If you are a client of mine, then you know that I am in the process of moving my counseling office. In April, I am moving from Menlo Park to Palo Alto. I am not moving far, and I am excited about the move. However, I am also feeling a tad anxious about the move. Why? Because even small changes like this may trigger feelings of stress and anxiety.
You may want to know why I am moving. I am moving into a larger office, which will allow me offer more counseling services to families, and possibly run some counseling support groups in the future. I am also expanding my hours, which will give my clients more flexibility.
Do you have a super busy job? Are you a full time student? Do you work in Silicon Valley, attend Stanford, or does your child attend school in Palo Alto? My new office is walking distance from the Caltrain Station, Stanford, and many schools. In addition to afternoon and evening hours, I will be offering Saturday appointments upon request.
I will continue to specialize in providing counseling and psychotherapy to children and teens, young adults, women, and families. As you may know, some of my special interests are stress, anxiety, phobias, trauma, depression, grief and loss, infertility and pregnancy loss.
Today I spent some time reflecting on my anxiety (yes- even therapists have anxiety). Why am I feeling a little nervous? I’m a sentimental person, and I suppose I’m feeling nostalgic. I’ve become accustomed to my tiny office. I’ve done some wonderful work with wonderful people in that tiny office. I am also going to miss the birds nesting in the tree outside my window. I am going to miss the feeling of comfort in my familiar space. I am going to miss my office mates. Saying goodbye to the familiar and embracing something different can be a challenge for many people, including myself. However, change is also a wonderful thing. I look forward to developing new memories, and continuing to do the work I love in my new space.
This is the interesting thing about change and transitions; even positive changes can be stressful. Transitions such as starting a new school, a new job, a new relationship, moving, or getting married are usually filled with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. When transitions stem from untoward events that include grief and loss issues, or unanticipated change, the anxiety and sadness is obviously much greater.
Many people are creatures of habit, and therefore, change makes most of us feel at least a tad anxious. Nevertheless, I am excited to move into my new office. If you are physically following me to my new office, I look forward to seeing you at 305 N. California Street, Palo Alto, CA 94301. If you are interested in counseling or psychotherapy for yourself or your child, please call or email me for an appointment. As always, I offer free phone consultations and return calls within 24 hours.
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