Dementia Therapists in Ajax, ON
As a mental health survivor, person living with autism, caregiver to those living with dementia, autism, mental health, and intellectual disabilities I have a personal understanding of many struggles many face.
As individuals living in an often harsh world, often pushed to and fro from external and internal influences, we all will need at some point an anchor to ground ourselves. It should be the right of every individual to have the firm foundation to build on and achieve their greatest potential. We know that we can not grow to become our best selves in a vacuum. Just as building a strong foundation for a building required a group of skilled artisans so too do we as individuals need a strong skilled support network as none of us can succeed alone.
As a mental health survivor, person living with autism, caregiver to those living with dementia, autism, mental health, and intellectual disabilities I have a personal understanding of many struggles many face.
As individuals living in an often harsh world, often pushed to and fro from external and internal influences, we all will need at some point an anchor to ground ourselves. It should be the right of every individual to have the firm foundation to build on and achieve their greatest potential. We know that we can not grow to become our best selves in a vacuum. Just as building a strong foundation for a building required a group of skilled artisans so too do we as individuals need a strong skilled support network as none of us can succeed alone.
Anna Donaldson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1Z (Online Only)
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. You have BIG responsibilities! — With little time and less energy! You may feel pulled in many directions ... as a student, worker, caregiver, provider... You may feel distressed, confused, and empty. You may have lost a sense of connection to who you are and what you want - because of BURNOUT, stress, and overwhelm! I too have felt I was losing control; it can be frightening!
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. You have BIG responsibilities! — With little time and less energy! You may feel pulled in many directions ... as a student, worker, caregiver, provider... You may feel distressed, confused, and empty. You may have lost a sense of connection to who you are and what you want - because of BURNOUT, stress, and overwhelm! I too have felt I was losing control; it can be frightening!
Durham Psychologists is a full service psychology clinic located in Ajax, Ontario. Our highly qualified, registered, and experienced clinicians are happy to help you. Please feel free to have a look at our website and learn more about this reputable clinic.
Durham Psychologists is a full service psychology clinic located in Ajax, Ontario. Our highly qualified, registered, and experienced clinicians are happy to help you. Please feel free to have a look at our website and learn more about this reputable clinic.
In our life journeys, we often face challenges that keep us stuck in unhelpful thoughts, emotions, or behaviours. Past experiences and beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world can hinder our enjoyment of the present and our ability to envision a better future. Although we desire change, knowing how to achieve it can be uncertain. As a psychotherapist, my role is to facilitate your journey, providing guidance to overcome emotional and psychological roadblocks and empowering you to reach your personal goals.
In our life journeys, we often face challenges that keep us stuck in unhelpful thoughts, emotions, or behaviours. Past experiences and beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world can hinder our enjoyment of the present and our ability to envision a better future. Although we desire change, knowing how to achieve it can be uncertain. As a psychotherapist, my role is to facilitate your journey, providing guidance to overcome emotional and psychological roadblocks and empowering you to reach your personal goals.
Successful psychotherapy requires close cooperation between a client seeking change, and an experienced therapist/coach to facilitate that change. I work with individuals, couples, families and expatriates in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. I offer personalized treatment approaches from the fields of clinical counselling, organizational and occupational psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy. As a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I also encourage lifestyle adjustments as part of a holistic treatment designed to help clients cope, and continue onto their path of recovery.
Successful psychotherapy requires close cooperation between a client seeking change, and an experienced therapist/coach to facilitate that change. I work with individuals, couples, families and expatriates in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. I offer personalized treatment approaches from the fields of clinical counselling, organizational and occupational psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy. As a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I also encourage lifestyle adjustments as part of a holistic treatment designed to help clients cope, and continue onto their path of recovery.
Lisa Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
Waitlist for new clients
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide various forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I taught at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide various forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I taught at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
Dharshana Jayapathy
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist , MSW, BSW, BA, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T (Online Only)
As a compassionate therapist using a client-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space for youth, adults, seniors, caregivers, and students to develop the insights, skills, and experiences needed to overcome challenges and make positive changes that last. Using a trauma-informed lens, I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based framework; my treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches.
