Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Peterborough

Photo of Debbie Espie, MBACP, Counsellor
Debbie Espie
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE1
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.
01480 271049 View 01480 271049
Photo of Karen Harrison - In Balance, MBACP, Counsellor
In Balance
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE6
Thank you for viewing this profile. At In Balance we offer a confidential space to explore your issues, worries and concerns through counselling or coaching. You have the choice to work either face to face with your therapist in person at our private, comfortable office, or remotely via video or telephone. We offer male and female counsellors and have appointments from 3pm-7.30pm weekdays and Saturday mornings. Counselling is always at your pace and frequency and duration of sessions can be discussed at your free initial consultation. We look forward to meeting you.
Thank you for viewing this profile. At In Balance we offer a confidential space to explore your issues, worries and concerns through counselling or coaching. You have the choice to work either face to face with your therapist in person at our private, comfortable office, or remotely via video or telephone. We offer male and female counsellors and have appointments from 3pm-7.30pm weekdays and Saturday mornings. Counselling is always at your pace and frequency and duration of sessions can be discussed at your free initial consultation. We look forward to meeting you.
01733 902720 View 01733 902720
Photo of Suni Parmar-Rea, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Suni Parmar-Rea
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE3
Asking for help is a big step, so it is important to find a someone you feel comfortable with. As an experienced integrative therapist, my main skill is listening without judgement. You might want to work out how best to manage what goes on in your mind and emotions to enjoy a better quality of life. In therapy, week by week you may feel a sense of relief, gain awareness of yourself and build positive ways to look after your mental and emotional health. Counselling is not always an easy journey, but by trusting the process and with my support, it is well worth it. "The wound is the place where the light enters you". - Rumi
Asking for help is a big step, so it is important to find a someone you feel comfortable with. As an experienced integrative therapist, my main skill is listening without judgement. You might want to work out how best to manage what goes on in your mind and emotions to enjoy a better quality of life. In therapy, week by week you may feel a sense of relief, gain awareness of yourself and build positive ways to look after your mental and emotional health. Counselling is not always an easy journey, but by trusting the process and with my support, it is well worth it. "The wound is the place where the light enters you". - Rumi
01733 530328 View 01733 530328
Photo of Susan Warner, MBACP, Counsellor
Susan Warner
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE6
I am a qualified professional Humanistic, Integrative, Person Centred Counsellor. I work from my own purpose built, confidential, private counselling room. Here I see people who may be struggling to cope with what life has thrown their way. No matter what the problem is, I offer kindness and empathy in a valuing non-judgemental way. I will listen to whatever you fetch to counselling and I will try to empower you to find your own way forward. Together we can uncover your inner thoughts, feelings and emotions to enable you to cope with life and its ups and downs. Be it past, present or future problems, your well-being is important.
I am a qualified professional Humanistic, Integrative, Person Centred Counsellor. I work from my own purpose built, confidential, private counselling room. Here I see people who may be struggling to cope with what life has thrown their way. No matter what the problem is, I offer kindness and empathy in a valuing non-judgemental way. I will listen to whatever you fetch to counselling and I will try to empower you to find your own way forward. Together we can uncover your inner thoughts, feelings and emotions to enable you to cope with life and its ups and downs. Be it past, present or future problems, your well-being is important.
01733 530375 View 01733 530375
Photo of Dr Nicola Curtis, Psychiatrist
Dr Nicola Curtis
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE1  (Online Only)
Please send enquiries regarding appointments, fees or availability via email. I work with a range of emotional and mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma, disordered eating, interpersonal relationship challenges, OCD and unusual perceptions and experiences. Please note, I do not offer assessments for ASD or ADHD. Requests for psychiatric assessments will require a referral letter from your GP.
Please send enquiries regarding appointments, fees or availability via email. I work with a range of emotional and mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma, disordered eating, interpersonal relationship challenges, OCD and unusual perceptions and experiences. Please note, I do not offer assessments for ASD or ADHD. Requests for psychiatric assessments will require a referral letter from your GP.
01733 977366 View 01733 977366
Photo of Philip Boddey - Philip Boddey Counselling, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Philip Boddey Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE8
I have been a qualified psycotherapist and counsellor for in the region of 30 years to 2020 and have, during this time worked with ages 5 and upwards both individually, as couples, groups and families. I have worked alongside local authorities social services, education establishments, foster agencies, Police, CAMH, Health Insurance companies, the NHS and others.
I have been a qualified psycotherapist and counsellor for in the region of 30 years to 2020 and have, during this time worked with ages 5 and upwards both individually, as couples, groups and families. I have worked alongside local authorities social services, education establishments, foster agencies, Police, CAMH, Health Insurance companies, the NHS and others.
01780 430698 View 01780 430698
Photo of Mandy Eileen Kitsell - Embrace Centre for Counselling and Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Embrace Centre for Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE6
I have been a counsellor/therapist for the last 18 years. I love my work and I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space so that we can work through difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. My counselling style is varied as it is very much dependent on the individuals or couples needs and concerns. I have felt honoured to work with those who have been my clients. It is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Meet with me for an introductory consultation and we can discover the best ways to help make the changes needed to help you on your journey.
I have been a counsellor/therapist for the last 18 years. I love my work and I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space so that we can work through difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. My counselling style is varied as it is very much dependent on the individuals or couples needs and concerns. I have felt honoured to work with those who have been my clients. It is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Meet with me for an introductory consultation and we can discover the best ways to help make the changes needed to help you on your journey.
01487 801962 View 01487 801962
Photo of Debbie Watt, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Debbie Watt
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE1
I’m a Coaching Psychologist and Accredited Master Coach with over 17 years of experience in supporting clients to navigate their way through challenges and change. My approach is to walk alongside you and tailor support to your changing needs on your journey to define and achieve your chosen outcomes -
I’m a Coaching Psychologist and Accredited Master Coach with over 17 years of experience in supporting clients to navigate their way through challenges and change. My approach is to walk alongside you and tailor support to your changing needs on your journey to define and achieve your chosen outcomes -
01223 650660 View 01223 650660

