Dementia Therapists in Tracy, CA

Photo of Dr. James E. Taylor - Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc., PsyD, MA, CBIS, Psychologist
Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, CBIS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tracy, CA 95377
Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc. offers a variety of services to improve the life quality of children and adults. Assessments we offer include Neuropsychological, Psychological, ADHD, Autism, Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, Independent Educational (IEE), Gifted, Pre-Surgical, Chronic Pain, and Political Asylum. Psychotherapy is offered to treat an array of conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, grief, posttraumatic stress, limited social skills). Cognitive rehabilitation therapy (i.e., therapy that helps clients improve cognitive functioning after brain injury) is available as well.
Sunshine Neuropsychology, Inc. offers a variety of services to improve the life quality of children and adults. Assessments we offer include Neuropsychological, Psychological, ADHD, Autism, Learning Disability, Intellectual Disability, Independent Educational (IEE), Gifted, Pre-Surgical, Chronic Pain, and Political Asylum. Psychotherapy is offered to treat an array of conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, grief, posttraumatic stress, limited social skills). Cognitive rehabilitation therapy (i.e., therapy that helps clients improve cognitive functioning after brain injury) is available as well.
(209) 682-0071 View (209) 682-0071
Photo of Amanda Michele White, ACSW
Amanda Michele White
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95377
My ideal client is someone interested in learning new skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, people that are neurodivergent and need assistance in daily tasks such as task management, organization assistance, and psycho education about trauma and how it can sometimes present itself as ADHD symptoms. I would love clients that are seeking out weekly therapy for anxiety, depression, and those interested in a therapist that comes from a solution’s focused mindset. I look at everything from a systems perspective so ideally anyone with complex trauma.
My ideal client is someone interested in learning new skills to manage their ADHD symptoms, people that are neurodivergent and need assistance in daily tasks such as task management, organization assistance, and psycho education about trauma and how it can sometimes present itself as ADHD symptoms. I would love clients that are seeking out weekly therapy for anxiety, depression, and those interested in a therapist that comes from a solution’s focused mindset. I look at everything from a systems perspective so ideally anyone with complex trauma.
(209) 219-2027 View (209) 219-2027
Photo of Sandy Gilcrest, LCP, Psychologist
Sandy Gilcrest
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
Hello, my name is Sandy Gilcrest and I am a licensed psychologist in Northern California with an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Counseling Psychology. I have 25 years of experience in the field of psychology. I have been honored by many clients who have said that I am a great listener and that they feel comfortable discussing even the most uncomfortable issues with me because I focus on problem-solving, skill building, and helping them explore their lives in ways that bring more meaning and positivity into their daily lives.
Hello, my name is Sandy Gilcrest and I am a licensed psychologist in Northern California with an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Counseling Psychology. I have 25 years of experience in the field of psychology. I have been honored by many clients who have said that I am a great listener and that they feel comfortable discussing even the most uncomfortable issues with me because I focus on problem-solving, skill building, and helping them explore their lives in ways that bring more meaning and positivity into their daily lives.
(760) 903-7059 View (760) 903-7059
Photo of James 'jim' Pijloo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James 'jim' Pijloo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
I once read an anonymous quote that reads: "You may not be able to control every situation and its outcome, but you can control how you deal with it" - that spoke to how I approach therapy with whomever I work with. It is life's challenges that seem to make each situation "out of our control" to add additional stress and conflict in whatever we do OR with whomever we have relationships with. My approach is to provide a way to get where you would like to be, but it won't be easy. I use a variety of approaches to best suit you individually OR to fit the circumstances you face.
I once read an anonymous quote that reads: "You may not be able to control every situation and its outcome, but you can control how you deal with it" - that spoke to how I approach therapy with whomever I work with. It is life's challenges that seem to make each situation "out of our control" to add additional stress and conflict in whatever we do OR with whomever we have relationships with. My approach is to provide a way to get where you would like to be, but it won't be easy. I use a variety of approaches to best suit you individually OR to fit the circumstances you face.
