Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Fountain Hills, AZ
![Photo of Katie Marie Golbeck - Azure Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, BA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d255c468-a1b5-4287-8b7d-a942b1ae131e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Azure Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Azure Counseling and Consulting, PLLC is owned by lead clinician Katie M. Golbeck, LCSW. She is a responsive mental health practitioner, serving all ages, and specializing in older adult issues. Her interventions are centered in positive psychology methods, creating a dynamic and fresh therapeutic atmosphere. She promotes practical approaches that stimulate immediate stability, resilience, and change. If you are experiencing phase of life issues, low motivation, or poor relationship/life satisfaction, Azure Counseling has solutions!
Azure Counseling and Consulting, PLLC is owned by lead clinician Katie M. Golbeck, LCSW. She is a responsive mental health practitioner, serving all ages, and specializing in older adult issues. Her interventions are centered in positive psychology methods, creating a dynamic and fresh therapeutic atmosphere. She promotes practical approaches that stimulate immediate stability, resilience, and change. If you are experiencing phase of life issues, low motivation, or poor relationship/life satisfaction, Azure Counseling has solutions!
![Photo of Izabela Weber, MA, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4776faba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Izabela Weber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
A key question is: are you new to counseling or did previous therapy not fulfill your expectations? I am a seasoned counselor focused on achieving CONCRETE GOALS that we establish together at the beginning of the therapy process. I frequently assess whether you have been making significant progress. If not, we work together on applying alternative methods in order to get where you want and need to be. In my cozy private practice office, you will be receiving my complete attention. This is a place where you find acceptance, peace of mind, and solutions to questions that have been troubling you for a long time.
A key question is: are you new to counseling or did previous therapy not fulfill your expectations? I am a seasoned counselor focused on achieving CONCRETE GOALS that we establish together at the beginning of the therapy process. I frequently assess whether you have been making significant progress. If not, we work together on applying alternative methods in order to get where you want and need to be. In my cozy private practice office, you will be receiving my complete attention. This is a place where you find acceptance, peace of mind, and solutions to questions that have been troubling you for a long time.
![Photo of Michaesha (My-Kee-Sha) Hinton, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b235b6e-a7f6-4528-af55-f7b53c5bb3ec/1/320x400.png)
Michaesha (My-Kee-Sha) Hinton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Hey! I practice a person-centered approach. I offer a safe place for you to process your feelings and come up with your own solutions with a little guidance. Though I enjoy helping people of all ethnicities and from all different religious + cultural backgrounds. My focus is on children, tweens, teens and young adults who reside in "Non Traditional" homes. I am culturally & religious aware, LGBTQ+ and justice impacted sensitive with a strong understanding of what it takes to serve those who may feel that others have given upon them. In addition to those who reside in a single parent home, divorced, separated or blended family homes.
Hey! I practice a person-centered approach. I offer a safe place for you to process your feelings and come up with your own solutions with a little guidance. Though I enjoy helping people of all ethnicities and from all different religious + cultural backgrounds. My focus is on children, tweens, teens and young adults who reside in "Non Traditional" homes. I am culturally & religious aware, LGBTQ+ and justice impacted sensitive with a strong understanding of what it takes to serve those who may feel that others have given upon them. In addition to those who reside in a single parent home, divorced, separated or blended family homes.
![Photo of Kathleen Donaghy, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b76770-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Donaghy is a licensed psychologist providing psychotherapy and hypnosis for adults and children who present with a variety of issues. She has specialized training in conflict management, cancer, pain, disabilities, medical concerns, wellness, and medication management. She also treats depression, grief, anxiety, anger, and relationship problems. Her approach to therapy is based on extensive training, research, and publications. She offers individualized treatment for each patient, and integrates their spirituality/philosophy into the sessions as a means of strengthening existing resources.
Dr. Donaghy is a licensed psychologist providing psychotherapy and hypnosis for adults and children who present with a variety of issues. She has specialized training in conflict management, cancer, pain, disabilities, medical concerns, wellness, and medication management. She also treats depression, grief, anxiety, anger, and relationship problems. Her approach to therapy is based on extensive training, research, and publications. She offers individualized treatment for each patient, and integrates their spirituality/philosophy into the sessions as a means of strengthening existing resources.
