Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Jane E Greenfield - EMDR Psychotherapy and Geriatric Mental Health , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EMDR Psychotherapy and Geriatric Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I have years of experience helping challenging individuals from middle age to elderly.
Are you bothered by an upsetting event (s) that you cannot get out of your mind? Do you know something is holding you back, perhaps from your past, but you can't seem to shake it? Have you tried traditional talk therapy, but your past still has a grip on you? Exciting breakthroughs have been advanced in our understanding of how our brains mange memories. The latest research shows that non-traditional therapies like EMDR, can more quickly & deeply help us heal and recover from traumatic events and live more satisfying lives.
I have years of experience helping challenging individuals from middle age to elderly.
Are you bothered by an upsetting event (s) that you cannot get out of your mind? Do you know something is holding you back, perhaps from your past, but you can't seem to shake it? Have you tried traditional talk therapy, but your past still has a grip on you? Exciting breakthroughs have been advanced in our understanding of how our brains mange memories. The latest research shows that non-traditional therapies like EMDR, can more quickly & deeply help us heal and recover from traumatic events and live more satisfying lives.
(510) 545-9572 View (510) 545-9572
Photo of Andreea Simon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andreea Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
My background includes in-depth work with both an aging population (subspecialty in serving clients and families coming to terms with dementia) and elementary- and high-school age children and their families.
Choosing a therapist and beginning therapy isn't easy. The first step is recognizing the feeling that you don't want to be alone in working on your challenges. My commitment is to help you find out whether I might be a good match as your therapist, and to be your guide in the process of getting support. I work particularly well with anyone who is negotiating difficult life cycle transitions--from challenges of beginning school, moving or dealing with loss to the strains of adolescence, marriage or divorce or the demands of aging and caring for aging parents.
My background includes in-depth work with both an aging population (subspecialty in serving clients and families coming to terms with dementia) and elementary- and high-school age children and their families.
Choosing a therapist and beginning therapy isn't easy. The first step is recognizing the feeling that you don't want to be alone in working on your challenges. My commitment is to help you find out whether I might be a good match as your therapist, and to be your guide in the process of getting support. I work particularly well with anyone who is negotiating difficult life cycle transitions--from challenges of beginning school, moving or dealing with loss to the strains of adolescence, marriage or divorce or the demands of aging and caring for aging parents.
(510) 746-8126 View (510) 746-8126
Photo of Annie Brashem, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Brashem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
As either a patient or caregiver, coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma can be quite the challenge. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
As either a patient or caregiver, coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma can be quite the challenge. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
(510) 330-1142 View (510) 330-1142
Photo of Natasha Belfor, PhD, Psychologist
Natasha Belfor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
- Seniors worried about cognitive decline, difficulties driving, diagnosed with a neuro degenerative condition (FrontoTemporal Dementia, Alzheimers, Lewy Body Disease) -Babyboomers worried about losing memory, inability to concentrate, problems making decisions, cognitive decline -Professionals dealing with social, personal, professional stressors and anxiety.
I'm a scientist and a clinician. I believe in evidence-based treatments supported by extensive clinical research at the best medical institutions in the world. My methods have been evaluated and used by scientists and clinicians at the Mayo Clinic, USC, UCSF, Yale, Stanford, Harvard University Center for Brain Science, Johns Hopkins, University of Haifa, MIT, Cambridge, Hebrew University etc
- Seniors worried about cognitive decline, difficulties driving, diagnosed with a neuro degenerative condition (FrontoTemporal Dementia, Alzheimers, Lewy Body Disease) -Babyboomers worried about losing memory, inability to concentrate, problems making decisions, cognitive decline -Professionals dealing with social, personal, professional stressors and anxiety.
I'm a scientist and a clinician. I believe in evidence-based treatments supported by extensive clinical research at the best medical institutions in the world. My methods have been evaluated and used by scientists and clinicians at the Mayo Clinic, USC, UCSF, Yale, Stanford, Harvard University Center for Brain Science, Johns Hopkins, University of Haifa, MIT, Cambridge, Hebrew University etc
(415) 889-8545 View (415) 889-8545
Photo of Melissa K Bowman, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa K Bowman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
My specializations include: working with older adults through life transitions, grief counseling, treatment-resistant depression, individuals with disabilities and/or chronic pain, and trauma.
