Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Glendale, CA
This practice is devoted to providing "no nonsense," brief, goal oriented psychotherapy to individuals, young adults, seniors, couples, families, adolescents and children. The focus of treatment is to assist the client in designing and attaining a realistic psychotherapeutic goal and in making meaningful long-term change. The practice includes an experienced, MFT registered intern who sees clients on a reasonable sliding scale basis. All clinical staff have special expertise in brief psychotherapy, parenting issues, behavioral problems in children and adolescents, disabilities, marriage and family issues and gay and lesbian issues.
This practice is devoted to providing "no nonsense," brief, goal oriented psychotherapy to individuals, young adults, seniors, couples, families, adolescents and children. The focus of treatment is to assist the client in designing and attaining a realistic psychotherapeutic goal and in making meaningful long-term change. The practice includes an experienced, MFT registered intern who sees clients on a reasonable sliding scale basis. All clinical staff have special expertise in brief psychotherapy, parenting issues, behavioral problems in children and adolescents, disabilities, marriage and family issues and gay and lesbian issues.
![Photo of Antonio Flores, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8293918-3e5c-4b4b-a9ab-e0da91682432/2/320x400.png)
I am fluent in Spanish, experienced with the LGBT+ journey, individuals with trauma, older adults, various types of codependency, substance-abuse and adolescents.
Do you suffer from restlessness, anxiety, depression, co-dependency, substance-use or ruminations? Do you feel your negative thinking and relationship patterns are keeping you stuck? Do you have difficulty with motivation or figuring out what’s the next best step? Would you benefit from exploring unresolved trauma or developing a new personal narrative? Acknowledging there’s a problem is the first step to changing your trajectory. I can help you to let go of blocks and distortions. We can work together to develop your vision for cultivating a better life and healthier relationships in a safe setting.
I am fluent in Spanish, experienced with the LGBT+ journey, individuals with trauma, older adults, various types of codependency, substance-abuse and adolescents.
Do you suffer from restlessness, anxiety, depression, co-dependency, substance-use or ruminations? Do you feel your negative thinking and relationship patterns are keeping you stuck? Do you have difficulty with motivation or figuring out what’s the next best step? Would you benefit from exploring unresolved trauma or developing a new personal narrative? Acknowledging there’s a problem is the first step to changing your trajectory. I can help you to let go of blocks and distortions. We can work together to develop your vision for cultivating a better life and healthier relationships in a safe setting.
![Photo of Sandy A Schaller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4515f2cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sandy A Schaller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205 (Online Only)
I have worked with adolescents, preteens, seniors and adults, depressed, anxious, stressed and having coping difficulties or wanting a more fulfilling life, career change, etc.
I became a Marriage/Family Therapist because I had long dreamed of being instrumental in assisting others in finding their own unique avenues to happiness. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you we're there for someone who is in need of my assistance and guidance. I am a passionate animal lover and am a volunteer at the LA Zoo
I have worked with adolescents, preteens, seniors and adults, depressed, anxious, stressed and having coping difficulties or wanting a more fulfilling life, career change, etc.
I became a Marriage/Family Therapist because I had long dreamed of being instrumental in assisting others in finding their own unique avenues to happiness. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you we're there for someone who is in need of my assistance and guidance. I am a passionate animal lover and am a volunteer at the LA Zoo
![Photo of Lauren Singer Compton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc34762-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide confidential, client-centered, narrative, humanistic therapy from a positive psychology framework with adults, adolescents, and the elderly.
I believe everyone has a unique story, journey, and life experience that needs to be shared and I strive to create a safe and comfortable space to explore and express that story..
I provide confidential, client-centered, narrative, humanistic therapy from a positive psychology framework with adults, adolescents, and the elderly.
I believe everyone has a unique story, journey, and life experience that needs to be shared and I strive to create a safe and comfortable space to explore and express that story..
![Photo of John Geirland, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9c8d0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
While I work with a variety of individuals and age groups, one specialization is working with older adults (65+) who are experiencing depression, anxiety and cognitive changes.
