Adjustment to Life Changes

When life changes, relationships change – and that’s where we’ll work.

Separation, divorce, the death of a partner, moving home, retirement, starting or losing a job, becoming a parent – major transitions can bring grief, uncertainty and a loss of familiar roles. You might feel relief and sadness at the same time, struggle with sleep or decisions, or notice tension as people around you adapt at different speeds. None of this means you’re failing; it means something important has shifted.

I’m a qualified and accredited therapist with over 15 years’ clinical experience in NHS Talking Therapies services and private practice, specialising in high-intensity CBT and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) for depression, anxiety, grief and life changes.

A caring, practical way forward

With a warm, non-judgemental approach, we’ll make sense of what’s changing and how it touches your day-to-day life and connections with others. We’ll build tools for communication and boundaries and help you adjust to your new way of life. Step by step, you can regain a sense of direction, feel more steady day to day, and make a little more space for hope and momentum.

How I help with big life changes

When life shifts, relationships and routines shift too. I keep things practical and focused on what helps now:

Make sense of what’s changing: I help you name what’s ending and what’s beginning, so the next steps feel clearer.
Ease clashes and misunderstandings: I coach you through clearer conversations—what to say, how to say it, and where to set boundaries.
Make space for grief (and mixed feelings): I guide you to honour what’s been lost while re-engaging with people and activities that support you.
Strengthen support: I help you map who’s in your corner, ask for what you need, and widen that network if it’s thin.
Build confidence in the “new role”: I break changes into small, doable steps so you can practise the skills this stage of life needs.

My aim is to help you find steadier footing, at your pace, after what’s changed.

What sessions look like

Free 30-minute consultation: What’s changed, how it’s affecting mood and relationships, and whether this approach fits you.
Assessment & plan (1–2 sessions): We’ll build a simple “map” of the transition—key people, pressure points, and quick wins.
Therapy (often up to 16 sessions):
- Stabilising routines (sleep, meals, movement, admin triage)
- Communication practice (scripts, boundary lines, “what to say when…”)
- Problem-solving steps for the new role (skills, supports, next actions)
- Grief work that honours what’s lost and re-opens what matters
Review & relapse plan: Consolidate gains and set a plan for the next months.

What you might be facing right now

You might be navigating a break-up, divorce or separation, perhaps alongside the challenge of new co-parenting arrangements. You may be grieving the death of a spouse, partner or close family member, or finding yourself starting over socially after moving home or country.

Change at work can also shake things up – retirement, redundancy or a major job shift can all bring questions about identity and purpose. For some people, the transition into becoming a parent, or children leaving home, stirs up a mix of emotions. Health changes can add another layer, especially when they alter your usual roles and day-to-day routines.

Ways life can start to feel a little easier

Clearer conversations and kinder boundaries — fewer flare-ups, more understanding.
Small, steady routines that support sleep, energy and everyday decisions.
A simpler picture of who’s in your corner — and confidence asking for what you need.
More ease with mixed feelings (grief and relief can sit side by side).
A steadier sense of direction about what matters now, and the next small steps.

Quick self-help ideas

Name the transition: “What ended? What began?” Write one skill you’ll practise for the new role this week.
Grief appointments: 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times/week to remember, write, or look at photos—then a gentle re-entry activity.
Support audit: Who helps you feel steadier? Put two micro-contacts in the diary (coffee, call, walk).
Sleep anchors: Same wake time daily; light movement or outside light within an hour of waking.

FAQs

Is it normal to feel both relief and sadness?

Yes. Mixed feelings are common during transitions. Making room for both often reduces the struggle.

Will we talk about the past?

Yes, but the main focus in therapy will be the here-and-now—what’s changed, who’s involved, and what will move you forward.

How many sessions will I need?

Many people benefit from 12-16 focused sessions. We’ll review progress regularly and tailor the length to

your goals.

What if my support network is small?

We’ll start where you are—building one or two reliable contacts and, if helpful, adding structured groups or community resources.

Ready to start?

Book a free 30-minute consultation to steady the basics, map the transition, and plan your next steps.

Working Together

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