I love what I do! I have the pleasure of working with clients from five to 105-years-old! Having the opportunity to work with an expansive age range has taught me that at any age: we want to be loved and we want to love, we want to belong, we want to have purpose, we want to experience joy, and we don't want pain. My goal as a therapist, is to help my clients find ways to reduce, restructure, and remove obstacles that cause pain; while building on our individual resources to promote health, happiness and well-being.
My specializations include: working with older adults through life transitions, grief counseling, treatment-resistant depression, individuals with disabilities and/or chronic pain, and trauma.
I love what I do! I have the pleasure of working with clients from five to 105-years-old! Having the opportunity to work with an expansive age range has taught me that at any age: we want to be loved and we want to love, we want to belong, we want to have purpose, we want to experience joy, and we don't want pain. My goal as a therapist, is to help my clients find ways to reduce, restructure, and remove obstacles that cause pain; while building on our individual resources to promote health, happiness and well-being.
(510) 849-6789 View (510) 849-6789
Photo of Genica Robbins, PsyD, Psychologist
Genica Robbins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Waitlist for new clients
I have a great deal of experience working with severe mental illness, addiction, personality disorders and older adults, and can help you if you just feel you want someone understanding.
Making changes is challenging, but together we can work to find ways to make it more possible. If you are wanting to discover why you do what you do and why you choose the people to do it with that you do, we may work well together. I am very warm and empathic, and enjoy working with you to address the problems that you want to change without judgment.
I have a great deal of experience working with severe mental illness, addiction, personality disorders and older adults, and can help you if you just feel you want someone understanding.
Making changes is challenging, but together we can work to find ways to make it more possible. If you are wanting to discover why you do what you do and why you choose the people to do it with that you do, we may work well together. I am very warm and empathic, and enjoy working with you to address the problems that you want to change without judgment.
(510) 746-8097 View (510) 746-8097
Photo of Suzan Bollich - Suzan Bollich, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Suzan Bollich, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My psychotherapy practice is specialized in working with Adults, Older Adults, Couples, and Families who are seeking psychological help with Old/New trauma, Grief/Bereavement/Loss, living with Cancer, living with a Movement disorder (e.g., Parkinson disease), living with a Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), Aging, and Confronting End-of-Life. If you seek to confront the myriad concerns related to living with any of the above challenging situations, I will do that with you by exploring your particular situation and its inherent concerns. Concerns might include fear, anxiety, difficult decision-making, depression and despair.
My psychotherapy practice is specialized in working with Adults, Older Adults, Couples, and Families who are seeking psychological help with Old/New trauma, Grief/Bereavement/Loss, living with Cancer, living with a Movement disorder (e.g., Parkinson disease), living with a Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), Aging, and Confronting End-of-Life. If you seek to confront the myriad concerns related to living with any of the above challenging situations, I will do that with you by exploring your particular situation and its inherent concerns. Concerns might include fear, anxiety, difficult decision-making, depression and despair.
(510) 459-3985 View (510) 459-3985
Photo of Jessica Bailey, Trainee, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Bailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, Trainee
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I am passionate about working with caregivers and clients at either end of the life course, from children to older adults. Childhood and Older Adulthood are the two stages of human development where we as humans rely on supportive caregivers to meet our needs and recognize us as individuals. However, these relationships can be challenging due to the amount of care necessary, family of origin issues, and institutional influence from schools, nursing homes, etc. I believe that attuned, empathic connections with these populations and their caregivers can encourage healthy human development by providing trust, safety, and autonomy.
I am passionate about working with caregivers and clients at either end of the life course, from children to older adults. Childhood and Older Adulthood are the two stages of human development where we as humans rely on supportive caregivers to meet our needs and recognize us as individuals. However, these relationships can be challenging due to the amount of care necessary, family of origin issues, and institutional influence from schools, nursing homes, etc. I believe that attuned, empathic connections with these populations and their caregivers can encourage healthy human development by providing trust, safety, and autonomy.
