Frequently Asked
Questions

Diagnosing ADHD in adults involves a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional. This may include a review of personal history, symptom checklists, behavioral assessments, and sometimes feedback from family members to understand how symptoms affect daily life.

Yes, Adult ADHD can be managed effectively with a combination of treatment options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, lifestyle adjustments, and organizational strategies. Many adults find these methods help improve focus, impulse control, and productivity.

Adult ADHD can impact relationships due to forgetfulness, impulsivity, and difficulty listening or focusing during conversations. Open communication, understanding, and sometimes couples counseling can help partners navigate these challenges together.

Anxiety and depression have a lot of overlap. It is not at all uncommon for someone with depression issues to also deal with anxiety. Indeed, they are often two sides of the same coin, coexisting and manifesting themselves simultaneously or alternating. Whereas depression is more of a shutdown reaction to negative feelings and emotions, anxiety is a constant worry about what kind of bad things might happen. Both are part of the stress response system and can most certainly exist side by side, appearing as a debilitating emotional condition. The good news is that anxiety and depression do not need to be treated separately. At Waystone we often treat people who are experiencing issues of both depression and anxiety.

There are many depression symptoms affecting those suffering from depression of all degrees. The most common symptoms include:

• Depressed mood most of the day, almost every day
• Significantly diminished interest or pleasure in daily activities
• Changes in appetite which result in weight loss or gain.
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Loss of energy or fatigue
• Irritability or restlessness
• Increased anxiety
• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or helplessness
• Inappropriate feelings of guilt
• Difficulties concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or attempts at suicide

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms of depression, contact us today.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s linked to changes in the season. Those with SAD experience symptoms at the same time every year. Most people with SAD experience the beginning of depression symptoms in the fall, continuing into winter. While it is much more uncommon, SAD can also cause depression in the spring or early summer in some people.

It is important not to dismiss annual feelings of depression as the “winter blues” that you have to push through. Contact Waystone Psychology today if you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder – we can help.

Depression can come in many forms and degrees of severity, however there are three major types of depression. They are:

• Major Depressive Disorder is characterized by being constantly sad, hopeless, irritable, and unable to experience pleasure. There are often changes in sleeping and eating habits, and difficulties thinking or concentration. This type of depression generally goes away in a few months with proper treatment.
• Dysthymia presents itself similarly to Major Depressive Disorder, however the symptoms tend to last longer – in some cases up to years. Dysthymia is treatable, however therapy might take longer to achieve the best results.
• Bipolar Disorder is a form of depression which comes in cycles and is marked by highs and lows. At times there are symptoms of major depressive disorder, while other times there is mental excitement called mania.

If you are suffering from any form of depression, we can help. Contact us today.

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder which is marked by constant and excessive worry about a number of things. Those who suffer GAD find it difficult to control their anxiety, negatively impacting their lives.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder which is characterized by obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted and often disturbing thoughts that intrude into a person’s mind causing anxiety, whereas compulsions are repeated behaviors or mental acts.
• Panic Disorder
  Panic Disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, constant concern about having a panic attack, and significant changes in lifestyle and behaviour related to the panic attacks.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is anxiety disorder caused by a terrifying event. People can suffer from PTSD after either experiencing or witnessing said event. PTSD is marked by nightmares, severe anxiety, flashbacks and intrusive thoughts about the event.
• Social Anxiety Disorder
  Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a condition where an individual experiences fear and anxiety in social situations. This anxiety causes significant distress and impairs the ability to participate in some or many aspects of daily life.

All of the anxiety disorders listed above, and more, can be treated by Waystone Psychology. If you are suffering from one of these anxiety disorders contact us today to see how we can help.

There are a few common signs and symptoms that one may be suffering from anxiety. These typically include but are not limited to:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Shakiness or trembling
• Stomach pain
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling tired
• Sweating
• Breathing rapidly
• Increased heart rate
• Difficulty sleeping

There are also several psychological symptoms related to anxiety including; a feeling of impending danger or doom, difficulty concentrating on tasks and avoidance.

Unsure whether or not you are suffering from anxiety? Contact Waystone Psychology to register for a full consultation today.

Over time, knowledge about anxiety disorders has improved. Treatments for anxiety have thus improved as well. Many people who receive treatment lead happy, fulfilling lives without feeling constrained by their anxiety.

Working with us at Waystone can help you discover the best treatment.

When symptoms persist for a significant amount of time and seriously impair a person’s ability to function at home, work, or school, health practitioners such as primary care doctors, psychiatrists, and psychotherapists may classify that person as having an anxiety disorder.

