Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Swadlincote
![Photo of Vicky Lennox-Warburton - Open Book Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51af4c4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It’s scary admitting to yourself that you need help; and that you’re struggling with whatever is causing you to feel unhappy or distressed. Due to stigma; people feel that they can only access therapy when they are at breaking point; when in fact you can access counselling whenever you need to. My background is in working with abuse survivors; adults and children; and those who have experienced trauma. As a result I work with depression, low self esteem, shame, loneliness, hopelessness, grief & loss, anger, self harm and suicidal feelings as well as a broad range of other factors and experiences clients bring to their sessions.
It’s scary admitting to yourself that you need help; and that you’re struggling with whatever is causing you to feel unhappy or distressed. Due to stigma; people feel that they can only access therapy when they are at breaking point; when in fact you can access counselling whenever you need to. My background is in working with abuse survivors; adults and children; and those who have experienced trauma. As a result I work with depression, low self esteem, shame, loneliness, hopelessness, grief & loss, anger, self harm and suicidal feelings as well as a broad range of other factors and experiences clients bring to their sessions.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Theresa Dubicka-Keen, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57273f3a-308c-4cc3-9147-ccb559080967/2/320x400.jpeg)
In the 50 minute session of 1-1 person- centred therapy I work with your values and help to unravel emotional anxiety that is distressing for adults, children, older adults and young people.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
In the 50 minute session of 1-1 person- centred therapy I work with your values and help to unravel emotional anxiety that is distressing for adults, children, older adults and young people.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
![Photo of Dr Alison Jones, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ed0385-4d3f-4f49-bbd8-f7b7996dae6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Derbyshire. I help adults and young people with psychological and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, work related stress, psychosexual difficulties, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, physical health difficulties and adjustment to major life events. My main focus is providing psychological assessment and treatment. I help support clients with a wide range of difficulties, from mild through to severe and longstanding. I can offer many modes of therapy including; CBT, EMDR, integrative, systemic and psychosexual.
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Derbyshire. I help adults and young people with psychological and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, work related stress, psychosexual difficulties, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, physical health difficulties and adjustment to major life events. My main focus is providing psychological assessment and treatment. I help support clients with a wide range of difficulties, from mild through to severe and longstanding. I can offer many modes of therapy including; CBT, EMDR, integrative, systemic and psychosexual.
![Photo of Claire Louise Thomas, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b356b3a-f752-411d-b873-2c358f50699f/2/320x400.jpeg)
A qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, I will work alongside you, my client, without judgement. We can roadmap your therapy journey together. Your personal aims and needs will drive the direction of our sessions. We can agree on appropriate check-ins and timely reviews to ensure you are getting what you need. I will use my training and experience to be your guide on a journey to knowing yourself better, and assist you in accepting yourself.
A qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, I will work alongside you, my client, without judgement. We can roadmap your therapy journey together. Your personal aims and needs will drive the direction of our sessions. We can agree on appropriate check-ins and timely reviews to ensure you are getting what you need. I will use my training and experience to be your guide on a journey to knowing yourself better, and assist you in accepting yourself.
![Photo of Joanna Baker, MHGI, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9993c94-be00-4cae-9447-daebf95766e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Baker
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burton-on-Trent DE15
Waitlist for new clients
Clients come to see me at The Well-Minded Practice when they want fast, effective new outcomes for depression, anxiety, trauma and to improve their sleep. With extensive experience working with all forms of emotional distress, I always strive to ensure that alongside specific work carried out during appointments, clients have a firm foundation of of understanding and a set of tools to continue to maintain their own emotional health proactively in the future. Using the most up-to-date psychotherapeutic understanding and techniques, I help clients move forward with their lives as swiftly and effectively as possible.
Clients come to see me at The Well-Minded Practice when they want fast, effective new outcomes for depression, anxiety, trauma and to improve their sleep. With extensive experience working with all forms of emotional distress, I always strive to ensure that alongside specific work carried out during appointments, clients have a firm foundation of of understanding and a set of tools to continue to maintain their own emotional health proactively in the future. Using the most up-to-date psychotherapeutic understanding and techniques, I help clients move forward with their lives as swiftly and effectively as possible.
![Photo of Jasmine Patel, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62d08536-158b-4cdb-b8f8-87c0f1332a1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.
![Photo of Amy Gunn - Clearmind Counselling With Amy, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b2e7807-e4ea-4027-b5ef-fbbd7c933eaa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deciding upon counselling-or even asking for help is not an easy step to take. When you feel strong enough to take that first step, I will help you take time out, by creating a safe space where you will be seen, heard and can talk things through at your own pace. This really can make all the difference.
