Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Newark
![Photo of Ali Carter, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d38814ae-e060-44e6-a178-79a7e842166f/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over 20 years of experience, I have worked 8 years as a counsellor in primary care NHS and 12 years in private practice. Everybody I work with is a unique human being with a personality and life experience like no other. I work eclectically with a wide range of disciplines to achieve the best combination of therapeutic tools to help the client. Our relationship is the most important part of the work we are doing together. My attention and focus is about making you feel safe and cared for so you feel empowered and equipped to engage in the therapeutic process
With over 20 years of experience, I have worked 8 years as a counsellor in primary care NHS and 12 years in private practice. Everybody I work with is a unique human being with a personality and life experience like no other. I work eclectically with a wide range of disciplines to achieve the best combination of therapeutic tools to help the client. Our relationship is the most important part of the work we are doing together. My attention and focus is about making you feel safe and cared for so you feel empowered and equipped to engage in the therapeutic process
![Photo of Louise Victoira Ellison - Active Listening Therapies, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b9a01e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Louise. I offer private counselling with the aim of overcoming life challenges and making positive changes to your life. As an integrative therapist I pick the most appropriate counselling model to suit your needs and work with you to discover your path. I have a private practice located in Balderton close to Newark with a ground floor therapy room and off street parking. Your first session will be 1.5 hours allowing us to get to know each other and discuss your challenges, with regular sessions lasting 50 minutes. I look forward to hearing from you.
Hello, my name is Louise. I offer private counselling with the aim of overcoming life challenges and making positive changes to your life. As an integrative therapist I pick the most appropriate counselling model to suit your needs and work with you to discover your path. I have a private practice located in Balderton close to Newark with a ground floor therapy room and off street parking. Your first session will be 1.5 hours allowing us to get to know each other and discuss your challenges, with regular sessions lasting 50 minutes. I look forward to hearing from you.
![Photo of Simon Littlejohn, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4db230-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a wide range of issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to listen to you with sensitivity and empathy and without judgement or rushing you. In this way, we can both try to make sense of what has happened up to this point in time. You may be feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or heartbroken because of it. These are natural emotional responses to what has gone on - however if this has been going for a while, or you don't have someone to talk to, I could be able to help.
I work with a wide range of issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to listen to you with sensitivity and empathy and without judgement or rushing you. In this way, we can both try to make sense of what has happened up to this point in time. You may be feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or heartbroken because of it. These are natural emotional responses to what has gone on - however if this has been going for a while, or you don't have someone to talk to, I could be able to help.
![Photo of Freya Lucy Elizabeth Cowin - Private ReFLECtion Therapy Ltd , FMBPsS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b35763bc-ca53-4bec-8451-8130ab1e41ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is one that has a specific goal in mind that we can collaboratively work on. Your goal could be anything from stress management, emotional resilience building, behavioural change, to phobias and habit reversal. You would be open to learning new coping skills to help obtain your target. It's likely you have been let down by therapeutic services before and are looking for a way to be your own therapist through a short term transformation, rather than spending 1000s of hours in session indefinitely. On average, my clients feel results in as little as 3, 1 to 1.5 hour sessions. https:/www.Privatereflectiontherapy.co.uk
My ideal client is one that has a specific goal in mind that we can collaboratively work on. Your goal could be anything from stress management, emotional resilience building, behavioural change, to phobias and habit reversal. You would be open to learning new coping skills to help obtain your target. It's likely you have been let down by therapeutic services before and are looking for a way to be your own therapist through a short term transformation, rather than spending 1000s of hours in session indefinitely. On average, my clients feel results in as little as 3, 1 to 1.5 hour sessions. https:/www.Privatereflectiontherapy.co.uk
![Photo of Joanne Wilsher-Mills - JWM Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51374a3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed with difficult feelings? Have you been through a bereavement or loss that you're struggling to come to terms with? Have you experienced painful and traumatic life events that still impact on you today and stop you living the life you want. Would you like to improve your relationships with the people in your life? You may be struggling with issues life anxiety, depression or low self-worth. My focus is to offer a counselling relationship that is supportive, nurturing and empowering. I can offer practical coping strategies, better insight and understanding as well as help you find your own solutions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with difficult feelings? Have you been through a bereavement or loss that you're struggling to come to terms with? Have you experienced painful and traumatic life events that still impact on you today and stop you living the life you want. Would you like to improve your relationships with the people in your life? You may be struggling with issues life anxiety, depression or low self-worth. My focus is to offer a counselling relationship that is supportive, nurturing and empowering. I can offer practical coping strategies, better insight and understanding as well as help you find your own solutions.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Elisabeth Joselyn - Physis Counselling and Psychotherapy, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2750406c-2d59-4152-9742-04ac1bd46114/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi my name is Lizzie, How are you feeling? unhappy, anxious, stressed, angry or depressed, or is there something specific you feel you would like to talk about. Life can be difficult and overwhelming, we sometimes struggle to make sense of our feelings and what is going on for us. We can get stuck and not know how to make life more comfortable. Although that first step can be nerve wracking and sometimes difficult, Counselling can be that first step to making that positive change. This is your time for you, to be listened to and understood and have the the world seen from your perspective, at a pace that is comfortable for you.
