Life Transition Therapy for Teens & Young Adults in Fairfax, VA
What Are Life Transitions and How Are They Affecting Teens & Young Adults in Northern VA?
Life transitions are the big shifts that move teens and young adults from one stage of life to the next—starting high school, leaving for college, getting a first job, or moving out on their own. While these changes are exciting, they can also bring uncertainty, stress, and emotional strain. The pressure to “handle it” or appear independent can make it harder to open up about what they’re really feeling.
Here’s how life transitions often impact teens and young adults:
- Stress & anxiety: New responsibilities, academic challenges, or social adjustments can feel overwhelming.
- Identity shifts: They may question who they are outside of sports, school, or family roles.
- Social changes: Old friendships may fade, while building new connections can feel intimidating.
- Emotional ups and downs: Excitement and pride often mix with worry, self-doubt, or loneliness.
- Risk behaviors: Some may cope with stress through avoidance, withdrawal, or risky decisions.
Parents can help by keeping communication open, offering reassurance, and reminding their sons that uncertainty is normal. With guidance and encouragement, these transitions can become opportunities for resilience and growth.
Our Approach to Life Transitions in Teens & Young Adults
At Cabush, Paul & Associates, our therapists use evidence-based practices to help teens and young adults navigate change—moving, college, jobs—by building problem-solving, independence, and resilience. Our therapists validate anxieties, normalize uncertainty, and teach coping tools for stress. We also encourage maintaining connections and routines, providing stability while our clients adjust to new responsibilities and environments.
Our broader mix of practices for life transitions include:
"Our son was completely isolated - and now he is assertive, outgoing, and full of life because of your group. We can't thank you enough.”
Life Transitions Coping Strategies for Parents
Here are three supportive strategies parents can use to help teens or young adults navigate life transitions:
- Acknowledge the change openly – Validate that transitions (new school, moving, first job, college) can feel overwhelming, and reassure them it’s normal to need time to adjust.
- Promote independence with guidance – Offer advice and support, but encourage problem-solving, decision-making, and self-responsibility to build confidence in handling change.
- Maintain connection and stability – Keep family traditions, regular check-ins, or consistent routines at home so they have a “steady base” during uncertain times.
Life Transitions: Myth Vs. Fact
Myth: Teens adapt quickly—they’ll bounce back.
Fact: Change (like moving, starting college, or first jobs) can be overwhelming and stressful.
Myth: Boys, in particular, don’t get sad or nostalgic about change.
Fact: Instead of tears, they may show stress through irritability, withdrawal, or using substances.
Myth: If your son or daughter seems excited, they can’t be nervous.
Fact: Excitement and anxiety often exist side by side during big transitions. Even BIG fun can equal BIG stress.
Myth: They’ll figure it out on their own.
Fact: Guidance, reassurance, and structure help him feel supported in uncertain times.
Myth: Once the transition is over, the stress disappears.
Fact: Adjusting takes time—support may be needed long after the change happens.
Contact Us for a Free Phone Consultation About Life Transitions
Call us at (703) 691-0036 or fill in our easy contact form.