Quarterlife Center - Counseling for Young Adults

Melissa* is a 35-year-old single woman living alone in her condo in the city. Her biological family consists of only her father who lives in another state. Melissa is an only child, and her mother died several years ago.   Before the pandemic, she had a vibrant social life with her neighbors, coworkers, and friends. She regularly hosted dinner parties and relatives visiting from out of town. Since the pandemic, she reports feeling isolated and lonely. Despite having a solid social network, she hasn’t found anyone to bubble with. Many of her married friends have created COVID bubbles with their spouses and kids. Her single friends have left the city to stay with siblings or parents. If you’ve ever taken a psychology class, you’re familiar with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. It’s a motivational theory comprised of a five-tiered model of human needs. Right in the middle of it is the need to feel a sense of belonging. One way that people do this is by being part of a family. Quarterlifer...

“The experience of pregnancy and the postpartum period can feel overwhelming and isolating, even in the best circumstances. Pregnant and postpartum moms are now even more likely to experience mental health challenges as they try to navigate huge life adjustments during a global pandemic. Family and friends that were once able to offer support might be unable to, places that once offered opportunities for socialization and self-care (gym, yoga studios, restaurants, movie theatres etc.) are closed, and new moms are concerned about their health and the health of their babies. While we are certainly living in an unprecedented time, here are a few tips for making this time a little more bearable. If you have older kids at home,  click here   for some tips on parenting during the pandemic .” 1. Connect with Others While options for in-person socialization might be limited, there are lots of ways to remain connected virtually with family and friends. Try to talk with at least 2 diffe...

Are you thinking about taking your relationship to the next level? Have you started talking to each other about marriage? Are you already engaged and planning your wedding? As you prepare for your future together, our QLC counselors are here to support and guide you toward a successful, satisfying marriage. Our premarital counseling typically is 3-6 sessions, depending on the needs of the couple. While there are common topics that we address in premarital counseling, the sessions will be tailored to your specific needs and goals. These are some of the areas that we’ll help you explore in premarital counseling: Emotional intimacy and connection Communication Love languages Conflict resolution Sexuality Finances Building Trust Childrearing Religion/Spirituality Relationships with In-laws Relationships with Friends Career and work-life Balance Virtual Support Groups During the Pandemic QLC’s virtual support groups are designed with quarterlifers in mind and are facilitated by a QLC therap...

Molly  is a licensed clinical social worker in Washington, D.C., where she works with quarterlifers and other adults. Her specialties are college and graduate students, young professionals, career-changers, expatriates, and adult third culture kids. She values collaborative relationships with her clients in which they leverage each client’s unique strengths and life experiences to help create a more satisfying and fulfilling life. Having made a significant change in her own career to become a therapist, Molly understands firsthand what it is like to explore various career options. She has spent significant time studying and living abroad, and these experiences have enhanced her work with international clients. Education MSW, Catholic University of America BA, Whitman College Advanced Training The Washington School of Psychiatry Licenses Licensed Clinical Social Worker Washington, D.C., LICSW Virginia, LCSW Languages Spanish English Personally Speaking-  “I am passionate about ...

The experience of pregnancy and the postpartum period can feel overwhelming and isolating, even in the best circumstances. Pregnant and postpartum moms are now even more likely to experience mental health challenges as they try to navigate huge life adjustments during a global pandemic. Family and friends that were once able to offer support might be unable to, places that once offered opportunities for socialization and self-care (gym, yoga studios, restaurants, movie theatres etc.) are closed, and new moms are concerned about their health and the health of their babies. While we are certainly living in an unprecedented time, here are a few tips for making this time a little more bearable. 1. Connect with Others While options for in-person socialization might be limited, there are lots of ways to remain connected virtually with family and friends. Try to talk with at least 2 different people each day, prioritizing people who have been good supports for you in the past or cur...

The experience of pregnancy and the postpartum period can feel overwhelming and isolating, even in the best circumstances. Pregnant and postpartum moms are now even more likely to experience mental health challenges as they try to navigate huge life adjustments during a global pandemic. Family and friends that were once able to offer support might be unable to, places that once offered opportunities for socialization and self-care (gym, yoga studios, restaurants, movie theatres etc.) are closed, and new moms are concerned about their health and the health of their babies. While we are certainly living in an unprecedented time, here are a few tips for making this time a little more bearable. 1. Connect with Others While options for in-person socialization might be limited, there are lots of ways to remain connected virtually with family and friends. Try to talk with at least 2 different people each day, prioritizing people who have been good supports for you in the past or cur...