Hi my name is Lizzie, How are you feeling? unhappy, anxious, stressed, angry or depressed, or is there something specific you feel you would like to talk about. Life can be difficult and overwhelming, we sometimes struggle to make sense of our feelings and what is going on for us. We can get stuck and not know how to make life more comfortable. Although that first step can be nerve wracking and sometimes difficult, Counselling can be that first step to making that positive change. This is your time for you, to be listened to and understood and have the the world seen from your perspective, at a pace that is comfortable for you.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Dr Jinnie Ooi, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37844b89-7d7c-4b73-b4c6-abbd0e6f3ce1/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
“MBBCHB - M.D, D.Psychotherapy, MRCPsych, RCGP -C.Alcohol &Substance”. Dr. F. Abdoola is a highly respected Consultant Psychiatrist, with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. He currently provides a non judgemental and confidential psychotherapy service, with the aim of individuals discovering , understanding and exploring their most inner, deepest and traumatic feelings and emotions. He helps Identify and managing the root/stressor's which are causing/contributing to their mental health difficulties. Dr. Abdoola takes a holistic, bespoke and individualised approach with children, adults, and older adults.
“MBBCHB - M.D, D.Psychotherapy, MRCPsych, RCGP -C.Alcohol &Substance”. Dr. F. Abdoola is a highly respected Consultant Psychiatrist, with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. He currently provides a non judgemental and confidential psychotherapy service, with the aim of individuals discovering , understanding and exploring their most inner, deepest and traumatic feelings and emotions. He helps Identify and managing the root/stressor's which are causing/contributing to their mental health difficulties. Dr. Abdoola takes a holistic, bespoke and individualised approach with children, adults, and older adults.
![Photo of Lucy Hughes - Mantle Psychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/936d34dd-96e5-4a6c-8aa5-659ac887e321/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Mantle Psychology we work with you to help you understand your mental health difficulties, develop a picture of why they might be happening, and help you to improve your wellbeing. Having the time and space to explore your difficulties can be very beneficial and we aim to provide you with the most appropriate intervention to meet your needs. We can work with young people, families, adults, and older adults. We treat all mental health problems and we see everyone as an individual with their own unique circumstances and difficulties, and will use the most appropriate psychological therapy based on your goals.
At Mantle Psychology we work with you to help you understand your mental health difficulties, develop a picture of why they might be happening, and help you to improve your wellbeing. Having the time and space to explore your difficulties can be very beneficial and we aim to provide you with the most appropriate intervention to meet your needs. We can work with young people, families, adults, and older adults. We treat all mental health problems and we see everyone as an individual with their own unique circumstances and difficulties, and will use the most appropriate psychological therapy based on your goals.
![Photo of Debbie Espie, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc91095-4fba-435b-ae08-dbe93f323a47/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children aged 10yrs+ and young people as well as adults and older adults.
I am a passionate and dedicated counsellor with a strong commitment to helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential. My approach to counselling is client-centred and integrative, meaning that I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address the root causes of their challenges, helping them develop effective coping strategies and achieve long-term healing and growth.
I work with children aged 10yrs+ and young people as well as adults and older adults.
