Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Irvine, CA

Photo of Kristin Kleppe, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Kleppe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
Waitlist for new clients
Each of our 30 therapists specializes in an area of clinical health psychology such as oncology, chronic pain, cardiology, geriatrics, pediatrics, eating disorders, addiction, etc.
I am committed to helping people achieve a sense of happiness, health, and well-being and to maximize their potential in life. In our first session, we will explore the changes you want to make and together we will collaborate on a treatment plan designed to help you reach your goals. I see clients from age 16 to late adulthood for individual, couples or family therapy. I see people for a variety of issues and am especially skilled in working with families, older adults, executives, and other professionals. I'm skilled in many different types of evidenced based therapies.
Each of our 30 therapists specializes in an area of clinical health psychology such as oncology, chronic pain, cardiology, geriatrics, pediatrics, eating disorders, addiction, etc.
I am committed to helping people achieve a sense of happiness, health, and well-being and to maximize their potential in life. In our first session, we will explore the changes you want to make and together we will collaborate on a treatment plan designed to help you reach your goals. I see clients from age 16 to late adulthood for individual, couples or family therapy. I see people for a variety of issues and am especially skilled in working with families, older adults, executives, and other professionals. I'm skilled in many different types of evidenced based therapies.
(949) 381-5121 View (949) 381-5121
Photo of Cynthia A Cotter, PhD, Psychologist
Cynthia A Cotter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Cotter provides psychotherapy for older adults struggling with depression/anxiety, grief/loss, health/lifestyle changes, and care of others.
Cynthia A. Cotter, Ph.D. specializes in geriatric psychology and neuropsychology. Her neuropsychological evaluations describe and quantify cognitive deficits typically found in older adults. These assessments benefit medical diagnosis, treatment, and care planning for individuals with degenerative dementias and those with cognitive difficulties associated with medical conditions or trauma. In conjunction with her evaluations, Dr. Cotter provides feedback, education, and support for elders, families, caregivers, and residential staff. Dr. Cotter's assessments also contribute to determinations of mental capacity required for legal purposes. She provides psychological evaluations and pre-surgical psychological screening.
Cotter provides psychotherapy for older adults struggling with depression/anxiety, grief/loss, health/lifestyle changes, and care of others.
Cynthia A. Cotter, Ph.D. specializes in geriatric psychology and neuropsychology. Her neuropsychological evaluations describe and quantify cognitive deficits typically found in older adults. These assessments benefit medical diagnosis, treatment, and care planning for individuals with degenerative dementias and those with cognitive difficulties associated with medical conditions or trauma. In conjunction with her evaluations, Dr. Cotter provides feedback, education, and support for elders, families, caregivers, and residential staff. Dr. Cotter's assessments also contribute to determinations of mental capacity required for legal purposes. She provides psychological evaluations and pre-surgical psychological screening.
(619) 992-4519 View (619) 992-4519
Photo of Erica Lehman, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica Lehman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
Waitlist for new clients
This includes adjusting to life transitions, role change, making peace with one's life, identifying strengths and renewed sense of self in later life, addressing health/medical challenges, coping with memory decline/early stage dementia, caregiver support, and more.
There is a beauty to life and the way that it moves, but it doesn't always feel beautiful. Whatever has brought you to consider meeting with a therapist, I hope you take a next step to setting an appointment. May therapy be a place where you share your load, find new perspectives, approaches and/or resources to the current challenge, so that you can take steps toward feeling like yourself - or perhaps a new version of yourself.
This includes adjusting to life transitions, role change, making peace with one's life, identifying strengths and renewed sense of self in later life, addressing health/medical challenges, coping with memory decline/early stage dementia, caregiver support, and more.
There is a beauty to life and the way that it moves, but it doesn't always feel beautiful. Whatever has brought you to consider meeting with a therapist, I hope you take a next step to setting an appointment. May therapy be a place where you share your load, find new perspectives, approaches and/or resources to the current challenge, so that you can take steps toward feeling like yourself - or perhaps a new version of yourself.
(949) 558-2735 View (949) 558-2735
Photo of Corina Cervantes - Power Talk Therapy, LMFT, 131419, Marriage & Family Therapist
Power Talk Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 131419
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618  (Online Only)
I support older adults and their caregivers, who are filled with fear, don’t feel good enough, or struggle to take care of themselves.
