ADULTS

Behavioral Problems

• cannot channel their energy and creativity in ways that develop their talents and abilities
• acquire rituals, phobias or avoidant behaviors because they feel helpless in difficult situations
• act passively or aggressively because they cannot control their actions
• are restless or cannot concentrate because they have not acquired the skills to maintain confidence and calmness
• turn to self-injury as a way to numb out or self-soothe
• abuse drugs or alcohol to feel better because they are depressed or anxious or traumatized
• develop eating disorders as a way to manage difficult feelings they cannot verbalize
• engage in internet addictions

Occupational Problems

• struggle to achieve workplace goals
• cannot participate effectively as a team member in a work group
• fail to perform to their potential because they are preoccupied with thoughts or feelings
• are disciplined for high absenteeism, poor time management or continued and repeated job performance errors

Adult life is a time of continuous change and opportunity.  It includes many variations on the same themes: a satisfying career or job loss; family commitments or divorce; friendship or isolation; illness or health. 

Regardless of where an adult is in their life cycle, different problems will arise: interpersonal, emotional, behavioral and occupational.  Such problems can interfere with an adult's sense of well-being and capacity for development and growth. When these challenges do not resolve with time and support from family and friends, professional assistance can be effective.

Interpersonal Problems

• feel confused about their identity
• are uncertain about future goals
• do not know how to develop or maintain relationships
• engage in conflict with others at work, in the family or community
• withdraw from social relationships
• cannot find productive ways to express their feelings to others

Emotional Problems

• feel very unhappy, worried or frightened for reasons they cannot explain
• have been exposed to overwhelming, stressful situations that tax their ability to cope
• have negative attitudes toward themselves and cannot feel good about who they are, even though others can observe their obvious talents and abilities