I am a passionate and dedicated counsellor with a strong commitment to helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential. My approach to counselling is client-centred and integrative, meaning that I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address the root causes of their challenges, helping them develop effective coping strategies and achieve long-term healing and growth.
![Photo of Emma Coleman, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/216e85cb-3200-4b31-9845-cc7a7c4087b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience of working with bereavement, miscarriage, relationship and family issues, victims of coercive and controlling behaviour, narcissistic relationships, dementia, anxiety, addiction, medical diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
Clear the clouds for a brighter future. When life becomes challenging, we all need some support, someone who can be by our side, listen to us, be there. I can be that person for you. I am a qualified counsellor, working from a person centred approach. I believe that you have the ability to find the answers and be your best self. I can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings, and to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. I am a former primary school teacher, and have worked with people of all ages, with varying issues.
I have experience of working with bereavement, miscarriage, relationship and family issues, victims of coercive and controlling behaviour, narcissistic relationships, dementia, anxiety, addiction, medical diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
Clear the clouds for a brighter future. When life becomes challenging, we all need some support, someone who can be by our side, listen to us, be there. I can be that person for you. I am a qualified counsellor, working from a person centred approach. I believe that you have the ability to find the answers and be your best self. I can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings, and to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. I am a former primary school teacher, and have worked with people of all ages, with varying issues.
![Photo of Steven Michael Millership, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e21e8277-bda7-41e9-9df9-17cc3e5adac6/1/320x400.jpeg)
It can be daunting trying to find the right therapist, it takes a little courage but it can be very rewarding. I offer face to face or online therapy with both young and older adults from two safe and private locations in Bewdley and Worcester areas. Life can be very difficult and hard to manage at times, sometimes we find ourselves stuck not knowing where to turn. I help clients feel less anxious, increase their confidence, improve relationships and find emotional balance with increased assertiveness. I help with stress relief, the ability to set boundaries, find resolution to past trauma and help dealing with grief and loss.
It can be daunting trying to find the right therapist, it takes a little courage but it can be very rewarding. I offer face to face or online therapy with both young and older adults from two safe and private locations in Bewdley and Worcester areas. Life can be very difficult and hard to manage at times, sometimes we find ourselves stuck not knowing where to turn. I help clients feel less anxious, increase their confidence, improve relationships and find emotional balance with increased assertiveness. I help with stress relief, the ability to set boundaries, find resolution to past trauma and help dealing with grief and loss.
![Photo of Sonya Price, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ef40e61-6818-43d2-bf7f-25fa768ee8be/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently counselling at Myton Hospice, Age UK taking GP referrals working with Loss, Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Dementia, Neurological conditions.
Hello my name is Sonya, I am a CBT therapist (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Sometimes in life we all get to a point where we just need to reach out. I can offer you time to listen effectively in a comfortable, safe, and confidential environment. Working with CBT enables you to talk about your feelings and emotions in situations as they may affect our behaviours and by recognising this we can adapt some change. Being able to express your feelings or presenting issue may be difficult especially to loved ones, family and friends. Reach Out will empower you to contribute to your well-being, sense of belonging, and self worth in Therapy.
I am currently counselling at Myton Hospice, Age UK taking GP referrals working with Loss, Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Dementia, Neurological conditions.
Hello my name is Sonya, I am a CBT therapist (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Sometimes in life we all get to a point where we just need to reach out. I can offer you time to listen effectively in a comfortable, safe, and confidential environment. Working with CBT enables you to talk about your feelings and emotions in situations as they may affect our behaviours and by recognising this we can adapt some change. Being able to express your feelings or presenting issue may be difficult especially to loved ones, family and friends. Reach Out will empower you to contribute to your well-being, sense of belonging, and self worth in Therapy.
![Photo of Mary Attwood, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc268dad-f7a0-4798-aecc-7fd6a46773ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with young people, adults and elderly.
Are you trying to make sense of your life right now, and don't understand what's happening or why you're not coping so well with every day life? Perhaps you feel alone from a loss or breakdown of a relationship. There could be events from your past that interfere in your life today, do you wish to explore and understand why this is happening? Maybe your emotions are becoming increasingly difficult to cope with. Are you finding your relationship with family or friends difficult or strained or perhaps you'd like to feel more confident. These are some of the challenges we face and perhaps you would like some help to overcome these.
