Therapists for Mid-Life Adults

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  • Therapist Recommendations for Mid-Life Crisis

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    Jan 20, 2021

    Hi neighbors, I'm in a downward spiral with a mid-life crisis and am looking for recommendations for a counselor/therapist that can work with me to help work through some issues.

    Generally, the crisis is related to issues that I'm having in my career that I can't find a way to resolve, having experienced a painful set-back two years ago that I haven't been able to come back from.  This has led to some debilitating self-worth/confidence issues that are so overwhelming to me that I fear that my marriage and relationship with my children are being impacted.

    I would greatly appreciate any recommendations for therapists in or near Berkeley.  Thanks in advance!

    Jan 20, 2021

    Lisa Lancaster is absolutely fantastic--I found her via other recommendations here on BPN and had amazing progress after just a few sessions. A truly insightful and skilled therapist. Good luck to you!

    Jan 27, 2021

    Original poster here - I forgot to mention a critical piece of info that I have BlueCross BlueShield insurance and would hope to find a therapist that takes this insurance.  Thanks!!

    Jan 27, 2021

    I wanted to just write and say I HEAR YOU!  I literally feel like I could have written almost the exact same post, and I wanted you to know you are not alone and there's nothing wrong with you!  I have been reading "Why We Can't Sleep" and it has been incredibly reassuring to know that my experience is actually quite normal, and that it will likely get better. I do have a great therapist but unfortunately, her practice is full.  Huge kudos to you for reaching out to others, and taking these positive steps forward for yourself.  Just keep walking and keep the faith. 

    Jan 27, 2021

  • Therapist who works with creatives in midlife?

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    Aug 18, 2019

    Somewhere along the line, I allowed my creative life to wither and die, and now, at the midpoint of my life, I'm bereft and I need to make some changes to sort out how to get back on track. I'd love to work with a therapist who understands this and has a no-nonsense approach. A caveat: I don't have much patience for woo. I like straight shooters. Thanks!

    Aug 18, 2019

    Hey This is not exactly what you are asking for, but at the age of 40 and after a couple years of a break from artmaking I finally cracked open “The Artists Way” by Julia Cameron 

    it might be what you are looking for.., 

    for me just the Morning Pages assignment has been incredibly useful as a way to get back to my studio practice.

    good luck 

    Aug 21, 2019

    Hi!  I would suggest an expressive arts therapist.  Some are woo. Some  aren't.  You'll get a vibe probably right away from each therapist's website.  I would suggest looking on Psychology Today, typing in your city.  You'll see a list of therapists in that city.  Then, on the left scroll down to 'Types of Therapy' and selecting Expressive Arts.  I hope that helps!  Best of luck!

    Aug 21, 2019

  • Need therapist to address female "midlife crisis"

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    Feb 28, 2018

    I always thought that "midlife crisis" was just a moniker given to address impulsive adult decisions, but I'm realizing at 43 years old that it's exactly what's happening to me. I really need someone to talk to about this, as I feel every day like I'm on the brittle cusp of emotionally self-destructing and taking my marriage and family down with me. Does anyone have suggestions for a great therapist in the Oakland/Berkeley/Alameda area who can help me navigate these feelings? I don't have a preference between speaking with a male or female, but I am female myself if anyone thinks that might make a difference.  I would really appreciate any leads or advice.

    Feb 28, 2018

    Laila Shamszad does tremendous work helping women find meaning amidst family and professional responsibilities. She is really grounded and wise and has helped me see difficult situations from a higher perspective many times. Her website is http://www.lailashamszadmft.com

    Mar 7, 2018

    I recommend Karen Levine, MFT in Oakland.  Her website is karenlevinetherapy.com.  Karen has helped me understand the complicated dynamics of my own "midlife crisis," and has guided me in developing skills and awareness around my own patterns and feelings.  She has a real understanding of the challenges of being a parent and a partner, and has warmth and a sense of humor.

    Mar 7, 2018

    I love Ellie Vargas on Berkeley/Oakland border on Telegraph. She's trained in Internal Family Systems and has really helped me build a strong relationship with myself through difficult times. Wishing you the best - congrats on seeking support!

    Mar 7, 2018

    I loved seeing Susan LaCroix for my quarter-life crisis.  She specializes in life transitions.  She has in-office appointments, but she does a lot of sessions walking in Tilden Park, if that appeals to you!

    Mar 8, 2018

    I highly recommend Audrey Martin, MFT. Having gone through the midlife transition a while ago I clearly remember the accompanying emotional and mental chaos and my strong wish to find help with navigating it. I had the good luck of finding Audrey to do just that: sorting through the old stories, evaluating the changing current mindset and finding a path to a future with more clarity and ease. Audrey has a calming and sensitive way of receiving your concerns and worries, of structuring them, of finding more self supportive ways of regarding them and most importantly, of helping you find a way to help yourself. Her life experience accompanied by a vast knowledge of her field and just plain human kindness make the experience of working with her a life line in the middle of disconcerting but necessary changes.

    Her office is in Rockridge area of Oakland and her phone number is 510 428 1505.

    Mar 12, 2018

  • Seeking MHN therapist in Walnut Creek/ Lamorinda - 40's life

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    Feb 27, 2018

    I'm looking for a therapist in the Walnut Creek/ Lamorinda area. Very much need support in the parenting teens- launching kids to college, grief-loss, aging parents, and general female 40's life.

    I have health net MHN so someone who takes insurance is important. 

    Feb 27, 2018

    Not sure whether she takes MHN but Anne Case MFT is wonderful!

    Feb 28, 2018