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Photo of Jean Milam, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Milam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
I work with adults and older adults, experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and transitions.
I provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental space where every part of you is welcome, the parts you know and like and those parts that you may keep hidden. Asking for help is not easy. You may have been taught that you should be able to handle difficulty by yourself, but, in fact, seeking support is the most courageous step you can take toward your own healing and emotional well-being. You don't have to experience sadness, anxiety, trauma, anger, or loss on your own.
I work with adults and older adults, experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, and transitions.
I provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental space where every part of you is welcome, the parts you know and like and those parts that you may keep hidden. Asking for help is not easy. You may have been taught that you should be able to handle difficulty by yourself, but, in fact, seeking support is the most courageous step you can take toward your own healing and emotional well-being. You don't have to experience sadness, anxiety, trauma, anger, or loss on your own.
(510) 257-9386 View (510) 257-9386
Photo of Jan Chess, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Chess
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am experienced in couples therapy and enjoy work with older adults.
Are you struggling with how childhood experiences, losses or trauma continues to influence your life? Are you discouraged at repeating difficult situations or find it hard to get out from under depression or anxiety? I'm glad to see how we can put our minds together to understand your dilemmas and see things differently. Change is possible no matter what your age or your life circumstances when you feel seen, accepted and appreciated for who you are and where you've been.
I am experienced in couples therapy and enjoy work with older adults.
Are you struggling with how childhood experiences, losses or trauma continues to influence your life? Are you discouraged at repeating difficult situations or find it hard to get out from under depression or anxiety? I'm glad to see how we can put our minds together to understand your dilemmas and see things differently. Change is possible no matter what your age or your life circumstances when you feel seen, accepted and appreciated for who you are and where you've been.
(530) 645-3796 View (530) 645-3796
Photo of Cathy Swift Nagel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Swift Nagel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001, I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being of each client, providing culturally competent services and helping clients improve their quality of life.  I see older and disabled adults, often dealing with chronic illness or a new diagnosis.  I have an extensive history working in medical settings and am also available to assist caregivers with navigating the health care system. I believe that positive change is possible at any age and at any juncture in a person's life.  I believe you can have a more fulfilling life, and that I can help you.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001, I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being of each client, providing culturally competent services and helping clients improve their quality of life.  I see older and disabled adults, often dealing with chronic illness or a new diagnosis.  I have an extensive history working in medical settings and am also available to assist caregivers with navigating the health care system. I believe that positive change is possible at any age and at any juncture in a person's life.  I believe you can have a more fulfilling life, and that I can help you.
(415) 715-1807 View (415) 715-1807
Photo of Anne E Gimbel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne E Gimbel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
My clientele consists of individuals, couples, adolescents, and seniors seeking help with stress, anxiety, depression, family issues, LGBT issues, trauma and aging.
Life used to be easier! Perhaps you feel stuck in your relationships and you are not getting along with the people you see daily. Issues in life can be overwhelming and full of challenges. I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or healing, and whether trauma, abuse, grieving, recovery or life issues, we work together to overcome them. There is hope. Let me help you reach the goals and connections you deserve. With sensitivity and compassion, we work to determine what might be blocking your full potential and your feelings.
My clientele consists of individuals, couples, adolescents, and seniors seeking help with stress, anxiety, depression, family issues, LGBT issues, trauma and aging.
Life used to be easier! Perhaps you feel stuck in your relationships and you are not getting along with the people you see daily. Issues in life can be overwhelming and full of challenges. I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or healing, and whether trauma, abuse, grieving, recovery or life issues, we work together to overcome them. There is hope. Let me help you reach the goals and connections you deserve. With sensitivity and compassion, we work to determine what might be blocking your full potential and your feelings.
(760) 561-5421 View (760) 561-5421
Bret Fimiani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
, educational, career and relationship choices) and I also have extensive experience with more mature and older adults facing the various challenges of later life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working in Oakland, CA in a private practice setting. I have 12+ years of clinical experience working with adults in short and long-term psychotherapy with a range of issues including depression, work related stress, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse/dependence issues, issues related to sexuality and sexual orientation, and emotional issues related to the challenge of adapting to chronic medical problems.
