• Lisa Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Lisa Johnson

    Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

    Remote only

    Lisa Johnson is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in undefined, undefined. They treat Life Transitions, Personal Growth, Gender Identity.

    Therapist + prescriber offering virtual mental health services, ADHD testing & meds for college students & adults. 100% Virtual, Evening & weekend hours.

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  • Jamie Farrelly, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

    Jamie Farrelly

    Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

    Remote only

    Jamie Farrelly is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in undefined, undefined. They treat Life Transitions, Social Anxiety, Anxiety.

    College life can be overwhelming. I help young adults (18+) build coping skills in a safe, inclusive space to navigate stress, trauma, and life changes

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  • Benjamin Ingraham, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA)

    Benjamin Ingraham

    Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA)

    Remote only

    Benjamin Ingraham is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 7 years. They treat Life Transitions, Depression, Personal Growth.

    You don't have to face life's challenges alone. Everyone deserves a supportive place to explore their thoughts and begin their own journey.

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  • Kate Stewart, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

    Kate Stewart

    Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Counselor, Psychotherapist

    1684 Medina Road, Medina, Ohio 44256

    Kate Stewart is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Medina, Ohio and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Life Transitions, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Violence/Stalking/Harassment.

    Our passion is creating a safe space to treat adults, children, couples, and families with their mental health needs.

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  • Stephen Barlow, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Stephen Barlow

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    5540 Falmouth Street, Richmond, Virginia 23230

    Stephen Barlow is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Richmond, Virginia. They treat Life Transitions, Life Transitions, Sleep Concerns.

    I help people overcome anxiety, depression, and stress stemming from relationships or past experiences, in individual or couples counseling.

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  • T.Lee Shostack, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

    T.Lee Shostack

    Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

    Remote only

    T.Lee Shostack is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 12 years. They treat Life Transitions, Relationship(s) with Friends/Roommates, Perfectionism.

    Therapy services for adults in Massachusetts and Vermont, providing group, relationship, and individual therapy. I have immediate daytime availability.

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If you're on a creative path, you're not alone. Therapy can help you feel understood, grounded, and inspired.

Samuel Macy, Psychologist

What is a life transition, and why do they feel so overwhelming?

A life transition is any significant change that alters your day-to-day reality or sense of self. This might include becoming a parent, moving to a new city, changing careers, retiring, ending a relationship, or facing the loss of a loved one.

These transitions often carry emotional weight — not just because of the events themselves, but because they challenge our identity, disrupt our routines, and shake up our expectations for the future. Even positive changes (like marriage or a promotion) can provoke anxiety, grief, or confusion. The mind craves stability, and when that’s threatened, it’s normal to feel emotionally flooded.

Counseling for life transitions can help you unpack the emotions that come with change and develop the resilience to adapt in a healthy, intentional way.


What is a mid-life crisis, and at what age does it usually occur?

A mid-life crisis refers to a period of emotional upheaval that typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. It’s often triggered by the realization that time is limited and that certain dreams or expectations may not be fulfilled. Some people may begin questioning their career, marriage, health, or sense of purpose.

It’s not a clinical diagnosis, but rather a common life phase marked by introspection, emotional discomfort, and — for some — a drive to make drastic changes. The cliché version involves buying a sports car or making impulsive decisions, but for most people, it’s a quieter and more internal reckoning.

Midlife crisis therapy can help individuals navigate this chapter thoughtfully, without falling into regret or self-destructive patterns.


Is it normal to feel lost or question life choices during major transitions?

Yes — it’s not only normal, it’s often necessary for growth. When the structure of your life shifts — whether by choice or circumstance — it’s natural to question the path you’ve taken. You may wonder:

  • “Did I choose the right career?”
  • “Is this the relationship I want?”
  • “What does success even mean to me?”

These questions can feel unsettling, but they also signal that you’re evolving. Therapy for life changes provides a safe space to explore these questions, align with your values, and take steps toward a more authentic life.


How do I know if I’m going through a mid-life crisis?

While everyone experiences mid-life differently, some signs that you may be going through a mid-life crisis include:

  • Feeling bored, disillusioned, or disconnected from your current life
  • Obsessing over past decisions or “what might have been”
  • Experiencing a sudden desire for drastic change (e.g., quitting a job, ending a marriage)
  • Feeling trapped or restless
  • Engaging in impulsive or uncharacteristic behavior
  • Feeling depressed, anxious, or unmotivated

These feelings don’t mean something is wrong with you. They’re a sign that your inner world is shifting — and that you may be craving a life that feels more aligned with who you are now. A life transitions therapist can help guide you through this period with clarity and compassion.


