Dementia Therapists in Kelowna, BC
![Photo of Judith Adams - Judith Adams Counselling, RPC, RTC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0ee4b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judith Adams Counselling
Counsellor, RPC, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y (Online Only)
I specialize in the psychological and emotional aspects of : Anxiety, Caring for People with Dementia, Chronic Illness, Living with an Ostomy, Parenting Children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Pregnancy, Birthing and Motherhood, and Relationship Crisis and Marital Breakdown.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada and a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association. I counsel individuals who struggle with anxiety caused by health, relationships, parenting or caregiving issues. My approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My professional experience includes teaching and caregiving roles. I have cared for elders with dementia and provided customized sessions to improve their cognition. As a Homestay provider, I hosted 49 international students. I have raised four children.
I specialize in the psychological and emotional aspects of : Anxiety, Caring for People with Dementia, Chronic Illness, Living with an Ostomy, Parenting Children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Pregnancy, Birthing and Motherhood, and Relationship Crisis and Marital Breakdown.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada and a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association. I counsel individuals who struggle with anxiety caused by health, relationships, parenting or caregiving issues. My approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My professional experience includes teaching and caregiving roles. I have cared for elders with dementia and provided customized sessions to improve their cognition. As a Homestay provider, I hosted 49 international students. I have raised four children.
![Photo of Terri-Lynn Kent, MSW, RSW, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8c89e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Terri-Lynn and I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance as you navigate your current challenges. I will strive to create a safe, relaxed and healing space for you to tell your story and to collaborate with you towards the development of strategies to reach your goals. To assist you with this therapeutic process, I will draw upon my 20+ years of clinical experience in health care, having worked closely with individuals and families living with dementia, cancer, persistent pain, developmental disabilities, conflict, stress, loss, anxiety, depression, and marital separation.
Hello! My name is Terri-Lynn and I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance as you navigate your current challenges. I will strive to create a safe, relaxed and healing space for you to tell your story and to collaborate with you towards the development of strategies to reach your goals. To assist you with this therapeutic process, I will draw upon my 20+ years of clinical experience in health care, having worked closely with individuals and families living with dementia, cancer, persistent pain, developmental disabilities, conflict, stress, loss, anxiety, depression, and marital separation.
![Photo of Robyn Springer, RCC, MACP, BScN, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb716e65-c561-47ea-a750-1e94c01e66a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help teens, young adults and parents whose life feels limited by past experiences, shame, self criticism, anxiety and/or depression. Whether you are looking for short term counselling (emotional support and some help to get back on your feet), more in depth therapy (changing longer existing patterns of how you behave and relate with yourself and others), or emotional intelligence coaching (to improve yourself personally or professionally), I can help. My clients are from very varied backgrounds and ages, however I do specialize in working with health care professionals, first responders, and young adults.
I help teens, young adults and parents whose life feels limited by past experiences, shame, self criticism, anxiety and/or depression. Whether you are looking for short term counselling (emotional support and some help to get back on your feet), more in depth therapy (changing longer existing patterns of how you behave and relate with yourself and others), or emotional intelligence coaching (to improve yourself personally or professionally), I can help. My clients are from very varied backgrounds and ages, however I do specialize in working with health care professionals, first responders, and young adults.
![Photo of Alexandria Rich, BSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cc17312-0af4-454a-a28f-62d7f8e1cbe3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there and welcome!! My name is Alexandria and I am a Registered Social Worker. I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance through any challenging life experience you are currently facing. My specializations include: Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Psychopathic Disorder. Alexandria feels many individuals and/or counsellors do not truly understand the magnitude of the damage and devastating effect on others that personality disorders create. Through personal experience she has gained a greater understanding and compassion for those impacted.
Hello there and welcome!! My name is Alexandria and I am a Registered Social Worker. I would welcome the opportunity to offer you support and guidance through any challenging life experience you are currently facing. My specializations include: Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Psychopathic Disorder. Alexandria feels many individuals and/or counsellors do not truly understand the magnitude of the damage and devastating effect on others that personality disorders create. Through personal experience she has gained a greater understanding and compassion for those impacted.