![Photo of Diane P Goula - Diane P. Goula LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e42f8d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Let me help you find your balance. We'll focus on the goals and timelines you set by building upon your individual strengths, beliefs and life experience. I'm interactive and will intertwine technology, insights, and practical feedback with compassion and humor (especially if you have a mentally ill family member, difficult or special-needs child /spouse or an aging parent). I'm available to conduct video and in-person sessions after 5:00 pm. You can book your first appointment in less than 5 minutes via my 24/7 online scheduler. Please visit my website, www.DianeGoula.com to learn more.
Let me help you find your balance. We'll focus on the goals and timelines you set by building upon your individual strengths, beliefs and life experience. I'm interactive and will intertwine technology, insights, and practical feedback with compassion and humor (especially if you have a mentally ill family member, difficult or special-needs child /spouse or an aging parent). I'm available to conduct video and in-person sessions after 5:00 pm. You can book your first appointment in less than 5 minutes via my 24/7 online scheduler. Please visit my website, www.DianeGoula.com to learn more.
![Photo of Michael L Mcgowan, PsyD, MA, MBA, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c353583-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I customize therapy to address the specific problems a person wants help with. I’ve trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Behavior Modification, Psychodynamic and Trans Personal Psychotherapy. I’ve worked in private and community clinics, on in-patient units at the Chicago VA, Chicago Read Mental Center, and performed over 6000 triage mental health evaluations at the Arizona Department of Corrections.
I customize therapy to address the specific problems a person wants help with. I’ve trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Behavior Modification, Psychodynamic and Trans Personal Psychotherapy. I’ve worked in private and community clinics, on in-patient units at the Chicago VA, Chicago Read Mental Center, and performed over 6000 triage mental health evaluations at the Arizona Department of Corrections.
![Photo of Bobette Smith Siegel, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc08958-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bobette Smith Siegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Many of my clients have not felt comfortable or helped by previous therapists. Experience and professional success are vital to working in the mental health field. I am experienced in individual and couples counseling. My work is focused on helping people with their depression, relationship issues, grief, anxiety, illness, family issues and health problems. I love my career and have invaluable life experience in addition to years of professional supervision. I am comfortable with people from all different backgrounds.Having been in therapy myself helps me to be a better therapist and to assist my clients with non judgement and compassion.
Many of my clients have not felt comfortable or helped by previous therapists. Experience and professional success are vital to working in the mental health field. I am experienced in individual and couples counseling. My work is focused on helping people with their depression, relationship issues, grief, anxiety, illness, family issues and health problems. I love my career and have invaluable life experience in addition to years of professional supervision. I am comfortable with people from all different backgrounds.Having been in therapy myself helps me to be a better therapist and to assist my clients with non judgement and compassion.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Maureen Keaveny, PhD, SEP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4295a8e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Keaveny
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (Online Only)
By approaching therapy as a collaborative process, together we can begin to help you start a new path on your journey of life. I work with clients who want to make a healthy change in your life or seek help coping with new diagnoses. Often long-standing wounds of trauma, depression, or anxiety can get in the way. Together we can build your resources and resilience so that you fully realize your potential. I specialize working with older adults (50+) and their unique constellation of challenges, including health problems, managing chronic disease, and late life anxiety and depression.
By approaching therapy as a collaborative process, together we can begin to help you start a new path on your journey of life. I work with clients who want to make a healthy change in your life or seek help coping with new diagnoses. Often long-standing wounds of trauma, depression, or anxiety can get in the way. Together we can build your resources and resilience so that you fully realize your potential. I specialize working with older adults (50+) and their unique constellation of challenges, including health problems, managing chronic disease, and late life anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Sandra Naylor, LMSW, MSIMC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ea7a7ee-67d7-486d-839f-be835da62f70/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Gerontologist, I specialize in issues regarding the aging process. I help older individuals and families adjust to life changes including: adapting to retirement communities, assisted living or long-term care facilities, chronic illnesses, Parkinson's, Alzheimer’s/dementia, and terminal illnesses. Working collaboratively, I problem-solve with individuals and families who may be struggling with difficult life transitions.Together, we work on addressing the emotional distress, anxiety and complicated family relationships surrounding helping aging loved ones, and facing challenges encountered in the decision-making process.
