> I valued the stability and mentorship my partners had from their life experience.

Not to "therapize," but you're basically trying to recreate the sense of emotional safety you didn't get in your childhood. This isn't at all uncommon for people who grow up with neglectful parents; it creates a void and something has to fill it.

I definitely think therapy is the way to go here. It sounds like these relationships haven't been too damaging so far, but every time you get involved with a much older man you're gambling on him not being the type to take advantage of this craving for stability and guidance to control you.