Executive Functioning Therapy in Calgary | NU Psychology

When Getting Started Feels Impossible

Executive functioning is like the brain’s project manager—it helps you plan, organize, start, and follow through on tasks. When it works well, life feels manageable. But when it doesn’t, even simple responsibilities can feel overwhelming.

You may have great ideas but struggle to get them off the ground. Or you start with energy but quickly lose momentum. It’s not about intelligence or willpower—it’s about how your brain manages the moving parts of daily life.

Signs of Executive Functioning Challenges

Common signs in teens and adults include:

  • Procrastination or trouble getting started on tasks

  • Losing track of time or missing deadlines

  • Difficulty organizing physical spaces or digital files

  • Trouble prioritizing when everything feels equally urgent

  • Forgetting steps in multi-part tasks

  • Jumping between tasks without finishing

  • Feeling overwhelmed by even small responsibilities

It’s Not Always ADHD — But It Often Overlaps

Executive functioning challenges are common in ADHD, but they can also appear with:

  • Anxiety or depression

  • High-stress jobs or academic programs

  • Major life transitions

  • Brain injury or neurological conditions

You don’t have to meet criteria for ADHD to benefit from strategies that strengthen executive functioning.

Why Therapy Helps With Executive Functioning

Executive functioning therapy provides tools and strategies that go beyond generic “time management tips.” At NU Psychology, we help you:

  • Learn effective ways to break tasks into smaller steps

  • Use tools and reminders that actually work for your brain

  • Build routines that reduce stress and decision fatigue

  • Improve focus, organization, and follow-through

  • Strengthen confidence by building on small wins

Our Calgary-Based Approach

At NU Psychology, we specialize in executive functioning therapy for teens and adults in Calgary and across Alberta (via online sessions).

Our psychologists use evidence-based approaches, including

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address thought patterns that block productivity

  • Executive Skills Training / ADHD Coaching for practical, real-world strategies

  • Narrative Therapy to challenge the “I’m lazy” story and build self-compassion

  • Mindfulness and Regulation Skills to reduce overwhelm and re-focus attention

Our clinic is located in Killarney, Calgary (2005–37 St SW, Unit #4), with evening and weekend availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Executive functioning refers to mental skills like planning, organization, focus, time management, and emotional regulation. When these skills are weak, everyday life feels harder.

  • No. Executive functioning therapy is helpful whether or not you have ADHD. Many people benefit from these strategies during stressful or demanding times.

  • Yes. Therapy helps you understand how your brain works and teaches tools tailored to your unique strengths and challenges.

  • Tutoring often focuses on content, while therapy addresses the underlying thinking, habits, and emotions that impact follow-through. Our psychologists combine evidence-based therapy with practical strategies.

  • Simply contact NU Psychology. We’ll match you with a psychologist specializing in executive skills for your age and needs.