Why do life transitions (like divorce, retirement, or career change) cause anxiety or sadness?

Life transitions challenge our sense of stability, identity, and purpose. Even when change is expected or chosen, it often comes with loss — of roles, routines, relationships, or the person we used to be.

For example:

  • Divorce might bring freedom, but also grief and guilt.
  • Retirement may offer rest, but also a loss of purpose or structure.
  • Career changes can lead to uncertainty and fear of failure.

The brain interprets major change as a threat, which activates stress responses. This is why people often feel anxious, sad, or even physically unwell during transitions.

Therapy for life transitions helps make sense of these feelings and turns disorientation into growth. You don’t have to go through it alone.


Can therapy help with fear of aging or feeling unfulfilled?

Absolutely. Many people fear aging — not just because of physical changes, but because of what it represents: lost time, shifting roles, and unmet dreams. This fear often shows up in mid-life but can arise at any age.

Therapy can help you reframe aging as an opportunity rather than a loss. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with me?” you can begin to ask, “What do I want from this next chapter of my life?”

Therapy for life changes can also address existential anxiety, regrets, and feelings of unfulfillment. Through reflection and actionable goal-setting, a therapist can help you find meaning in the present — and hope for the future.


Is it normal to feel regret about missed opportunities or unachieved goals in mid-life?

Yes — mid-life often prompts a mental inventory of our past choices, and it’s common to feel regret over roads not taken. You might wish you’d pursued a different career, been more adventurous, or ended a relationship sooner.

While regret is a painful emotion, it can also be constructive. It can clarify what truly matters and motivate change. Therapy helps you explore these feelings without being consumed by them. Rather than dwelling on what you can’t change, you’ll learn how to move forward with intention and self-compassion.


How do I cope with a loss of identity or purpose during a life transition?

Life transitions often involve the loss of a role that once defined us — parent, employee, partner, caregiver, student. When those roles change or disappear, you may feel like you’ve lost yourself.

Coping starts with acknowledging that identity is fluid — it evolves over time. Who you were at 25 may not align with who you are now, and that’s okay.

A life transitions therapist can help you:

  • Reflect on what gave you meaning in the past
  • Discover new sources of purpose
  • Reconnect with values and interests
  • Develop a more flexible, integrated sense of self

This work is deeply personal, but it’s also empowering. Identity isn’t something you lose — it’s something you can rebuild.


Can men and women experience mid-life crises differently?

Yes — while both men and women experience emotional turmoil during mid-life, the triggers and expressions may differ.

  • Men often report concerns about achievement, financial status, or legacy. They may struggle with emotional expression and instead act out through impulsive behavior, withdrawal, or restlessness.
  • Women may confront identity shifts related to caregiving, menopause, aging, or changes in body image and relationships. Feelings of invisibility, depletion, or unworthiness are common themes.

These are broad generalizations, of course — every experience is unique. Midlife crisis therapy takes into account individual personality, gender identity, cultural background, and personal history to create an approach that works for you.


What types of therapy are helpful for navigating life transitions or mid-life issues?

Several therapeutic approaches are particularly helpful during life transitions:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Helps identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts that contribute to anxiety, depression, or low self-worth during transitions.

Existential Therapy

Focuses on life’s “big questions” — purpose, identity, mortality, freedom, and meaning — making it ideal for mid-life exploration.

Narrative Therapy

Helps you re-author the story of your life by separating yourself from the problem and redefining your values and direction.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Supports emotional regulation and acceptance during uncertain times, especially helpful in adjusting to life changes like retirement or grief.

Coaching or Life Design Therapy

Not strictly clinical therapy, but goal-oriented coaching can support those navigating transitions like career pivots or post-retirement planning.

A therapy for life transitions plan might combine several approaches, depending on your needs and goals.

Find care for you

Recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive community, and the right professional care, you can overcome challenges and build a fulfilling life. We’re here to help you find the support you need.

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Find Therapy for Life Transitions | Life Transitions Therapy | MiResource