I work with young people, adults and elderly.
Are you trying to make sense of your life right now, and don't understand what's happening or why you're not coping so well with every day life? Perhaps you feel alone from a loss or breakdown of a relationship. There could be events from your past that interfere in your life today, do you wish to explore and understand why this is happening? Maybe your emotions are becoming increasingly difficult to cope with. Are you finding your relationship with family or friends difficult or strained or perhaps you'd like to feel more confident. These are some of the challenges we face and perhaps you would like some help to overcome these.
![Photo of Suzanne Davies, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4601df27-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am also able to provide thorough and detailed neuropsychological assessments for the purposes of diagnosing dementia and am able to carry out Mental Capacity Act assessments with working-age and older adults.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and provider of independent clinical psychology services based in Bromsgrove and have more than 14 years experience working in the NHS. I now work exclusively in private practice. I work with adults of all ages and offer a highly professional and confidential service offering assessment, therapy, supervision and consultation. I am committed and enthusiastic about helping people to achieve their goals and make the changes they would like to in their life. My practice is informed by the evidence base and I engage in regular continuous professional development (CPD) and supervision.
I am also able to provide thorough and detailed neuropsychological assessments for the purposes of diagnosing dementia and am able to carry out Mental Capacity Act assessments with working-age and older adults.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and provider of independent clinical psychology services based in Bromsgrove and have more than 14 years experience working in the NHS. I now work exclusively in private practice. I work with adults of all ages and offer a highly professional and confidential service offering assessment, therapy, supervision and consultation. I am committed and enthusiastic about helping people to achieve their goals and make the changes they would like to in their life. My practice is informed by the evidence base and I engage in regular continuous professional development (CPD) and supervision.
![Photo of Dr Lisa Paul, PhD, BACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40aaffd4-e621-4c80-a65a-aa531b65093c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Lisa and I am a person-centred therapist. I initially trained as a psychologist but more recently I qualified as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others. Often there might be a combination of several difficulties which is impacting upon someone, and I am experienced in working with people where there are more complex issues.
Hi, I'm Lisa and I am a person-centred therapist. I initially trained as a psychologist but more recently I qualified as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others. Often there might be a combination of several difficulties which is impacting upon someone, and I am experienced in working with people where there are more complex issues.
![Photo of Nicola Heaps - Guiding light counselling , BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0595427-66a3-4a46-84da-027951e2ff05/2/320x400.jpeg)
As well as bereavement I have great experience with the elderly.
I specialise in loss and bereavement, particularly through suicide, loss of pregnancy, baby or child. I will help you to understand your situation, working together to bring some kind of acceptance, hope and light. It is possible to come out of this and to feel better than you’re feeling now. I can’t tell you it will be easy but I can give you a safe, non judgemental, trusting place to share your experience, thoughts and feelings. I will be beside you to help you make sense of this painful place. The only way to the other side is through. Each individual journey is very different, your therapy will be bespoke, tailored for you.
As well as bereavement I have great experience with the elderly.
I specialise in loss and bereavement, particularly through suicide, loss of pregnancy, baby or child. I will help you to understand your situation, working together to bring some kind of acceptance, hope and light. It is possible to come out of this and to feel better than you’re feeling now. I can’t tell you it will be easy but I can give you a safe, non judgemental, trusting place to share your experience, thoughts and feelings. I will be beside you to help you make sense of this painful place. The only way to the other side is through. Each individual journey is very different, your therapy will be bespoke, tailored for you.
![Photo of Dr Sheila Evetts, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0e342a-961b-44f0-b0b6-c9f70ae62412/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I’m Sheila. I’m a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working as a therapist in the NHS with people of all ages with a diverse range of problems and from a variety of backgrounds. I have particular expertise in issues of later life including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief/bereavement, adjustment to illness, carer burden, living with dementia and other life limiting conditions. I continue to work part-time in the NHS as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service specialising in older people’s mental health. I draw on a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
Hi, I’m Sheila. I’m a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working as a therapist in the NHS with people of all ages with a diverse range of problems and from a variety of backgrounds. I have particular expertise in issues of later life including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief/bereavement, adjustment to illness, carer burden, living with dementia and other life limiting conditions. I continue to work part-time in the NHS as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service specialising in older people’s mental health. I draw on a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
![Photo of Kevin Coogan, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5be37e3-066a-437b-9e1d-6c963ea28e8e/1/320x400.png)
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for over 30 years.