(657) 255-7864 View (657) 255-7864
Photo of Diana Methfessel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Methfessel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95377
My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.
My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.
(951) 363-1146 View (951) 363-1146

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94024
Waitlist for new clients
I offer psychotherapy to adults (from college age to older adults) struggling with a variety of problems, including chronic pain, medical conditions, trauma, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and work/relationship difficulties.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA, OR, and FL, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
I offer psychotherapy to adults (from college age to older adults) struggling with a variety of problems, including chronic pain, medical conditions, trauma, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and work/relationship difficulties.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA, OR, and FL, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
(408) 556-9974 View (408) 556-9974
Photo of Monica Z. Nowakowski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Z. Nowakowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
With compassion and humor I provide a safe place for adults to get help with personal situations such as relationship/work stress, break-ups, retirement, chronic/ life-threatening illness and disability, depression, anxiety, dementia, care-giving of people of all ages, and "coming out". Life transitions have a common thread - loss, grief, and opportunity. Even joyful experiences can be difficult. You may feel stuck, out-of-control or have worrisome regrets and anxiety. You may feel "at a loss", you can't just "shake it off", or feel "it's taking a toll" on you.
With compassion and humor I provide a safe place for adults to get help with personal situations such as relationship/work stress, break-ups, retirement, chronic/ life-threatening illness and disability, depression, anxiety, dementia, care-giving of people of all ages, and "coming out". Life transitions have a common thread - loss, grief, and opportunity. Even joyful experiences can be difficult. You may feel stuck, out-of-control or have worrisome regrets and anxiety. You may feel "at a loss", you can't just "shake it off", or feel "it's taking a toll" on you.
(510) 662-6114 View (510) 662-6114
Photo of Kim Goldman, PsyD, Psychologist
Kim Goldman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aptos, CA 95001  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm a clinical psychologist specializing in supporting older adults and elders. My therapeutic approach is creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic supportive professional relationship. I offer compassionate therapy that caters to your unique needs. Through a client-centered approach, I will work to help you navigate life's ups and downs. My work focuses on using evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness, to expand your coping skills. Offering telehealth services only; no in person appointments at this time.
Hello and welcome! I'm a clinical psychologist specializing in supporting older adults and elders. My therapeutic approach is creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic supportive professional relationship. I offer compassionate therapy that caters to your unique needs. Through a client-centered approach, I will work to help you navigate life's ups and downs. My work focuses on using evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness, to expand your coping skills. Offering telehealth services only; no in person appointments at this time.
(831) 215-5053 View (831) 215-5053
Photo of Rayna Hirst, PhD, Psychologist
Rayna Hirst
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Dr. Rayna Hirst is a licensed clinical neuropsychologist conducting neuropsychological evaluations, including dementia, psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, ADHD), and medical/neurological diagnoses (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, neuro-oncology). Dr. Hirst is an Associate Professor and Director of the Neuropsychology Program at Palo Alto University, providing didactic and supervisory education to doctoral students who are training in clinical neuropsychology.
Dr. Rayna Hirst is a licensed clinical neuropsychologist conducting neuropsychological evaluations, including dementia, psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, ADHD), and medical/neurological diagnoses (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, neuro-oncology). Dr. Hirst is an Associate Professor and Director of the Neuropsychology Program at Palo Alto University, providing didactic and supervisory education to doctoral students who are training in clinical neuropsychology.
(650) 398-1242 View (650) 398-1242
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 Redd Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Redd Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95209
I specialize in working with older adults, chronic illnesses, and those dealing with complicated grief.
Hello, my name is Redd Davis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I provide client-focused psychotherapy treatment to empower and enrich individuals despite challenges. I specialize in working with older adults and individuals experiencing difficulty coping with grief. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to achieve goals using intuitive, insightful, and reality-based interventions. I believe individuals can be aware of their own needs and support empowering clients to lead treatment based upon what is meaningful to them.
I specialize in working with older adults, chronic illnesses, and those dealing with complicated grief.
