Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on May 23, 2025You’re in the right place to find help for Life Transitions in San Francisco. Explore local therapy, counseling, and support to navigate change, loss, or new beginnings. Our resources connect you with trusted mental health providers nearby, so you don’t feel alone.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Remote only
OSun Yoo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 12 years. They treat Life Transitions, Sleep Concerns, Physical Stress.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and together, we can work on reconnecting with that 'you' at your best. I am a therapist at Octave, a beha
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Remote only
Karyn Galindo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 3 years. They treat Life Transitions, Family Caregiving Stress, Depression.
Clinically, I see myself as a facilitator taking my cue from you and your personal growth. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creat
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Remote only
Hailey Perez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in undefined, undefined. They treat Life Transitions, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Physical Stress.
We will build insight and tend to your strengths in order to stimulate the growth of self. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health practice creat
Psychologist
Remote only
Fariba Mansouri is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 9 years. They treat Life Transitions, Family Caregiving Stress, Physical Stress.
In a non-judgmental and compassionate space, we can start a conversation about what matters in life. I am a therapist at Octave, a behavioral health prac
Psychotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Remote only
Shayda Ewalt is a Psychotherapist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 10 years. They treat Life Transitions, Personal Growth, Substance Use.
Trauma-informed therapist specializing in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing for complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic, or depression.
Psychologist
Remote only
Aviance Rhome-Boroff is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Life Transitions, Anxiety, Pregnancy/Loss of Pregnancy.
I integrate the social, cultural and spiritual context of each individual so that each person is validated in their unique experience. I'm a therapist wi
Navigating Life Transitions in San Francisco can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone—use the MiResource directory to quickly find a therapist who fits your needs, preferences, and schedule. Our trusted, easy-to-use platform removes common barriers to starting therapy by letting you filter by specialty, insurance, identity, and availability, so you can connect with support that feels right for you. Take the first step today and explore vetted providers in San Francisco who understand the challenges of Life Transitions and are ready to help you move forward with confidence. Start your search now and feel more supported, sooner.
If you’re seeking care in San Francisco, it’s important to choose a therapist licensed in your state, especially for telehealth sessions and insurance coverage. MiResource lets you filter providers by state licensure so you only see therapists authorized to treat you. All listed professionals are qualified and legally able to provide care.
San Francisco’s layered cultures—from the activism of the Mission and the LGBTQ+ legacy of the Castro to multigenerational households in Chinatown and the Richmond—shape how people navigate major life transitions like job changes, caregiving, immigration, and grief. In-person therapy here can intentionally reflect local rhythms: sessions scheduled to avoid Bay Bridge backups and 101/280 rush hour, or planned near calming spaces like Crissy Field, Lands End, or the Embarcadero for a grounding walk after. Many offices along Market Street, SoMa, and FiDi are steps from BART/Muni (Montgomery, Powell) and the Muni Metro; Caltrain at 4th & King supports South Bay commuters. If you drive, consider the 5th & Mission/Yerba Buena or Sutter-Stockton garages and watch for street-cleaning and event surges around Oracle Park and Chase Center. Neighborhood-based care can also honor language needs and identity, whether you’re seeking cantonese-speaking providers in the Sunset or queer-affirming clinicians near Duboce Triangle.
For local support during life transitions, explore city-run Mental Health SF for navigation and same-day care options and SFDPH Behavioral Health Services for therapy, substance use, and peer programs. Community anchors include RAMS (Richmond Area Multi-Services) for culturally responsive care and workforce programs , NAMI San Francisco peer groups and family education , the San Francisco LGBT Center ’s counseling referrals and trans/employment services , Shanti Project for caregiving, breast cancer, and HIV-related life changes , Jewish Family and Children’s Services for counseling, career transitions, and caregiver support , Institute on Aging ’s Friendship Line for older adults facing isolation or loss , and UCSF Psychiatry patient care and group therapy options for stress, perinatal, or grief transitions . For immediate emotional support during a difficult transition, call or text 988 .
Life transitions are changes like moving, starting a new job, becoming a parent, ending a relationship, or retiring—times when routines shift and feelings can be mixed. They can affect sleep, mood, focus, and relationships, and getting support in San Francisco can help you adjust with more ease.