, educational, career and relationship choices) and I also have extensive experience with more mature and older adults facing the various challenges of later life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working in Oakland, CA in a private practice setting. I have 12+ years of clinical experience working with adults in short and long-term psychotherapy with a range of issues including depression, work related stress, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse/dependence issues, issues related to sexuality and sexual orientation, and emotional issues related to the challenge of adapting to chronic medical problems.
(510) 746-8676 View (510) 746-8676
Photo of Jennifer R Panish, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer R Panish
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
I have expertise working with adolescents, adults, and seniors with a wide range of emotional and behavioral struggles including depression, anxiety, coming out, trauma, grief/loss, stress, anger management, relationship struggles, identity, parenting and life transitions.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I help people create meaningful change in their lives. My approach is self empowering and compassionate with a sensitivity to cultural differences and social justice. My strength as a therapist is in making deep connections with people, creating a sense of safety and helping clients identify and confront their issues. My personality style is warm, sincere, and down to earth. Those who see me describe me as someone who is "caring, warm, a great listener, interactive, and offers honest insightful feedback."
I have expertise working with adolescents, adults, and seniors with a wide range of emotional and behavioral struggles including depression, anxiety, coming out, trauma, grief/loss, stress, anger management, relationship struggles, identity, parenting and life transitions.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I help people create meaningful change in their lives. My approach is self empowering and compassionate with a sensitivity to cultural differences and social justice. My strength as a therapist is in making deep connections with people, creating a sense of safety and helping clients identify and confront their issues. My personality style is warm, sincere, and down to earth. Those who see me describe me as someone who is "caring, warm, a great listener, interactive, and offers honest insightful feedback."
(510) 488-2492 View (510) 488-2492
Photo of Mollie Lyddane, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Mollie Lyddane
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I practice individual psychotherapy with individuals 21 and older.
I practice a variety of different therapeutic styles designed to best address your own particular needs. Genuineness, empathy, and warmth serve as foundational elements of my way of relating. I place emphasis on facilitating an environment where you can feel safe to investigate life experiences in greater depth, identify and question deeply held beliefs that have been influencing your life, connect to and express emotions and bodily sensations as they arise in the context of our discovery process, and ultimately move towards developing a greater sense of strength, wholeness, and openness within yourself as you move forward.
I practice individual psychotherapy with individuals 21 and older.
I practice a variety of different therapeutic styles designed to best address your own particular needs. Genuineness, empathy, and warmth serve as foundational elements of my way of relating. I place emphasis on facilitating an environment where you can feel safe to investigate life experiences in greater depth, identify and question deeply held beliefs that have been influencing your life, connect to and express emotions and bodily sensations as they arise in the context of our discovery process, and ultimately move towards developing a greater sense of strength, wholeness, and openness within yourself as you move forward.
(213) 340-0847 View (213) 340-0847
Photo of Mark Dombeck, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Dombeck
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I’m Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, a trauma-informed licensed psychologist with 20+ years experience. I’m based in Alameda, CA, near Oakland, CA. I work with adults and seniors (not children), with individuals and couples, both in-person and online. I have three areas of specialization: 1) trauma & dissociation, 2) couples therapy, and 3) adult neurodiversity. I can help you address depression, anger, anxiety and shame issues, emotion-regulation and impulse control issues, executive functioning issues, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, personality issues, attachment issues and trauma issues.
I’m Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, a trauma-informed licensed psychologist with 20+ years experience. I’m based in Alameda, CA, near Oakland, CA. I work with adults and seniors (not children), with individuals and couples, both in-person and online. I have three areas of specialization: 1) trauma & dissociation, 2) couples therapy, and 3) adult neurodiversity. I can help you address depression, anger, anxiety and shame issues, emotion-regulation and impulse control issues, executive functioning issues, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, personality issues, attachment issues and trauma issues.
(510) 466-1424 View (510) 466-1424
Photo of Nancy Sarah Rothschild, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Sarah Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Waitlist for new clients
I also started a program which provides support and education to those caring for ailing and/or elderly family members.
