Dementia Therapists in San Marcos, CA

Photo of Regina McClure, PhD, Psychologist
Regina McClure
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078
Additionally, I have extensive experience assisting older adults and their families, and welcome those anticipating upcoming marriage, parenthood, stepfamily, or other life transition.
When we've lost touch with our truer self, life is just harder. If you're not as present and engaged in your life as you'd like, you may also find your body weighing in through symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and unhelpful patterns of behavior. Underlying such symptoms are often vital, "offline" parts of ourselves that a good therapeutic alliance can help you to identify, strengthen and expand. If you're experiencing a readiness to take your online search for a therapist to the next level, I offer a brief phone consultation to help determine goodness of fit.
Additionally, I have extensive experience assisting older adults and their families, and welcome those anticipating upcoming marriage, parenthood, stepfamily, or other life transition.
When we've lost touch with our truer self, life is just harder. If you're not as present and engaged in your life as you'd like, you may also find your body weighing in through symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and unhelpful patterns of behavior. Underlying such symptoms are often vital, "offline" parts of ourselves that a good therapeutic alliance can help you to identify, strengthen and expand. If you're experiencing a readiness to take your online search for a therapist to the next level, I offer a brief phone consultation to help determine goodness of fit.
(760) 477-0325 View (760) 477-0325
Photo of Kelly M. Kaitson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly M. Kaitson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92069
Are you feeling like you’re not living as your best self? Maybe you’re feeling confused, scared, or disconnected, and not sure how to move forward. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and I’m here to help. If emotions or behaviors are becoming overwhelming and affecting other areas of your life, I encourage you to reach out. My goal is to support you through this journey, and I truly believe that positive change, success, and growth are possible. Together we’ll work on practical tools and strategies to help you not just cope, but truly thrive.
Are you feeling like you’re not living as your best self? Maybe you’re feeling confused, scared, or disconnected, and not sure how to move forward. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and I’m here to help. If emotions or behaviors are becoming overwhelming and affecting other areas of your life, I encourage you to reach out. My goal is to support you through this journey, and I truly believe that positive change, success, and growth are possible. Together we’ll work on practical tools and strategies to help you not just cope, but truly thrive.
(760) 415-0085 View (760) 415-0085
Photo of Paula Mierzejewski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Mierzejewski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Hello. My name is Paula Mierzejewski, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I see children, adolescents and adults up to the age of 65. My specialties are anxiety and depression. I started my practice later in life and believe my life's experiene makes me a better therapist. I used to work in a law firm and developed severe migraines and knew I needed to move onto a new career. So at 57, I started my journey in graduate school and finished when I was 60. What drives me to do this work is that I know how debilitating anxiety and depression are.
Hello. My name is Paula Mierzejewski, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I see children, adolescents and adults up to the age of 65. My specialties are anxiety and depression. I started my practice later in life and believe my life's experiene makes me a better therapist. I used to work in a law firm and developed severe migraines and knew I needed to move onto a new career. So at 57, I started my journey in graduate school and finished when I was 60. What drives me to do this work is that I know how debilitating anxiety and depression are.
(760) 527-2966 View (760) 527-2966
David J Cain
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CGP
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078
I PREFER TO WORK WITH ADULTS AND COUPLES WHO ARE INVESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS AS A MEANS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS THEY CURRENTLY EXPERIENCE. I VIEW PROBLEMS AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND SEE MY ROLE AS HELPING YOU DRAW ON YOUR PERSONAL RESOURCES TO BECOME THE PERSON YOU WISH TO BE.I HAVE WORKED WITH ALL AGE GROUPS AND MOST ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN CLINICAL, UNIVERSITY AND PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTINGS. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDE TEACHING AND SUPERVISING PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS, WRITING, EDITING, PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS AND SERVICE TO MY PROFESSION.
I PREFER TO WORK WITH ADULTS AND COUPLES WHO ARE INVESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS AS A MEANS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS THEY CURRENTLY EXPERIENCE. I VIEW PROBLEMS AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND SEE MY ROLE AS HELPING YOU DRAW ON YOUR PERSONAL RESOURCES TO BECOME THE PERSON YOU WISH TO BE.I HAVE WORKED WITH ALL AGE GROUPS AND MOST ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN CLINICAL, UNIVERSITY AND PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTINGS. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDE TEACHING AND SUPERVISING PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS, WRITING, EDITING, PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS AND SERVICE TO MY PROFESSION.