Additionally, psychological assessments are done to rule out any potential reasons for the anxiety symptoms. Symptoms resembling those of an anxiety disorder may be brought on by cardiovascular illness, thyroid issues, menopause, substance addiction, and/or adverse pharmacological effects, such as those from steroids.

To learn more about how to treat anxiety, the anxiety diagnosis process and our anxiety treatment techniques contact Waystone Psychology in Ottawa today!

Medication or therapy are two possible treatment options for anxiety disorders; both have been discovered to be effective. The use of both medication and treatment can also be effective. Your needs and preferences will play a role in the treatment selection. Consult a specialist who is knowledgeable about your diagnosis and general health about your options.

It’s important to talk with your therapist about which treatment is ideal for your child and family’s lifestyle because one child with the same diagnosis may respond better, or sooner, to a specific treatment than another child with the same diagnosis.

To determine the best course of treatment for you, speak with our therapists at Waystone Psychology to receive an accurate diagnosis and to learn about the range of available treatments, their duration, potential side effects, time commitment, and other health concerns.

To learn more about anxiety therapy, the anxiety diagnosis process and our anxiety treatment techniques contact Waystone Psychology in Ottawa today!

There are multiple different ways to treat anxiety. Some common forms of treating anxiety include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT
• Psychotherapy
• Anxiety-Management Techniques
• Changes in Exercise and Diet
• Journalling
• Support Groups
• Medications (Antidepressants, Beta Blockers or Anti-Anxiety Medications)

To learn more about how to treat anxiety, the anxiety diagnosis process and our anxiety treatment techniques contact Waystone Psychology in Ottawa today!

Many different studies discuss whether or not ADHD has additional causes aside from family genetics. ADHD tends to run in families but there are also other possible risk factors including brain injury or exposure to alcohol or drugs during pregnancy.

Many individuals who have ADHD have trouble with impulse control, paying attention, hyperactivity, or restlessness. Some other common symptoms include disorganization, forgetfulness, or poor time management.

Although you may relate to these symptoms, the first step regarding ADHD diagnosis is to reach out to a healthcare professional. At Waystone Psychology we have a team of experienced psychologists and cognitive behavioural therapists who can get you the answers and help you need.

ADD (attention deficit disorder) and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) mean the same things. ADD is just an outdated term without the “H” for hyperactivity. An individual might not have hyperactive behaviours but the diagnosis will still be ADHD.

Focusing with ADHD can be a difficult task for many people. There are a variety of different techniques that may or may not work depending on the individual. Some of these techniques can include:

• Only keeping tasks that need to be accomplished in front of you and leaving distractions out of your line of sight
• Making to-do lists and holding yourself accountable
• Practicing goal setting and creating deadlines
• Geting regular exercise to tire yourself out
• Finding time during the day to unwind

Picking up on these techniques can be difficult, that’s why it’s extremely common to reach out to healthcare professionals like those at Waystone Psychology to further help your ADHD journey. Contact us today to learn more or book an appointment.

Stimming is a common term that refers to self-stimulatory behaviour. Self-stimulatory behaviour with ADHD can look like repeated specific movements. Some examples can be hand or finger movements, rocking your body back and forth, or fidgeting with objects.

ADHD symptoms can often worsen (or improve) depending on the lifestyle habits you have. Lack of sleep, eating too much junk food, skipping breakfast, lack of exercise, or living in a messy or cluttered space can all impact your ADHD symptoms negatively.

ADHD treatment options in children typically include a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes. Here are some of the most common ADHD treatment options for children:

Medication is often the first line of treatment for ADHD. Stimulant medications are often prescribed to help manage the symptoms of ADHD.

Behavioral therapy is a type of treatment that focuses on changing specific behaviors in a child. Children with ADHD can benefit from behavioral treatment by learning new skills and coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has been proven to be successful in treating ADHD.

Parent education and training can assist parents in developing coping mechanisms for their child’s ADHD symptoms. This can involve things like establishing a routine at home, scheduling schoolwork, and utilizing positive reinforcement to reward appropriate behavior.

For students with ADHD, school interventions like extra tutoring, counseling, or behavior plans may be provided. These treatments can improve a child’s academic performance and symptom management in ADHD patients.

Children with ADHD can better manage their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments including exercising frequently, eating well, and getting enough sleep. Additionally, parents can assist their children in better managing their symptoms by establishing a calm and structured environment at home.

At Warmstone Psychology., we work with you to create an individualized ADHD treatment plan that meets your children’s specific needs.

