What Are the Signs of Issues with Life Transitions?

  • Life transitions, such as moving to a new city, starting a new job, getting married, having a baby, or retiring, can be exciting but also stressful. They often require us to adapt to new environments, roles, or responsibilities, which can lead to various emotional, psychological, and physical responses. Here are some common signs of life transition issues:

    1. Increased Anxiety or Stress: Life transitions often involve uncertainty, which can lead to increased anxiety or stress. This might manifest as constant worry, restlessness, or feeling overwhelmed.

    2. Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed can be signs of depression, which can be triggered by major life changes.

    3. Changes in Sleep Patterns: You might experience insomnia, or conversely, you might sleep more than usual. Changes in your sleep patterns can be a sign that you're struggling with a life transition.

    4. Changes in Appetite or Weight: Some people may eat more or less than usual when dealing with life transitions, leading to weight gain or loss.

    5. Physical Symptoms: Stress and anxiety can also lead to physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or a general feeling of being unwell.

    6. Difficulty Concentrating: If you're finding it hard to focus or make decisions, it might be due to the stress of a life transition.

    7. Withdrawal: Pulling away from social activities or isolating oneself can be a sign of struggle with life transitions.

    8. Mood Swings: Rapid changes in mood or increased irritability can be signs of difficulty coping with change.

    9. Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed: If you feel like you can't move forward or are overwhelmed by the tasks at hand, it could be a sign of transition issues.

    10. Substance Abuse: Some people may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances as a way to cope with the stress of life transitions.

Learn More About My Approaches

  • SAFE EMDR

    A specialized therapy combining somatic and attachment-focused techniques for effective trauma treatment. Experience personalized care that addresses both mind and body, fostering deep healing from traumatic experiences.

  • NARM

    A progressive approach to addressing C-PTSD and developmental trauma by focusing on the connection between cognitive and somatic processes. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing one's strengths and growth, working with the body's nervous system to heal from trauma and rediscover the authentic self.

  • Ego-State Therapy

    Addresses trauma and dissociation by engaging with the various parts of one's personality, developed in response to life experiences. This therapeutic approach, which can include hypnoprojection and visualization, aims to integrate these parts into a cohesive self, promoting healing and a more unified identity.

  • DBT

    Integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to treat various emotional and behavioral issues. This evidence-based approach helps individuals balance acceptance and change, enhancing emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

If any of the above apply to you, and you live within Iowa City, IA or any surrounding areas, please feel free to reach out at any time. I greatly look forward to hearing from you soon, and to get your therapeutic journey started.