Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Rugby
![Photo of Dr Kat Sephton, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2053e79b-e02b-4b6f-ac79-d55f2b135a1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Dr Kat Sephton, HCPC registered and BPS chartered Clinical Psychologist and owner of Renew Psychology. I specialise in Neuropsychology, supporting those with neurological conditions (e.g. MS, Dementia, Parkinson's), stroke, traumatic brain injury, and illness affecting the brain. I provide individual therapy, neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation, training and consultation. I have more than a decades experience working in mental health and physical health services, hospitals, care homes and in patients own homes.
Hi, I'm Dr Kat Sephton, HCPC registered and BPS chartered Clinical Psychologist and owner of Renew Psychology. I specialise in Neuropsychology, supporting those with neurological conditions (e.g. MS, Dementia, Parkinson's), stroke, traumatic brain injury, and illness affecting the brain. I provide individual therapy, neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation, training and consultation. I have more than a decades experience working in mental health and physical health services, hospitals, care homes and in patients own homes.
![Photo of Tracey Marie Cooper - Swan Counselling Services - Tracey Cooper, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55081427-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
It can seem like the hardest thing to do to access counselling, but it can be life changing if you take that first step. You may not be entirely clear on what you want but just have a feeling that things don't feel right and you have decided that you want to understand what, why and how to refocus and live the life you feel is best for you. Or perhaps you are very aware of a struggle with difficulties, which may already be formally diagnosed by another professional, and you want to regain some control instead of feeling that these issues take over. I can support people in achieving their goals wherever they are in their journey.
It can seem like the hardest thing to do to access counselling, but it can be life changing if you take that first step. You may not be entirely clear on what you want but just have a feeling that things don't feel right and you have decided that you want to understand what, why and how to refocus and live the life you feel is best for you. Or perhaps you are very aware of a struggle with difficulties, which may already be formally diagnosed by another professional, and you want to regain some control instead of feeling that these issues take over. I can support people in achieving their goals wherever they are in their journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Rupinder Sandhu, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a561206-fb04-4746-b6f4-794e705e82a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Rimpy Sandhu. I have been working as a volunteer as well as in my private practice as a counsellor and psychotherapist for 10 years . I know it can be very scary and difficult to talk about your issues, revisit those painful memories. Sometimes it’s hard to recognise and express your own feelings. I offer a professional, supportive, confidential, nonjudgmental and ethical therapy in order to help with your presenting issues. Counselling helps you to understand yourself and to find coping strategies to deal with the day to day difficulties you might be facing.
Hi, my name is Rimpy Sandhu. I have been working as a volunteer as well as in my private practice as a counsellor and psychotherapist for 10 years . I know it can be very scary and difficult to talk about your issues, revisit those painful memories. Sometimes it’s hard to recognise and express your own feelings. I offer a professional, supportive, confidential, nonjudgmental and ethical therapy in order to help with your presenting issues. Counselling helps you to understand yourself and to find coping strategies to deal with the day to day difficulties you might be facing.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Phoebe Clausen-Sternwald, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24ac70b7-7b4c-460f-8866-8d8ad67b08d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trauma-informed grief, cancer & dementia counsellor. Grief is the change we didn’t want, the loss of a planned future. We grieve not only for the death of a loved one but also for the loss of a good health ( cancer, life changing illnesses & injuries), a relationship or a career. Whatever you are struggling with, I will walk hand in hand with you and be your witness. We will address and validate your struggles, learn the techniques of self emotional regulation, processing your current as well as your old wounds, so you can start living a life fully at your own pace. Contact me to arrange a free 20 minutes consultation.
I am a trauma-informed grief, cancer & dementia counsellor. Grief is the change we didn’t want, the loss of a planned future. We grieve not only for the death of a loved one but also for the loss of a good health ( cancer, life changing illnesses & injuries), a relationship or a career. Whatever you are struggling with, I will walk hand in hand with you and be your witness. We will address and validate your struggles, learn the techniques of self emotional regulation, processing your current as well as your old wounds, so you can start living a life fully at your own pace. Contact me to arrange a free 20 minutes consultation.
![Photo of Dr Charlotte Heathcote, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be53240d-b6d5-4759-9c72-2a4f6f27b782/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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 Dawn Elizabeth Brown, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3ccc22-45e6-4bdc-9c90-cf48481427a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Bhavna Jaiswal, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f81376-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Chartered Psychologist. I have over 10 years of counselling experience and have helped children, couples, young and elderly people. I have been privileged to have worked in research and practice with thousands of people of all ages from different cultural, religions and socio-economic backgrounds dealing with motivational, stress, and relationship issues. My approach is integrative, meaning that different approaches to your well-being are combined, depending on your needs - no single approach suits all. I will explore all aspects of your being, to tailor a therapy that works best for you.
I am a Chartered Psychologist. I have over 10 years of counselling experience and have helped children, couples, young and elderly people. I have been privileged to have worked in research and practice with thousands of people of all ages from different cultural, religions and socio-economic backgrounds dealing with motivational, stress, and relationship issues. My approach is integrative, meaning that different approaches to your well-being are combined, depending on your needs - no single approach suits all. I will explore all aspects of your being, to tailor a therapy that works best for you.
![Photo of Dr Katherine Mollart](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a492c97-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Oxford University. I have experience of working with individuals, couples, families, adults, older adults, children and adolescents and people with learning disabilities, within a wide range of NHS health care settings. I specialise in working with couples and also supporting people who have long-term physical health problems such as diabetes, chronic pain and chronic fatigue. I wrote my doctoral thesis on adolescents’ experiences of going to boarding school and have an interest in the impact of boarding school on psychological wellbeing.
