Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Photo of Anahita Shahbazi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anahita Shahbazi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
The purpose of life is to discover our own inherent nobility and to help others discover theirs. - Abdu'lBahá. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experience of managing mental health from a young age. This personal journey highlighted the profound power of therapy and inspired me to help others achieve similar transformations. I take pride in guiding individuals through their challenges and witnessing their remarkable growth. For me, therapy is not just a profession but a passion. Seeing the positive impact I can make on individuals' lives is deeply rewarding and reaffirms my dedication and skills in this field.
The purpose of life is to discover our own inherent nobility and to help others discover theirs. - Abdu'lBahá. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experience of managing mental health from a young age. This personal journey highlighted the profound power of therapy and inspired me to help others achieve similar transformations. I take pride in guiding individuals through their challenges and witnessing their remarkable growth. For me, therapy is not just a profession but a passion. Seeing the positive impact I can make on individuals' lives is deeply rewarding and reaffirms my dedication and skills in this field.
(858) 683-1235 View (858) 683-1235
Photo of Kriss Murphy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kriss Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Thank you for taking the first step toward change in your life! Challenging habits can be very scary. It is possible you have been practicing these habits for so long you have forgotten where they began. Many people view their symptoms as their identity. My passion is to work with you to empower that part of you that is hoping for more from your life and relationships. Please know you are not alone in this journey. Our job together is to work to identify the core issues driving those symptoms and find healthier ways of living the life you want.
Thank you for taking the first step toward change in your life! Challenging habits can be very scary. It is possible you have been practicing these habits for so long you have forgotten where they began. Many people view their symptoms as their identity. My passion is to work with you to empower that part of you that is hoping for more from your life and relationships. Please know you are not alone in this journey. Our job together is to work to identify the core issues driving those symptoms and find healthier ways of living the life you want.
(949) 565-4609 View (949) 565-4609
Photo of Janis M Corbin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janis M Corbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
I provide professional, caring psychoanalytic oriented psychotherapy with a focus on understanding an individual's experiences, values, beliefs and how these are connected to present day behaviors, relationships, and ongoing life experiences. I view psychotherapy/psychoanalysis as a life process involving a person's mental, physical, emotional, environmental, spiritual and dream experiences. I regard each of my clients with a genuine interest and respect. During our work we will generate insights, create an atmosphere for learning, establish potential life goals, process and work through challenging and painful memories, and be more fully present in everyday life situations. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and teens.
I provide professional, caring psychoanalytic oriented psychotherapy with a focus on understanding an individual's experiences, values, beliefs and how these are connected to present day behaviors, relationships, and ongoing life experiences. I view psychotherapy/psychoanalysis as a life process involving a person's mental, physical, emotional, environmental, spiritual and dream experiences. I regard each of my clients with a genuine interest and respect. During our work we will generate insights, create an atmosphere for learning, establish potential life goals, process and work through challenging and painful memories, and be more fully present in everyday life situations. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and teens.
(949) 216-8780 View (949) 216-8780
Photo of Tracy Reid, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Reid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
During the process of therapy, working through the struggles of life can bring you to a deeper and more meaningful place, not only finding, but also liking who you are. Therapy will help you learn coping skills, setting boundaries, changing perceptions that keep you stuck, finding the connection you want in relationships, building self-esteem, finding release from loss and grief, openness to change, and a willingness to accept your worth and find your authentic voice.
During the process of therapy, working through the struggles of life can bring you to a deeper and more meaningful place, not only finding, but also liking who you are. Therapy will help you learn coping skills, setting boundaries, changing perceptions that keep you stuck, finding the connection you want in relationships, building self-esteem, finding release from loss and grief, openness to change, and a willingness to accept your worth and find your authentic voice.
(949) 393-4292 View (949) 393-4292
Photo of Cassandra Buehner, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra Buehner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Listen, here’s the thing. If you’ve come this far, you’ve most likely read a lot of therapist profiles, and may read a lot more. Any therapist is probably going to tell you that they are equipped with what it takes to help you, and for the most part, that’s probably true. But just like any relationship, the therapist/client relationship has to be two things: A good fit, And not an easy fix. The truth is, mental and emotional health and well-being isn’t like a fad diet. You can’t keto your way to stability. Being healthy is a lifestyle, a commitment to working at something that can sometimes seem daunting.
Listen, here’s the thing. If you’ve come this far, you’ve most likely read a lot of therapist profiles, and may read a lot more. Any therapist is probably going to tell you that they are equipped with what it takes to help you, and for the most part, that’s probably true. But just like any relationship, the therapist/client relationship has to be two things: A good fit, And not an easy fix. The truth is, mental and emotional health and well-being isn’t like a fad diet. You can’t keto your way to stability. Being healthy is a lifestyle, a commitment to working at something that can sometimes seem daunting.
(562) 724-4522 View (562) 724-4522

