Dementia Counselling in West London, London

Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
West London, London W1J
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia.
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia.
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
020 3962 0179 View 020 3962 0179
Photo of Maya von Spreckelsen, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Maya von Spreckelsen
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
I am an HCPC registered, Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have diverse and extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults (and their families) with complex and enduring mental, neurological and physical health difficulties. I have worked in NHS hospital in-patient and out-patient services, GP practice based mental health services and secondary care mental health services. I have also worked in community mental health teams, counselling services offering long term counselling and psychotherapy and occupational health services offering short term counselling and psychotherapy.
I am an HCPC registered, Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have diverse and extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults (and their families) with complex and enduring mental, neurological and physical health difficulties. I have worked in NHS hospital in-patient and out-patient services, GP practice based mental health services and secondary care mental health services. I have also worked in community mental health teams, counselling services offering long term counselling and psychotherapy and occupational health services offering short term counselling and psychotherapy.
020 7112 8662 View 020 7112 8662
Photo of Dr Ally Tomlins, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ally Tomlins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
Waitlist for new clients
Her areas of expertise are in assessing and treating the following issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, low self esteem, managing transitions in life (such as changes in the family, health related changes, job related changes, parenthood, marriage), bereavement, trauma and dementia.
Dr Tomlins is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. She has won numerous national awards for her work in creating innovative mental health services. She currently leads psychological care for urgent and acute mental health wards of an inner city London NHS Trust. Alongside this, she runs a thriving private practice London. She is a lecturer and Deputy Course Director at UCL for the Clinical Associate in Psychology MSC. Her work as a Clinical Supervisor for doctoral trainees at UCL, UEL, Royal Holloway and Surrey has nurtured the development of many currently practicing psychologists.
Her areas of expertise are in assessing and treating the following issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, low self esteem, managing transitions in life (such as changes in the family, health related changes, job related changes, parenthood, marriage), bereavement, trauma and dementia.
Dr Tomlins is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. She has won numerous national awards for her work in creating innovative mental health services. She currently leads psychological care for urgent and acute mental health wards of an inner city London NHS Trust. Alongside this, she runs a thriving private practice London. She is a lecturer and Deputy Course Director at UCL for the Clinical Associate in Psychology MSC. Her work as a Clinical Supervisor for doctoral trainees at UCL, UEL, Royal Holloway and Surrey has nurtured the development of many currently practicing psychologists.
020 3872 2711 View 020 3872 2711
Photo of Dr Navi Nagra, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Navi Nagra
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W4  (Online Only)
I have the following specialties: Living with physical health changes, neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and adjustment to carer/supporting roles.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my page and taking the first step in exploring support. My name is Dr Navi Nagra and I am a qualified Clinical Psychologist with over 11 years experience working across different ages, health conditions and settings e.g. community work, clinics, hospitals etc. I currently work with the NHS, leading psychology work within Ageing and Mental Health as well as dementia services. My approaches to support are multi-level with precedence given to our cultural context and histories to help co create roads of change. 'Make the model fit the person NOT the person fit the model' is my motto.
I have the following specialties: Living with physical health changes, neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and adjustment to carer/supporting roles.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my page and taking the first step in exploring support. My name is Dr Navi Nagra and I am a qualified Clinical Psychologist with over 11 years experience working across different ages, health conditions and settings e.g. community work, clinics, hospitals etc. I currently work with the NHS, leading psychology work within Ageing and Mental Health as well as dementia services. My approaches to support are multi-level with precedence given to our cultural context and histories to help co create roads of change. 'Make the model fit the person NOT the person fit the model' is my motto.
020 3002 7293 View 020 3002 7293
Photo of Dr Jinnie Ooi, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Jinnie Ooi
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
West London, London W1B
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
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Photo of Dr Maina Amin, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Maina Amin
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W4
A neuropsychological assessment measures thinking skills by testing a range of mental functions including memory and can help identify both causes and rehabilitation goals.
I provide evidence-based psychological therapy and neuropsychological assessments for adults and older adults. Are you experiencing changes in your mood such as symptoms of anxiety and depression, perhaps due to a life event or a long-term physical or mental health difficulty? Do you have a neurological condition, such as a type of dementia or a chronic physical health condition (e.g. cancer, pain, MS etc.) which has affected your quality of life? Are you worried about your memory and thinking skills, perhaps due to ageing, long-covid, or a medical condition? Are you concerned about a loved one's memory or mental health?
