Need therapist to address female "midlife crisis"
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
Parent Replies
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
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.
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!
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!
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.