As a compassionate therapist using a client-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space for youth, adults, seniors, caregivers, and students to develop the insights, skills, and experiences needed to overcome challenges and make positive changes that last. Using a trauma-informed lens, I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based framework; my treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1S (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.
Lindo Bloom Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T (Online Only)
“When you create a difference in someone’s life, you not only impact their life, you impact everyone influenced by them throughout their entire lifetime. No act is ever too small. One by one, that is how to make an ocean rise.’’ - Danielle Doby. I believe that your mental health is the vehicle by which you navigate life successfully; and, as a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, with a Master of Social Work, I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families, experiencing mental health issues as a result of current crises or cycles of unresolved generational trauma.
“When you create a difference in someone’s life, you not only impact their life, you impact everyone influenced by them throughout their entire lifetime. No act is ever too small. One by one, that is how to make an ocean rise.’’ - Danielle Doby. I believe that your mental health is the vehicle by which you navigate life successfully; and, as a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, with a Master of Social Work, I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families, experiencing mental health issues as a result of current crises or cycles of unresolved generational trauma.
Sarah Murugathasan
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1T (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you woke up one day and everything just flipped upside down? When did life begin to feel so heavy and out of balance? Are you finding daily tasks to be challenging and feeling isolated or alone? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsupported? Are you having difficulties managing your stress levels? Has the recent change or upcoming change in your life been causing a great deal of stress, anxiety, anger, and/or sadness? Are you wondering if things will ever get better? I recognize how difficult life can be sometimes, especially during those dark moments with no clear direction in sight.
Do you ever feel like you woke up one day and everything just flipped upside down? When did life begin to feel so heavy and out of balance? Are you finding daily tasks to be challenging and feeling isolated or alone? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsupported? Are you having difficulties managing your stress levels? Has the recent change or upcoming change in your life been causing a great deal of stress, anxiety, anger, and/or sadness? Are you wondering if things will ever get better? I recognize how difficult life can be sometimes, especially during those dark moments with no clear direction in sight.
15 Second Videos
Anna Donaldson
Strength Counselling Services
Lindo Bloom Psychotherapy
More Therapists Nearby
Don't fight to get tested for ADHD. We run ADHD clinics every month, get evaluated and properly diagnosed. Already have ADHD? Join our intensive program, next start date is on June 12, 2024. This next cohort is focused on emotional regulation, because ADHD is more than just not following through, and getting trapped in procrastination. Manage the overstimulation, reduce the rejection sensitivity and anxiety that's so commonly paired with ADHD. We currently have 4 spots remaining.
Don't fight to get tested for ADHD. We run ADHD clinics every month, get evaluated and properly diagnosed. Already have ADHD? Join our intensive program, next start date is on June 12, 2024. This next cohort is focused on emotional regulation, because ADHD is more than just not following through, and getting trapped in procrastination. Manage the overstimulation, reduce the rejection sensitivity and anxiety that's so commonly paired with ADHD. We currently have 4 spots remaining.
Diane M Cassidy
Registered Psychotherapist, RN, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Whitby, ON L1N (Online Only)
Namaste! I provide individual, relationship and marriage counselling, in a nonjudgmental, relaxed environment. Over the last 35 years I have worked with individuals and couples guiding, teaching and helping them by using an eclectic approach, and a variety of different types of modalities depending on the particular needs of my clients. I also provide family mediation and relationship counselling for couples who have split. I am a sex therapist, working with all couples and individuals. I specialize in many areas, as I believe all issues are connected, so to treat problems in isolation is unrealistic and can be short lived.
Namaste! I provide individual, relationship and marriage counselling, in a nonjudgmental, relaxed environment. Over the last 35 years I have worked with individuals and couples guiding, teaching and helping them by using an eclectic approach, and a variety of different types of modalities depending on the particular needs of my clients. I also provide family mediation and relationship counselling for couples who have split. I am a sex therapist, working with all couples and individuals. I specialize in many areas, as I believe all issues are connected, so to treat problems in isolation is unrealistic and can be short lived.