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kim Thomas, PsychD, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Kim Thomas
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MHGI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford PE9
As a Human Givens therapist I am trained in the most up-to-date evidence-based approach to counselling and psychotherapy. Human Givens therapy is a safe, fast and a highly effective way to make positive changes in life. With years of experience supporting countless clients I provide reliable practical help for a variety of Issues including •Depression/low mood •Panic attacks •Phobias •Low self-esteem •Self-harming •Eating disorders •Poor concentration •Anxiety and Stress •Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) •Addictions (all kinds) •Obsessions (OCD) • Poor Sleep
As a Human Givens therapist I am trained in the most up-to-date evidence-based approach to counselling and psychotherapy. Human Givens therapy is a safe, fast and a highly effective way to make positive changes in life. With years of experience supporting countless clients I provide reliable practical help for a variety of Issues including •Depression/low mood •Panic attacks •Phobias •Low self-esteem •Self-harming •Eating disorders •Poor concentration •Anxiety and Stress •Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) •Addictions (all kinds) •Obsessions (OCD) • Poor Sleep
01664 494374 View 01664 494374
Photo of Joan Elizabeth Carter, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Joan Elizabeth Carter
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Stamford PE9
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced Registered and Senior Accredited counsellor/psychotherapist I have 32 years experience and over 20,000 hours client sessions. I offer individual and couples counselling. I have extensive experience working for the NHS, heading up a therapy service in one of the largest GP Medical Practices in the UK. I now work from my home near OAKHAM. The first step is to meet me for an initial assessment session so that you ca decide if I am the right therapist for you and if so, we can consider how best to address the issues you are facing. I believe that the relationship is central to our work together.
I am an experienced Registered and Senior Accredited counsellor/psychotherapist I have 32 years experience and over 20,000 hours client sessions. I offer individual and couples counselling. I have extensive experience working for the NHS, heading up a therapy service in one of the largest GP Medical Practices in the UK. I now work from my home near OAKHAM. The first step is to meet me for an initial assessment session so that you ca decide if I am the right therapist for you and if so, we can consider how best to address the issues you are facing. I believe that the relationship is central to our work together.
01572 492166 View 01572 492166

