Dementia Therapists in La Mesa, CA

Photo of Vikki Bouck - Integrative Counseling for Mind-Body Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrative Counseling for Mind-Body Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941
I view the person as a whole and wellness as a personal journey. It's nearly impossible to heal the mind without also healing the body. As both a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 15 years of experience, and a Nutritionist, I can help you achieve optimum mental and physical vitality and find your pathway to becoming your best self. Together, we will look at emotions, thoughts, behaviors and unconscious beliefs that may be holding you back, but also consider complementary and alternative means to help you achieve wellness -- focusing on sleep, nutrition, exercise, meditation, social supports, and holistic treatments.
I view the person as a whole and wellness as a personal journey. It's nearly impossible to heal the mind without also healing the body. As both a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 15 years of experience, and a Nutritionist, I can help you achieve optimum mental and physical vitality and find your pathway to becoming your best self. Together, we will look at emotions, thoughts, behaviors and unconscious beliefs that may be holding you back, but also consider complementary and alternative means to help you achieve wellness -- focusing on sleep, nutrition, exercise, meditation, social supports, and holistic treatments.
(619) 937-3854 View (619) 937-3854
Photo of Melizza R. Esperanza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melizza R. Esperanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey there, I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker, and I'm all about helping you on your journey towards healing and growth. I commonly work with adults who are feeling stuck, stressed or overwhelmed and don't know why or where to start. I get it, I've been there and you're not alone in this journey. I'm here with an open mind, warm heart, ready to provide compassionate, tailored support. Let's explore together to understand the roots of your experience and find new patterns for healing and empowerment.
Hey there, I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker, and I'm all about helping you on your journey towards healing and growth. I commonly work with adults who are feeling stuck, stressed or overwhelmed and don't know why or where to start. I get it, I've been there and you're not alone in this journey. I'm here with an open mind, warm heart, ready to provide compassionate, tailored support. Let's explore together to understand the roots of your experience and find new patterns for healing and empowerment.
(619) 765-1373 View (619) 765-1373
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Kelly Engleson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Engleson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
I help adults who are struggling with issues of infertility, bereavement, grief and loss and life transitions. My clients are those who are yearning to be parents, have endured loss, sadness and anxiety while utilizing assisted reproductive technology in efforts to conceive and those facing multiple challenges on their path to parenthood. I also work with adults who have endured many different types of losses (death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, losses due to chronic illness...) and struggle to find ways to move forward. I work with young adults who are navigating issues of purpose and identity.
I help adults who are struggling with issues of infertility, bereavement, grief and loss and life transitions. My clients are those who are yearning to be parents, have endured loss, sadness and anxiety while utilizing assisted reproductive technology in efforts to conceive and those facing multiple challenges on their path to parenthood. I also work with adults who have endured many different types of losses (death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, losses due to chronic illness...) and struggle to find ways to move forward. I work with young adults who are navigating issues of purpose and identity.
(619) 728-2537 View (619) 728-2537