Nature’s Path Healing Center-Neurofeedback
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1M
Hello! My name is Holly, I've been a registered nurse for 23 years and I run a neurofeedback center called Nature’s Path healing center where we believe in holistic healing to end suffering. In today’s fast paced and unpredictable world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and “stuck” in patterns of thinking and behaving that hinder healthy mindsets. It is not unexpected that people are feeling more mentally and physically burnt out and unsure how to move forward to feel more balanced. Neurofeedback supports the brain in developing greater resiliency and flexibility and in general, the mind and body’s capacity for healing.
Hello! My name is Holly, I've been a registered nurse for 23 years and I run a neurofeedback center called Nature’s Path healing center where we believe in holistic healing to end suffering. In today’s fast paced and unpredictable world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and “stuck” in patterns of thinking and behaving that hinder healthy mindsets. It is not unexpected that people are feeling more mentally and physically burnt out and unsure how to move forward to feel more balanced. Neurofeedback supports the brain in developing greater resiliency and flexibility and in general, the mind and body’s capacity for healing.
Rhonda Thompson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1H (Online Only)
At some point in our lives we all struggle with something that feels super heavy and is weighing us down. Is there hurt, anger, grief, regret or relational discord that you haven’t yet made eye contact with or spoken aloud about? It’s my passion and privilege to help you find your way. You don’t need to do it alone. To explore or unpack life's pain and challenges is a courageous step that can lead to meaningful outcomes of growth, healing and a greater sense of wellness. Since each one of us is unique, I intentionally engage in a collaborative approach which respects your individual strengths, experiences and needs.
At some point in our lives we all struggle with something that feels super heavy and is weighing us down. Is there hurt, anger, grief, regret or relational discord that you haven’t yet made eye contact with or spoken aloud about? It’s my passion and privilege to help you find your way. You don’t need to do it alone. To explore or unpack life's pain and challenges is a courageous step that can lead to meaningful outcomes of growth, healing and a greater sense of wellness. Since each one of us is unique, I intentionally engage in a collaborative approach which respects your individual strengths, experiences and needs.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Oshawa, ON L1H (Online Only)
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
30 years of experience working with children ages 5-25 years. I am honest, calm, fair, and a nonjudgmental therapist able to create real and meaningful relationships with children, youth, and their parents. I am a caring, fair, and a results-oriented type of person. I enjoy building a relationship that is honest, fair, empathetic, and positive for my clients because I firmly believe that it is through a supportive and non-judgmental relationship that the healing begins and therapeutic results are delivered. My goal is to help the child heal and learn how to cope with their thoughts and emotions
30 years of experience working with children ages 5-25 years. I am honest, calm, fair, and a nonjudgmental therapist able to create real and meaningful relationships with children, youth, and their parents. I am a caring, fair, and a results-oriented type of person. I enjoy building a relationship that is honest, fair, empathetic, and positive for my clients because I firmly believe that it is through a supportive and non-judgmental relationship that the healing begins and therapeutic results are delivered. My goal is to help the child heal and learn how to cope with their thoughts and emotions
Mind Care Mental Wellness Solutions
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
Welcome! I’m delighted that you’re here, exploring support for your well-being and overall wellness. I’m Loretta, a registered social worker and psychotherapist with extensive experience working with diverse individuals and families. If you feel overwhelmed by caregiving demands, need help managing your mood and intense emotions, or find it difficult to cope with everyday life, I am here to help. Whether you’re navigating life and feeling lost or unsure of your next steps, or you’re seeking ways to regain balance and peace in your life, I am here to offer guidance and support.
Welcome! I’m delighted that you’re here, exploring support for your well-being and overall wellness. I’m Loretta, a registered social worker and psychotherapist with extensive experience working with diverse individuals and families. If you feel overwhelmed by caregiving demands, need help managing your mood and intense emotions, or find it difficult to cope with everyday life, I am here to help. Whether you’re navigating life and feeling lost or unsure of your next steps, or you’re seeking ways to regain balance and peace in your life, I am here to offer guidance and support.
Voice Of Hope Counselling & Wellness Ltd.
Registered Psychotherapist, BTh, MACP, D Min
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1M
Hugh Watkins works alongside a team of medical doctors as a psychotherapist/psychologist and counsellor. He is exuberant, motivating, passionate and has an infectious sense of humor. Hugh wraps a commanding presence around a gentle heart being able to deliver powerful messages that help people overcome the many issues that life may bring their way.
