Brittany Norlin
- Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (2018)
Brittany earned her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2018 and went on to complete a Master of Science in Educational Psychology, specializing in School and Applied Child Psychology, at the University of Calgary. She is now a Registered Psychologist and serves as Owner and Clinical Director of Onyx Assessments.
“My advice to students who are unsure about what path to take is to give themselves permission to explore. Volunteer in different roles, gain a variety of experiences, and pay attention to what you genuinely enjoy doing, as well as the kinds of work and environments you see others thriving in. Those experiences can teach you a lot about yourself and what feels meaningful to you.
It’s also important to remember that career paths are not permanent. You can change directions, discover new interests, and grow into different roles over time. Very few people have everything figured out right away, and that’s completely okay.“
Brief description of what I do!
As Clinical Director, Owner, and Registered Psychologist, I oversee both the clinical and operational sides of a private practice. My role involves leading the overall direction of the organization, supporting team development, and ensuring that services are delivered with quality, integrity, and care.
Alongside the business and leadership responsibilities, I continue to provide direct clinical services, including psychoeducational and other formal assessments. I specialize in helping individuals better understand their cognitive, academic, and emotional functioning through comprehensive assessment and feedback. My work is grounded in the belief that insight leads to empowerment, and I aim to support clients in using that understanding to navigate challenges and build on their strengths.
In addition to my clinical work, I serve on the Board of the ADHD Association of Greater Edmonton and on the Continuing Competency Committee with the College of Alberta Psychologists, where I contribute to advancing professional standards, education, and support within the field.
What inspired your career path after graduation?
After graduation, my path was shaped by a strong desire to help people better understand themselves in a meaningful, practical way. I was drawn to the process of supporting individuals in making sense of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and in turning that insight into real-life change. That interest in self-understanding became even more personal following my own ADHD diagnosis.
Learning more about ADHD helped me reframe my own experiences through a clearer and more compassionate lens, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for how powerful insight and accurate understanding can be. That experience not only strengthened my empathy for others navigating similar challenges, but also reinforced my commitment to work that helps people feel seen, understood, and empowered in their own stories.
How did your experience in the psychology program shape your journey?
My experience in the psychology program helped lay a strong foundation in core areas of psychology, giving me a structured understanding of theory, research methods, and how to critically evaluate evidence. It also shaped my work ethic and determination, especially through the process of completing my thesis, which required persistence, independent problem-solving, and the ability to see a long-term project through from start to finish.
Beyond academics, the program played a key role in how I learned to build professional relationships. Working alongside colleagues, engaging in group projects, and collaborating in research settings helped me develop confidence in connecting with others in a professional context. Those relationships also reinforced the importance of shared learning and collaboration in psychological work.
What skills or experiences were most valuable after graduation?
Since graduating, the most important skills have been fostering my executive functioning skills and strong people skills. Being able to plan, prioritize, and stay organized has made it possible to manage competing demands, follow through on responsibilities, and keep complex work moving forward. Just as important has been the ability to connect with others in a genuine way, building trust, reading interpersonal dynamics, and creating a sense of safety and collaboration. Those relationship skills have supported meaningful client engagement and effective teamwork, while executive functioning has helped translate ideas and intentions into consistent action and results.
What has been a highlight or proud moment in your career so far?
I love helping individuals gain insight into their strengths, challenges, and unique ways of thinking so they can feel empowered, validated, and confident moving forward. Being part of that journey of self-discovery is incredibly rewarding to me and is a highlight in my career!.