Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Saffron Walden

Photo of Emma Catherine Coyle, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Emma Catherine Coyle
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Saffron Walden CB11
My background is in counselling young adults (14+) through to older clients (94 being my eldest to date).
I aim to instil an overall sense of mental wellbeing and health; to help clients work through past traumas by showing them a different, more positive way of understanding them; and to free individuals from long held anxieties so they can maintain better relationships and live a happier life. Alongside Private Practice, I work for the NHS as the Health and Wellbeing Practitioner at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire, offering onsite counselling to staff members. Prior to re-training as a Counsellor, I worked for 14 years in the Financial Sector and so have plenty of knowledge and understanding of the Corporate world.
My background is in counselling young adults (14+) through to older clients (94 being my eldest to date).
I aim to instil an overall sense of mental wellbeing and health; to help clients work through past traumas by showing them a different, more positive way of understanding them; and to free individuals from long held anxieties so they can maintain better relationships and live a happier life. Alongside Private Practice, I work for the NHS as the Health and Wellbeing Practitioner at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire, offering onsite counselling to staff members. Prior to re-training as a Counsellor, I worked for 14 years in the Financial Sector and so have plenty of knowledge and understanding of the Corporate world.
07588 727030 View 07588 727030
Photo of Christine Barton, Counsellor
Christine Barton
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Saffron Walden CB11
I understand that to make that first call or email for counselling can be extremely difficult, the fact you’re here means you’ve taken the first step towards making positive changes in your life. Are you stuck, feeling lost or alone, afraid or upset? I aim to help you to make sense of your fears, worries and anxieties. Many people find it easier to talk to someone who they see as being separate to their life rather than friends or family. I can help you make sense of experiences of the past and resolve complicated feelings linked to these. Therapy can be used to better yourself, allowing you to take complete control of your life.
I understand that to make that first call or email for counselling can be extremely difficult, the fact you’re here means you’ve taken the first step towards making positive changes in your life. Are you stuck, feeling lost or alone, afraid or upset? I aim to help you to make sense of your fears, worries and anxieties. Many people find it easier to talk to someone who they see as being separate to their life rather than friends or family. I can help you make sense of experiences of the past and resolve complicated feelings linked to these. Therapy can be used to better yourself, allowing you to take complete control of your life.
07723 440410 View 07723 440410
Photo of Anna Bailey, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Anna Bailey
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saffron Walden CB11
You are not alone. Whatever your difficulties may be, there is always a way forward. Therapy may be the right choice for you if you are looking to reduce distress, improve your wellbeing and achieve your goals. Clients who meet with me gain a greater understanding of their difficulties and develop the ability to overcome these. If you are feeling overwhelmed, find yourself unable to move away from unhelpful thoughts or memories, or just sense that things are not quite right, then please get in touch to discuss whether therapy could be of benefit to you.
You are not alone. Whatever your difficulties may be, there is always a way forward. Therapy may be the right choice for you if you are looking to reduce distress, improve your wellbeing and achieve your goals. Clients who meet with me gain a greater understanding of their difficulties and develop the ability to overcome these. If you are feeling overwhelmed, find yourself unable to move away from unhelpful thoughts or memories, or just sense that things are not quite right, then please get in touch to discuss whether therapy could be of benefit to you.
01763 291258 View 01763 291258