WHAT WILL THERAPY BE LIKE? I strive to create an environment that is confidential and nonjudgmental. The therapy hour is a time and place where you can feel safe enough to do important work. I also believe that therapy can be enjoyable and life-affirming, even at times a FUN experience. WHAT CAN THERAPY ACCOMPLISH FOR ME? Engaging in psychotherapy provides the opportunity for a new start, an escape from ruminating, from feelings of helplessness and indecision. I will work with you to see and experience your situation in a new way - and take action to make important changes.
While I work with a variety of individuals and age groups, one specialization is working with older adults (65+) who are experiencing depression, anxiety and cognitive changes.
WHAT WILL THERAPY BE LIKE? I strive to create an environment that is confidential and nonjudgmental. The therapy hour is a time and place where you can feel safe enough to do important work. I also believe that therapy can be enjoyable and life-affirming, even at times a FUN experience. WHAT CAN THERAPY ACCOMPLISH FOR ME? Engaging in psychotherapy provides the opportunity for a new start, an escape from ruminating, from feelings of helplessness and indecision. I will work with you to see and experience your situation in a new way - and take action to make important changes.
![Photo of Patricia Keiko Masuda-Story, PsyD, QME, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d78be7a-c015-435a-a5a9-aa27c1709f69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Keiko Masuda-Story
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
Our offices provide clinical psychotherapy services for adults. We are currently working remotely/telephonically. Conditions addressed include all mood and behavioral related disorders. Clinical modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Cognitive Processing Therapy; Insight Oriented; Psychoanalysis; Supportive Therapy; Multi-Modal Therapy. Insurances we accept: TriWest, TriCare, CHAMPVA, MHN-HealthNet, AETNA, Cigna, Evernorth, Blue Shield, Medicare, Kaiser; Carelon; and L.A. Care.
Our offices provide clinical psychotherapy services for adults. We are currently working remotely/telephonically. Conditions addressed include all mood and behavioral related disorders. Clinical modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Cognitive Processing Therapy; Insight Oriented; Psychoanalysis; Supportive Therapy; Multi-Modal Therapy. Insurances we accept: TriWest, TriCare, CHAMPVA, MHN-HealthNet, AETNA, Cigna, Evernorth, Blue Shield, Medicare, Kaiser; Carelon; and L.A. Care.
![Photo of Sabrina Somani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bdf2085-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
We will work together to overcome any anxiety, depression, or stressful life changes such as marriage, death, pregnancy and postpartum issues. I will provide a safe, supportive and authentic environment that will help you work through these issues while encouraging growth, self acceptance and an overall improvement in the quality of your life. I find that using a combination of existential/depth work along with behavioral therapy provides long lasting benefits and true change.
![Photo of Danah Kim, MA, AMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af6a3a00-d390-4307-a533-bec9f927b6d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danah Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91226 (Online Only)
누구에게나 만남이 있고 그 만남 속에는 첫 만남이 있습니다. 첫 입학, 첫 직장, 첫 사랑, 첫 결혼, 첫 아이, 첫 집, 첫 이민,,,,,,, 무엇인가를 처음 시작한다고 생각하면 기쁨, 설렘, 행복이라는 감정이 생깁니다.. 하지만 우리의 삶은 시간이 지날수록 처음 느낀 그 기쁨과 행복을 점점 기억 속에서 사라지게 만듭니다. “나는 열심히 잘 살았는데,, 왜 나에게 이런 고통이?” “나를 괴롭히는 사람들은 왜 이리 많은 거지?” “너무 힘들어” 이런 생각과 감정들은 우리의 삶에 많은 영향을 미치게 됩니다. 사실, 여러분들에게는 현재의 어려움을 잘 이겨낼 능력이 있습니다. 또한 여러분들은 내면의 생각이나 감정에 따라 삶이 달라질 수 있습니다. 여러분이 얼마나 대단한 존재인가를 잊으시면 안 됩니다. 상담을 통해 여러분들 자신을 믿고, 행복한 삶을 살 수 있도록 도와 드리고 싶습니다, 첫 상담을 시작하시는 분들에게는 새로운 설렘을, 상담 경험이 계신 분들에게는 색다른 행복감 을 함께 나누며 힘든 상황을 이겨 나갈 수 있기를 원합니다.