As a Gerontologist, I specialize in issues regarding the aging process. I help older individuals and families adjust to life changes including: adapting to retirement communities, assisted living or long-term care facilities, chronic illnesses, Parkinson's, Alzheimer’s/dementia, and terminal illnesses. Working collaboratively, I problem-solve with individuals and families who may be struggling with difficult life transitions.Together, we work on addressing the emotional distress, anxiety and complicated family relationships surrounding helping aging loved ones, and facing challenges encountered in the decision-making process.
![Photo of Dr. Eva Miller - ELM Counseling & Consulting, LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15a86ccd-7cd9-42f8-ba59-a1f91ded2a83/3/320x400.jpeg)
ELM Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I specialize in working with seniors, people with dementia, and individuals with chronic illnesses/disabilities. I have extensive experience in relationship problems, sexual issues, and trauma. I believe the primary role of a therapist is to help clients regain a sense of hope. Life can be hard and talking through your issues can help. Instead of a "quick fix" approach, I'll help you figure out the causes of your problems so they don't keep popping up. I'll listen to your story you, help you discover what's getting in the way of your happiness, and support you while you work on the new you.
I specialize in working with seniors, people with dementia, and individuals with chronic illnesses/disabilities. I have extensive experience in relationship problems, sexual issues, and trauma. I believe the primary role of a therapist is to help clients regain a sense of hope. Life can be hard and talking through your issues can help. Instead of a "quick fix" approach, I'll help you figure out the causes of your problems so they don't keep popping up. I'll listen to your story you, help you discover what's getting in the way of your happiness, and support you while you work on the new you.
![Photo of Beth Sikora, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c147572-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Sikora
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults, and the elderly.
Do you feel alone? Or shame more than serenity and self-esteem? This can be due to being depressed, loss of someone dear to you, experiencing trauma, an accident, or recovering from cancer. Perhaps your hope and purpose in life is gone or in question. Or your sense of meaning in life uncertain. I will walk along with you as you walk a path to healing and hope as you process this and grow to feel more confident, less depressed or anxious, and life makes sense again. Life can present many difficulties. Together we can find the answer for you.
I enjoy working with adults, and the elderly.
Do you feel alone? Or shame more than serenity and self-esteem? This can be due to being depressed, loss of someone dear to you, experiencing trauma, an accident, or recovering from cancer. Perhaps your hope and purpose in life is gone or in question. Or your sense of meaning in life uncertain. I will walk along with you as you walk a path to healing and hope as you process this and grow to feel more confident, less depressed or anxious, and life makes sense again. Life can present many difficulties. Together we can find the answer for you.
![Photo of Daniel Nightingale, PhD, ADHP, CHT, CBT(P), NPT - C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1084e452-166b-47d5-bb61-5c6d47f29e72/3/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Nightingale
PhD, ADHP, CHT, CBT(P), NPT - C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
In addition, I am a clinical hypnotherapist certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists, hold the European Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis, Certified Neuropsychotherapist and am a world leading Clinical Dementia Specialist.
With over 30 years of experience, I am a clinician specializing in treating trauma caused by combat, physical, sexual and verbal abuse and other related causes. My model - The Nightingale Model for the Treatment of Trauma - is an eclectic approach which combines Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) with Hypnotherapy. This process puts you at the center with the ultimate goal of empowering you to take back control of your life. All approaches are unique based on something I call a Shared Action Plan (SAP). Together, we will build your individual strategy.
In addition, I am a clinical hypnotherapist certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists, hold the European Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis, Certified Neuropsychotherapist and am a world leading Clinical Dementia Specialist.
With over 30 years of experience, I am a clinician specializing in treating trauma caused by combat, physical, sexual and verbal abuse and other related causes. My model - The Nightingale Model for the Treatment of Trauma - is an eclectic approach which combines Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) with Hypnotherapy. This process puts you at the center with the ultimate goal of empowering you to take back control of your life. All approaches are unique based on something I call a Shared Action Plan (SAP). Together, we will build your individual strategy.
