Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Saratoga, CA

Photo of Cheryl Zatkin-Steres, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl Zatkin-Steres
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070  (Online Only)
I help patients solve their emotional and psychological problems. They learn tools to overcome depression, anxiety, and stress and are facilitated in stopping inappropriate use of food, alcohol and drugs. Parents and stepparents learn skills to become more effective. Patients acquire methods to re-parent themselves as well as techniques in how to be more satisfied in their personal and professional relationships. Individuals gain insights that enhance their ability to feel more confident and be more productive by setting goals to achieve positive results and outcomes. Children and adolescents learn to improve their relationships with themselves and build better social and interpersonal relationships.
I help patients solve their emotional and psychological problems. They learn tools to overcome depression, anxiety, and stress and are facilitated in stopping inappropriate use of food, alcohol and drugs. Parents and stepparents learn skills to become more effective. Patients acquire methods to re-parent themselves as well as techniques in how to be more satisfied in their personal and professional relationships. Individuals gain insights that enhance their ability to feel more confident and be more productive by setting goals to achieve positive results and outcomes. Children and adolescents learn to improve their relationships with themselves and build better social and interpersonal relationships.
(408) 769-5393 View (408) 769-5393
Photo of Minnie Shukla, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Minnie Shukla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
The most difficult and painful circumstances in our lives can also serve as an opportunity to look at what needs our attention! Very often, we give our POWER away to people and situations in our life, causing us to feel victimized and stuck. Your current challenges can be a gateway towards self empowerment! you do not need to walk this path alone. In a safe space, we can begin the process of uncovering and healing the pain which may be keeping you paralyzed! It is possible to regain trust and confidence, in order to invite joy back into your life, get you power back and enjoy waking up each day !
The most difficult and painful circumstances in our lives can also serve as an opportunity to look at what needs our attention! Very often, we give our POWER away to people and situations in our life, causing us to feel victimized and stuck. Your current challenges can be a gateway towards self empowerment! you do not need to walk this path alone. In a safe space, we can begin the process of uncovering and healing the pain which may be keeping you paralyzed! It is possible to regain trust and confidence, in order to invite joy back into your life, get you power back and enjoy waking up each day !
(408) 850-4338 View (408) 850-4338
Photo of Dr. Ela Ari, PhD, MA
Dr. Ela Ari
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saratoga, CA 95070  (Online Only)
Hello! As a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, I understand that life’s challenges, such as stress and anxiety, can feel overwhelming. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experiences of resilience, I am here to support your journey toward psychological richness. Our sessions will be planned according to your needs in a supportive and empathetic environment. Together, we will focus on empowering you to overcome obstacles, achieve your goals, and enhance your well-being. Let's collaborate to build resilience and lead a fulfilling, thriving life.
Hello! As a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, I understand that life’s challenges, such as stress and anxiety, can feel overwhelming. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experiences of resilience, I am here to support your journey toward psychological richness. Our sessions will be planned according to your needs in a supportive and empathetic environment. Together, we will focus on empowering you to overcome obstacles, achieve your goals, and enhance your well-being. Let's collaborate to build resilience and lead a fulfilling, thriving life.
(669) 255-0111 View (669) 255-0111
Photo of Marilee Ruebsamen, PhD, Psychologist
Marilee Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260
Photo of Marilee G. Ruebsamen, PhD, Psychologist
Marilee G. Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
(408) 455-7347 View (408) 455-7347
Photo of Ivria Spieler, PhD, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ivria Spieler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Emotional pain can create an opening for change. Your decision to seek professional help is a step in this direction. I have over 38 years of experience helping individuals understand the causes of their emotional difficulties and helping them to make changes that fit their unique needs. I provide a safe environment where together we can explore the barriers preventing you from living the life you want.
Emotional pain can create an opening for change. Your decision to seek professional help is a step in this direction. I have over 38 years of experience helping individuals understand the causes of their emotional difficulties and helping them to make changes that fit their unique needs. I provide a safe environment where together we can explore the barriers preventing you from living the life you want.