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Julie Hare, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Julie Hare
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB10  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years post qualified experience in the NHS. I am experienced in using psychological therapies to help individuals, couples, families and older people presenting with a wide range of mental health distress. I am interested in issues around self esteem/identity/culture, childhood neglect, trauma, difficult relationships, mood problems and managing long term health conditions. I also work with adults with ASD/ADHD. In addition to working with distress I offer ‘life reflection’ sessions for individuals who just need a space to ‘pause’ and think about their wellbeing, and for self development.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years post qualified experience in the NHS. I am experienced in using psychological therapies to help individuals, couples, families and older people presenting with a wide range of mental health distress. I am interested in issues around self esteem/identity/culture, childhood neglect, trauma, difficult relationships, mood problems and managing long term health conditions. I also work with adults with ASD/ADHD. In addition to working with distress I offer ‘life reflection’ sessions for individuals who just need a space to ‘pause’ and think about their wellbeing, and for self development.
01544 301359 View 01544 301359
Photo of Hayley Longaretti, MBACP, Counsellor
Hayley Longaretti
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB22
Welcome to Flint House Counselling, where I provide a warm and nurturing space for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. As a dedicated counsellor, I specialise in loss and bereavement, offering compassionate support during the toughest times. Additionally, I provide expert guidance for those dealing with anxiety, sexual issues, anger, and the journey of rediscovering one's sense of self. My approach is personalised and empathetic, ensuring each client feels understood and supported throughout their unique healing process.
Welcome to Flint House Counselling, where I provide a warm and nurturing space for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. As a dedicated counsellor, I specialise in loss and bereavement, offering compassionate support during the toughest times. Additionally, I provide expert guidance for those dealing with anxiety, sexual issues, anger, and the journey of rediscovering one's sense of self. My approach is personalised and empathetic, ensuring each client feels understood and supported throughout their unique healing process.
01223 657891 View 01223 657891
Photo of Samantha Jayne Byron, BACP, Psychotherapist
Samantha Jayne Byron
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB22
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
020 3984 8715 View 020 3984 8715
Photo of Mark Richard Bullock - From The Chair Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
From The Chair Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stansted CM24  (Online Only)
Hi my name is Mark try my service with your first online session free. I am an experienced counsellor with a level four diploma in therapeutic Counselling .I have also worked in various agencies supporting clients experiencing emotional difficulties such as anxiety ,stress, depression .suicidal thoughts and addiction. My therapeutic focus is to help you understand how your past is affecting you in the present . Understand how our beliefs we hold about ourselves can affect our behaviour and the outcome in situations . Give you the tools and understanding to cope with life's difficulties.
Hi my name is Mark try my service with your first online session free. I am an experienced counsellor with a level four diploma in therapeutic Counselling .I have also worked in various agencies supporting clients experiencing emotional difficulties such as anxiety ,stress, depression .suicidal thoughts and addiction. My therapeutic focus is to help you understand how your past is affecting you in the present . Understand how our beliefs we hold about ourselves can affect our behaviour and the outcome in situations . Give you the tools and understanding to cope with life's difficulties.
07481 338732 View 07481 338732

