Young Adult Therapy
When you turn 18, the world becomes a much bigger place, full of new experiences, decisions and responsibilities. This transition between life stages can be overwhelming for many people. In childhood, the world was structured on your behalf—now, it’s your turn. However, you never need to make the transition on your own. Individual therapy sessions can give you additional support to find clarity and direction during this important time.
In my practice, I’m dedicated to helping you build confidence in your adult identity. We’ll navigate your unique challenges, address any existential concerns, and hone your decision-making skills. We’ll also work on other life skills, like communication, so you can express your thoughts and emotions more effectively.
"Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone." – Lisa Olivera
Mental Health
Many people experience new or ongoing mental health issues in their 20’s and early 30’s. As life gets more complicated, human brains develop new pathways for complex thoughts and emotions. By exploring these issues in therapy, you can learn healthy ways to handle your symptoms and increase your confidence about living independently.
I’m skilled at helping young adults address a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. During sessions, we’ll prioritize self-care regimes and learn coping mechanisms to use in all areas of life. Depending on your circumstances, we can also discuss how to navigate mental health conditions in the workplace.
The “Free for All”
After leaving high school, the required path ends. Now, there are seemingly endless options for a successful adulthood—school, family life, career—and everyone’s offering (seemingly endless) advice. In therapy, we’ll focus on your thoughts and emotions about the journey into adulthood. We can also discuss ways to alleviate negative emotions while planning, allowing you to better approach the process with a clear mind.
Financial Stress
Young adults are often learning how to manage their own finances for the first time. This task can become especially stress-inducers for newcomers—especially in today’s turbulent economy.
During therapy sessions, we’ll discuss any anxiety or stress about handling your own finances and unpack their source. Then, we’ll try different strategies for relieving it. Depending on your circumstances, we can also discuss the compulsion to overspend or hoard money.
Pressure to “Make It”
Many young adults share a belief that you have to find personal happiness and have everything figured out by age 25. This expectation is unrealistic for most young people as, for the first time, they’re making decisions without input from a caretaker. Giving yourself a five-year deadline to “make it” can add a lot of stress and anxiety to the process.
During therapy sessions, we’ll discuss how this phenomenon may affect your own motivations. For example, it might drive your own need to succeed, or the expectation could bog down your journey to adulthood. Together, we’ll figure out how to alleviate the pressure and find joy in self-discovery.
Sex and Romance
The adult world of sex and romance is often very different from the adolescent version. As you learn more about yourself, you’ll also discover what you need from a romantic relationship—will it be short-term vs. long-term? Monogamous or open? Kids or child-free? In therapy, we can discuss these questions in depth and find answers that most resonate with you.
The Sandwich Generation
Some young adults are part of the “sandwich generation” — meaning they have care-taking responsibilities for both their young children and their aging parents. This double role can be overwhelming, especially if it’s unexpected.
Therapy can help increase your emotional fortitude, allowing you to better support yourself and others. I want to help you prioritize self-care during and provide space to unpack any complicated feelings about this challenging time.
Book a Therapy or Coaching Session Today
Therapy or coaching can be an invaluable resource for anyone needing guidance for their journey through adulthood. In my practice, I aim to create a safe environment to help you find clarity, healing, and support.
If you’re ready to start your journey towards growth and mental well-being, don’t hesitate to book your first therapy or coaching session today.