What if the mood swings, night sweats, anxiety, and brain fog aren’t “just you”—but a totally normal phase no one taught you to expect? In this candid conversation, Erin Brandt (sex educator turned counseling intern) and Lurah Patrick (graduate counseling intern) name what perimenopause really is, how it shows up from the mid-30s onward, and why so many women get misdiagnosed or dismissed.

We unpack:

• Perimenopause vs. menopause vs. post-menopause (clear definitions and timelines)
• Why labs can be inconclusive—and what to track instead
• The mental health angle: when symptoms mimic anxiety or depression
• Medical advocacy that works when you’re not being heard
• Hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, and informed choice
• Grief, identity shifts, and the surprising upsides (freedom, community, “zero F’s” energy)

Join the group: The Pause (Peri/Menopause Support)

Eight weeks of education, symptom-tracking tools, and real community—led by Erin & Lurah. Start with a free, no-pressure consult.

Explore all Her Time Therapy groups

Short on time or curious about other options? See what’s running now and find your fit.

Work 1:1 with today’s guests

• Meet Lurah Patrick & request a consult
  
  
• Meet Erin Brandt & request a consult

Resources mentioned

• MIDI Health (virtual midlife women’s care)
• Winona (telehealth menopause care)

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