![Photo of Tamar Kaplan - Tamar Kaplan Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f45237c-edaf-4942-b00e-50d2b85414f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamar Kaplan Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults going through life stage transitions, specifically older adults ages 65+ as well as Millennial/Gen Z young professionals. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression, career changes, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and loneliness. I work with people who have been in therapy before as well as people who are trying therapy for the first time- both are wonderful and both are welcome!
I specialize in working with adults going through life stage transitions, specifically older adults ages 65+ as well as Millennial/Gen Z young professionals. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression, career changes, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and loneliness. I work with people who have been in therapy before as well as people who are trying therapy for the first time- both are wonderful and both are welcome!
![Photo of Joyce M Brimhall, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb5e93f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joyce M Brimhall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
What is your view of aging? Do you see yourself older or younger than you feel? Is growing older merely a number or attitude? Do you wonder, "what have I done with my life?" A positive outlook can enhance the quality of life but sometimes that is just not enough. Growing older presents many challenges: physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally and cognitively. An integrated approach to improving quality of life is our approach. With you, we can address concerns about facing loss, changing relationships, dealing with adult sons and daughters, and/or reviewing life events that have affected your current mood and emotions.
What is your view of aging? Do you see yourself older or younger than you feel? Is growing older merely a number or attitude? Do you wonder, "what have I done with my life?" A positive outlook can enhance the quality of life but sometimes that is just not enough. Growing older presents many challenges: physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally and cognitively. An integrated approach to improving quality of life is our approach. With you, we can address concerns about facing loss, changing relationships, dealing with adult sons and daughters, and/or reviewing life events that have affected your current mood and emotions.
![Photo of Barbara Newton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eaeed8c-9bb0-44af-b6b6-2b2ce93fa206/2/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Newton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (Online Only)
I am an expert listener, and enjoy working with adults 18-older ages who are experiencing difficult symptoms associated with past or present life challenges that require intervention and processing in ways that may restore a greater life balance and well being.
I am a seasoned, supportive, and well experienced licensed mental health therapist, having worked in private practice for many years in AZ.
I am an expert listener, and enjoy working with adults 18-older ages who are experiencing difficult symptoms associated with past or present life challenges that require intervention and processing in ways that may restore a greater life balance and well being.
I am a seasoned, supportive, and well experienced licensed mental health therapist, having worked in private practice for many years in AZ.
![Photo of Karen L Glaza, LCSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a39d50f-2fad-48e9-8b19-695e913d2646/7/320x400.jpeg)
Karen L Glaza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85054 (Online Only)
I am an empathetic and reliable therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth only. In addition to Arizona, I am also licensed in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri and Texas. It takes courage to understand the circumstances of our personal journeys. I provide a safe and collaborative environment to help client's identify concerns, establish achievable goals, and provide support and encouragement towards higher functioning. I empower my clients to identify their own strengths, experiences, and interpersonal relationships to help guide them to positive change.
I am an empathetic and reliable therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth only. In addition to Arizona, I am also licensed in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri and Texas. It takes courage to understand the circumstances of our personal journeys. I provide a safe and collaborative environment to help client's identify concerns, establish achievable goals, and provide support and encouragement towards higher functioning. I empower my clients to identify their own strengths, experiences, and interpersonal relationships to help guide them to positive change.
![Photo of John P Kelty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90a4345b-1cd8-4ef0-a3ba-ddedb398db69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of the clients I have worked with have struggled with general mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and various other psychiatric problems, as well as addiction issues. A great deal of these problems stem from family or other relationship issues, or transitional issues such as loss of loved ones, loss of job, homelessness, and financial issues. Most recently in my career, I have worked with many elderly clients who have major medical issues, are dealing with end-of-life issues, or who find themselves alone, and needing a positive sounding board to listen to them and help improve their coping mechanisms.
Many of the clients I have worked with have struggled with general mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and various other psychiatric problems, as well as addiction issues. A great deal of these problems stem from family or other relationship issues, or transitional issues such as loss of loved ones, loss of job, homelessness, and financial issues. Most recently in my career, I have worked with many elderly clients who have major medical issues, are dealing with end-of-life issues, or who find themselves alone, and needing a positive sounding board to listen to them and help improve their coping mechanisms.