Hello, my name is Redd Davis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I provide client-focused psychotherapy treatment to empower and enrich individuals despite challenges. I specialize in working with older adults and individuals experiencing difficulty coping with grief. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to achieve goals using intuitive, insightful, and reality-based interventions. I believe individuals can be aware of their own needs and support empowering clients to lead treatment based upon what is meaningful to them.
(209) 231-9411 View (209) 231-9411
Photo of Diana Cheng, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Cheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Specializing in grief therapy, I have worked for over 25 years with older adults facing life-changing circumstances.
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, grief, managing your emotions, aging, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
Specializing in grief therapy, I have worked for over 25 years with older adults facing life-changing circumstances.
TELEHEALTH, ACCEPTS MEDICARE. Are you struggling or feeling overwhelmed with depression, anxiety, grief, managing your emotions, aging, transitions, or another challenge? Therapy is a journey to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. I can assist you in finding solutions and acceptance to the issues and stressors that cause you pain and suffering. I incorporate a strength-based, solution focused, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindful approach, which are effective in helping individuals gain insight and develop healthy coping skills to reduce symptoms.
(562) 524-1189 View (562) 524-1189
Photo of Melissa K Bowman, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa K Bowman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
My specializations include: working with older adults through life transitions, grief counseling, treatment-resistant depression, individuals with disabilities and/or chronic pain, and trauma.
I love what I do! I have the pleasure of working with clients from five to 105-years-old! Having the opportunity to work with an expansive age range has taught me that at any age: we want to be loved and we want to love, we want to belong, we want to have purpose, we want to experience joy, and we don't want pain. My goal as a therapist, is to help my clients find ways to reduce, restructure, and remove obstacles that cause pain; while building on our individual resources to promote health, happiness and well-being.
My specializations include: working with older adults through life transitions, grief counseling, treatment-resistant depression, individuals with disabilities and/or chronic pain, and trauma.
I love what I do! I have the pleasure of working with clients from five to 105-years-old! Having the opportunity to work with an expansive age range has taught me that at any age: we want to be loved and we want to love, we want to belong, we want to have purpose, we want to experience joy, and we don't want pain. My goal as a therapist, is to help my clients find ways to reduce, restructure, and remove obstacles that cause pain; while building on our individual resources to promote health, happiness and well-being.
(510) 849-6789 View (510) 849-6789
Photo of Nina M Poletika, LMFT, CT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina M Poletika
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Do you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementia and are feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. I specialize in helping caregivers (adult children or spouses) with their complex emotional reactions, ongoing loss & grief, and finding better ways to cope. Having a difficult time when trying to navigate cognitive decline is central to being a helping family member. Professionally, I am experienced and well trained. Personally, I have been on a similar journey with my own mother who had dementia for 10 years.
Do you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementia and are feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. I specialize in helping caregivers (adult children or spouses) with their complex emotional reactions, ongoing loss & grief, and finding better ways to cope. Having a difficult time when trying to navigate cognitive decline is central to being a helping family member. Professionally, I am experienced and well trained. Personally, I have been on a similar journey with my own mother who had dementia for 10 years.
(650) 276-5441 View (650) 276-5441
Photo of Janet Eckart, PhD, Psychologist
Janet Eckart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Ramon, CA 94583
I have provided care within a variety of settings, including a college counseling center, a community clinic, research studies of dementia patients and their families, and two VA facilities.
Educated and trained at Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and within the Veterans Health Administration, my work targets issues including depression, anxiety, challenging life transitions, and chronic pain. I have specific expertise in working with young adults (ages 18 and up), older adults, and veterans.
I have provided care within a variety of settings, including a college counseling center, a community clinic, research studies of dementia patients and their families, and two VA facilities.
Educated and trained at Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and within the Veterans Health Administration, my work targets issues including depression, anxiety, challenging life transitions, and chronic pain. I have specific expertise in working with young adults (ages 18 and up), older adults, and veterans.
(925) 329-3049 View (925) 329-3049
Photo of Mariela Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariela Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburg, CA 94565
Young adults 18-30 Adults Older adults 65+ - CBT Self-compassion Solution focused Motivational interviewing Polyvagal theory.