I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Oxford University. I have experience of working with individuals, couples, families, adults, older adults, children and adolescents and people with learning disabilities, within a wide range of NHS health care settings. I specialise in working with couples and also supporting people who have long-term physical health problems such as diabetes, chronic pain and chronic fatigue. I wrote my doctoral thesis on adolescents’ experiences of going to boarding school and have an interest in the impact of boarding school on psychological wellbeing.
![Photo of Cara Japon Mbacp Mbpss, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/627aef78-85d7-4750-9608-2361a51db081/3/320x400.jpeg)
However, by having the opportunity to offload it may help to come to terms with the loss of the person they were before Dementia.
I am a BACP registered Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor and a member of the BPS. I am trained in Person-Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamics. I specialise in Relationship and Family Counselling, Dementia and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, work-related stress and breakdowns. I also have vast experience of bereavement counselling. I have many years experience (9+) of working with Carers/family members who care for their loved ones who are living with Dementia. When caring for a loved one, our own emotions and feelings can sometimes be forgotten.
However, by having the opportunity to offload it may help to come to terms with the loss of the person they were before Dementia.
I am a BACP registered Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor and a member of the BPS. I am trained in Person-Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamics. I specialise in Relationship and Family Counselling, Dementia and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, work-related stress and breakdowns. I also have vast experience of bereavement counselling. I have many years experience (9+) of working with Carers/family members who care for their loved ones who are living with Dementia. When caring for a loved one, our own emotions and feelings can sometimes be forgotten.
![Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ceb95a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Amy Lyons, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/493aeb4d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
![Photo of Nicole Rolls, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a443d7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When the present is painful and the way forward uncertain, we may need to be heard and supported in order to see what is happening for us and around us, so that we can find greater understanding and joy in our lives . I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and an Accredited Member of the BACP and of EMDR Europe with 17 years experience. I have been working successfully with a great variety of issues, working in Private Practice, in the NHS, as well as with Sutton Counselling and Goldsmiths University. I work with Adults, older teenagers, and couples. www.nicolerolls.co.uk
When the present is painful and the way forward uncertain, we may need to be heard and supported in order to see what is happening for us and around us, so that we can find greater understanding and joy in our lives . I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and an Accredited Member of the BACP and of EMDR Europe with 17 years experience. I have been working successfully with a great variety of issues, working in Private Practice, in the NHS, as well as with Sutton Counselling and Goldsmiths University. I work with Adults, older teenagers, and couples. www.nicolerolls.co.uk
![Photo of Shweta Mohata, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93ebf4cf-2c3c-4fa9-a824-4b2c969a2616/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a fully qualified Psycho dynamic Psychotherapist, practicing in King's Cross area of London. I have worked with older adults at the NHS for over a year and a half. I practice both, short term, 12-18 sessions, and long term open ended sessions. This can help not only with relief of symptoms but can promote deep and lasting change. The aim is to bring the unconscious mind into consciousness, helping to unravel and unlock true, deep-rooted feelings in order to re-frame and resolve them.
I am a fully qualified Psycho dynamic Psychotherapist, practicing in King's Cross area of London. I have worked with older adults at the NHS for over a year and a half. I practice both, short term, 12-18 sessions, and long term open ended sessions. This can help not only with relief of symptoms but can promote deep and lasting change. The aim is to bring the unconscious mind into consciousness, helping to unravel and unlock true, deep-rooted feelings in order to re-frame and resolve them.
![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.
![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 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 Nick Benians, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc0c3bb-b6e7-43d0-8abd-04e05323fcc6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Benians
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS9
Waitlist for new clients
I work with different forms of anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma and issues relating to ageing and dementia.
If you are ready for lasting change, then EMDR therapy may be for you – EMDR seeks to address the heart of the matter. I can help you to move from 'coping' to greater self-acceptance, and embracing life more fully.
I work with different forms of anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma and issues relating to ageing and dementia.
If you are ready for lasting change, then EMDR therapy may be for you – EMDR seeks to address the heart of the matter. I can help you to move from 'coping' to greater self-acceptance, and embracing life more fully.
![Photo of Deepak Shantilal Sankhla, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464825a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My private work involves providing talking therapy for a range of difficulties people may experience in their lives. These may include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, bereavement, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders and/or unresolved trauma. I also specialise in neuropsychological assessments for query dementia and psychotherapy for older adults. I have worked within NHS mental health and research services since 2006.
My private work involves providing talking therapy for a range of difficulties people may experience in their lives. These may include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, bereavement, obsessive-compulsive disorders, personality disorders and/or unresolved trauma. I also specialise in neuropsychological assessments for query dementia and psychotherapy for older adults. I have worked within NHS mental health and research services since 2006.
![Photo of Lise Baker, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bf727f5-1f7e-4279-8d8d-288c15cbb16d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist practising in Guildford, Haslemere, Putney, West London and Private Practice. I offer short or long term therapy and work with adults and the elderly on a one-to-one basis. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space, in professional settings and calm surroundings, where you can find solace and privacy. I hold up-to-date Enhanced Disclosure (DBS) for working with the very vulnerable and continue to develop my skills while I undertake a further MSc in Neuroscience.
I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist practising in Guildford, Haslemere, Putney, West London and Private Practice. I offer short or long term therapy and work with adults and the elderly on a one-to-one basis. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space, in professional settings and calm surroundings, where you can find solace and privacy. I hold up-to-date Enhanced Disclosure (DBS) for working with the very vulnerable and continue to develop my skills while I undertake a further MSc in Neuroscience.
See more therapy options for Rugby
Nearby Geriatric and Seniors Counsellors Searches for Rugby
- Birmingham
- Coventry
- Leamington Spa
- Leicester
- Loughborough
- Milton Keynes
- Nuneaton
- Redditch
- Solihull
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Sutton Coldfield
- Warwick
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.