![Photo of Julie Morgan - Making Strides Counselling and Wellness , RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb4b47d-9f45-4f97-bea5-da18e615433b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Making Strides Counselling and Wellness
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, insecure, angry, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling to feel balanced, to manage your stress and build healthier relationships? Are you lost or stuck on the road to what you know deep down is your true self and best life? Imagine how far you could go and how easy it would be if you turned your steps into strides. As a registered social worker with over 15 years of counselling experience, it begins by you pushing aside the stigmas of mental health, reaching out for support, and confronting your fears. I am here to guide you along that path that most of us find confusing and overwhelming.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, insecure, angry, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling to feel balanced, to manage your stress and build healthier relationships? Are you lost or stuck on the road to what you know deep down is your true self and best life? Imagine how far you could go and how easy it would be if you turned your steps into strides. As a registered social worker with over 15 years of counselling experience, it begins by you pushing aside the stigmas of mental health, reaching out for support, and confronting your fears. I am here to guide you along that path that most of us find confusing and overwhelming.
![Photo of Blaine Croy, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/627e4b4b-2524-423d-9120-fe5bb2300151/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or challenging thoughts which impact your ability to manage the demands of daily living, relationships, work, career, or your ability to function? Do you often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, ambivalent, indifferent, lost, or angry. Are you finding it difficult to live up to the expectations of others or your own high standards? Does this make it difficult for you to act according to your values and live the life you want? Our modern society is fast paced, virtually-linked, and for many socially disconnected. I believe one can live a meaningful and purpose filled life even in our era.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, or challenging thoughts which impact your ability to manage the demands of daily living, relationships, work, career, or your ability to function? Do you often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, ambivalent, indifferent, lost, or angry. Are you finding it difficult to live up to the expectations of others or your own high standards? Does this make it difficult for you to act according to your values and live the life you want? Our modern society is fast paced, virtually-linked, and for many socially disconnected. I believe one can live a meaningful and purpose filled life even in our era.
![Photo of Amanda Morazain, CCC, RCC, MACP, BA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d66b6f7-3c28-403c-839f-dc8d4d2d4dce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many of us feel stuck in our daily lives, not knowing exactly how to get the progress that we want. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can hold us back from where we deserve to be and can negatively affect our well-being and relationships. Children and youth may need some guidance and help navigating different life transitions. No two people are the same and it is my goal to help you recognize your own unique strengths, integrating a case-specific approach to create your unique therapy plan. I am here to offer mental health support in a non-judgemental, friendly, and compassionate space.
Many of us feel stuck in our daily lives, not knowing exactly how to get the progress that we want. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can hold us back from where we deserve to be and can negatively affect our well-being and relationships. Children and youth may need some guidance and help navigating different life transitions. No two people are the same and it is my goal to help you recognize your own unique strengths, integrating a case-specific approach to create your unique therapy plan. I am here to offer mental health support in a non-judgemental, friendly, and compassionate space.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39bc8d72-a331-4f1e-8e0e-2b3bb29d6ca4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
![Photo of Dolores Gooliaff, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5198002c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dolores is passionate about working with individuals whom have experienced any form of trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, workplace bullying, grief & loss, expected and unexpected life and health transitions. Dolores also enjoys working with couples experiencing difficulties in their relationships and is experienced in supporting couples through family and relationship challenges.
Dolores is passionate about working with individuals whom have experienced any form of trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/abuse, workplace bullying, grief & loss, expected and unexpected life and health transitions. Dolores also enjoys working with couples experiencing difficulties in their relationships and is experienced in supporting couples through family and relationship challenges.
![Photo of Virginie Fostroy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b1c5d9f-3d47-49cf-9d66-a5ab99e2fed3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a neuroqueer Latina therapist with European ancestry who immigrated to Canada over a decade ago. I firmly believe that therapy must take context and systems of oppression into account in order to be helpful. If this is your first time seeking therapy, I may be a particularly good fit for you as I am passionate about translating knowledge and teaching skills in a client-centered manner. I offer therapy in English, French, Spanish, and any combination thereof (e.g. spanglish). If you often feel like other people were given an instruction manual for life that you didn’t receive, I might be able to help you bridge the gap.
I am a neuroqueer Latina therapist with European ancestry who immigrated to Canada over a decade ago. I firmly believe that therapy must take context and systems of oppression into account in order to be helpful. If this is your first time seeking therapy, I may be a particularly good fit for you as I am passionate about translating knowledge and teaching skills in a client-centered manner. I offer therapy in English, French, Spanish, and any combination thereof (e.g. spanglish). If you often feel like other people were given an instruction manual for life that you didn’t receive, I might be able to help you bridge the gap.
