Navigating The Seasonal Shift

Nestled in the heart of NYC’s West Village, the therapists at Atrium Psychotherapy invite you on a journey of self-discovery and emotional exploration. "Couch Chronicles" is more than just a column; it's a tapestry of human experiences, woven with tales of growth, transformation, love, and loss.

Each installment offers fresh insights and reflections from their professional and personal lives in one of the world's most dynamic cities. Whether you're seeking guidance, inspiration, or a deeper understanding of the intricate world of psychotherapy, "Couch Chronicles" promises to be a beacon of light and learning.

As the last warm rays of summer fade and the days start to shorten, I find myself in a familiar yet slightly unsettling place. With its long days and unpredictable schedule, summer has been both a blessing and a challenge. It's a season that promises relaxation but often delivers chaos — especially when you're juggling multiple roles. As a therapy intern, an instructor at FIT, and a freelance designer, my summer has been a whirlwind of projects, leaving me yearning for the structure that fall inevitably brings. But with that structure comes a new set of anxieties that make you question whether you're ready for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Like many of us, I found myself searching for meaning during the COVID-19 outbreak. After nearly a decade in fashion, I started to feel a desire for a deeper connection in my work. That's when I decided to pursue a graduate degree in marriage and family therapy, a field that allows me to explore human connection in a much more personal way. Part of my training now includes working at a private practice, Atrium Psychotherapy in New York City’s West Village, where I gain hands-on experience with clients under the supervision of a licensed therapist. It's been an incredible journey, one that's helped shape how I view both life and the seasonal transitions we all face.
In this post, I want to explore that transition — from the carefree chaos of summer to the more deliberate pace of fall — through the lens of both personal experience and therapeutic insight.

Summer has always been a paradoxical time for me. On the one hand, it's a season synonymous with freedom — the kind of freedom that allows for spontaneous plans, late nights, and the occasional disregard for routine. But this summer, I was caught in the tension between that freedom and the need to maintain some semblance of order. Juggling my internship, teaching responsibilities, and freelance work meant that my days were anything but predictable. Some days were filled with back-to-back meetings, while others were unexpectedly quiet, leaving me scrambling to catch up on projects I had pushed aside.

This lack of routine, while liberating in some ways, also became a source of stress. It's a shared experience during summer — a season that often promises rest but can also deliver a kind of chaotic energy that's hard to harness. Just like we wear fewer clothes in the summer, adding to that carefree feeling, the looseness and minimalism in our schedules mirror the season's lightness. But with that also comes unpredictability and a lack of structure, which, over time, can take its toll on mental health. Even something as simple as choosing what to wear each day became a reflection of that chaos. My summer wardrobe, filled with breezy, unplanned purchases, mirrored the season's unpredictability — pieces thrown together in a more reactive than intentional way.

As fall approaches, there's a palpable shift — not just in the weather but in the atmosphere of daily life. The change in seasons brings with it a mix of emotions. On the one hand, there's excitement for new beginnings, the return of structure, and the opportunity to refocus on long-term goals. On the other, there's a nagging sense of anxiety, a feeling that this season demands more from us — more organization, more planning, more intentionality.

This emotional response to the changing seasons is something I see often in my work as a therapy intern. The transition from summer to fall can trigger what's known as seasonal anxiety, a phenomenon where the shift in weather and daily routines can lead to feelings of stress or unease. It's not just about the cooler temperatures or shorter days; it's about the expectations that come with fall. There's pressure to get back on track, be productive, and make the most of the opportunities.

In the fashion world, this transition is reflected in how we dress. Gone are the carefree summer outfits; fall fashion is all about layers, richer tones, and a return to more deliberate choices. Just as we prepare our wardrobes for the cooler weather, we also need to prepare ourselves mentally for the changes that fall brings. It's a season that asks us to be more mindful, to plan ahead, and to embrace the structure that summer often lacks.

One of the biggest challenges of the fall transition is managing time effectively. With so many responsibilities — whether it's work, school, or personal projects — it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why it's crucial to establish a routine that works for you. This means setting priorities and sticking to a schedule that allows for both productivity and self-care. One strategy I recommend is to break your day into manageable chunks, focusing on one task at a time rather than trying to juggle everything at once.

Mindfulness practices can also be incredibly helpful during this time. Something as simple as taking a few minutes each morning to set an intention for the day can make a big difference. For instance, starting my day with a short meditation or a mindful walk helps me to center myself and approach my tasks with a clearer mind. It's about creating a space where you can be present, even amidst the busyness of the season. Incorporating self-care into your routine is another essential practice. This doesn't have to be anything elaborate; it can be as simple as setting aside time for a hobby, connecting with friends, or even just making sure you're getting enough sleep. During my busiest days, I make it a point to have a morning ritual — a cup of coffee in a quiet space where I can gather my thoughts before diving into the day's demands. In the evenings, I unwind with a book or a favorite TV show, giving myself permission to relax and recharge.

Fashion has always been more than just clothing to me; it's a way of communicating who I am and how I feel, especially during times of transition. As we move into fall, our wardrobe choices can reflect our readiness to embrace change or our desire to hold onto the ease of summer. I find that dressing intentionally during this time helps me feel more in control, even when everything else seems uncertain.

For example, the shift to fall often brings out richer colors and layers — pieces that feel more grounded and purposeful. These choices aren't just about staying warm; they're about signaling a readiness for the season's demands. When I wear a well-chosen outfit, I tell myself, "I've got this." It's a small but powerful way to boost my confidence and align my mindset with the season's challenges.

I encourage readers to think about their own fashion choices as a form of self-expression and self-care. What you wear can influence how you feel and approach your day. By being intentional with your wardrobe, you can use fashion as a tool to navigate the anxieties of the season, making it not just about style but about well-being.

As we stand on the brink of a new season, it's natural to feel excitement and anxiety. Fall is a time of transition, new beginnings, and opportunities to grow. But it's also a time that requires us to be more mindful, to plan ahead, and to take care of ourselves in the process. Whether establishing a routine, practicing self-care, or using fashion as a form of communication, there are ways to make this seasonal shift smoother and more intentional.
As I navigate this transition myself, I'm reminded of the importance of seeking support when needed. If you're finding the change overwhelming, consider reaching out to a therapist who can help you manage these feelings and set yourself up for a successful season. Let's embrace the season with all its challenges and opportunities, knowing we have the tools to navigate it confidently and carefully.