(760) 530-4786 View (760) 530-4786
Photo of Jean Stapp, LCP, Psychologist
Jean Stapp
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Hello, my name is Dr. Jean Stapp. I am a licensed psychologist (license number: PSY 33583) with extensive training and experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues. My ultimate goal is to help my clients take the steps they need to shape the kinds of lives that they desire. I typically work with individuals undergoing depression, anxiety, childhood trauma (or coming to terms with a difficult and confusing childhood), sexual abuse/assault, life transitions, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jean Stapp. I am a licensed psychologist (license number: PSY 33583) with extensive training and experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues. My ultimate goal is to help my clients take the steps they need to shape the kinds of lives that they desire. I typically work with individuals undergoing depression, anxiety, childhood trauma (or coming to terms with a difficult and confusing childhood), sexual abuse/assault, life transitions, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
(323) 784-3185 View (323) 784-3185
Photo of Vong Chang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vong Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
The professional role to assist individuals with whatever life challenges and obstacles is a privilege to have and to obtain. Life can present itself in the most unusual circumstances that often feels out of reach, stressful and frustrating. These adverse effects can lead to anxiety, depression or a loss of self but there is hope. The partnership that I offered to you can assist in ways that will restore your abilities, discovered your uttermost potential and bring a level of confidence and sense of clarity and understanding.
The professional role to assist individuals with whatever life challenges and obstacles is a privilege to have and to obtain. Life can present itself in the most unusual circumstances that often feels out of reach, stressful and frustrating. These adverse effects can lead to anxiety, depression or a loss of self but there is hope. The partnership that I offered to you can assist in ways that will restore your abilities, discovered your uttermost potential and bring a level of confidence and sense of clarity and understanding.
(818) 446-1840 View (818) 446-1840
Photo of Stephanie Dorsey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Dorsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078
Even in the darkest places in life there is hope. Hope of healing, a new tomorrow, true peace, and a life well lived. I know you may have endured abuse, addiction, loss, or other trauma. I want you to know that tomorrow can be different than today. I know that change is possible if you are willing to do the work to make that change happen. My goal is to come along side each client I see and assist you through your journey towards true peace and hope.
Even in the darkest places in life there is hope. Hope of healing, a new tomorrow, true peace, and a life well lived. I know you may have endured abuse, addiction, loss, or other trauma. I want you to know that tomorrow can be different than today. I know that change is possible if you are willing to do the work to make that change happen. My goal is to come along side each client I see and assist you through your journey towards true peace and hope.
(760) 854-4906 View (760) 854-4906
Photo of Nikki Kanemaru-Klein, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Nikki Kanemaru-Klein
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92069  (Online Only)
Are you having difficulty coping with life's changes, anxiety, depression, or managing stress? If so, then you are to be congratulated for taking the first step! While issues such as these and others can affect every aspect of your life including relationships, work, finances, mood, and self-esteem, helping others relieve stress and emotional difficulty is what I do. I can help provide you with more effective coping and life skills to help make your life more manageable and outlook more positive. Together, we will develop the most appropriate, well-rounded, uniquely personal psychological care plan.
Are you having difficulty coping with life's changes, anxiety, depression, or managing stress? If so, then you are to be congratulated for taking the first step! While issues such as these and others can affect every aspect of your life including relationships, work, finances, mood, and self-esteem, helping others relieve stress and emotional difficulty is what I do. I can help provide you with more effective coping and life skills to help make your life more manageable and outlook more positive. Together, we will develop the most appropriate, well-rounded, uniquely personal psychological care plan.
(442) 200-5189 View (442) 200-5189
Photo of Paula Ratter, LMFT, PsyD, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Ratter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD, RN
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078
Waitlist for new clients
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
(442) 275-8529 View (442) 275-8529
Photo of Seon Ji Park, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Seon Ji Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078
Hi there, I'm Seon. We all indeed face difficulties at some point in our lives. Everyone needs assistance in overcoming these difficulties to be able to have a meaningful and successful life journey and to share the joy with others. Let's make a new habit and a success! My own life journey has made me compassionate and altruistic towards others experiencing difficulties. The joy of seeing them grow, prosper, and achieve meaningful life journeys and sharing joy with loved ones has been a blessing to me!
Hi there, I'm Seon. We all indeed face difficulties at some point in our lives. Everyone needs assistance in overcoming these difficulties to be able to have a meaningful and successful life journey and to share the joy with others. Let's make a new habit and a success! My own life journey has made me compassionate and altruistic towards others experiencing difficulties. The joy of seeing them grow, prosper, and achieve meaningful life journeys and sharing joy with loved ones has been a blessing to me!
(562) 553-8540 View (562) 553-8540

More Therapists Nearby

Debra Lobatz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Caring for loved ones with dementia can be extremely challenging and stressful.
I have specialized in working with families of aging or chronically ill patients, specifically patients with dementia and brain injury. I help the caregiver negotiate through the stress of caring for a loved one with a chronic illness such as Alzheimer's disease. In addition to my practice focus, I enjoy working with adults seeking to improve their quality of life and are willing to do the work it takes to accomplish that.
