Peri/Menopause

To Empower Women

Affinity Psychology specialises in providing compassionate and effective psychological therapy for women struggling with the Peri/menopause transition. Our mission is to empower women to understand and manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and thrive through the menopause transition and beyond.

Not all women will suffer from debilitating challenges during this transition. Some women experience confusion and angst about their shifting narrative and roles within their family, as well as society’s negative views about aging. For many they feel as if something is “just not quite right” and miss the cherished parts of themselves they may have lost along the way of raising children, tending to a career or caring for aging parents. For many women over a third of their lives is spent after menopause. We wish to create a space for women to find a new purpose. We can help empower you to the path to your true self and the unexplored adventures ahead.

What is Peri/Menopause?

Perimenopause and menopause are natural biological processes that occur in people with ovaries as they age. The perimenopausal transition begins when estrogen production begins to falter leading to an array of physical and psychological symptoms from irregular menstrual cycles, hot flushes to mood changes, rage, brain fog, anxiety, depression and feeling “not quite myself.”

Menopause officially occurs one year after the last menstrual cycle and on average occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 at around 51, however it can occur earlier or later. Perimenopause is the time between the start of “stuttering” estrogen levels and menopause and can last for 7-10 years. As such, it would still be considered “normal” for a woman to experience symptoms in her 30’s. The symptoms of perimenopause and the interplay of environmental and psychological stressors at this time can have profound effects on mental health, self-concept and quality of life.

Mental Health Issues Associated with Perimenopause/ Menopause

As discussed, perimenopause and menopause can cause an array of physical symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats, but they can also have an impact on mental health. Some of these issues may include:

Mood Changes: Mood changes are often reported during the menopause transition and include irritability, anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Insomnia: Sleep disturbances are common during perimenopause and insomnia and can contribute to feelings of irritability, overwhelm and anxiety.
Depression: Anyone undergoing the menopause transition may be at an increased risk for a menopausal depression or a recurrence/escalation of depression, due to hormonal changes and other factors such as life stressors and changes in social roles. Others also experience grief associated with a loss of fertility and aging.
Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Hormonal changes can contribute to feelings of anxiety for the first time or a recurrence/escalation of anxiety and can even lead to panic attacks.
Cognitive Changes: Cognitive changes such as difficulty concentrating, remembering things or a reduction in verbal fluency are also commonly reported during the menopause transition.
Decreased Sex Drive: Changes during this time can also lead to a decreased sex drive, which can have an impact on self-esteem and intimate relationships.

How can we help?

We provide evidence-based psychological therapies that offer a holistic approach to managing the menopausal transition by addressing not only the physical but also the emotional and psychological aspects.

Our mission is to provide compassionate and effective therapy tailored to the unique needs of women navigating the menopausal transition.

Services we offer

Providing psychoeducation, validation and advocacy to women about the biological and psychological changes they may be negotiating.
Navigating emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of loss or identity change.
Managing menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Coping with changes in sexual health and libido.
Addressing relationship dynamics and communication with partners, family members, and friends.
Exploring challenges and feelings of grief and loss related to aging, mortality, and life transitions.
Developing stress reduction, mindfulness and self-compassion practices as well as psychological flexibility and resilience in coping with the various challenges and changes that come with this life stage.

About Leanne

Leanne specialises in women’s mental health and has extensive experience working with women negotiating the menopause transition. As a menopause-informed therapist, she is compassionate, non-judgmental and committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for women to explore their concerns and work toward healing and empowerment.

Learn More About Leanne