Article content

The Calgary Board of Education has laid off all of its psychologists despite pledging to maintain mental health supports for students during at-home learning.

A psychologist with the public school board said the decision will have an immediate impact on students and their families, especially considering they had already transitioned to virtual sessions amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or 'This was a lifeline for kids': CBE lays off entire psychology department Back to video

“This was a lifeline for kids and families who were struggling. It allowed kids to continue working with the therapist they already had a relationship with and to maintain that important connection during this crisis,” said the psychologist, whom Postmedia has agreed not to identify for fear of job reprisal.

He said many of the kids who were receiving mental health counselling were struggling with anxiety, depression or family stress prior to the pandemic.

“Their mental health issues are only likely to get worse as routines are disrupted, (physical) distancing persists and when there’s an increase in uncertainty and stress. Kids need access to mental health services more than ever right now,” he said.