Online Therapists

Photo of Kadija Taha - Blue Ocean, MBACP, Counsellor
Blue Ocean
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE5
Hi, my name is kadija Taha, I am an integrative counsellor and I am also specialised in bereavement counselling. I am very successful as a counsellor, because of my ability to help others overcome problems, such as depression, anxiety, phobia, relationship, grieving and so on. As a counsellor, I use the core conditions to help my clients, this means that, I use the unconditional positive regard to work fairly and genuinely to every client. I also use my empathic understanding to be in my clients world. I work with various age ranges, starting from children as young as 7 years old to the elderly aged 85 and upwards.
Hi, my name is kadija Taha, I am an integrative counsellor and I am also specialised in bereavement counselling. I am very successful as a counsellor, because of my ability to help others overcome problems, such as depression, anxiety, phobia, relationship, grieving and so on. As a counsellor, I use the core conditions to help my clients, this means that, I use the unconditional positive regard to work fairly and genuinely to every client. I also use my empathic understanding to be in my clients world. I work with various age ranges, starting from children as young as 7 years old to the elderly aged 85 and upwards.
020 3947 8955 View 020 3947 8955
Photo of Lucy Hughes - Mantle Psychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mantle Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Holmfirth HD9
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.
01484 240639 View 01484 240639
Photo of Nicola Heaps - Guiding light counselling , BACP, Counsellor
Guiding light counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS10
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.
0113 519 1179 View 0113 519 1179
Photo of Mary Attwood, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Mary Attwood
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Barnsley S71  (Online Only)
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.
01787 323190 View 01787 323190
Photo of Rosie Wessel, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Rosie Wessel
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Gloucester GL4  (Online Only)
I am an experienced RMN and accredited CBT therapist with over a decade of experience working with individuals suffering from depression and anxiety disorders, such as PTSD, OCD, panic, phobias, social anxiety, BDD, and agoraphobia. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and have extensive knowledge of the unique challenges they face. My qualifications include a degree in RMN from the University of the West of England, as well as certifications in the Complexities of Caring for Older People, PG Dip High Intensity CBT, and Long Term Health Conditions from the University of Exeter.
I am an experienced RMN and accredited CBT therapist with over a decade of experience working with individuals suffering from depression and anxiety disorders, such as PTSD, OCD, panic, phobias, social anxiety, BDD, and agoraphobia. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and have extensive knowledge of the unique challenges they face. My qualifications include a degree in RMN from the University of the West of England, as well as certifications in the Complexities of Caring for Older People, PG Dip High Intensity CBT, and Long Term Health Conditions from the University of Exeter.
01452 934601 View 01452 934601
Photo of Samantha Dewhurst, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Samantha Dewhurst
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC2A
My experience ranges from working with older adults to child psychotherapy, with clients experiencing a variety of psychological difficulties.
I am a Counselling Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience both within the NHS and private sectors working to the highest level with a wide range of psychological challenges and client demographics. My integrative approach to therapy ensures that I am able to offer bespoke treatment plans based on an individual's requirements rather than offer a 'one-size fits all' approach. I draw on humanistic cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic psychotherapeutic perspectives depending on the needs and wishes of clients. I provide an open, sensitive and confidential space where you will be met with warmth, respect and acceptance.
My experience ranges from working with older adults to child psychotherapy, with clients experiencing a variety of psychological difficulties.
I am a Counselling Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience both within the NHS and private sectors working to the highest level with a wide range of psychological challenges and client demographics. My integrative approach to therapy ensures that I am able to offer bespoke treatment plans based on an individual's requirements rather than offer a 'one-size fits all' approach. I draw on humanistic cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic psychotherapeutic perspectives depending on the needs and wishes of clients. I provide an open, sensitive and confidential space where you will be met with warmth, respect and acceptance.
View
Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
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 Dr Charlotte Heathcote, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Charlotte Heathcote
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sheffield S11  (Online Only)
I work with individuals from child through to older adult, drawing on a range of psychological models and theories based on who you are and what you are bringing to therapy.
Hi, I'm Charlotte and I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist working within the NHS and in private practice. I have been working in mental health services for over 10 years with individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of difficulties. As a Psychologist, I offer a person-centred approach to individuals who may be looking for support with anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties and so on. We begin by engaging in a period of assessment, coming to a shared understanding of your difficulties, and deciding how best to support you to move forward in a longlasting way that continues after therapy.
I work with individuals from child through to older adult, drawing on a range of psychological models and theories based on who you are and what you are bringing to therapy.
Hi, I'm Charlotte and I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist working within the NHS and in private practice. I have been working in mental health services for over 10 years with individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of difficulties. As a Psychologist, I offer a person-centred approach to individuals who may be looking for support with anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties and so on. We begin by engaging in a period of assessment, coming to a shared understanding of your difficulties, and deciding how best to support you to move forward in a longlasting way that continues after therapy.
0114 697 6616 View 0114 697 6616
Photo of Dawn Elizabeth Brown, BACP, Counsellor
Dawn Elizabeth Brown
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B14
I am a registered general nurse with over 15 years’ experience working with individuals living with dementia, chronic illnesses, and palliative care.
Do you feel you are battling through circumstances alone? Are you frightened, isolated, or dismayed? Do your days become a mist of confusion with no respite from your despair? Whatever your concern, I am here for you. I acknowledge it takes courage to reach out for support. Well done for taking this step. I can offer a space where you’re seen and heard in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental manner, giving you clarity amidst your despair. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, loss, bereavement, or anticipatory grief or you are caring for a loved one with a life limiting illness, I can help.
I am a registered general nurse with over 15 years’ experience working with individuals living with dementia, chronic illnesses, and palliative care.
Do you feel you are battling through circumstances alone? Are you frightened, isolated, or dismayed? Do your days become a mist of confusion with no respite from your despair? Whatever your concern, I am here for you. I acknowledge it takes courage to reach out for support. Well done for taking this step. I can offer a space where you’re seen and heard in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental manner, giving you clarity amidst your despair. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, loss, bereavement, or anticipatory grief or you are caring for a loved one with a life limiting illness, I can help.
01564 331021 View 01564 331021
Photo of Dr Ally Tomlins, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ally Tomlins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW1W
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

See more therapy options for Peterborough

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.