![Photo of Jennifer Wright - Kelowna Brain Sciences, MSc , CHMC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3070d4ab-6b3a-4e1e-b74b-19b3207b8915/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelowna Brain Sciences uses proven, state-of-the-art technology to optimize brain function and improve overall wellbeing. All of our treatment protocols are designed and supervised by Registered Clinical Counsellors who prepare an integrated, comprehensive treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
Kelowna Brain Sciences uses proven, state-of-the-art technology to optimize brain function and improve overall wellbeing. All of our treatment protocols are designed and supervised by Registered Clinical Counsellors who prepare an integrated, comprehensive treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
15 Second Videos
Making Strides Counselling and Wellness
Amanda Morazain
Strength Counselling Services
Marie Martin
Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr
Courtney Doherty Counselling
Paula Villela Nunes
Crystal Munegatto
![Photo of Marie Martin, BMsc, RPC, NLP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7083e8ba-d5b4-437c-b0f4-02632fe8f07c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counselling, Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Conversational Intelligence & other modalities. Therapy for trauma, abuse, addictive behaviours, PTSD. Excellence Communication Skills Counselling to be the best version and have the best version of your relationships, personal, business & family. Marie Martin is the author of modality and book Metatron's Code available on Amazon. (Additional certificates: Master NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Practitioner & Certified Communications Specialist Certified Hypnosis Practitioner & Quantum, BrainSpotting, Conversational Intelligence Neuroscience)
Counselling, Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Conversational Intelligence & other modalities. Therapy for trauma, abuse, addictive behaviours, PTSD. Excellence Communication Skills Counselling to be the best version and have the best version of your relationships, personal, business & family. Marie Martin is the author of modality and book Metatron's Code available on Amazon. (Additional certificates: Master NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Practitioner & Certified Communications Specialist Certified Hypnosis Practitioner & Quantum, BrainSpotting, Conversational Intelligence Neuroscience)
![Photo of Lisa Moore - Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e917159c-5aea-4b38-b0a6-54fc5c18036b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1X
Lisa's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
Lisa's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
![Photo of April C Byers, MSc, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddad9bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can bring interesting challenges. Usually we can manage on our own, but sometimes having a trained professional to offer support and guidance helps to identify solutions and allows us to move forward. I am a registered psychologist trained in the areas of neuroscience, assessment, counselling, and community rehabilitation and disability studies. I also have training in school psychology and also have an in-depth background in neurological disease/injury, family mediation, conflict resolution, developmental/complex trauma, and mood disorders. I also provide therapy and/or education for parents, kids and extended family members who are experiencing separation and divorce.
Life can bring interesting challenges. Usually we can manage on our own, but sometimes having a trained professional to offer support and guidance helps to identify solutions and allows us to move forward. I am a registered psychologist trained in the areas of neuroscience, assessment, counselling, and community rehabilitation and disability studies. I also have training in school psychology and also have an in-depth background in neurological disease/injury, family mediation, conflict resolution, developmental/complex trauma, and mood disorders. I also provide therapy and/or education for parents, kids and extended family members who are experiencing separation and divorce.
![Photo of Christina Fenske - Orchard Valley Counselling Services , RSW, BA, Cert, Hons, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3f9814-5275-42bd-9d65-4b4382c83604/4/320x400.jpeg)
Orchard Valley Counselling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, BA, Cert, Hons, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! Do you want to reclaim your life, break free from the grip of anxiety, or depression, trauma, to find balance and fulfillment in your personal and professional life. Are you seeking understanding, validation, and practical strategies to cope with your challenges and thrive in spite of them. As your therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring my interventions to meet your unique needs and goals.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! Do you want to reclaim your life, break free from the grip of anxiety, or depression, trauma, to find balance and fulfillment in your personal and professional life. Are you seeking understanding, validation, and practical strategies to cope with your challenges and thrive in spite of them. As your therapist, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring my interventions to meet your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Jennifer Wright - Columbia River Counselling and Neurofeedback, MSc, CMHC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/686540c2-388f-44fd-befa-1fda95c2ae86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Columbia River Counselling and Neurofeedback
Counsellor, MSc, CMHC, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
I have a Masters degree of Science in Mental Health Counselling and am registered with the BBCACC as a RCC. I am certified in traumatic stress studies, Neurofeedback, & HeartMath Biofeedback. I have completed basic (EMDR) training and advanced training in EMDR for suicidal clients and self-harming behaviours as well as complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. I employ evidenced based modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma focused sensorimotor psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and Neurofeedback. In my practice there are two counsellors, two neurofeedback technicians and a therapy dog (St. Bernard).
