Beyond Hot Flashes: Counselling for Improved Mental Health in Perimenopause
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Authors
Arreaga, Lucia
Issue Date
2024-07
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
perimenopause , psychotherapy , women's health , systemic barriers
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone explores the role of counsellors in the support and empowerment of women in perimenopause, a population that is currently vastly underserved. The paper highlights the significant impact on individuals' quality of life and broader economic implications, including a $3.5b annual cost to the Canadian economy resulting from inadequate research, systemic barriers, and societal stigmas. The paper summarizes existing research through feminist, social-constructivist, and existential-humanistic therapeutic frameworks. The research includes an exploration of the presenting problem, evidence-based therapies for managing symptoms, and best practices for counselling perimenopausal clients through psychoeducation, resilience-building, lifestyle support and interdisciplinary care. The capstone presents with a three-pronged approach to counselling perimenopausal clients and concludes by highlighting the need for continued research and increased awareness among individuals, counsellors, and policy makers to address gaps in perimenopause care.