Caring for loved ones with dementia can be extremely challenging and stressful.
I have specialized in working with families of aging or chronically ill patients, specifically patients with dementia and brain injury. I help the caregiver negotiate through the stress of caring for a loved one with a chronic illness such as Alzheimer's disease. In addition to my practice focus, I enjoy working with adults seeking to improve their quality of life and are willing to do the work it takes to accomplish that.
(760) 983-2053 View (760) 983-2053
Photo of Dr. Alexis Olson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Alexis Olson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
, memory, attention) using an evidenced-based cognitive rehabilitation program called CogSMART.
I'm a licensed clinical neuropsychologist. My professional background is with people rehabilitating from illness or injury, and with those facing declining health (as themselves or their caregivers) due to brain disease. Such conditions can affect individuals, as well as couples and families. Common goals include assessing or improving thinking skills and emotional resilience, while adapting to unexpected changes in physical/mental abilities. I work with you to clarify values and develop new cognitive and emotional skills that allow you to be resilient to injury, illness, stress, and discomfort.
, memory, attention) using an evidenced-based cognitive rehabilitation program called CogSMART.
I'm a licensed clinical neuropsychologist. My professional background is with people rehabilitating from illness or injury, and with those facing declining health (as themselves or their caregivers) due to brain disease. Such conditions can affect individuals, as well as couples and families. Common goals include assessing or improving thinking skills and emotional resilience, while adapting to unexpected changes in physical/mental abilities. I work with you to clarify values and develop new cognitive and emotional skills that allow you to be resilient to injury, illness, stress, and discomfort.
(858) 295-1174 View (858) 295-1174
Photo of Karen Hanson Bondi - Beacon Neuropsychology - Karen Hanson Bondi, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Beacon Neuropsychology - Karen Hanson Bondi, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92009
We specialize in assessments for dementia (e.
Beacon Neuropsychology is proud to offer adult neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive rehabilitation therapy, with both in-person and virtual options. We understand that many people are worried about their memory, attention, or other thinking abilities, or they may be concerned about a family member or loved one. We aim to provide hope and answers when our clients come to us for guidance in navigating challenging times in their lives, especially with regard to memory, attention, and other thinking skills. We can help you understand if you've had cognitive decline, the possible reasons, and what to do about it.
We specialize in assessments for dementia (e.
Beacon Neuropsychology is proud to offer adult neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive rehabilitation therapy, with both in-person and virtual options. We understand that many people are worried about their memory, attention, or other thinking abilities, or they may be concerned about a family member or loved one. We aim to provide hope and answers when our clients come to us for guidance in navigating challenging times in their lives, especially with regard to memory, attention, and other thinking skills. We can help you understand if you've had cognitive decline, the possible reasons, and what to do about it.
(858) 544-5463 View (858) 544-5463
Photo of Michelle J Cyganik, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle J Cyganik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I have worked for Hospice in Bereavement, Grief and Loss as well as extensive experience in Inpatient Psychiatric Clinics where I addressed Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Dementia and supported client's caregivers.
Are you ready to transform your life? I am here to help Individuals, Couples and Families navigate through the changes, challenges and struggles that we all experience in daily life. Whether you or a loved one are dealing with challenging life events, relationship difficulties, some type of loss, a difficult diagnosis or are just not sure why you are not happy or fulfilled, I believe that these situations are a great opportunity for growth! I am here to help you process your feelings, understand your reactions, develop healthy coping skills and help you find solutions for creating an amazing life. Let's get started!
I have worked for Hospice in Bereavement, Grief and Loss as well as extensive experience in Inpatient Psychiatric Clinics where I addressed Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Dementia and supported client's caregivers.
Are you ready to transform your life? I am here to help Individuals, Couples and Families navigate through the changes, challenges and struggles that we all experience in daily life. Whether you or a loved one are dealing with challenging life events, relationship difficulties, some type of loss, a difficult diagnosis or are just not sure why you are not happy or fulfilled, I believe that these situations are a great opportunity for growth! I am here to help you process your feelings, understand your reactions, develop healthy coping skills and help you find solutions for creating an amazing life. Let's get started!
(760) 473-2229 View (760) 473-2229
Photo of Yadira Ramirez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yadira Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I am Yadira Ramirez and I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the last 9 years, having received my Master of Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. My life and professional experiences have made me an empathetic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and relatable therapist. My journey as a mental health provider includes working with adults who are marginalized, low-income, and/or suffering from chronic to severe mental health issues; older adults and issues related to dementia and Alzheimer's; and victims of crimes. Please note I am fluent in Spanish.