Change can feel exciting, scary, or both. If you’re going through a life transition in San Francisco—starting or ending a job or relationship, moving neighborhoods, becoming a parent or caregiver, or adjusting to the city’s pace and cost of living—you might notice:
- Mixed emotions: feeling hopeful and anxious at the same time, mood swings, irritability, or feeling numb
- Worry and stress: racing thoughts, “what if” thinking, or fear about the future
- Sadness or grief: missing what used to be, homesickness, or unexpected waves of emotion
- Feeling stuck or overwhelmed: trouble making decisions, second‑guessing yourself, or procrastinating
- Changes in energy: fatigue, restlessness, or bursts of energy followed by crashes
- Sleep shifts: trouble falling or staying asleep, waking early, or sleeping more than usual
- Appetite changes: eating more or less, cravings, or stomach discomfort
- Physical tension: headaches, tight shoulders/jaw, chest tightness, or an upset stomach
- Difficulty focusing: forgetfulness, mind wandering, or trouble finishing tasks
- Pulling away or seeking new connections: wanting more time alone, or craving community and support
- Routine disruptions: skipping self‑care, exercising less, or relying more on alcohol, cannabis, or screens to cope
- Identity questions: rethinking values, roles, or goals, especially after a big career or relationship change
- Financial and housing stress: worries about rent, moving, roommates, or commute changes
- Sensory overload: feeling drained by crowds, noise, or long days, especially during busy commute times
- Positive shifts that still feel hard: new opportunities, promotions, or moves that bring pressure, imposter feelings, or growing pains
If these signs are lasting, intensifying, or getting in the way of daily life, support can help. You’re not alone, and it’s common to need extra care during transitions.
Life transitions can stem from many sources, like changes in work, relationships , health, or identity, and they often involve mixed emotions and uncertainty. Biological factors such as sleep disruption, hormonal shifts, or chronic health issues can make these periods feel harder. Psychological influences—like past stress, grief , coping style, or perfectionism—also play a role, while environmental pressures in San Francisco, including high living costs, housing moves, caregiving demands, and community change, can add extra strain. These challenges are common and multifactorial, not a personal failing, and support can help.
Life transitions can stir up emotions and routines, sometimes straining relationships, lowering focus at work or school, and affecting sleep, energy, and overall quality of life. You might feel torn between caring for an aging parent and keeping up at work, or overwhelmed after a move in San Francisco while trying to make new connections. Changes like graduating, starting a new job, or ending a relationship can bring uncertainty, grief, or stress even when they’re positive. With support and small steps, it’s possible to adjust, rebuild balance, and feel more grounded again.
Evidence-based options include cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT ), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solution-focused therapy, interpersonal therapy (for role changes), grief counseling, and, when needed, medication for co-occurring anxiety or depression . Support systems span individual or group therapy, peer and community support groups, faith or cultural communities, employee assistance programs, family education, and reputable helplines or warm lines. Self-help strategies include mindfulness and breathing practices, values-based goal setting, exercise and sleep routines, journaling, problem-solving/skills training, social connection, and digital tools (e.g., CBT or mindfulness apps, psychoeducation courses). To find help, consider licensed providers via MiResource directory, community mental health centers, university clinics, or telehealth platforms, and choose culturally responsive care that fits your needs.
1) What is Life Transitions and how is it diagnosed?
Life Transitions refers to significant changes—like moves, career shifts, relationship changes, or loss—that can affect mood, stress, and daily functioning. Clinicians don’t diagnose “Life Transitions” itself, but they assess how you’re coping and may diagnose related concerns such as adjustment disorder, anxiety, or depression. In San Francisco, a licensed therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or trained primary care provider can evaluate you using a clinical interview and brief questionnaires. They’ll consider your history, symptoms, strengths, and supports to suggest a plan that fits your needs.
2) Who is most likely to experience Life Transitions?
Anyone can experience Life Transitions, and needing support during change is common and not a sign of weakness. Times of greater risk include moving to or within San Francisco, starting or leaving a job or school, relationship changes, becoming a parent, immigration, or navigating health or financial stress. People with limited social support, past trauma, or multiple changes at once may feel the impact more strongly. Supportive care can help you adapt, regardless of your background or identity.
3) How common is Life Transitions?
Life Transitions are a normal part of life—most people will navigate several major changes over their lifetime. Many adults report increased stress or mood changes during these periods, and it’s very common to seek short-term support in San Francisco to adjust. While exact numbers vary, surveys consistently show that major life changes are a frequent source of stress each year. You’re not alone, and help is available.
4) Can Life Transitions be prevented?
We can’t prevent Life Transitions, but we can prepare for them and reduce their impact. Building supportive relationships in San Francisco, maintaining routines, practicing healthy sleep and movement, and learning coping skills are protective factors. Early planning—like setting realistic expectations and identifying resources—also helps. Reaching out for support at the first signs of struggle can shorten and ease the adjustment.
5) What should I do if I think I have Life Transitions?
If Life Transitions are making daily life hard, start by talking with a licensed therapist or your primary care provider in San Francisco. You can use MiResource to find Life Transitions–informed therapists, compare specialties, and book an appointment that fits your schedule and preferences. If you’re in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 for immediate support. Small steps—like journaling concerns, asking a friend to check in, and scheduling a consultation—can make a real difference.
6) How can I talk to others about my Life Transitions?
Choose a trusted person and share a simple, honest summary: “I’m navigating some Life Transitions in San Francisco, and I’d appreciate support while I adjust.” Use “I” statements, name what helps (a listening ear, a walk, childcare, or flexible expectations), and set boundaries about topics you’re not ready to discuss. You can keep it brief and practical, and it’s okay to say you don’t have all the answers yet. Check in with yourself afterward and adjust how much you share based on your comfort.
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.