Anxiety, depression, and trauma can take the best of you. You may overthink, worry too much, or wait for the worst. You may feel so hopeless and empty that meeting your basic needs or enjoying life seems impossible. Or you might endure loss and hurtful experiences, not knowing how to move forward. You are doing the best you can. But sometimes, the pain is too unbearable. I see you. I know what it’s like to feel misunderstood, alone and forced to put up a smile when your heart is in a million pieces. You yearn for ease, safety, love, and acceptance—not just from others but within yourself. And I’m here to help you find it.
I support older adults and their caregivers, who are filled with fear, don’t feel good enough, or struggle to take care of themselves.
Anxiety, depression, and trauma can take the best of you. You may overthink, worry too much, or wait for the worst. You may feel so hopeless and empty that meeting your basic needs or enjoying life seems impossible. Or you might endure loss and hurtful experiences, not knowing how to move forward. You are doing the best you can. But sometimes, the pain is too unbearable. I see you. I know what it’s like to feel misunderstood, alone and forced to put up a smile when your heart is in a million pieces. You yearn for ease, safety, love, and acceptance—not just from others but within yourself. And I’m here to help you find it.
(562) 561-2461 View (562) 561-2461
Photo of Erna Mills - Power Talk Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Power Talk Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I work with professionals in demanding careers, such as first responders, law enforcement officers, doctors, nurses, techies, Veterans, and active military; elders and families of older/high-school children.
You might be holding on to yesterday, grappling with today, or worried about tomorrow. You’ve tried coping with loss, distressing experiences, a highly stressful (and almost impossible) job, or constant relationship and family issues. But you are struggling to keep your head above water. You want to find reliable ways to ease your pain. You wish you could sleep through the night and push through the days without feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or on edge. You dream of spending quality time with loved ones, free of judgement and conflict and full of contentment.
I work with professionals in demanding careers, such as first responders, law enforcement officers, doctors, nurses, techies, Veterans, and active military; elders and families of older/high-school children.
You might be holding on to yesterday, grappling with today, or worried about tomorrow. You’ve tried coping with loss, distressing experiences, a highly stressful (and almost impossible) job, or constant relationship and family issues. But you are struggling to keep your head above water. You want to find reliable ways to ease your pain. You wish you could sleep through the night and push through the days without feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or on edge. You dream of spending quality time with loved ones, free of judgement and conflict and full of contentment.
(949) 541-8707 View (949) 541-8707
Photo of Rachel Adams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I enjoy working with women, moms, older teens, young adults, adults and couples.
I believe in creating a warm, empathetic environment to help connect with each client, attune to their specific therapeutic needs and goals, and help each individual feel cared for and heard. I deeply understand t the importance of fostering healthy relationships with her clients. In creating a safe environment, my clients and I work together to help them identify and process challenging situations and triggers. I pull from a combination of attachment-based and psychodynamic modalities to help clients learn how to nurture themselves, heal from any attachment wounds and trauma, and create a treatment plan and space for healing.
I enjoy working with women, moms, older teens, young adults, adults and couples.
I believe in creating a warm, empathetic environment to help connect with each client, attune to their specific therapeutic needs and goals, and help each individual feel cared for and heard. I deeply understand t the importance of fostering healthy relationships with her clients. In creating a safe environment, my clients and I work together to help them identify and process challenging situations and triggers. I pull from a combination of attachment-based and psychodynamic modalities to help clients learn how to nurture themselves, heal from any attachment wounds and trauma, and create a treatment plan and space for healing.
(949) 779-8096 View (949) 779-8096
Photo of Chase Espinoza: Testing And Evaluations, PsyD, Testing, Neuro, Evals, Assess, Psychologist
Chase Espinoza: Testing And Evaluations
Psychologist, PsyD, Testing, Neuro, Evals, Assess
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
dementia, memory, brain injury.
I provide several types of psychological, employment-related, psychoeducational, developmental, and neuropsychological evaluations. State-of-the-art methods including TOVA and interactive iPad-based tests for efficient and accurate services. I am insurance-contracted and work with diverse populations and testing purposes. If you are recommended, requested, or ordered to undergo assessment, please reach out. You will receive a high-quality, scientifically informed evaluation, with a comprehensive report, feedback, and recommendations. I am a practicing clinical and professorial member of the International Neuropsychological Society.
dementia, memory, brain injury.
I provide several types of psychological, employment-related, psychoeducational, developmental, and neuropsychological evaluations. State-of-the-art methods including TOVA and interactive iPad-based tests for efficient and accurate services. I am insurance-contracted and work with diverse populations and testing purposes. If you are recommended, requested, or ordered to undergo assessment, please reach out. You will receive a high-quality, scientifically informed evaluation, with a comprehensive report, feedback, and recommendations. I am a practicing clinical and professorial member of the International Neuropsychological Society.