![Photo of Karen Pitico, MA MSW, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5668b6f-5818-43c2-a56f-ef5becfdbac2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cognitive wellness is a critical aspect of lifestyle wellness. My experience has included venues as; crisis, in and outpatient, and elderly care. Private practice includes youth, adults, families focusing on individual, couples, partners and families. I typically use the Cognitive Behavioral approach with successful client satisfaction in one's counseling experience. How we think about the situations / problems / disappointments that come in and out of lives play a critical role how we develop healthy cognitive skills to get through our emotional and physical disappointments, struggles, grief and pain.
Cognitive wellness is a critical aspect of lifestyle wellness. My experience has included venues as; crisis, in and outpatient, and elderly care. Private practice includes youth, adults, families focusing on individual, couples, partners and families. I typically use the Cognitive Behavioral approach with successful client satisfaction in one's counseling experience. How we think about the situations / problems / disappointments that come in and out of lives play a critical role how we develop healthy cognitive skills to get through our emotional and physical disappointments, struggles, grief and pain.
![Photo of Suzi U Wall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403a0190-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Children, Youth, Families and Seniors: Social Skills, Peer/ Healthy Relationships.
My name is Suzi Wall and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Social Worker practicing in Arizona since 1985. I trained and work with outstanding practitioners in the areas of Behavioral, Medical, Mental Health, Chronic Illness, Developmental Disabilities, Education, and Geriatric Care. Working with clients from early childhood to end of life. Working in hospitals, school systems, mental-behavioral health agencies, assisted living, and nursing homes. Working as a team with my clients has been a gift as together we identify their concerns, develop treatment plans, and help them move forward with a brighter future.
Children, Youth, Families and Seniors: Social Skills, Peer/ Healthy Relationships.
My name is Suzi Wall and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Social Worker practicing in Arizona since 1985. I trained and work with outstanding practitioners in the areas of Behavioral, Medical, Mental Health, Chronic Illness, Developmental Disabilities, Education, and Geriatric Care. Working with clients from early childhood to end of life. Working in hospitals, school systems, mental-behavioral health agencies, assisted living, and nursing homes. Working as a team with my clients has been a gift as together we identify their concerns, develop treatment plans, and help them move forward with a brighter future.
![Photo of Dr. Lindsay Werkheiser Communication And Relationships Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04422a0a-1246-4fe7-8716-47906f75316d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lindsay Werkheiser Communication And Relationships Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250 (Online Only)
Are your relationships full of conflict and emotional distance? Do they feel fragile or one-sided? Do you give a lot to others and feel resentful and/or rejected when they don't match your effort? Do you have trouble speaking your mind or saying no for fear that people won’t like you? Does it seem like people don't listen when you express your needs? You are not alone. Your relationships with family, friends, and coworkers can feel more stable and fulfilling. I also offer individual therapy for depression, anxiety, life transitions, elders and caregivers.
Are your relationships full of conflict and emotional distance? Do they feel fragile or one-sided? Do you give a lot to others and feel resentful and/or rejected when they don't match your effort? Do you have trouble speaking your mind or saying no for fear that people won’t like you? Does it seem like people don't listen when you express your needs? You are not alone. Your relationships with family, friends, and coworkers can feel more stable and fulfilling. I also offer individual therapy for depression, anxiety, life transitions, elders and caregivers.
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Nearby Geriatric and Seniors Therapists Searches for Fountain Hills
See More Geriatric and Seniors TherapistsGeriatric and Seniors Therapists
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 counseling for elderly different from counseling for other age groups?
Many aspects of geriatric counseling are similar to counseling in younger age groups; in general, counseling 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 specialize 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. Counseling 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 counseling help people who suffer from dementia?
Counseling can be highly effective for aging adults with dementia. While some therapists specializing 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. Counselors specializing 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 specializing in dementia may also be trained in specialized forms of therapy for memory-loss|memory loss, such as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)—which can help mentally stimulate dementia clients to preserve cognitive functioning.