We experience many changes throughout life, from our first steps and words through puberty, military service, university, career choice, marriage, parenthood, separations, menopause, aging, grandparenthood, retirement and finally, death. While some life changes are a result of choice; others, such as illness, loss, financial problems or even unexpected financial gain may take us by surprise.

Such events bring out our latent strengths and abilities. They offer opportunities to grow, mature and realize our full potential. While transitions present new possibilities, they also demand much from us: they stretch our resources, test our resilience and alter our self-image and relationships. Accepting a new reality or assuming a new role may involve leaving behind the familiar and experiencing a loss of stability and safety. Being able to navigate change depends on our flexibility and resourcefulness, support from family and friends and our readiness to accept the new.

Life is a balance between stability and change: if we cling to stability we can bog down in stagnation and depression. If we avoid new realities we may feel anxiety, helplessness and rage. And although most of us say we want change, it can be stressful, even threatening. For example, a sought-after promotion can raise fears of meeting new expectations; the freedom of retirement may bring emptiness and depression; new relationships may threaten old ones. 

In times of transition therapy can offer help and guidance in coping with anxiety, balancing stability and change and adapting to altered relationships and self-image.  It identifies obstacles and mobilizes strengths, adding to our sense of living a life of our own creation.