As a long-time practitioner, my way of working has evolved from a more traditional dynamic approach to a deep interest in the bridge between mind/body spiritual traditions and contemporary psychology. I have much varied experience working with both men and women who struggle with the challenges of loneliness and living a conscious, fulfilling and spontaneous life. If you are feeling stressed, or if anxiety or depression have you wrestling with problems that never seem to resolve, perhaps it's time to turn for help to a compassionate and engaged therapist.
I also started a program which provides support and education to those caring for ailing and/or elderly family members.
As a long-time practitioner, my way of working has evolved from a more traditional dynamic approach to a deep interest in the bridge between mind/body spiritual traditions and contemporary psychology. I have much varied experience working with both men and women who struggle with the challenges of loneliness and living a conscious, fulfilling and spontaneous life. If you are feeling stressed, or if anxiety or depression have you wrestling with problems that never seem to resolve, perhaps it's time to turn for help to a compassionate and engaged therapist.
(510) 730-3867 View (510) 730-3867
Photo of Jeffrey Hall Psy. D, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeffrey Hall Psy. D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Welcome. I offer an initial 30 minute phone or video consultation at no charge. It's essential to determine comfort level and fit before proceeding. I have have expertise with adult ADHD, marital/relational therapy, trauma (PTSD), geriatric populations, bipolar spectrum disorders, and the more common disorders (major depression/anxiety). My approach aims to provide some immediate symptom relief while also focusing on deeper, longer term resolution. Many clinical situations cannot be quickly resolved in a way that sustains. Therefore, I am also attentive to unconscious processes, relational patterns and family-of-origin influences.
Welcome. I offer an initial 30 minute phone or video consultation at no charge. It's essential to determine comfort level and fit before proceeding. I have have expertise with adult ADHD, marital/relational therapy, trauma (PTSD), geriatric populations, bipolar spectrum disorders, and the more common disorders (major depression/anxiety). My approach aims to provide some immediate symptom relief while also focusing on deeper, longer term resolution. Many clinical situations cannot be quickly resolved in a way that sustains. Therefore, I am also attentive to unconscious processes, relational patterns and family-of-origin influences.
(415) 818-0982 View (415) 818-0982
Photo of Monica Z. Nowakowski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Z. Nowakowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
With compassion and humor I provide a safe place for adults to get help with personal situations such as relationship/work stress, break-ups, retirement, chronic/ life-threatening illness and disability, depression, anxiety, dementia, care-giving of people of all ages, and "coming out". Life transitions have a common thread - loss, grief, and opportunity. Even joyful experiences can be difficult. You may feel stuck, out-of-control or have worrisome regrets and anxiety. You may feel "at a loss", you can't just "shake it off", or feel "it's taking a toll" on you.
With compassion and humor I provide a safe place for adults to get help with personal situations such as relationship/work stress, break-ups, retirement, chronic/ life-threatening illness and disability, depression, anxiety, dementia, care-giving of people of all ages, and "coming out". Life transitions have a common thread - loss, grief, and opportunity. Even joyful experiences can be difficult. You may feel stuck, out-of-control or have worrisome regrets and anxiety. You may feel "at a loss", you can't just "shake it off", or feel "it's taking a toll" on you.
(510) 662-6114 View (510) 662-6114
Photo of Jacob Donnelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacob Donnelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a non-judgmental, active therapist, specializing in substance use/addictions, anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness, ADHD, relationships, and work stress. Prior to private practice, I was the Clinical Director at a San Francisco non-profit serving veterans. I enjoy working with adults, older adults, older teens (16+) and couples. Whether you want to get support around new changes in your life that are causing you pain and worry, or work through problems that have been with you for years, my goal is to help you feel relief, feel empowered, and work through the things that are out of your control.
I am a non-judgmental, active therapist, specializing in substance use/addictions, anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness, ADHD, relationships, and work stress. Prior to private practice, I was the Clinical Director at a San Francisco non-profit serving veterans. I enjoy working with adults, older adults, older teens (16+) and couples. Whether you want to get support around new changes in your life that are causing you pain and worry, or work through problems that have been with you for years, my goal is to help you feel relief, feel empowered, and work through the things that are out of your control.
(510) 399-1667 View (510) 399-1667
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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.