The child bearing years

Humans have been going through the process of becoming parents since the beginning of time. Though we have learned so much about this process, we still have a long way to go—as a society and as individuals. In a place like New York City, these challenges take on multiple layers as we grapple with the demands of work life balance and our identities. 

As women, we may constantly feel measured by our ability or inability to have children. We may face pushback or questions for opting to postpone parenthood for the sake of our careers. And even with the ever-adapting new technologies that aim to facilitate our choices in reproduction and child bearing, we can feel even more boxed in and scared.

And though we are talking about it, we’re not talking about it enough. 1 in 4 new mothers experiences a postpartum mood disorder—beyond “baby blues.” It’s not always just depression, either. We may have scary, intrusive thoughts or experience constant nagging worry about our babies and ourselves. Even the most educated women are ashamed of this and afraid to discuss it. It’s not surprising that so many of us end up feeling isolated, inadequate, and disconnected from our feelings.

Adolescents

No one will dispute that adolescence is a conflicted and tumultuous stage. Teenagers vacillate between extreme emotions and become committed to asserting their independence at all costs. Often, both parents and their teenagers feel misunderstood and struggle to maintain the connection they used to have when the teenagers were young children. Rules, guidelines, and discipline may be especially challenging for both parents and their kids at this time. In addition, teenagers face intense social, academic, and personal pressure in a world that is increasingly tethered to social media. Therapy may be helpful for adolescents looking for assistance in managing their various commitments and developing vocabulary for all of their emotions. It can also create a safe space for them to explore their individuality while developing responsibility and the power to make healthy, productive decisions. 

Young adults

Among the many challenges faced by young adults are relationship issues, career questions, and existential crises. Transitions in particular can bring on anxiety, depression, and complications with juggling the various priorities in one's life. Young adults frequently grapple with managing a reasonable "work/life balance." Therapy can be beneficial for self-reflection and understanding how to better cope with stressors.