A neuropsychological assessment measures thinking skills by testing a range of mental functions including memory and can help identify both causes and rehabilitation goals.
I provide evidence-based psychological therapy and neuropsychological assessments for adults and older adults. Are you experiencing changes in your mood such as symptoms of anxiety and depression, perhaps due to a life event or a long-term physical or mental health difficulty? Do you have a neurological condition, such as a type of dementia or a chronic physical health condition (e.g. cancer, pain, MS etc.) which has affected your quality of life? Are you worried about your memory and thinking skills, perhaps due to ageing, long-covid, or a medical condition? Are you concerned about a loved one's memory or mental health?
020 8106 2088 View 020 8106 2088
Photo of Carolyn Thompson, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Carolyn Thompson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W14
I work respectfully with a diverse range of clients and situations bringing a warm, supportive and non-judgemental approach. I work with many issues including, (but not exhaustive) sexual abuse and trauma, disassociation, PTSD and complex PDST, relationships, family dynamics, cancer, dementia, addictions and carer support. It is helpful to bring what may be troubling you, either from the past or present to the safety of a counselling relationship. Many people find they are then more confident to be able to make positive changes in their lives through counselling support. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation.
I work respectfully with a diverse range of clients and situations bringing a warm, supportive and non-judgemental approach. I work with many issues including, (but not exhaustive) sexual abuse and trauma, disassociation, PTSD and complex PDST, relationships, family dynamics, cancer, dementia, addictions and carer support. It is helpful to bring what may be troubling you, either from the past or present to the safety of a counselling relationship. Many people find they are then more confident to be able to make positive changes in their lives through counselling support. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation.
020 3835 4314 View 020 3835 4314
Photo of Dr Bishnu Upadhaya, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Bishnu Upadhaya
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Not Verified Not Verified
West London, London W1W  (Online Only)
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
020 3835 4892 View 020 3835 4892
Photo of Samantha Jayne Byron, BACP, Psychotherapist
Samantha Jayne Byron
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W9
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
020 3984 8715 View 020 3984 8715
Photo of James Mann, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
James Mann
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
Hello , I am James, my website is www.psychotherapynow.co.uk. I have worked for 25 years as a psychotherapist in central London. Before that I was employed mostly working with children and young people in some capacity or other. I am approachable and constructive. I enjoy what I do and I believe in the transformative power of therapy to bring about more life and better possibilities. I have taught at the Site for Contemporary Psychoanalysis for many years as well as the Philadelphia Association. I also have several talks and interviews on YouTube.
Hello , I am James, my website is www.psychotherapynow.co.uk. I have worked for 25 years as a psychotherapist in central London. Before that I was employed mostly working with children and young people in some capacity or other. I am approachable and constructive. I enjoy what I do and I believe in the transformative power of therapy to bring about more life and better possibilities. I have taught at the Site for Contemporary Psychoanalysis for many years as well as the Philadelphia Association. I also have several talks and interviews on YouTube.
020 3870 3635 View 020 3870 3635
Photo of Jozef Louis Bries, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Jozef Louis Bries
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W7
i am a senior psychotherapist and counsellor who trained at the University of Roehampton, UK and with the Southern Association For Psychotherapy And Counselling, SAFPAC, (www.safpac.co.uk), and am the organisations' Honorary Secretary. Prior to this, I trained and qualified as a paramedic at the University of Hertfordshire, subsequently working both as an ambulance and helicopter air ambulance flight paramedic in different frontline and trauma services in London and the South East. I hold over 11 years clinical experience as a therapist and nearly 20 years clinical experience as a paramedic.
i am a senior psychotherapist and counsellor who trained at the University of Roehampton, UK and with the Southern Association For Psychotherapy And Counselling, SAFPAC, (www.safpac.co.uk), and am the organisations' Honorary Secretary. Prior to this, I trained and qualified as a paramedic at the University of Hertfordshire, subsequently working both as an ambulance and helicopter air ambulance flight paramedic in different frontline and trauma services in London and the South East. I hold over 11 years clinical experience as a therapist and nearly 20 years clinical experience as a paramedic.