The pandemic and lockdown saw a dramatic increase in social isolation and loneliness, but it also saw an increase in people reaching out for help from counselling and psychotherapy. As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have seen this change first-hand. It’s okay to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that you are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that you know is doing you no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in your life that you want to change. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with you to create a space from which change is possible.
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for over 30 years.
The pandemic and lockdown saw a dramatic increase in social isolation and loneliness, but it also saw an increase in people reaching out for help from counselling and psychotherapy. As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have seen this change first-hand. It’s okay to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that you are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that you know is doing you no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in your life that you want to change. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with you to create a space from which change is possible.
![Photo of Dan Fitzpatrick, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecf2050c-039a-43b6-9377-f68cf992debe/3/320x400.jpeg)
My background is 15+ years in healthcare, specifically working in the area of mental health, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I have a strong passion of supporting people living with Dementia (and their loved ones) and can provide a specific level of support in this regard. I hold a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from ICHAS Dublin, a HND in Social Care Practice, and I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience working as an immediate support counsellor offering support to employees of frontline services, including the NHS and the Police force.
My background is 15+ years in healthcare, specifically working in the area of mental health, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I have a strong passion of supporting people living with Dementia (and their loved ones) and can provide a specific level of support in this regard. I hold a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from ICHAS Dublin, a HND in Social Care Practice, and I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience working as an immediate support counsellor offering support to employees of frontline services, including the NHS and the Police force.
See more therapy options for Newark
Nearby Geriatric and Seniors Counsellors Searches for Newark
- Barnsley
- Derby
- Doncaster
- Leicester
- Lincoln
- Loughborough
- Nottingham
- Peterborough
- Rotherham
- Sheffield
- Spalding
- Stamford
Geriatric and Seniors Counsellors
Is one ever too old for mental health therapy?
Individuals of all ages can benefit from mental health therapy. Indeed, older adults in particular may benefit from the social and psychological support a therapist can provide; the topics that older adults address in therapy may simply differ from those of younger clients. Seniors should seek out a therapist who has experience working with older individuals and who is well-versed in addressing common concerns among elderly individuals, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, dementia, and physical mobility challenges.
How can geriatric therapy improve the quality of life of aging individuals?
Therapy for aging adults can greatly improve quality of life by providing an opportunity for them to process difficult emotions related to end-of-life, navigate relational or caregiver challenges, and develop coping skills for common mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression. Subsequent reductions in negative emotions and mental health disorder symptoms can make day-to-day living much more manageable for aging adults and those that care for them. The ongoing relationship with a trusted therapist can also help seniors combat loneliness and provide a sense of structure for their routine.
How is counselling for elderly different from counseling for other age groups?
Many aspects of geriatric counselling are similar to counselling in younger age groups; in general, counselling offers an opportunity for clients to process difficult life events and develop coping skills they can use outside of the therapy session. However, therapists who specialise in working with elderly clients may place a special emphasis on specific topics, such as caregiver relationships and reducing loneliness. They may be specially equipped to deal with certain physical conditions or facilitate discussion surrounding end-of-life topics. Counselling for the elderly may also place a greater emphasis on social work-type topics to ensure that geriatric clients have access to necessary resources, such as food, a safe home environment, and healthcare.
Can geriatric counselling help people who suffer from dementia?
Counselling can be highly effective for aging adults with dementia. While some therapists specialising in dementia may work with clients solely on topics surrounding memory loss, they can also assist clients with conditions that may co-occur at old age, such as anxiety or depression. Counsellors specialising in working with older adults can also offer an objective assessment of a client’s functioning or disease progression to caregivers, and they may be particularly knowledgeable about community resources that may benefit dementia clients and their families. Therapists specialising in dementia may also be trained in specialised forms of therapy for memory loss, such as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)—which can help mentally stimulate dementia clients to preserve cognitive functioning.