(408) 596-5514 View (408) 596-5514
Photo of Roger Karlsson, PhD, ABPP, QME, Psychologist
Roger Karlsson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, QME
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saratoga, CA 95070
I am trained as a psychologist and psychotherapist in both California and Sweden. I am an appointed Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, and I have over 30-years of experience in providing mental health treatment. I am a board certified specialist (ABPP) in both forensic psychology and psychoanalysis and a certified Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME). I provide treatment as well as psychological and forensic evaluations. I know how to help you effectively without judgement or blame. You have the right to feel better about yourself and your life.
I am trained as a psychologist and psychotherapist in both California and Sweden. I am an appointed Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, and I have over 30-years of experience in providing mental health treatment. I am a board certified specialist (ABPP) in both forensic psychology and psychoanalysis and a certified Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME). I provide treatment as well as psychological and forensic evaluations. I know how to help you effectively without judgement or blame. You have the right to feel better about yourself and your life.
(510) 878-3780 View (510) 878-3780
Photo of Dr. Ginny Estupinian, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Ginny Estupinian
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Struggling with life's toughest challenges? I'm here to help you reclaim your life. With extensive experience treating devastating anxiety, major depression, Bipolar disorders, and complex trauma, I specialize in helping individuals through seemingly impossible situations. Whether you're dealing with relationship stress, accidents, rape, domestic violence, or unexpected losses, my tailored approach can help you find your way back. I believe everyone can heal and grow with the right support, even when things feel overwhelming. Don't let your current circumstances define your future. Take the first step towards transformation
Struggling with life's toughest challenges? I'm here to help you reclaim your life. With extensive experience treating devastating anxiety, major depression, Bipolar disorders, and complex trauma, I specialize in helping individuals through seemingly impossible situations. Whether you're dealing with relationship stress, accidents, rape, domestic violence, or unexpected losses, my tailored approach can help you find your way back. I believe everyone can heal and grow with the right support, even when things feel overwhelming. Don't let your current circumstances define your future. Take the first step towards transformation
(408) 521-1558 View (408) 521-1558
Photo of Elina Josephson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elina Josephson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
You wake up each morning unsatisfied. You are aware that you are not living up to your full potential while anxiety, depression, trauma or stress are preventing you from realizing your true nature. Your relationships might feel inauthentic or limited and you are craving a deeper connection to yourself, others and life. You are thirsty for meaning, purpose, joy and peace and have noticed that your own thoughts and emotions are interfering with your experience. You are ready to learn how to forgive and love yourself and others while drinking in this life one moment at a time.
You wake up each morning unsatisfied. You are aware that you are not living up to your full potential while anxiety, depression, trauma or stress are preventing you from realizing your true nature. Your relationships might feel inauthentic or limited and you are craving a deeper connection to yourself, others and life. You are thirsty for meaning, purpose, joy and peace and have noticed that your own thoughts and emotions are interfering with your experience. You are ready to learn how to forgive and love yourself and others while drinking in this life one moment at a time.
(408) 583-5570 View (408) 583-5570
Photo of Christine Cain, MA, LMFT, ABD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Cain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ABD
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Waitlist for new clients
Ease, change and joy are accessible. I know you can emerge from distress. I have seen radical growth-- again and again. My therapeutic approach is designed for each person's individual internal world. I design each session using a variety of active and engaged interventions, like EMDR, IFS, and expressive arts. We work to uncover the hurt parts that have taken over your life. The “stuck-ness” seems to dissipate. In an atmosphere of love and total acceptance, I use proven interventions to bring awareness and internal movement.
Ease, change and joy are accessible. I know you can emerge from distress. I have seen radical growth-- again and again. My therapeutic approach is designed for each person's individual internal world. I design each session using a variety of active and engaged interventions, like EMDR, IFS, and expressive arts. We work to uncover the hurt parts that have taken over your life. The “stuck-ness” seems to dissipate. In an atmosphere of love and total acceptance, I use proven interventions to bring awareness and internal movement.
