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 Bernard I Horsford, PhD, CPsychol, Counsellor
Bernard I Horsford
Counsellor, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
West London, London W1J
Dr Bernard Horsford, PhD, D Occ Psych, MBA, M.Sc, LLB, BA, DipAdEd, DipM, FCIPD, MAPM, MIoD, FIC, MAE, C Psychol, AFBPsS I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of clinical settings dealing with occupational, clinical and forensic issues. In these settings, I have provided individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and psychological assessment services. I have an extensive background in working with culturally diverse populations. My practice is geared towards adolescents and adults grappling employment, personal, family work, educational or health issues.
Dr Bernard Horsford, PhD, D Occ Psych, MBA, M.Sc, LLB, BA, DipAdEd, DipM, FCIPD, MAPM, MIoD, FIC, MAE, C Psychol, AFBPsS I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of clinical settings dealing with occupational, clinical and forensic issues. In these settings, I have provided individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and psychological assessment services. I have an extensive background in working with culturally diverse populations. My practice is geared towards adolescents and adults grappling employment, personal, family work, educational or health issues.
020 8103 0403 View 020 8103 0403
Photo of Gillian Beckwith, MA, COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Gillian Beckwith
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W4  (Online Only)
Taking a break 23rd May-4th June 2024 inclusive. Fully qualified and highly experienced with all sexual and relational dilemmas, and especially when matters are usually fuelled by anxiety/depression which can come with a sense of loneliness or isolation. I happily work with all kinds of couples or individuals on their relationships and also general personal dilemmas, for example, grief, loss, anxiety, depression and I have done so for a long time. Using a clinical supervisor, I maintain regular sessions about my (anonymised) client work to ensure consistently effective therapy. I have industry-standard insurance.
Taking a break 23rd May-4th June 2024 inclusive. Fully qualified and highly experienced with all sexual and relational dilemmas, and especially when matters are usually fuelled by anxiety/depression which can come with a sense of loneliness or isolation. I happily work with all kinds of couples or individuals on their relationships and also general personal dilemmas, for example, grief, loss, anxiety, depression and I have done so for a long time. Using a clinical supervisor, I maintain regular sessions about my (anonymised) client work to ensure consistently effective therapy. I have industry-standard insurance.
01748 902286 View 01748 902286
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 Katie Brown, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Katie Brown
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W11
Being trained psychodynamically, enables me to look at patterns & coping mechanisms that may have been set down in the past but that are repeating, unconsciously and often unhelpfully, in the present. Often these come to light when a crisis - bereavement; the end of a relationship; redundancy; illness - occurs. Perhaps an overwhelm of anxiety, depression & panic attacks have led you to this page now... By offering an authentic, non- judgemental & confidential space I can help you to explore the difficult feelings which you are experiencing, to enable you to understand and process what is occurring now, so as to navigate the future.
Being trained psychodynamically, enables me to look at patterns & coping mechanisms that may have been set down in the past but that are repeating, unconsciously and often unhelpfully, in the present. Often these come to light when a crisis - bereavement; the end of a relationship; redundancy; illness - occurs. Perhaps an overwhelm of anxiety, depression & panic attacks have led you to this page now... By offering an authentic, non- judgemental & confidential space I can help you to explore the difficult feelings which you are experiencing, to enable you to understand and process what is occurring now, so as to navigate the future.
020 3959 7398 View 020 3959 7398
Photo of Juliet Anton - Dr Juliet Anton, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Juliet Anton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
Expressing our vulnerabilities can be risky especially if we feel our society is too quick to judge or misunderstand our personal experience(s). I completed my undergraduate studies at King’s College London and my postgraduate/ doctoral studies at the University of Surrey. I am able to work using a number of approaches including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, integrative and EMDR approaches. I currently offer individual therapy online. I can offer a free 30-minute consultation where we can discuss what you want to work on and whether you feel we could work together to achieve your goals.
Expressing our vulnerabilities can be risky especially if we feel our society is too quick to judge or misunderstand our personal experience(s). I completed my undergraduate studies at King’s College London and my postgraduate/ doctoral studies at the University of Surrey. I am able to work using a number of approaches including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, integrative and EMDR approaches. I currently offer individual therapy online. I can offer a free 30-minute consultation where we can discuss what you want to work on and whether you feel we could work together to achieve your goals.