(949) 536-9857 View (949) 536-9857
Photo of Alicia Malec, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alicia Malec
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92614
Are you feeling stuck in achieving your goals and dreams? Are you struggling with a mental health condition or dealing with life stressors or simply in search of personal growth? I use postmodern approaches in my clinical work to help you meet your unique needs. We don’t always have to dig into the past, we can start working together to make changes right now. I work with all age groups from children to older adults. Some of my evidence-based techniques include mindfulness, art therapy, and sand tray therapy. Let me show you the way to recognize your inherent capacity for change.
Are you feeling stuck in achieving your goals and dreams? Are you struggling with a mental health condition or dealing with life stressors or simply in search of personal growth? I use postmodern approaches in my clinical work to help you meet your unique needs. We don’t always have to dig into the past, we can start working together to make changes right now. I work with all age groups from children to older adults. Some of my evidence-based techniques include mindfulness, art therapy, and sand tray therapy. Let me show you the way to recognize your inherent capacity for change.
(949) 828-4557 View (949) 828-4557
Photo of Judy Dodgen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Dodgen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92602
Through experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, I have an excellent understanding of psychiatric challenges including Depression, Anxiety, Dementia, Schizophrenia and Bipolar, as well as, the relational complications that arise as a result of these challenges.
Currently accepting new clients as of August 1, 2022. Growth is a process. In our struggle to grow and reach our full potential we come to places where we need help. Today you are taking the first step towards hope through self awareness. It takes strength to be vulnerable and open to change. I believe that all people possess the tools to better their lives and I have been honored with the privilege to accompany others in their journey to discover their individual abilities. I look forward to working with you, where together we can locate a new place of hope and self awareness.
Through experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, I have an excellent understanding of psychiatric challenges including Depression, Anxiety, Dementia, Schizophrenia and Bipolar, as well as, the relational complications that arise as a result of these challenges.
Currently accepting new clients as of August 1, 2022. Growth is a process. In our struggle to grow and reach our full potential we come to places where we need help. Today you are taking the first step towards hope through self awareness. It takes strength to be vulnerable and open to change. I believe that all people possess the tools to better their lives and I have been honored with the privilege to accompany others in their journey to discover their individual abilities. I look forward to working with you, where together we can locate a new place of hope and self awareness.
(562) 320-8916 View (562) 320-8916
Photo of Emily R Gombos, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily R Gombos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
The people who come to see me are bright and resourceful, but they struggle to feel better on their own. They are dissatisfied with one or many aspects of their lives, and often have symptoms such as anxiety, depression, addiction and stress. They have struggled with past relationships, and their current ones tend to be difficult and unsatisfying. As a licensed psychotherapist working with adults and older adolescents, I have the sincere privilege of helping people explore their lives and find the long-term, permanent solutions they are looking for.
The people who come to see me are bright and resourceful, but they struggle to feel better on their own. They are dissatisfied with one or many aspects of their lives, and often have symptoms such as anxiety, depression, addiction and stress. They have struggled with past relationships, and their current ones tend to be difficult and unsatisfying. As a licensed psychotherapist working with adults and older adolescents, I have the sincere privilege of helping people explore their lives and find the long-term, permanent solutions they are looking for.
(714) 323-8434 View (714) 323-8434
Photo of Julia Evans - Brain Wellness Institute, PhD, Psychologist
Brain Wellness Institute
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
My clinical specialties include traumatic brain injury, stroke, dementia, attention deficit disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Phobias and Panic Disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy. I obtained my PhD Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University and completed my fellowship at UCLA, pre-doctoral internship at Vanderbilt University, and Bachelor's degree from USC. I also received clinical training at the West Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.
My clinical specialties include traumatic brain injury, stroke, dementia, attention deficit disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Phobias and Panic Disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy. I obtained my PhD Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University and completed my fellowship at UCLA, pre-doctoral internship at Vanderbilt University, and Bachelor's degree from USC. I also received clinical training at the West Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.
(949) 835-4495 View (949) 835-4495
Photo of Gretchen Shibl - Dr. Gretchen Shibl Wellness Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Gretchen Shibl Wellness Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I provide customized and effective psychotherapy to adults, professionals, and seniors. In addition to depression, anxiety, and other life challenges, I offer therapy for individuals with autoimmune conditions, acute/chronic illness and chronic pain. I also work with professionals and workplace issues including stress, burnout, and work/life balance. Office hours are offered during the weekend in addition to online therapy for individuals unable to access in person services (open to all CA residents).