020 8579 3038 View 020 8579 3038
Photo of Dr Mazda Beigi, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Mazda Beigi
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W5
Are you experiencing challenges that have been with you so long it feels hopeless to confront them? Are you feeling down or anxious about circumstances that seem out of your control? Together, we will develop models and draw on theories to explore your specific goals and apply principles that will establish a clear pathway to rediscovering your needs. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment to facilitate thought provoking discussions and help empower you to take back your quality of life. Through integration of techniques, we will open discussions and unravel untapped beliefs to help you transition towards your values.
Are you experiencing challenges that have been with you so long it feels hopeless to confront them? Are you feeling down or anxious about circumstances that seem out of your control? Together, we will develop models and draw on theories to explore your specific goals and apply principles that will establish a clear pathway to rediscovering your needs. I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment to facilitate thought provoking discussions and help empower you to take back your quality of life. Through integration of techniques, we will open discussions and unravel untapped beliefs to help you transition towards your values.
020 8138 8819 View 020 8138 8819
Photo of Gareth Sammer - London Counselling & Psychotherapy Services, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
London Counselling & Psychotherapy Services
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W5
Our modern world has become a very tough place for many people. With the Covid-19 pandemic, uncertainty and fear around the Ukraine war, the cost of living crisis and numerous other personal struggles have left many people battling with their mental health and well being. But how has it affected you? Here at West London Counselling, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy Services, we have a highly experienced team of therapists who are here to help you through whatever you're struggling with. Your wellbeing and happiness will always be our number one priority.
Our modern world has become a very tough place for many people. With the Covid-19 pandemic, uncertainty and fear around the Ukraine war, the cost of living crisis and numerous other personal struggles have left many people battling with their mental health and well being. But how has it affected you? Here at West London Counselling, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy Services, we have a highly experienced team of therapists who are here to help you through whatever you're struggling with. Your wellbeing and happiness will always be our number one priority.
01895 547540 View 01895 547540
Photo of Richie Long - Richie hears you., BACP, Counsellor
Richie hears you.
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W5
Meet Richie, a compassionate psychotherapist specializing in adult talking therapies and unique approaches for children like play therapy and sand therapy. With a warm and friendly demeanor, he creates a welcoming space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. Richie seamlessly blends professionalism with a down-to-earth attitude, making therapy sessions feel more like heartfelt conversations with a trusted friend. His use of humor adds a refreshing touch, easing tension and fostering a sense of connection.
Meet Richie, a compassionate psychotherapist specializing in adult talking therapies and unique approaches for children like play therapy and sand therapy. With a warm and friendly demeanor, he creates a welcoming space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. Richie seamlessly blends professionalism with a down-to-earth attitude, making therapy sessions feel more like heartfelt conversations with a trusted friend. His use of humor adds a refreshing touch, easing tension and fostering a sense of connection.
020 4538 6409 View 020 4538 6409
Photo of Eden Orfanos Shoro - Integrative Psychotherapist - Clinical Supervisor, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Eden Orfanos Shoro - Integrative Psychotherapist - Clinical Supervisor
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
Sometimes it is difficult to find the words to describe your emotions or what you are experiencing. I hold online sessions where you are invited to use your imagination and creativity to gain insight and explore current challenges; exploring whatever you are struggling with or what you feel is holding you back or challenging your well-being. Through a combination of talking and expression, clients of all ages are empowered to tap into their inner strengths, and to use those strengths to create healthy connections with themselves and others.
Sometimes it is difficult to find the words to describe your emotions or what you are experiencing. I hold online sessions where you are invited to use your imagination and creativity to gain insight and explore current challenges; exploring whatever you are struggling with or what you feel is holding you back or challenging your well-being. Through a combination of talking and expression, clients of all ages are empowered to tap into their inner strengths, and to use those strengths to create healthy connections with themselves and others.
020 3962 2499 View 020 3962 2499
Photo of Lucy Okocha, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Lucy Okocha
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W5  (Online Only)
Life is an adventure. Only through exploring a new path, the strength you will feel tomorrow will move you forward for that change. Reaching out can be overwhelming, daunting draining & can lead to a downward spiral, of being in a dark place, if you do not have the support, which pushes you to your comfort zone. This can sometimes be more harmful than helpful to your journey of change, if you cannot trust, feel uncomfortable to open up, or have no one that really listens to your cries, as you feel you are seen, but not heard, undervalued or not acknowledged. Let alone checked in, if you are okay. Well guess what? YOU are not alone.