Early signs of Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Reading (Dyslexia) in young children include delayed speech, limited vocabulary, pronunciation difficulties, and challenges in naming letters, numbers, and colors. Struggles with nursery rhymes and rhyming games are also early indicators, highlighting the importance of early recognition. Learn how Waystone can help identify early signs of SLD.

School-age children with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Reading (Dyslexia) often show delayed reading skills, difficulty processing spoken information, memory issues, and need prolonged time for reading and writing. They might avoid reading-related activities, underscoring the importance of early support. Waystone will assess, discuss and explore symptoms and possible causes.

Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Reading (Dyslexia) in teenagers and adults manifests as reading difficulties, spelling challenges, problems with word pronunciation, and requiring extended time for reading and writing tasks. Struggles with summarizing stories and learning foreign languages are common, necessitating ongoing support.

For Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Reading (Dyslexia), causes are multifaceted, including genetic factors evident in family patterns. Neuroimaging studies show brain differences in SLD individuals, especially in areas related to reading and language processing. Waystone can assist in working on areas for improvement & coping strategies.

A few signs that may point to an individual having SLD include:

• Performing calculations slowly
• Difficulty counting backwards
• Poor sense of numbers or estimation
• High levels of mathematical anxiety

That being said, an official diagnosis should be done with the help of medical professionals. Reach out to Waystone Psychology today to book a consultation or appointment.

Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) can be related to ADHD. It’s very common that individuals with ADHD often have other learning disorders, and sometimes this can include Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia).

Although people with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) have trouble with numbers or performing calculations, it’s very common that they excel with words. Whether that be reading, writing, or spelling, people with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) are often good with creativity and critical thinking skills.

There is no known cause of Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) although there is plenty of evidence that displays a correlation between Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) and genes and heredity.

Targeted therapies for Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) are a specialty of our team of therapists and educators. In order to enhance mathematical proficiency and number awareness, we use evidence-based strategies and interventions. Our therapy services may include:

Remediation of Mathematical Skills: We focus on building fundamental mathematics abilities like number identification, counting, and simple computations. To improve comprehension and memory, we employ structured and multimodal approaches.

Conceptual Understanding: We put a lot of emphasis on formulating conceptual understanding and problem-solving techniques. Our therapists assist people in understanding mathematical topics by using visual aids, manipulatives, and examples from everyday life.

Memory and Attention Training: There is a common link between Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) and issues with memory and attention. We offer training activities to enhance working memory, attention span, and concentration, enabling people to concentrate on mathematical assignments more effectively.

Metacognitive Strategies: We impart metacognitive skills that enable people to become self-directed learners. These techniques assist individuals in organising, monitoring, and reflecting on their own learning, which enhances self-control and self-assurance.

Emotional Support: We are aware of the psychological effects of Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) and offer a safe space for people to vent their emotions, worries, and frustrations. Our therapists provide direction and coping techniques to control anxiety and develop toughness.

At Waystone Psychology, we are committed to giving the tools needed to overcome obstacles, realise their full potential, and succeed academically. Our all-inclusive Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Math (Dyscalculia) care services give the assistance and direction required to lay solid mathematical groundwork and foster a positive attitude toward learning.

Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Written Expression (Dysgraphia) is a lifelong condition and there’s no official cure. This is why contacting professionals like those at Waystone is extremely important. This way your child is exposed to intervention early on in order to set habits and practice from the get-go.

Absolutely not! People with learning disabilities are often intelligent and some are even gifted. Learning disabilities mean that those living with them have brains which work differently. In order to learn the best, those with learning disabilities need to be taught in ways which take into consideration their strengths and weaknesses.

Since learning disabilities are invisible, psychological tests must be performed to determine the extent, if any, of a learning disability in an individual. At Waystone Psychology, we perform Psychoeducational Assessments to determine learning challenges faced by people of all ages. Our tests are highly effective in assessing strengths & challenges faced by individual learners.

Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Written Expression (Dysgraphia) impacts writing ability and fine motor skills whereas Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Reading (Dyslexia) impacts reading skills. They both are two different neurological conditions although they can both occur in individuals.

Contacting professionals like those at Waystone is the best way to ensure your child receives the best treatment possible. Occupational therapy is extremely common for treating Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) With Impairment in Written Expression (Dysgraphia) in children. This type of therapy might include manipulating materials to strengthen wrists and hand muscles and letter formation practice. Below are a few other small techniques that can help your child handle SLD:

• Change your current paper or writing utensils
• Try hand stretches
• Practice writing larger letters
• Introduce keyboards or typing to alleviate some stress or pressure
• Use narration or speaking during the writing process