Deciding upon counselling-or even asking for help is not an easy step to take. When you feel strong enough to take that first step, I will help you take time out, by creating a safe space where you will be seen, heard and can talk things through at your own pace. This really can make all the difference.
Online Therapists
![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 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.
“MBBCHB - M.D, D.Psychotherapy, MRCPsych, RCGP -C.Alcohol &Substance”. Dr. F. Abdoola is a highly respected Consultant Psychiatrist, with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. He currently provides a non judgemental and confidential psychotherapy service, with the aim of individuals discovering , understanding and exploring their most inner, deepest and traumatic feelings and emotions. He helps Identify and managing the root/stressor's which are causing/contributing to their mental health difficulties. Dr. Abdoola takes a holistic, bespoke and individualised approach with children, adults, and older adults.
“MBBCHB - M.D, D.Psychotherapy, MRCPsych, RCGP -C.Alcohol &Substance”. Dr. F. Abdoola is a highly respected Consultant Psychiatrist, with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. He currently provides a non judgemental and confidential psychotherapy service, with the aim of individuals discovering , understanding and exploring their most inner, deepest and traumatic feelings and emotions. He helps Identify and managing the root/stressor's which are causing/contributing to their mental health difficulties. Dr. Abdoola takes a holistic, bespoke and individualised approach with children, adults, and older adults.
![Photo of 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 Annette Moore, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11bef5fb-db6d-4b08-bcec-c95d86c28efb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise in working with young adults, carers and people affected by dementia.
If now is the right time to talk about something that is troubling you, please contact me. It may be that you are struggling with feelings of anxiety and low mood. Perhaps you have experienced loss or trauma and need to talk about this or maybe you just need to make some changes in your life. I understand that this step is not always an easy one, but I will listen without judgement and offer a safe, supportive environment to enable you to talk freely. Talking together can help to clarify things and find a way through. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and life stages, from young adulthood through to later life.
I specialise in working with young adults, carers and people affected by dementia.
If now is the right time to talk about something that is troubling you, please contact me. It may be that you are struggling with feelings of anxiety and low mood. Perhaps you have experienced loss or trauma and need to talk about this or maybe you just need to make some changes in your life. I understand that this step is not always an easy one, but I will listen without judgement and offer a safe, supportive environment to enable you to talk freely. Talking together can help to clarify things and find a way through. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and life stages, from young adulthood through to later life.
![Photo of Dan Fitzpatrick, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecf2050c-039a-43b6-9377-f68cf992debe/3/320x400.jpeg)
My background is 15+ years in healthcare, specifically working in the area of mental health, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I have a strong passion of supporting people living with Dementia (and their loved ones) and can provide a specific level of support in this regard. I hold a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from ICHAS Dublin, a HND in Social Care Practice, and I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience working as an immediate support counsellor offering support to employees of frontline services, including the NHS and the Police force.
My background is 15+ years in healthcare, specifically working in the area of mental health, anxiety, depression and low self esteem. I have a strong passion of supporting people living with Dementia (and their loved ones) and can provide a specific level of support in this regard. I hold a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from ICHAS Dublin, a HND in Social Care Practice, and I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (MBACP). I have experience working as an immediate support counsellor offering support to employees of frontline services, including the NHS and the Police force.
![Photo of Rosie Wessel, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aec2ae8b-0e0d-4eea-93d0-ea7f25e92c0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Emma Coleman, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/216e85cb-3200-4b31-9845-cc7a7c4087b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience of working with bereavement, miscarriage, relationship and family issues, victims of coercive and controlling behaviour, narcissistic relationships, dementia, anxiety, addiction, medical diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
Clear the clouds for a brighter future. When life becomes challenging, we all need some support, someone who can be by our side, listen to us, be there. I can be that person for you. I am a qualified counsellor, working from a person centred approach. I believe that you have the ability to find the answers and be your best self. I can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings, and to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. I am a former primary school teacher, and have worked with people of all ages, with varying issues.
I have experience of working with bereavement, miscarriage, relationship and family issues, victims of coercive and controlling behaviour, narcissistic relationships, dementia, anxiety, addiction, medical diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
Clear the clouds for a brighter future. When life becomes challenging, we all need some support, someone who can be by our side, listen to us, be there. I can be that person for you. I am a qualified counsellor, working from a person centred approach. I believe that you have the ability to find the answers and be your best self. I can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings, and to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. I am a former primary school teacher, and have worked with people of all ages, with varying issues.
See more therapy options for Swadlincote
Nearby Geriatric and Seniors Counsellors Searches for Swadlincote
- Birmingham
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- Derby
- Leamington Spa
- Leicester
- Loughborough
- Nottingham
- Nuneaton
- Solihull
- Sutton Coldfield
- Warwick
- Wolverhampton
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.