누구에게나 만남이 있고 그 만남 속에는 첫 만남이 있습니다. 첫 입학, 첫 직장, 첫 사랑, 첫 결혼, 첫 아이, 첫 집, 첫 이민,,,,,,, 무엇인가를 처음 시작한다고 생각하면 기쁨, 설렘, 행복이라는 감정이 생깁니다.. 하지만 우리의 삶은 시간이 지날수록 처음 느낀 그 기쁨과 행복을 점점 기억 속에서 사라지게 만듭니다. “나는 열심히 잘 살았는데,, 왜 나에게 이런 고통이?” “나를 괴롭히는 사람들은 왜 이리 많은 거지?” “너무 힘들어” 이런 생각과 감정들은 우리의 삶에 많은 영향을 미치게 됩니다. 사실, 여러분들에게는 현재의 어려움을 잘 이겨낼 능력이 있습니다. 또한 여러분들은 내면의 생각이나 감정에 따라 삶이 달라질 수 있습니다. 여러분이 얼마나 대단한 존재인가를 잊으시면 안 됩니다. 상담을 통해 여러분들 자신을 믿고, 행복한 삶을 살 수 있도록 도와 드리고 싶습니다, 첫 상담을 시작하시는 분들에게는 새로운 설렘을, 상담 경험이 계신 분들에게는 색다른 행복감 을 함께 나누며 힘든 상황을 이겨 나갈 수 있기를 원합니다.
![Photo of Kobra Schabanpour, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4061a2e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Frustrated? Having difficulty sleeping? Feeling overwhelmed, helpless or hopeless? With over 23 years of experience, I can help you understand the causes of such problems and set you on a path of healing. There are many sources of stress that can affect the brain and immune system and impair your capacity to cope. In my work with individuals and groups, I work with you to achieve overall wellbeing of mind, body and spirit.
Frustrated? Having difficulty sleeping? Feeling overwhelmed, helpless or hopeless? With over 23 years of experience, I can help you understand the causes of such problems and set you on a path of healing. There are many sources of stress that can affect the brain and immune system and impair your capacity to cope. In my work with individuals and groups, I work with you to achieve overall wellbeing of mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Joanna Mary Saporito - Joanna Mary Saporito, LCSW A Professional Corp., LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d67a8a1-d0c4-47bf-aefa-6529744fa260/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Mary Saporito, LCSW A Professional Corp.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91202
The relationship between client and therapist is important to me, as that is the starting point of any change you may seek. It is my hope that you to feel valued and respected in a non-judgmental environment. I will help you establish the goals you want to achieve, and then guide the process to make that happen.
The relationship between client and therapist is important to me, as that is the starting point of any change you may seek. It is my hope that you to feel valued and respected in a non-judgmental environment. I will help you establish the goals you want to achieve, and then guide the process to make that happen.
![Photo of Charles Pilavian, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/406948db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It takes courage to understand the need for healing. My mission in psychotherapy is to help you learn how to help yourself. It should be emphasized that psychotherapy is far from "one size fit all." Therefore, the art of change in psychotherapy is achieved through a thorough psychological assessment in order to apply the precise remedies to your specific challenges. As a result, healing is often achieved by re-conceptualizing your past and presence, but most importantly is to improve your outlook on the future. I have been practicing as a psychologist for 26 years, on three continents.
It takes courage to understand the need for healing. My mission in psychotherapy is to help you learn how to help yourself. It should be emphasized that psychotherapy is far from "one size fit all." Therefore, the art of change in psychotherapy is achieved through a thorough psychological assessment in order to apply the precise remedies to your specific challenges. As a result, healing is often achieved by re-conceptualizing your past and presence, but most importantly is to improve your outlook on the future. I have been practicing as a psychologist for 26 years, on three continents.
