just the child or teen.
Technology addiction support is available in person at our southwest Calgary office, and virtually for families across Alberta.
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