I provide customized and effective psychotherapy to adults, professionals, and seniors. In addition to depression, anxiety, and other life challenges, I offer therapy for individuals with autoimmune conditions, acute/chronic illness and chronic pain. I also work with professionals and workplace issues including stress, burnout, and work/life balance. Office hours are offered during the weekend in addition to online therapy for individuals unable to access in person services (open to all CA residents).
(949) 799-4963 View (949) 799-4963
Photo of Youngseoung Seo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Youngseoung Seo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
With a focus on geriatric care and mental health assessments, I offer personalized support tailored to the unique needs of seniors.
Are you or a loved one facing the complexities of aging? Seeking support and guidance to navigate through life's transitions? As a seasoned therapist with a specialization in geriatric care, I am dedicated to advocating for the elderly, fostering their well-being, and enhancing their quality of life. I understand the unique challenges seniors face, from mental health concerns to social isolation. My expertise lies in conducting comprehensive assessments and providing personalized care plans. Let's embark on this journey together towards a fulfilling and empowered life. You are not alone.
With a focus on geriatric care and mental health assessments, I offer personalized support tailored to the unique needs of seniors.
Are you or a loved one facing the complexities of aging? Seeking support and guidance to navigate through life's transitions? As a seasoned therapist with a specialization in geriatric care, I am dedicated to advocating for the elderly, fostering their well-being, and enhancing their quality of life. I understand the unique challenges seniors face, from mental health concerns to social isolation. My expertise lies in conducting comprehensive assessments and providing personalized care plans. Let's embark on this journey together towards a fulfilling and empowered life. You are not alone.
(925) 291-9337 View (925) 291-9337
Photo of Rachel Pasternak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Pasternak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
An adamant believer of the therapeutic mantra to “start where the client is,” I see therapy as a validating and safe space. I have an in-depth understanding of the way that psychosocial factors effect an individual's overall health and wellness. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to understand their therapy goals and join with them as they progress towards positive and meaningful change.
An adamant believer of the therapeutic mantra to “start where the client is,” I see therapy as a validating and safe space. I have an in-depth understanding of the way that psychosocial factors effect an individual's overall health and wellness. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to understand their therapy goals and join with them as they progress towards positive and meaningful change.
(949) 751-1643 View (949) 751-1643
Photo of Nilou Tohidian, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nilou Tohidian
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Sometimes life stressors become more challenging than you can handle on your own and you might need extra support to work through these difficult times. When issues and conflicts are left unresolved, they lead you to feeling overwhelmed and spiral into a state of crisis. Mental health counseling empowers you to view yourself from a perspective that is more open to positive changes. The goal of therapy is to facilitate healthy communication and improve the relationships and functioning of the individual.
Sometimes life stressors become more challenging than you can handle on your own and you might need extra support to work through these difficult times. When issues and conflicts are left unresolved, they lead you to feeling overwhelmed and spiral into a state of crisis. Mental health counseling empowers you to view yourself from a perspective that is more open to positive changes. The goal of therapy is to facilitate healthy communication and improve the relationships and functioning of the individual.
(949) 822-9832 View (949) 822-9832
Photo of Jennifer Lara, ASW
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(949) 264-0502 View (949) 264-0502
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(949) 694-2972 View (949) 694-2972
Photo of Andy Truong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Truong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Are you experiencing feeling stuck due to childhood trauma? I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through your anxiety, depression, and other unresolved feelings at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, I can help you discover your inner strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Are you experiencing feeling stuck due to childhood trauma? I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through your anxiety, depression, and other unresolved feelings at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, I can help you discover your inner strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace.
(949) 202-4409 View (949) 202-4409
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 274-4852 View (949) 274-4852
Photo of Joan Cantor Backer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joan Cantor Backer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92606  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of themselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and children. Through my extensive life experiences and clinical training, I am qualified to work with a wide range of issues for women, including life transitions, menopause, aging, loss and grief, and developing self esteem. “Hi, Joan, I want to thank you for your guidance during our sessions. The issues we discussed and acknowledged, gave me a sense of empowerment. I was very aware of what was going on around me and how it made me feel. "MK"
I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of themselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and children. Through my extensive life experiences and clinical training, I am qualified to work with a wide range of issues for women, including life transitions, menopause, aging, loss and grief, and developing self esteem. “Hi, Joan, I want to thank you for your guidance during our sessions. The issues we discussed and acknowledged, gave me a sense of empowerment. I was very aware of what was going on around me and how it made me feel. "MK"
(949) 676-7486 View (949) 676-7486
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.