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kathy J Gilbert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy J Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have been a psychotherapist for over 38 years. I enjoy working with adults of all ages. One of my specialties, is working with care-givers who have had a family member diagnosed with dementia. I have the personal and professional experience of understanding the difficult role required of the care-giver. I help you to balance the role of care-giver, while still maintaining a sense of your self. I will assist you to to get the necessary support, information, and resources to meet your own needs and maintain good self-care. Whether you are caring for a parent, spouse, child or friend, you deserve to have support focused on you.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 38 years. I enjoy working with adults of all ages. One of my specialties, is working with care-givers who have had a family member diagnosed with dementia. I have the personal and professional experience of understanding the difficult role required of the care-giver. I help you to balance the role of care-giver, while still maintaining a sense of your self. I will assist you to to get the necessary support, information, and resources to meet your own needs and maintain good self-care. Whether you are caring for a parent, spouse, child or friend, you deserve to have support focused on you.
(619) 574-0677 View (619) 574-0677
Photo of Janice Keenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Keenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
Therapies used when working with older adults, especially persons with Dementia include Reminiscent Therapy and Cognitive Stimulation.
Hello, my name is Janice Keenberg and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in a small mountain town in Southern California. I have worked for more than two decades providing mental health counseling, liaison services, advocacy, and support services for community agencies and medical facilities in the Los Angeles and Bakersfield area. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and my focus is on helping clients cope with strong emotions brought about by depression, anxiety, stress, grief, chronic illness, and addiction.
Therapies used when working with older adults, especially persons with Dementia include Reminiscent Therapy and Cognitive Stimulation.
Hello, my name is Janice Keenberg and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in a small mountain town in Southern California. I have worked for more than two decades providing mental health counseling, liaison services, advocacy, and support services for community agencies and medical facilities in the Los Angeles and Bakersfield area. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and my focus is on helping clients cope with strong emotions brought about by depression, anxiety, stress, grief, chronic illness, and addiction.
(415) 592-6513 View (415) 592-6513
Photo of Nicole Lapointe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Lapointe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92113
Hi there, I'm Nicole! Therapy is an opportunity for self-discovery, empowerment, and healing. I work with various issues, including depression, anxiety, parenting, life transitions, and stress. I specialize in HIV/STD support, women's health, and older adults/ seniors. My goal is to help you recognize that you have all the tools and strength to develop and manage all of your challenges. I will work alongside you at your pace, providing a safe space to feel heard, understood, and supported in your growth.
Hi there, I'm Nicole! Therapy is an opportunity for self-discovery, empowerment, and healing. I work with various issues, including depression, anxiety, parenting, life transitions, and stress. I specialize in HIV/STD support, women's health, and older adults/ seniors. My goal is to help you recognize that you have all the tools and strength to develop and manage all of your challenges. I will work alongside you at your pace, providing a safe space to feel heard, understood, and supported in your growth.
(559) 551-3456 View (559) 551-3456
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
My sub specialties include: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity (adhd/autism), dementia/neurocognitive disorders, death and dying, and trauma (I am EMDR trained) and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
My sub specialties include: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity (adhd/autism), dementia/neurocognitive disorders, death and dying, and trauma (I am EMDR trained) and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
(619) 853-5083 View (619) 853-5083
Photo of Dr. Kelsey Anne Holiday - Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I am passionate about helping clients understand their cognitive changes and cope after a diagnosis such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, stroke/aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cancer/chemotherapy, and other forms of dementia.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
I am passionate about helping clients understand their cognitive changes and cope after a diagnosis such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, stroke/aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cancer/chemotherapy, and other forms of dementia.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
(310) 919-1598 View (310) 919-1598
Photo of Vanessa Souza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Souza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91913
My name is Vanessa Souza, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in working with older adults and the people who care for them, whether personally or professionally. I have a particular focus on people living with memory loss, Alzheimer's disease, or other dementia, and their families and friends. I’m based in Silicon Valley, but provide service via telehealth throughout California. I have nearly 15 years of experience working with older adults, family caregivers (especially caregivers ages 20-50), and professional caregivers, and this is my specialty.
My name is Vanessa Souza, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in working with older adults and the people who care for them, whether personally or professionally. I have a particular focus on people living with memory loss, Alzheimer's disease, or other dementia, and their families and friends. I’m based in Silicon Valley, but provide service via telehealth throughout California. I have nearly 15 years of experience working with older adults, family caregivers (especially caregivers ages 20-50), and professional caregivers, and this is my specialty.
(805) 360-5029 View (805) 360-5029
Photo of Dominique Ariana Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dominique Ariana Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91915
My name is Dominique Thompson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Bernadino, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with all ages ranging from children to older adults. I specialize in trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interview Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Dominique Thompson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Bernadino, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with all ages ranging from children to older adults. I specialize in trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interview Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(626) 900-1517 View (626) 900-1517
Photo of Sofia Fani Mossa, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Fani Mossa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Are you a caregiver of a loved one diagnosed with dementia? Are you going through multicultural family and relationship dynamics? Are you seeking support and guidance in your foster care or adoption journey? With my 18 years of experience with these considerations, I bring positive, genuine and sincere support to my clinical practice. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe, trusting and supportive space where together we can bring awareness, identify solutions and create balance in your life.
Are you a caregiver of a loved one diagnosed with dementia? Are you going through multicultural family and relationship dynamics? Are you seeking support and guidance in your foster care or adoption journey? With my 18 years of experience with these considerations, I bring positive, genuine and sincere support to my clinical practice. My goal in therapy is to provide a safe, trusting and supportive space where together we can bring awareness, identify solutions and create balance in your life.
(714) 497-1969 View (714) 497-1969