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Renee Marsh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee Marsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92690
Although I work with adult clients of all ages, I specialize in older adults, specifically caregivers and Individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease.
Inevitably, we all experience some type of life transition at one time or another. Whether they are unexpected or by choice, life transitions can feel scary and sometimes isolating. I do not work with couples; however, my primary focus is on strengthening and building relationships. I love helping my clients get to a place in their life where they feel more confident and free, whether they want to focus on self-work, current relationships, or dealing with grief and loss of a person or a relationship.
Although I work with adult clients of all ages, I specialize in older adults, specifically caregivers and Individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease.
Inevitably, we all experience some type of life transition at one time or another. Whether they are unexpected or by choice, life transitions can feel scary and sometimes isolating. I do not work with couples; however, my primary focus is on strengthening and building relationships. I love helping my clients get to a place in their life where they feel more confident and free, whether they want to focus on self-work, current relationships, or dealing with grief and loss of a person or a relationship.
(304) 245-9016 View (304) 245-9016
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 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 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 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 Gretchen Shibl - Dr. Gretchen Shibl Wellness Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Gretchen Shibl Wellness Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
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 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 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 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 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 Karen Rippy, PhD,  , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Rippy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, , LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Depth of experience with kids, teens, adults and seniors.
Introducing Comprehensive Individual & Family Counseling Services: The experience, support and guidance you need at my private Mission Viejo office or convenient online sessions, I offer a safe space for couples, kids, teens, and families to navigate complex relationships and life transitions. With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in addressing a wide range of complex issues, including student and school challenges, court matters, Trust me to help you navigate through parenting challenges, extended family dynamics, court-related issues, anger management, addiction, blending families, and more. Text me 949.521.1140
Depth of experience with kids, teens, adults and seniors.
Introducing Comprehensive Individual & Family Counseling Services: The experience, support and guidance you need at my private Mission Viejo office or convenient online sessions, I offer a safe space for couples, kids, teens, and families to navigate complex relationships and life transitions. With over 30 years of experience, I specialize in addressing a wide range of complex issues, including student and school challenges, court matters, Trust me to help you navigate through parenting challenges, extended family dynamics, court-related issues, anger management, addiction, blending families, and more. Text me 949.521.1140
(949) 521-1140 View (949) 521-1140
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 Judi Wolder - Cedar Light Counseling and Coaching, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cedar Light Counseling and Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92637  (Online Only)
Do you want solace? Serenity and solutions? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been practicing for 11 years. I am a Certified Life Coach a Hypnotherapist. That means I can help you to cope with life stressors, help you realize core issues and heal you from the inside out. I also have certifications in EMDR trauma counseling and am Gottman certified couple's therapist. I specialize in high conflict relation ships, attachment issues, addiction problems - substance use, porn and love addiction, emotional regulation, trauma, life transitions and PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction and Bipolar Disorder.
Do you want solace? Serenity and solutions? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been practicing for 11 years. I am a Certified Life Coach a Hypnotherapist. That means I can help you to cope with life stressors, help you realize core issues and heal you from the inside out. I also have certifications in EMDR trauma counseling and am Gottman certified couple's therapist. I specialize in high conflict relation ships, attachment issues, addiction problems - substance use, porn and love addiction, emotional regulation, trauma, life transitions and PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction and Bipolar Disorder.
(949) 438-5269 View (949) 438-5269
Photo of Priscilla Chilian Roach, BA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Priscilla Chilian Roach
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Women of all ages tend to experience anxiety embracing who they are, what they believe and feeling confident conveying this truth to others. When we do not behave congruently with beliefs, depression can develop. I have had success and joy treating twenty-somethings and teens. I approach this audience with an easy and open manner creating a relatable and accepting atmosphere. As a result, young people gravitate to me as they sense I attune to their experience with genuine care. I understand this demographic and the necessary guidance of a capable clinician to offer therapeutic support and empowerment through this unique life stage.
Women of all ages tend to experience anxiety embracing who they are, what they believe and feeling confident conveying this truth to others. When we do not behave congruently with beliefs, depression can develop. I have had success and joy treating twenty-somethings and teens. I approach this audience with an easy and open manner creating a relatable and accepting atmosphere. As a result, young people gravitate to me as they sense I attune to their experience with genuine care. I understand this demographic and the necessary guidance of a capable clinician to offer therapeutic support and empowerment through this unique life stage.
(714) 947-4610 View (714) 947-4610
Photo of Steve Aird, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Aird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or are you lacking motivation? Are you experiencing challenges in your current relationships? Do current or past traumas make it difficult to manage daily life? If you are seeking healing, healthy and loving relationships, freedom from current and past traumas, and greater peace and joy, I would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups.
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or are you lacking motivation? Are you experiencing challenges in your current relationships? Do current or past traumas make it difficult to manage daily life? If you are seeking healing, healthy and loving relationships, freedom from current and past traumas, and greater peace and joy, I would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups.
(949) 312-5761 View (949) 312-5761

See more therapy options for Rancho Santa Margarita

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.