020 8138 9230 View 020 8138 9230
Photo of Nadir Mohamed, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Nadir Mohamed
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W6
I have over ten years experience of working with children, adults and families, aiming to help people explore challenging situations or relationships, toward understanding how particular difficulties have risen and help you work through this time. I specialise in complex mental health and support individuals and families who have been affected. I have seven years experience working with children and teenagers who have Learning Disabilities and issues relating to school. I also see clients for various other struggles and work collaboratively to explore what is behind their anxiety, depression and to build self-esteem.
I have over ten years experience of working with children, adults and families, aiming to help people explore challenging situations or relationships, toward understanding how particular difficulties have risen and help you work through this time. I specialise in complex mental health and support individuals and families who have been affected. I have seven years experience working with children and teenagers who have Learning Disabilities and issues relating to school. I also see clients for various other struggles and work collaboratively to explore what is behind their anxiety, depression and to build self-esteem.
01748 901824 View 01748 901824
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
Photo of Sara Simblett, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Sara Simblett
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Neuropyschologist (registered with the HCPC). I completed my DClinPsy qualification at King's College London, following a PhD from the University of Cambridge and MSc in Neuropsychology from the University of Bristol. I conduct comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combined with other psychological models to explore beliefs and actions that may be maintaining emotional difficulties. I also support people to develop a compassionate self-understanding; to regain purpose and meaning by exploring personal values; and to be more aware of the present moment.
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Neuropyschologist (registered with the HCPC). I completed my DClinPsy qualification at King's College London, following a PhD from the University of Cambridge and MSc in Neuropsychology from the University of Bristol. I conduct comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combined with other psychological models to explore beliefs and actions that may be maintaining emotional difficulties. I also support people to develop a compassionate self-understanding; to regain purpose and meaning by exploring personal values; and to be more aware of the present moment.
07480 485413 View 07480 485413
Photo of Andrew Rutherford, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Andrew Rutherford
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1H
Hello, I'm Andrew and I'm an integrative psychotherapist. What do I mean by integrative? Well, it has been reliably shown that there is no overall 'best therapy'. What works for one person does not necessarily work for another, even if their issues are similar. You might have heard about psychoanalysis, person-centred counselling, or CBT. These are just a few of a number of therapeutic approaches. Each type of therapy offers different potentials for change. For over forty years now there has been a movement towards integrating these approaches to better meet a person's individual needs.
Hello, I'm Andrew and I'm an integrative psychotherapist. What do I mean by integrative? Well, it has been reliably shown that there is no overall 'best therapy'. What works for one person does not necessarily work for another, even if their issues are similar. You might have heard about psychoanalysis, person-centred counselling, or CBT. These are just a few of a number of therapeutic approaches. Each type of therapy offers different potentials for change. For over forty years now there has been a movement towards integrating these approaches to better meet a person's individual needs.
020 3962 0926 View 020 3962 0926
Photo of Letizia De Mori, CPsychol, Psychologist
Letizia De Mori
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
West London, London W8
Dr. Letizia De Mori is a Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, Researcher, and Superior Cognitive Function Rehabilitator. Her expertise is to test with Assessments for Learning Disability and DIfficulty; Spectrum Autism Disorder; Personality; Psychological Expertise for Psychological Damage. Cognitive rehabilitation is programmed for Brain Injuries (such as Ictus or cerebral haemorrhage and for rehabilitation for Learning Disabilities/Difficulties and ADHD).
Dr. Letizia De Mori is a Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, Researcher, and Superior Cognitive Function Rehabilitator. Her expertise is to test with Assessments for Learning Disability and DIfficulty; Spectrum Autism Disorder; Personality; Psychological Expertise for Psychological Damage. Cognitive rehabilitation is programmed for Brain Injuries (such as Ictus or cerebral haemorrhage and for rehabilitation for Learning Disabilities/Difficulties and ADHD).
020 3974 2694 View 020 3974 2694
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 Liz White, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Liz White
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
I am a highly qualified and experienced Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I have spent 16 years working in NHS mental health services, and now focus on my private practice full time. With a high level of expertise, I am able to create a bespoke therapeutic experience that helps clients move towards their goals. I focus on providing high quality, evidence based therapy that enables clients to feel empowered and understood, enabling them to learn the skills needed to make positive and long lasting changes in their lives.
I am a highly qualified and experienced Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I have spent 16 years working in NHS mental health services, and now focus on my private practice full time. With a high level of expertise, I am able to create a bespoke therapeutic experience that helps clients move towards their goals. I focus on providing high quality, evidence based therapy that enables clients to feel empowered and understood, enabling them to learn the skills needed to make positive and long lasting changes in their lives.
01992 351093 View 01992 351093
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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.