(408) 351-0786 View (408) 351-0786
Photo of Ayelet (Schafir)-Hirshfeld - Dr. Ayelet Hirshfeld PHD, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ayelet Hirshfeld PHD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saratoga, CA 95070
In my practice I cognize that choosing a psychologist & treatment modality can be difficult and confusing & that suffering experienced in relation to burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, developmental difficulties, marital distress, parenting, illness, & other experiences can result in debilitating distress. I also have served as a founder of companies including Tech & understand the incredible toll & joy startup life takes. I specialize in psychotherapy for children, adults, couples & families; trauma, burnout & secondary stress; psychoanalysis; consultation to clinicians, teachers, executives & institutions.
In my practice I cognize that choosing a psychologist & treatment modality can be difficult and confusing & that suffering experienced in relation to burnout, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, developmental difficulties, marital distress, parenting, illness, & other experiences can result in debilitating distress. I also have served as a founder of companies including Tech & understand the incredible toll & joy startup life takes. I specialize in psychotherapy for children, adults, couples & families; trauma, burnout & secondary stress; psychoanalysis; consultation to clinicians, teachers, executives & institutions.
(408) 637-7869 View (408) 637-7869
Photo of Tina Engel - Christian Counseling Center San Jose, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christian Counseling Center San Jose
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Christian Counseling Center San Jose has provided mental health services, support, and educational training to the Bay Area community for more than 30+ Years. Our team of 50+ therapists are passionate about caring for your emotional, mental, and relational needs through our broad range of clinical expertise. We are here to help!
Christian Counseling Center San Jose has provided mental health services, support, and educational training to the Bay Area community for more than 30+ Years. Our team of 50+ therapists are passionate about caring for your emotional, mental, and relational needs through our broad range of clinical expertise. We are here to help!
(408) 413-4529 View (408) 413-4529
Photo of Rachel Connett, PhD, MSc, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Connett
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MSc, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saratoga, CA 95070
Rachel's passion is to meet each client where they are in their life struggle, self, relationships, work, guide them through the process of self-actualization to achieve independence so that they can return to their full functioning. Rachel uses a tailored therapeutic approach and utilizes an evidence-based approach (CBT, DBT, ACT) and addresses specific problem areas - cognitive distortion, distress tolerance, acceptance, self-compassion, and behaviors that hinder people from moving forward in their lives, thus achieving positive and fulfilling outcomes, and ultimately improve functioning and imbalance.
Rachel's passion is to meet each client where they are in their life struggle, self, relationships, work, guide them through the process of self-actualization to achieve independence so that they can return to their full functioning. Rachel uses a tailored therapeutic approach and utilizes an evidence-based approach (CBT, DBT, ACT) and addresses specific problem areas - cognitive distortion, distress tolerance, acceptance, self-compassion, and behaviors that hinder people from moving forward in their lives, thus achieving positive and fulfilling outcomes, and ultimately improve functioning and imbalance.
(408) 628-1464 View (408) 628-1464
Photo of Dr. Heather Martarella, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Heather Martarella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saratoga, CA 95070
Feeling Overwhelmed by Emotional Distress? You’re not alone, and seeking help is healthy. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges that develop from chronic pain, illness, and sleep difficulties. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I understand the impact these conditions can have on your life - and I’m here to offer the information and support you need. I'm also a certified anxiety and trauma treatment provider.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Emotional Distress? You’re not alone, and seeking help is healthy. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges that develop from chronic pain, illness, and sleep difficulties. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I understand the impact these conditions can have on your life - and I’m here to offer the information and support you need. I'm also a certified anxiety and trauma treatment provider.
(510) 892-3227 View (510) 892-3227

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Debbie Francis, PsyD, MA, BSR, Psychologist
Dr. Debbie Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BSR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
I have a special interest in working with seniors, partly because of my specialized training and partly because of my relationship with my beloved grandmother.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
I have a special interest in working with seniors, partly because of my specialized training and partly because of my relationship with my beloved grandmother.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
(408) 207-4564 View (408) 207-4564
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Lynn Gonzalez, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Lynn Gonzalez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with older adults encountering issues associated with the later stages of life.
Are you ready to unpack and understand how painful past experiences might be impacting your life? Do you want to decrease suffering and feel more balanced? You’re not alone. Creating awareness of how distressing past experiences show up in your life will empower you to break the cycle and create a more fulfilling life. I aim to help you improve your overall quality of life and feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Together, we will approach your past with curiosity and compassion.