Hugh Watkins works alongside a team of medical doctors as a psychotherapist/psychologist and counsellor. He is exuberant, motivating, passionate and has an infectious sense of humor. Hugh wraps a commanding presence around a gentle heart being able to deliver powerful messages that help people overcome the many issues that life may bring their way.
Hs Therapy Healing Space
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
I know, it feels daunting coming across another profile finding the perfect match. You’re here because of all that heaviness you carry: your life feels like it’s in chaos with the toxic relationships, the soul-sucking career, the trauma that follows you like a shadow - you just feel lost and like you’re drowning. You’re starting to think maybe this is permanent? So when and how can this get better? Don’t worry, we’re not going to slap a self-help book, podcast, or Instagram meme on it. You need your own space and time to process what you're going through, and that is what we are hear for - to start your healing process.
I know, it feels daunting coming across another profile finding the perfect match. You’re here because of all that heaviness you carry: your life feels like it’s in chaos with the toxic relationships, the soul-sucking career, the trauma that follows you like a shadow - you just feel lost and like you’re drowning. You’re starting to think maybe this is permanent? So when and how can this get better? Don’t worry, we’re not going to slap a self-help book, podcast, or Instagram meme on it. You need your own space and time to process what you're going through, and that is what we are hear for - to start your healing process.
Jade Echidime | Therapy For Mothers
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1H
Are you committed to enhancing the quality of your life experiences? Have you finally decided to prioritize your mental health? If you are grappling with challenges related to stress management, depression, anxiety, and past trauma, or are under going significant life transitions? If you are looking to openly engage in self exploration and personal growth than I may be the ideal psychotherapist for you. Clients are provided a secure and supportive environment to delve into and address issues impacting their mental health.
Are you committed to enhancing the quality of your life experiences? Have you finally decided to prioritize your mental health? If you are grappling with challenges related to stress management, depression, anxiety, and past trauma, or are under going significant life transitions? If you are looking to openly engage in self exploration and personal growth than I may be the ideal psychotherapist for you. Clients are provided a secure and supportive environment to delve into and address issues impacting their mental health.
Harmony Mindfulness Therapy Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1C (Online Only)
I chose this profession because I genuinely care about people and have a passion for helping individuals navigate life's difficulties. I offer a safe space for those who are bereaved and need to have their grief and loss witnessed, so they could begin the healing journey. I am trained in EMDR therapy, to aid clients in processing challenging emotions and memories, so that they do not have the same intensity. I also use CBT and DBT approaches, as well as mindfulness practices to helping them understand their emotions and invite them to practice coping strategies that meet their needs.
I chose this profession because I genuinely care about people and have a passion for helping individuals navigate life's difficulties. I offer a safe space for those who are bereaved and need to have their grief and loss witnessed, so they could begin the healing journey. I am trained in EMDR therapy, to aid clients in processing challenging emotions and memories, so that they do not have the same intensity. I also use CBT and DBT approaches, as well as mindfulness practices to helping them understand their emotions and invite them to practice coping strategies that meet their needs.
I am a bilingual Registered Psychotherapist and Professional Art Therapist. I offer both talk and/or art therapy, you get a personalized treatment plan, according to your needs and goals. I utilize art as a means of holistic expression and believe in the potential for positive and continuous growth and change for everyone. I use art/talk therapy to explore/process unpack thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive space. My approach uses Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotions Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills. My thesis on ABI is published with American Art Therapy Association.
I am a bilingual Registered Psychotherapist and Professional Art Therapist. I offer both talk and/or art therapy, you get a personalized treatment plan, according to your needs and goals. I utilize art as a means of holistic expression and believe in the potential for positive and continuous growth and change for everyone. I use art/talk therapy to explore/process unpack thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive space. My approach uses Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotions Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills. My thesis on ABI is published with American Art Therapy Association.
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Whitby, ON L1N (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.
See more therapy options for Ajax
Nearby Dementia Counsellors Searches for Ajax
- Aurora
- Markham
- North York
- Oshawa
- Pickering
- Port Perry
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Toronto
- Vaughan
- Whitby
Dementia 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.