Life is an adventure. Only through exploring a new path, the strength you will feel tomorrow will move you forward for that change. Reaching out can be overwhelming, daunting draining & can lead to a downward spiral, of being in a dark place, if you do not have the support, which pushes you to your comfort zone. This can sometimes be more harmful than helpful to your journey of change, if you cannot trust, feel uncomfortable to open up, or have no one that really listens to your cries, as you feel you are seen, but not heard, undervalued or not acknowledged. Let alone checked in, if you are okay. Well guess what? YOU are not alone.
01748 901331 View 01748 901331
Photo of Dr Cristian A Nica, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Cristian A Nica
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
My goal is to enable a strong mental foundation where mindful skills will help you keep your life in reach. Progress means change, rehearsing new ways of thinking or a range of strategies to iterate development safely. The result, a genuine approach for you to always find a better way forward. I am HCPC-registered in clinical, counselling, health and occupational psychology. Supervisor, providing services for individuals, couples and organisations beginning from eclectic CBT interventions (ACT, DBT, ST) - the most effective and intuitive psychological framework.
My goal is to enable a strong mental foundation where mindful skills will help you keep your life in reach. Progress means change, rehearsing new ways of thinking or a range of strategies to iterate development safely. The result, a genuine approach for you to always find a better way forward. I am HCPC-registered in clinical, counselling, health and occupational psychology. Supervisor, providing services for individuals, couples and organisations beginning from eclectic CBT interventions (ACT, DBT, ST) - the most effective and intuitive psychological framework.
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Photo of Valeria Villa, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Valeria Villa
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W5
You feel stuck and unsure about the way ahead. You experience overwhelming feelings when you need to take a decision. Your sleep is disturbed or you fall asleep when awake. You burst into tears too quickly or too slowly. You experience relational challenges with your family/friends or at work. You desire to talk about yourself to better understand who you want /don’t want to be. This list is endless as varied are the reasons leading people to therapy. My priority is to listen to clients, to meet them in their life journey. We define together the steps ahead so that I can support them in finding what they want from therapy.
You feel stuck and unsure about the way ahead. You experience overwhelming feelings when you need to take a decision. Your sleep is disturbed or you fall asleep when awake. You burst into tears too quickly or too slowly. You experience relational challenges with your family/friends or at work. You desire to talk about yourself to better understand who you want /don’t want to be. This list is endless as varied are the reasons leading people to therapy. My priority is to listen to clients, to meet them in their life journey. We define together the steps ahead so that I can support them in finding what they want from therapy.
01748 902518 View 01748 902518
Photo of Janine Hayward - Composurepsychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Janine Hayward - Composurepsychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
Hello. Do you struggle with stress from; work, relationships, or parenting? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, or low in self-esteem? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect upset you or take up too much time? Is a trauma, threat to your health, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. We help people like you understand your distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, and find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC), with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
Hello. Do you struggle with stress from; work, relationships, or parenting? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, or low in self-esteem? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect upset you or take up too much time? Is a trauma, threat to your health, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. We help people like you understand your distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, and find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC), with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
0333 344 2063 View 0333 344 2063
Photo of Letizia Orlando Counselling And Psychotherapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Letizia Orlando Counselling And Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
My first and foremost care is for you as my client. My counselling style is tailored to your personal circumstances and specific needs and to you as a whole. My priority to you is to promote your healing, facilitate your wholeness and ensure that your mental, physical and emotional levels are very soon back to their full potential. My personalized approach to therapy reflects elements of different schools. I will start by setting goals with you; consequently you will feel empowered to practice new behaviours, to move beyond your present limitations and you will very soon start to experience a greater satisfaction in your life.
My first and foremost care is for you as my client. My counselling style is tailored to your personal circumstances and specific needs and to you as a whole. My priority to you is to promote your healing, facilitate your wholeness and ensure that your mental, physical and emotional levels are very soon back to their full potential. My personalized approach to therapy reflects elements of different schools. I will start by setting goals with you; consequently you will feel empowered to practice new behaviours, to move beyond your present limitations and you will very soon start to experience a greater satisfaction in your life.
020 3870 2428 View 020 3870 2428
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See more therapy options for West London, London

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.