I have a Masters degree of Science in Mental Health Counselling and am registered with the BBCACC as a RCC. I am certified in traumatic stress studies, Neurofeedback, & HeartMath Biofeedback. I have completed basic (EMDR) training and advanced training in EMDR for suicidal clients and self-harming behaviours as well as complex PTSD and dissociative disorders. I employ evidenced based modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma focused sensorimotor psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and Neurofeedback. In my practice there are two counsellors, two neurofeedback technicians and a therapy dog (St. Bernard).
![Photo of Courtney Doherty - Courtney Doherty Counselling, MCP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa04854b-73c2-4472-a238-6162881facc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and supported environment to be able to open up in. that they feel safe and supported to open up. I try to provide an open space so that you feel accepted and comfortable with me as your therapist. I am passionate about working with people and guiding them toward their personal goals. I know I can help you to strengthen your ability to cope effectively with life's challenges so that you can feel more fulfilling and balanced life.
My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and supported environment to be able to open up in. that they feel safe and supported to open up. I try to provide an open space so that you feel accepted and comfortable with me as your therapist. I am passionate about working with people and guiding them toward their personal goals. I know I can help you to strengthen your ability to cope effectively with life's challenges so that you can feel more fulfilling and balanced life.
![Photo of Paula Villela Nunes, MD, PhD, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6cfa9d9-674e-423d-ae97-ceaa38f0cc69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to a transformative counseling experience with me. Here, you'll find a warm and accepting space to openly share your experiences and work towards achieving your therapeutic goals. With over 20 years of experience in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, I will tailor my counselling knowledge to your unique needs. I have extensive expertise in treating individuals dealing with co-morbid psychiatric conditions. I can help you understand the effects of medication on your mental health and explore additional strategies to support your recovery. Together, we can navigate these complexities and work towards a better living.
Welcome to a transformative counseling experience with me. Here, you'll find a warm and accepting space to openly share your experiences and work towards achieving your therapeutic goals. With over 20 years of experience in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, I will tailor my counselling knowledge to your unique needs. I have extensive expertise in treating individuals dealing with co-morbid psychiatric conditions. I can help you understand the effects of medication on your mental health and explore additional strategies to support your recovery. Together, we can navigate these complexities and work towards a better living.
![Photo of Crystal Munegatto, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd07986d-e9cc-4778-b18f-0954f458b36e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Munegatto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P (Online Only)
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - ONLINE ONLY** Life can be unpredictable and challenging, which often causes uncomfortable emotions, anxiety, and changes in mood. This is also common when we transition though different stages of life, and it can impact our self-identity. This is really common as we age into new phases of life and our roles, responsibilities, and expectations change. Not only are these life events challenging for us, they are challenging for the people around us to adapt to as well.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - ONLINE ONLY** Life can be unpredictable and challenging, which often causes uncomfortable emotions, anxiety, and changes in mood. This is also common when we transition though different stages of life, and it can impact our self-identity. This is really common as we age into new phases of life and our roles, responsibilities, and expectations change. Not only are these life events challenging for us, they are challenging for the people around us to adapt to as well.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Megan DeSimone - Megan DeSimone, The Life Balance Counselling, BSW, MSW, RSW, MTC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b5afe77-b7a2-4842-b61c-da07b5e5b004/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan DeSimone, The Life Balance Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW, MTC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lake Country, BC V4V
I have a Bachelor and Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC and over 23 years experience helping others with mental health, addictions, and relationship issues in a variety of health care, community and social service settings. When you come in for counselling support, I start by creating a relaxed atmosphere where you feel safe and reassured that you've found someone who can help you truly face the issues you're experiencing. Sometimes, the stress of life can be overwhelming and your world becomes very narrow.
I have a Bachelor and Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC and over 23 years experience helping others with mental health, addictions, and relationship issues in a variety of health care, community and social service settings. When you come in for counselling support, I start by creating a relaxed atmosphere where you feel safe and reassured that you've found someone who can help you truly face the issues you're experiencing. Sometimes, the stress of life can be overwhelming and your world becomes very narrow.
See more therapy options for Kelowna
Nearby Dementia Counsellors Searches for Kelowna
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See More CounsellorsDementia Counsellors
Can dementia patients benefit from counselling?
Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counselling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counsellors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counsellors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.
How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?
To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.
What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?
There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioural and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.
When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?
It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.