Online Therapists

Photo of Shanaz Begum, MBACP, Counsellor
Shanaz Begum
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N4
I work with students, adults, and older people with a range of psychosocial challenges.
Seeking support can stem from various issues like life changes, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-esteem concerns. Taking the first step may feel overwhelming. In our sessions, I'll listen attentively and empathetically, not just to what you say but also to what remains unspoken. You'll find a safe, non-judgmental space with me where you can explore your experiences, identify challenges, and work through them at your own pace. I offer Integrative Counselling, Walk and Talk Therapy, and Coaching sessions.
I work with students, adults, and older people with a range of psychosocial challenges.
Seeking support can stem from various issues like life changes, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-esteem concerns. Taking the first step may feel overwhelming. In our sessions, I'll listen attentively and empathetically, not just to what you say but also to what remains unspoken. You'll find a safe, non-judgmental space with me where you can explore your experiences, identify challenges, and work through them at your own pace. I offer Integrative Counselling, Walk and Talk Therapy, and Coaching sessions.
020 4572 0376 View 020 4572 0376
Photo of Sonya Price, MBACP, Counsellor
Sonya Price
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leamington Spa CV32
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.
01926 958240 View 01926 958240
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 Maya von Spreckelsen, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Maya von Spreckelsen
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W1W
I am an HCPC registered, Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have diverse and extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults (and their families) with complex and enduring mental, neurological and physical health difficulties. I have worked in NHS hospital in-patient and out-patient services, GP practice based mental health services and secondary care mental health services. I have also worked in community mental health teams, counselling services offering long term counselling and psychotherapy and occupational health services offering short term counselling and psychotherapy.
I am an HCPC registered, Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I have diverse and extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults (and their families) with complex and enduring mental, neurological and physical health difficulties. I have worked in NHS hospital in-patient and out-patient services, GP practice based mental health services and secondary care mental health services. I have also worked in community mental health teams, counselling services offering long term counselling and psychotherapy and occupational health services offering short term counselling and psychotherapy.
020 7112 8662 View 020 7112 8662
Photo of Dr Jinnie Ooi, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Jinnie Ooi
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Norwich NR2
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
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Photo of 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.
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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
Photo of Dr Robin Goldthorpe, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Robin Goldthorpe
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Haywards Heath RH16
I specialise in providing evidence-based talking therapies for adults and older adults experiencing depression (low mood), anxiety, and stress. Having worked in mental health for over 8 years, I have experience providing therapy to people of all ages with varying levels of need. I provide structured talking therapies, with my approach particularly focussing on helping you understand why you feel the way you do, and how you can better manage the emotions you experience. I aim to do this in a safe and informal environment, providing a confidential space for you to discuss your wellbeing in a guided, structured way.
I specialise in providing evidence-based talking therapies for adults and older adults experiencing depression (low mood), anxiety, and stress. Having worked in mental health for over 8 years, I have experience providing therapy to people of all ages with varying levels of need. I provide structured talking therapies, with my approach particularly focussing on helping you understand why you feel the way you do, and how you can better manage the emotions you experience. I aim to do this in a safe and informal environment, providing a confidential space for you to discuss your wellbeing in a guided, structured way.
01444 718306 View 01444 718306
Photo of Tania Thorn - Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tring HP23  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I specialise in working with late and young onset dementia.
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
In addition, I specialise in working with late and young onset dementia.
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
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Photo of Katherine Nova Garmonsway
Katherine Nova Garmonsway
Verified Verified
Witham CM8  (Online Only)
24+ years’ experience in CAMHS, including MOD, Assertive Outreach, Local Government and Private Healthcare.  Treating Adults, Adolescents, Children and Elderly patients in both military and civilian environments.
24+ years’ experience in CAMHS, including MOD, Assertive Outreach, Local Government and Private Healthcare.  Treating Adults, Adolescents, Children and Elderly patients in both military and civilian environments.
01376 315829 View 01376 315829
Photo of Ekta Choudhary, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Ekta Choudhary
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
South Croydon CR2
As an Integrative Counsellor, I believe that there is no single approach that can suit everyone in every situation. Each person is unique, so counselling should also be unique to that person. I aim to cater to the therapeutic experience of each individual, tailored to each person’s personal limits, external constraints and goals. I have worked with adolescents and young adults since 2016 and also have experience of working with the elderly. Having worked in stressful corporate environment for over 20 years, I understand the stress and pressures of modern life and its impact on our wellbeing and of our loved ones.
As an Integrative Counsellor, I believe that there is no single approach that can suit everyone in every situation. Each person is unique, so counselling should also be unique to that person. I aim to cater to the therapeutic experience of each individual, tailored to each person’s personal limits, external constraints and goals. I have worked with adolescents and young adults since 2016 and also have experience of working with the elderly. Having worked in stressful corporate environment for over 20 years, I understand the stress and pressures of modern life and its impact on our wellbeing and of our loved ones.
020 8103 0799 View 020 8103 0799
Photo of Dr Katherine Mollart
Dr Katherine Mollart
Verified Verified
Winchester SO22
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.
01372 239531 View 01372 239531
Photo of David Chidgey, MBACP, Counsellor
David Chidgey
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Winchester SO23
I have experience counselling adults, older adults and young people suffering with anxiety and panic attacks, bereavement, abuse, loss, depression, personal development issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome/ME, self esteem issues, identity issues, men's issues, relationship issues, redundancy, stress, anger management and work related issues.
I am a Psychodynamic Counsellor working in Hampshire. If you are experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, abuse, relationship issues or a lack of confidence, I offer counselling where together we can get to the bottom of your difficulties and help you to understand yourself more clearly. Psychodynamic Counselling can provide you with a confidential, non-judgemental 'space' to reflect upon and work through the issues you are facing. Counselling requires commitment from us both, but gradually, over time, it can be a rewarding way to enable you to manage the issues that life throws your way.
I have experience counselling adults, older adults and young people suffering with anxiety and panic attacks, bereavement, abuse, loss, depression, personal development issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome/ME, self esteem issues, identity issues, men's issues, relationship issues, redundancy, stress, anger management and work related issues.
I am a Psychodynamic Counsellor working in Hampshire. If you are experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, abuse, relationship issues or a lack of confidence, I offer counselling where together we can get to the bottom of your difficulties and help you to understand yourself more clearly. Psychodynamic Counselling can provide you with a confidential, non-judgemental 'space' to reflect upon and work through the issues you are facing. Counselling requires commitment from us both, but gradually, over time, it can be a rewarding way to enable you to manage the issues that life throws your way.
01962 392333 View 01962 392333

See more therapy options for Saffron Walden

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.