Life Transitions

Life is a constant state of change.

We're always adapting and evolving, but some changes feel more significant than others. These major shifts—what we call life transitions—can profoundly impact every aspect of your life: your daily routines, your sense of self, your relationships, and your overall well-being. These transitions might be something you've planned for, like getting married or starting a new career, or they might be completely unexpected, like the loss of a loved one or a sudden health issue. Whether you're welcoming a change or struggling to cope with one you didn't choose, these transitions often bring up complex emotions and challenges.

It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed or lost during these times.

You might be experiencing a range of emotions: sadness, confusion, anxiety, or even a sense of disorientation. These feelings are valid, and it's important to acknowledge them. Therapy provides a supportive space to explore these emotions and navigate the challenges you're facing. It can help you understand how this transition is affecting you, develop coping strategies, and ultimately find a path forward that feels right for you.

Whether the changes you're facing feel exciting and welcome, or upsetting and unwanted, know that these times of transition can also be powerful opportunities for self-discovery. Life difficulties offer us the potential for significant personal growth, deeper connections with others, and a greater sense of maturity.

Common questions about life transitions

  • Types of life transitions include:

    Anticipated: Anticipated life changes are those we generally see coming or actively plan for, allowing us some time to prepare and adjust, though they can still bring significant emotional and practical shifts. Examples include getting married, having a child, graduating from school, changing careers, or retiring—these are often exciting milestones, but they can also bring stress and require significant adaptation.

    Unanticipated: Unanticipated life changes are those events that disrupt our lives without warning, often bringing unexpected challenges and requiring us to adapt to circumstances we didn't choose. These events can range from sudden job loss or unexpected health issues to the sudden loss of a loved one or a natural disaster, leaving us feeling unprepared and potentially overwhelmed.

    Non-event: Sometimes, we seek therapy not for a major event, but for the absence of one—a "non-event" life change. This refers to a transition that was expected or anticipated but didn't occur, leaving a sense of limbo, disappointment, or a need to re-evaluate our plans and expectations. Examples include not getting a promotion you were working towards, infertility or difficulty conceiving when you desire a family, or a relationship not progressing as expected. These experiences can cause significant emotional distress and warrant therapeutic support to process feelings, adjust to new realities, and find new directions.

  • Some examples of life transitions are:

    Reaching a significant age: Milestone ages such as 18, the age of adulthood, or 65, the typical age of retirement can mark significant life changes.

    Career change or retirement: These transitions involve shifts in identity, routine, and often financial stability.

    Loss of a loved one: The loss a loved one can bring profound grief and changes in family or other social dynamics.

    Coming out or gender transition: Coming out as LGBTQ+ is a significant journey of self-discovery and acceptance that may require help navigating potential changes in relationships.

    Divorce or separation: Separating from a partner is a process of untangling that can bring about significant shifts in your day-to-day life such as changes in your financial situation, adjusting to possible shifts within your social circle, and navigating the dating world.

    Educational milestones: Graduates of high school, college, or graduate school may need to navigate changes in career opportunities, financial independence, and living arrangements.

    Becoming a caregiver: Taking on the role of caregiver for an aging parent or loved one with special needs can be demanding and emotionally taxing.

    Empty nest: When children leave home, parents can experience a sense of loss and a shift in their sense of identity and life role.

    Financial changes: Whether it's a sudden windfall or a financial setback, significant changes in finances can bring stress and uncertainty.

    Starting a family: The arrival of a child brings profound changes to daily life, relationships, and personal identity.

    Health challenges: Facing a serious illness or injury can be overwhelming, impacting physical and emotional well-being.

    Moving in with a romantic partner: Sharing life with a partner can be new and exciting. It also may involve changes in finances, schedules, and social dynamics.