Quarter Life Counseling

We’ve all been told that turning 18 is the official entrance into adulthood. Legally this is true - you can vote, join the military, buy tobacco products, and get a tattoo without your parent’s permission. However, it is clear in modern research that the human brain does not fully develop until at least age 25. That’s a solid 7+ years after we are legally deemed “adults.” This gap in human development gave rise to the term “Emerging Adulthood”, which is now widely recognized as the developmental life stage following adolescence. 

During this phase of life, many transitional life challenges are experienced. Some examples include

• Discovering and exploring identity 

• Financial development 

• Exploration of sex and dating 

• Evolving friendships and family relationships 

• Securing a professional path 

As an emerging adult, facing these challenges can be exciting and also anxiety provoking. It is quite common during this period to experience feelings of overwhelm, confusion, self-doubt and depression about the direction and quality of one’s current path and future. This can lead to an experienced “Quarter Life Crisis.” 

What is a Quarter Life Crisis?

Similar to the widely recognized “midlife crisis,” the Quarter Life Crisis refers to a period of young adulthood that involves uncertainty and questioning about one’s life direction, values and overall purpose. Common experiences include feeling trapped, uninspired, and disappointed by the realities of adulthood. Increased anxiety and depression are frequent during this time, and are often perpetuated by unease with their job, relationships or environment in which they live. Though not uncommon for young adults in previous generations, we are seeing a rise in this phenomenon for today’s Millennials. 

If any of this sounds familiar, you can relax knowing that struggling to navigate adulthood is normal!  Research shows the Quarter Life Crisis is extremely common and can occur from age 18 to mid 30s. Seeking mental health support during this time is very important and can make a huge difference in helping you regulate your stress and discover more clarity and confidence in yourself. 

In therapy with me, I will validate your experience and help you identify areas of opportunity and growth. As a millennial myself, I am aware of the importance of discovering a life path that is meaningful and fulfilling. Together we will explore your fantasies, values and passions while also bringing awareness to the realities of your world so that you can create balance, regularity and satisfaction in your life.