Photo of Kristin Whelan, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Whelan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury/concussion evaluations, worker’s compensation, organ transplant candidacy, aging baselines, comprehensive neuropsychological evals, as well as diagnostic assessment of mental health conditions, personality disorders, intellectual and learning disabilities, ASD, and other cognitive/neurodevelopmental conditions.
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury/concussion evaluations, worker’s compensation, organ transplant candidacy, aging baselines, comprehensive neuropsychological evals, as well as diagnostic assessment of mental health conditions, personality disorders, intellectual and learning disabilities, ASD, and other cognitive/neurodevelopmental conditions.
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
(619) 738-2306 View (619) 738-2306
Photo of Mark Kuntz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Kuntz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111
My name is Mark Kuntz and I am a licensed clinical Social Worker. My area of focus is adults and older adults focused on issues of grief and loss, role transition, interpersonal conflict, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I typically work with clients experiencing grief or loss, role transitions, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Interpersonal (IPT), and Motivational Interviewing Therapeutic techniques.
My name is Mark Kuntz and I am a licensed clinical Social Worker. My area of focus is adults and older adults focused on issues of grief and loss, role transition, interpersonal conflict, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I typically work with clients experiencing grief or loss, role transitions, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Interpersonal (IPT), and Motivational Interviewing Therapeutic techniques.
(619) 349-9093 View (619) 349-9093
Photo of James Strawn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Strawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Hello and Welcome. I am James Strawn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with close to 25 years of clinical experience. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective taking into consideration the whole person within the context of their mental health needs. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, depression, early stages of dementia and memory impairment, sexual orientation, mens issues, grief and loss therapy, relationship problems, and life transition related issues
Hello and Welcome. I am James Strawn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with close to 25 years of clinical experience. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective taking into consideration the whole person within the context of their mental health needs. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, depression, early stages of dementia and memory impairment, sexual orientation, mens issues, grief and loss therapy, relationship problems, and life transition related issues
(562) 203-0329 View (562) 203-0329
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Autism and ADHD therapist , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Autism and ADHD therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
Alongside my work with different neurotypes, I also have experience working with neurocognitive conditions, such as ALS, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and others.
Welcome! I specifically work with neurodiversity at my practice. Neurodiversity is a fancy way of saying that I work with all different brain types or "neurotypes" in my practice. I work with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Sensory Processing issues, among other neurotypes. I am a neurodivergent therapist myself, and my lived experience helps me to empathize and relate to my clients deeply. I take an affirming lens in my sessions, combating stigma and ableism, and assisting my clients to become more fully themselves. I am EMDR trained and trauma informed in my approach to therapy.
Alongside my work with different neurotypes, I also have experience working with neurocognitive conditions, such as ALS, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and others.
Welcome! I specifically work with neurodiversity at my practice. Neurodiversity is a fancy way of saying that I work with all different brain types or "neurotypes" in my practice. I work with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Sensory Processing issues, among other neurotypes. I am a neurodivergent therapist myself, and my lived experience helps me to empathize and relate to my clients deeply. I take an affirming lens in my sessions, combating stigma and ableism, and assisting my clients to become more fully themselves. I am EMDR trained and trauma informed in my approach to therapy.
(619) 514-3659 View (619) 514-3659
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102
I specialize in working with neurocognitive disorders, such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's, and others.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
I specialize in working with neurocognitive disorders, such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's, and others.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
(619) 745-1989 View (619) 745-1989
Photo of Dalija Dragisic, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dalija Dragisic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships are incredibly complicated, and relationship issues can have profound impact on your quality of life. Anxiety and depression may be the result of unhealthy relationship dynamics, or may be caused by typical stressors such as financial problems or disagreements about raising children. If you are having difficulties in your current relationship, or if you are trying to understand past relationship struggles, I am qualified to help you. I work with couples and individuals engaging in high conflict, affairs, issues of past trauma, parenting, depression, anxiety, substance addiction, divorce, or criminal concerns.
Relationships are incredibly complicated, and relationship issues can have profound impact on your quality of life. Anxiety and depression may be the result of unhealthy relationship dynamics, or may be caused by typical stressors such as financial problems or disagreements about raising children. If you are having difficulties in your current relationship, or if you are trying to understand past relationship struggles, I am qualified to help you. I work with couples and individuals engaging in high conflict, affairs, issues of past trauma, parenting, depression, anxiety, substance addiction, divorce, or criminal concerns.
(619) 547-0175 View (619) 547-0175
Photo of Julie Keck Olson - Julie Olson PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Julie Olson PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I'm so glad you are here! Assisting people to find strength through adversity is a joy for me. You can reduce your anxiety and/or depression. Improve your life by learning tools to feel more confident, communicate more effectively, and get more if what you want. My goal is to help you to move your life forward toward your dreams and away from emotional pain & conflict. I am known to be attentive, active, calm, peaceful, inspiring, challenging, and fun. I give you suggestions, tips, and skills to cope and grow. Work with me conveniently online on ZOOM.
I'm so glad you are here! Assisting people to find strength through adversity is a joy for me. You can reduce your anxiety and/or depression. Improve your life by learning tools to feel more confident, communicate more effectively, and get more if what you want. My goal is to help you to move your life forward toward your dreams and away from emotional pain & conflict. I am known to be attentive, active, calm, peaceful, inspiring, challenging, and fun. I give you suggestions, tips, and skills to cope and grow. Work with me conveniently online on ZOOM.
(949) 229-1138 View (949) 229-1138
Photo of Larry Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santee, CA 92071
Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges. I am a firm believer in a nonjudgmental approach to therapy so you, the client, feel safe, accepted, and empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more.
Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges. I am a firm believer in a nonjudgmental approach to therapy so you, the client, feel safe, accepted, and empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more.
(323) 940-5971 View (323) 940-5971
Dementia Therapists

Can dementia patients benefit from counseling?

Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counseling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counselors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counselors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.

How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?

To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioral and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.