Adjustment Issues – Psychology & Assessment
Life is full of changes, starting a new job, moving house, becoming a parent, retiring, or experiencing a relationship change. Even positive changes can bring stress. When these transitions feel overwhelming, disruptive, or emotionally exhausting, you might be experiencing adjustment issues.
Adjustment difficulties aren’t a sign of weakness, they’re a normal reaction when life feels unfamiliar, uncertain, or out of balance. With the right support, you can navigate these changes and find your footing again.
In psychology, adjustment issues describe the challenges people face when adapting to significant life changes or stressful events. These issues can manifest as emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms, often leading to impaired daily functioning.
Common Signs of Adjustment Issues
Adjustment issues can affect your emotions, behaviour, and physical health. You might notice:
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Feeling sad, anxious, or easily frustrated
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Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite
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Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
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Trouble concentrating or making decisions
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Withdrawing from friends, family, or social events
If these feelings last for weeks or months and interfere with daily life, it’s worth seeking professional support.
Common Triggers
Adjustment issues can arise after:
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Career changes or job loss
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Relocation or moving away from support networks
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Relationship changes – separation, divorce, or becoming a parent
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Health concerns or a new diagnosis
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Loss of a loved one
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Retirement or other major lifestyle shifts
Our Psychologists & Counsellors for Adjustment Issues & Life Transitions
How We Can Help
Our registered psychologists and counsellors use evidence-based, person-centred approaches designed to help you adapt with resilience. Our support may include:
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Therapeutic strategies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques to help manage emotions and build coping skills.
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Psychoeducation about stress, adjustment, and emotional wellbeing, helping you understand your reactions and regain a sense of control.
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Practical problem-solving tools to manage change more effectively and confidently.
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Communication and relationship support to strengthen personal and professional connections during times of transition.
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Strengths-focused planning to help you rebuild balance and purpose in daily life.
Who We Support
We provide compassionate support for people at all stages of life as they navigate living with such issues:
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Adults, teens, and children adjusting to new life circumstances
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People with or without a formal diagnosis
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Families and couples experiencing shared transitions
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Individuals seeking short-term or ongoing support
Whether anxiety is new for you or something you’ve been living with for years, we’re here to help.
Find the right Psychologist for you
Our find a psychologist search tool allows you to easily find a psychologist or counsellor, tailored to your area of concern, your preferred language and the location that might be closest to you.
Frequently asked questions
Are adjustment issues treatable?
Yes — with targeted therapy and coping strategies, most people notice improvement within weeks to months.
Can I see a psychologist online?
Yes. We offer secure telehealth (video call & phone call) appointments.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A GP referral is required, especially if you want to claim your Medicare rebate.
However, if you are seeking support privately and are happy to pay the full fee yourself (without claiming Medicare), you do not need a referral.
Do I need to bring someone with me?
For clients under 18: Only parents or caregivers may attend.
For clients 18 and over: You may attend alone or bring a parent, caregiver, spouse/partner, or someone who knows you well.
What age groups do you work with?
We support children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring strategies to the developmental stage and individual needs.
Can you help if I have other mental health concerns too?
Absolutely — our psychologists can support adjustment issues alongside other challenges such as anxiety, depression, ASD, or ADHD.