I am Yadira Ramirez and I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the last 9 years, having received my Master of Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. My life and professional experiences have made me an empathetic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and relatable therapist. My journey as a mental health provider includes working with adults who are marginalized, low-income, and/or suffering from chronic to severe mental health issues; older adults and issues related to dementia and Alzheimer's; and victims of crimes. Please note I am fluent in Spanish.
(831) 480-6511 View (831) 480-6511
Photo of Lisa Obermeit - Lisa Obermeit Neuropsychology Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Obermeit Neuropsychology Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92009
It is so lovely to see you here. Congratulations on taking the first (and sometimes hardest) step in improving your mental health and quality of life! I am a neuropsychologist, which means I specialize in the evaluation & diagnosis of brain disorders. In other words, I can help answer questions such as "Do I have memory difficulties...ADHD, a learning disorder, dementia, or brain changes from a head injury or other illness?" or "How can I improve my organization or memory while dealing with symptoms of my diagnosis such as ADHD or a stroke".
It is so lovely to see you here. Congratulations on taking the first (and sometimes hardest) step in improving your mental health and quality of life! I am a neuropsychologist, which means I specialize in the evaluation & diagnosis of brain disorders. In other words, I can help answer questions such as "Do I have memory difficulties...ADHD, a learning disorder, dementia, or brain changes from a head injury or other illness?" or "How can I improve my organization or memory while dealing with symptoms of my diagnosis such as ADHD or a stroke".
(760) 313-7829 View (760) 313-7829
Photo of Alisa Brady - ADR Wellness, PhD, Psychologist
ADR Wellness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Therapy, neuropsychological testing, ADHD evaluations, career assessments, addiction assessment, substance abuse evaluations, PTSD, Trauma assessment, dementia and memory assessment, post head injury testing, EMDR, Seeking Safety, DBT groups, substance abuse counseling, IFS (Internal Family Systems) treatment.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Involved in a painful relationship? Do you want to decrease your suffering? We are here to help. The process of change can be painful, but it also offers opportunity for growth. If you are interested in making life changes, or are contemplating making changes in your life, then I invite you to contact us. At ADR Wellness we provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment. We offer research proven methods to help identify problems and create constructive solutions for difficult life issues.
Therapy, neuropsychological testing, ADHD evaluations, career assessments, addiction assessment, substance abuse evaluations, PTSD, Trauma assessment, dementia and memory assessment, post head injury testing, EMDR, Seeking Safety, DBT groups, substance abuse counseling, IFS (Internal Family Systems) treatment.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Involved in a painful relationship? Do you want to decrease your suffering? We are here to help. The process of change can be painful, but it also offers opportunity for growth. If you are interested in making life changes, or are contemplating making changes in your life, then I invite you to contact us. At ADR Wellness we provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment. We offer research proven methods to help identify problems and create constructive solutions for difficult life issues.
(760) 991-3243 View (760) 991-3243
Psychological And Educational Testing
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
We specialize in psychological and educational testing for individuals across the lifespan. We provide testing for ADHD/ADD, learning disorders, Autism/Asperger's disorder, dementia evaluations, traumatic brain injury evaluations, neuropsychological testing, substance abuse evaluations, trauma assessments, career assessments, and personality assessments. Our testing assessments evaluate IQ, memory, executive functioning, academic achievement, language, trauma symptomology and psychological/emotional functioning.
We specialize in psychological and educational testing for individuals across the lifespan. We provide testing for ADHD/ADD, learning disorders, Autism/Asperger's disorder, dementia evaluations, traumatic brain injury evaluations, neuropsychological testing, substance abuse evaluations, trauma assessments, career assessments, and personality assessments. Our testing assessments evaluate IQ, memory, executive functioning, academic achievement, language, trauma symptomology and psychological/emotional functioning.
(760) 201-1534 View (760) 201-1534
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 392-6869 View (424) 392-6869
Photo of Julie Schmidt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Hello! My name is Julie Schmidt. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) providing Client Centered counseling for Californians for nearly 20 years. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in improving their thinking, feeling, and behaviors as life brings us opportunities to explore our strengths and gain insight. People develop and experience their perspectives and feelings in their own unique way, therefore I offer a variety of approaches to therapy. I offer clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or "CBT" which emphasizes the link between thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
Hello! My name is Julie Schmidt. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) providing Client Centered counseling for Californians for nearly 20 years. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in improving their thinking, feeling, and behaviors as life brings us opportunities to explore our strengths and gain insight. People develop and experience their perspectives and feelings in their own unique way, therefore I offer a variety of approaches to therapy. I offer clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or "CBT" which emphasizes the link between thinking, feeling, and behaviors.
(415) 649-4717 View (415) 649-4717
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.