I also work with older adults encountering issues associated with the later stages of life.
Are you ready to unpack and understand how painful past experiences might be impacting your life? Do you want to decrease suffering and feel more balanced? You’re not alone. Creating awareness of how distressing past experiences show up in your life will empower you to break the cycle and create a more fulfilling life. I aim to help you improve your overall quality of life and feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Together, we will approach your past with curiosity and compassion.
(408) 345-5006 View (408) 345-5006
Photo of Valerie L. Andrews Phd, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Valerie L. Andrews Phd
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
(Secure Video Conferencing is available). I am a licensed neuropsychologist with expertise in how behavior and skills are related. I help adults, parents, and their children, who are struggling and those who are gifted (2e). The joy of my work is to help identify a child's or adult's strengths, so that the weak areas do not define who you are. A correct diagnosis helps you determine the most effective ways forward. These evaluations are also used in school 504 or IEP's, SAT, &ACT accommodations. An evaluation is also helpful if you're concerned about memory or dementia. Affiliation: CPA; Special Needs Professionals, Board President
(Secure Video Conferencing is available). I am a licensed neuropsychologist with expertise in how behavior and skills are related. I help adults, parents, and their children, who are struggling and those who are gifted (2e). The joy of my work is to help identify a child's or adult's strengths, so that the weak areas do not define who you are. A correct diagnosis helps you determine the most effective ways forward. These evaluations are also used in school 504 or IEP's, SAT, &ACT accommodations. An evaluation is also helpful if you're concerned about memory or dementia. Affiliation: CPA; Special Needs Professionals, Board President
(760) 919-4674 View (760) 919-4674
Photo of Lori Buelna, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Buelna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95136
I am knowledgeable in Behavioral Health, Medical/Geriatrics, dementia, long term care planning.
Perhaps you are overwhelmed with stress, dealing with anxiety/depression and poor sleep due to a life transition, or caregiver stress. Maybe you or a loved one is managing a serious health condition and hope to learn of coping skills and various resources. You may be a parent, a teen or young adult experiencing stress or loss of a loved one or a relationship. I believe people are insightful, resilient and have the innate ability to adapt and adjust to all types of challenging circumstances. You deserve to set aside time and space to think through your thoughts, values, identify feelings in order to move forward to find balance.
I am knowledgeable in Behavioral Health, Medical/Geriatrics, dementia, long term care planning.
Perhaps you are overwhelmed with stress, dealing with anxiety/depression and poor sleep due to a life transition, or caregiver stress. Maybe you or a loved one is managing a serious health condition and hope to learn of coping skills and various resources. You may be a parent, a teen or young adult experiencing stress or loss of a loved one or a relationship. I believe people are insightful, resilient and have the innate ability to adapt and adjust to all types of challenging circumstances. You deserve to set aside time and space to think through your thoughts, values, identify feelings in order to move forward to find balance.
(408) 413-1402 View (408) 413-1402
Photo of Youngseoung Seo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Youngseoung Seo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95113
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 Richard D Abbey, PhD, Psychologist
Richard D Abbey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
What do I do if my child can focus on interesting things but takes 3 hours to do 30 minutes of homework? What if my child doesn't seem to be doing as well as I thought they would in school, can something be done? How do I stop feeling so down and blue, or anxious? What if I had a concussion and I am not getting better, but the doctor told me to just rest and do nothing, are there ways for me to improve my condition? Do I have the early signs of dementia? what can be done if I do? My child went to college and failed, is there hope for them to get better? I provide solutions to these questions and more!
What do I do if my child can focus on interesting things but takes 3 hours to do 30 minutes of homework? What if my child doesn't seem to be doing as well as I thought they would in school, can something be done? How do I stop feeling so down and blue, or anxious? What if I had a concussion and I am not getting better, but the doctor told me to just rest and do nothing, are there ways for me to improve my condition? Do I have the early signs of dementia? what can be done if I do? My child went to college and failed, is there hope for them to get better? I provide solutions to these questions and more!
(650) 353-9221 View (650) 353-9221
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.