School Refusal & School Attendance Support in Calgary

Is this what your family is dealing with?

School refusal can be intense—because it affects your teen’s wellbeing, your family’s routine, and your sense of stability. The goal here isn’t to pressure your teen. It’s to reduce distress, rebuild routine, and create a practical plan that leads to real attendance progress

What’s driving school refusal?

Attendance is rarely “the problem.” It’s a symptom. Common factors include anxiety, depression, bullying or social stress, health concerns, learning differences, insomnia, and patterns of screen or gaming overuse that quietly reshape sleep, motivation, and coping.

How I help teens return to school

The goal is a return-to-school plan your teen can tolerate and sustain—without ongoing daily battles.

Support may include:

• Identifying what’s driving avoidance (and what keeps it stuck)
• Building coping skills for anxiety, mood, and social stress
• Improving sleep and routine so mornings become possible again
• Family therapy to reduce conflict, strengthen communication, and get everyone aligned on the plan
• Parent strategy coaching to reduce conflict at home
• Coordinating (when appropriate) with school supports

What families often want most: fewer blow-ups at home, a clear plan, and steady progress you can measure week to week.

What a first consultation looks like

In the first conversation, we’ll clarify what’s happening, what’s been tried, what’s working (even a little), and the next steps. You’ll leave with a clearer plan—so you’re not guessing what to do next.

(Optional) If you have it, please bring a brief overview of attendance patterns and any school communications.