Are You in Your Fifties, Sixties, or Beyond?
As a boomer, I know how amazing and stimulating it is to be in the forefront of forging new perspectives. Current midlife and older generations have witnessed and are continuing to participate in some of the greatest social changes in our country’s history. We have spearheaded countless technological, scientific, and cultural innovations. Now, we are leading the way again in redefining what it means to age consciously and gracefully, fighting against all the “ism‘s” including ageism.
Because of my many years of advanced training, education and experience focused on middleaged and older clients, I know you face a combination of unique stressors and challenges. I have seen many mental and physical health professionals who are untrained in gerontology (the study of aging) so they don’t have the experience or education to quickly recognize, comprehend or help move you forward on a healing path.
Stressors mount in these seasons of life. Our culture has so much fear and a lack of balanced information about growing older which makes things worse. We struggle with fears around the challenges of illness, caregiving, loss of respect, changes in identity and roles, retiring or changing careers, financial concerns, relationships, health, and loss. These stressors can be confusing and anxiety provoking. Having a guide who is experienced can be such a relief.
People say that when they work with me, they find a safe and nonjudgmental, compassionate space. You will be listened to kindly and heard. You will find emotional support and, according to your particular situation, effective stress reduction techniques, practical strategies, and a range of resources that help alleviate anxiety, depression, confusion and stress.
Midlife Brings a Wakeup Call
Many people experience a wakeup call when they are in their middle and “early old age” years – they are suddenly aware that they are becoming older and they can see more clearly the impermanence inherent in this human life. IF this is you, you may wonder how you will be able to age safely and gracefully. You may become overly focused on planning for your future: things like where you will live, how you will live, who will take care of you. Fears can overwhelm you.
Coping with increasingly constant change is also a big topic. For example, how does one adjust to retiring, downsizing a home, perhaps moving to a different town, and letting go of children who now have lives of their own? How do you discover your new identity, purpose, and the gifts inherent in these years? for those of you who remember this song, I call this the “What’s It All About Alfie” time of life.
Compassionate, Safe, Competent Sounding Board
When you come to see me, we ponder these questions gently, compassionately and often with humor, while moving towards answers. We hone in on your current particular stressors, identify your lifelong coping strengths, take a look at some unhelpful habits that may be harming you, and explore new tools for developing inner peace.
I serve as an effective, nonjudgmental, and loving sounding board for you as you work through your feelings, tell your stories and talk about your fears, hopes, disappointments, dreams, and plans. Having a knowledgeable coach, teacher and guide regarding the ins and outs of conscious and awakening as you travel through this new territory is tremendously helpful.
If you are a midlife and older person struggling with some of the issues mentioned above, please take a step and reach out to find support and solutions. You can call anytime for your free 20-minute consultation at 415-378-6577 Then, if you like, we’ll schedule a regular zoom or telephone appointment.