15 Second Videos
Antonio Flores
David Ibrahim
No Limitz Production LLC
La Vie Counseling Centers
![Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d67f5b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
![Photo of Mike Tamassian - California Therapy Center & Psychological Svcs, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408f0107-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
California Therapy Center & Psychological Svcs
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202
We are a multi-specialty group of mental health professionals in a private practice setting. We are comprised of highly skilled and highly educated therapists. Our professionals are distinguished by their exceptional level of compassion and care. We are here to help you free yourself from the situations you feel stuck in and find your path to greater happiness and fulfillment.
We are a multi-specialty group of mental health professionals in a private practice setting. We are comprised of highly skilled and highly educated therapists. Our professionals are distinguished by their exceptional level of compassion and care. We are here to help you free yourself from the situations you feel stuck in and find your path to greater happiness and fulfillment.
![Photo of Mary Aroyan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/223ad97f-3df2-42cc-bd83-5495b4e73159/1/320x400.jpeg)
CHANGE! Does something need to change? Are you overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or unsure of what's going on? There's hope! You're already on the right track; hardest step is to admit you need help. All individuals are capable of change and therapy can bring new insight to the changes that you want to see within yourself, relationships and other sectors of your life. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish that change in a safe and relaxing environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can often be difficult.
CHANGE! Does something need to change? Are you overwhelmed, sad, anxious, or unsure of what's going on? There's hope! You're already on the right track; hardest step is to admit you need help. All individuals are capable of change and therapy can bring new insight to the changes that you want to see within yourself, relationships and other sectors of your life. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish that change in a safe and relaxing environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can often be difficult.
![Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0444c03-34b2-48e9-9baa-6a9933bf4e68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
![Photo of Jasmine Hasmig Tolmajian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f5223a9-254a-4190-a21a-a2c1812b43c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you live the best life you can. I want to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have graduated from Pepperdine University in 2008. Its important for a client to be able to find the right therapist. You are welcome to give me a call for a free 10-15 minute telephone consultation. My direct number is 8184292820. I look forward to hearing from you.
My goal is to help you live the best life you can. I want to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have graduated from Pepperdine University in 2008. Its important for a client to be able to find the right therapist. You are welcome to give me a call for a free 10-15 minute telephone consultation. My direct number is 8184292820. I look forward to hearing from you.
![Photo of Hripsime Ripa Harutyunyan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc1cd48f-a338-4370-891e-4b91530ab77e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hripsime Ripa Harutyunyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203 (Online Only)
I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a great passion to bring healing and comfort for those in need. I have Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a clinical member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) and Armenian American Mental Health Association (AANHA) .
I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a great passion to bring healing and comfort for those in need. I have Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a clinical member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) and Armenian American Mental Health Association (AANHA) .
![Photo of Shushan V. Kalantaryan, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469e785f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shushan V. Kalantaryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202 (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Shushan V. Kalantaryan (I am more commonly known as Dr. K). I am a licensed clinical therapist with a Bachelors in Psychology from American Psychological Association accredited University and a Doctors in Marriage and Family Therapy from California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. I have a wide range of experiences working in private practices, nonprofit organizations, and psychiatric settings as well as having served as an adjunct professor at California Professional School of Psychology.
My name is Dr. Shushan V. Kalantaryan (I am more commonly known as Dr. K). I am a licensed clinical therapist with a Bachelors in Psychology from American Psychological Association accredited University and a Doctors in Marriage and Family Therapy from California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. I have a wide range of experiences working in private practices, nonprofit organizations, and psychiatric settings as well as having served as an adjunct professor at California Professional School of Psychology.
![Photo of Alex Tipton, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acb2f6a1-6a07-4be3-aa8d-82b065f21bc2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
![Photo of Gregory Bendau, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33584b94-c6f9-40d0-a62b-344a88e35a0f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, or low self-esteem? Do you find yourself avoiding social engagements or so preoccupied with excessive worrying? Finding ways to navigate these difficult feelings can help you get back on track. I use a psychodynamic approach and CBT that focuses on uncovering patterns of behavior and ways of relating to ourselves and others that are often outside of our awareness. I also consider how our past impacts who we are today. Through acceptance and empathy, we will establish a trusting therapeutic relationship and work together toward your personal growth and self-discovery.
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Geriatric 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.