Wrangling Tech Mania in 2026

Ongoing supervision and continuous learning are cornerstones of effective therapy. Whether it’s formal supervision or peer consultation, staying open to new perspectives challenges us to grow and improve the care we provide.

For a long time, I hadn’t given much thought to assessing technology use in clinical assessments. It simply wasn’t on my radar. That changed when I began working with a therapist who has extensive experience in this area. Her dedication to highlighting the impact of technology transformed how I approach my work. I’m deeply grateful for her guidance, which has enriched my case conceptualizations and treatment planning in meaningful ways.

Technology addiction and problematic use have become increasingly common, and research shows their effects can closely mirror those of other addictions. Excessive screen time, gaming, or social media use may lead to symptoms like increased tolerance, withdrawal, loss of control, and significant negative consequences in daily life. Clients may report disrupted sleep, heightened anxiety, social isolation, or mood instability related to their technology habits. These symptoms often look similar to those in substance use or behavioral addictions, making it essential to assess technology use carefully.

Incorporating questions about technology habits into assessments, whether with youth or adults, helps us capture important aspects of a each individual's mental health, that might otherwise go unnoticed, and therefore, unaddressed. For young people, in particular, whose brains and social skills are still developing, addressing technology use can be key to fostering healthier coping strategies and emotional regulation.

One useful tool for assessing problematic internet use is the Internet Addiction Diagnostic Questionnaire (IADQ), developed by Dr. Kimberly Young. This brief screening questionnaire helps identify patterns of internet use that may be excessive or causing difficulties in daily life. It covers key symptoms such as preoccupation, withdrawal, tolerance, and negative consequences, making it a practical starting point for conversations with clients. If you’re interested in incorporating the IADQ into your assessments, the full questionnaire and additional information can be found on Dr. Young’s website at netaddiction.com. Using tools like the IADQ alongside clinical judgment can deepen your understanding of how technology impacts your clients and inform more targeted treatment planning.

Of course, not everyone struggles with technology use, but by including it as a routine part of therapy assessment, we ensure a more comprehensive understanding of their challenges and strengths. This broadened lens leads to more effective, individualized treatment.

If you haven’t yet explored this area, I encourage you to seek out training or supervision focused on technology’s impact on mental health. I’m happy to share resources or connect you with experts who have informed my own learning journey. Get in touch with me here.

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