Mariela Hernandez, LCSW, MPH I am a bilingual first generation Latinx therapist with a passion for connection. I hope to help heal generational trauma, teach concrete tools for coping with life’s challenges, and help you feel seen and heard.
Young adults 18-30 Adults Older adults 65+ - CBT Self-compassion Solution focused Motivational interviewing Polyvagal theory.
Mariela Hernandez, LCSW, MPH I am a bilingual first generation Latinx therapist with a passion for connection. I hope to help heal generational trauma, teach concrete tools for coping with life’s challenges, and help you feel seen and heard.
(925) 317-1249 View (925) 317-1249
Photo of Erika C. Mozer, PsyD, Psychologist
Erika C. Mozer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Finding a good fit with a behavioral health practitioner can be invaluable. Psychotherapy and neuropsychological evaluation are an investment of time, energy, and resources. Our work together may mean identifying a problem, finding steps to move forward, gaining awareness and understanding, managing a new situation, or any number of different things for different people. My experience includes work with patients and their family members and clinical research. My past work and training affiliations include: Stanford, UCSF Memory and Aging Center, Palo Alto and Menlo Park VA's, Kaiser Permanente, Kingsbrook Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, and the University of Colorado Hospital.
Finding a good fit with a behavioral health practitioner can be invaluable. Psychotherapy and neuropsychological evaluation are an investment of time, energy, and resources. Our work together may mean identifying a problem, finding steps to move forward, gaining awareness and understanding, managing a new situation, or any number of different things for different people. My experience includes work with patients and their family members and clinical research. My past work and training affiliations include: Stanford, UCSF Memory and Aging Center, Palo Alto and Menlo Park VA's, Kaiser Permanente, Kingsbrook Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, and the University of Colorado Hospital.
(650) 727-9609 View (650) 727-9609
Photo of Margaret A. Struchen, PhD, Psychologist
Margaret A. Struchen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluation; cognitive rehabilitation; behavioral management for those with acquired brain injury or dementia; counseling/therapy for those with chronic illnesses, pain, or disability; and caregiver consultation services.
My practice, the Center for Rehabilitation Psychology and Neuropsychology, PC, focuses on providing clients with the skills needed to reach their personal goals. With over 20 years of practice, across multiple settings, I have worked to address the needs of adults and adolescents with neurological disorders, disability, and chronic medical conditions. Prior to entering private practice, I served as Director of Rehabilitation Psychology/Neuropsychology at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston, and I have engaged in extensive clinical research centered on evaluating outcomes and interventions for those affected by acquired brain injury.
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluation; cognitive rehabilitation; behavioral management for those with acquired brain injury or dementia; counseling/therapy for those with chronic illnesses, pain, or disability; and caregiver consultation services.
My practice, the Center for Rehabilitation Psychology and Neuropsychology, PC, focuses on providing clients with the skills needed to reach their personal goals. With over 20 years of practice, across multiple settings, I have worked to address the needs of adults and adolescents with neurological disorders, disability, and chronic medical conditions. Prior to entering private practice, I served as Director of Rehabilitation Psychology/Neuropsychology at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston, and I have engaged in extensive clinical research centered on evaluating outcomes and interventions for those affected by acquired brain injury.
(925) 319-6628 View (925) 319-6628
Photo of Bill R Ekemo - Dr. Bill Ekemo / Northup Group, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Bill Ekemo / Northup Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Auburn, CA 95603
These include general psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injury, dementia or posttraumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Ekemo recently relocated his practice to Auburn, CA from Bellevue Washington. He has been providing psychological services for over 20 years mainly to public safety agencies (pre-employment screening, fitness for duty, critical incident debriefings, job coaching and management consultations). He also specializes in individual Neuropsychological evaluations (brain injuries, dementia etc.) and Risk Management consultations to private sector organizations and HR departments. If you are an employer or school concerned about violence in your work setting; training programs and workshops are available for your staff.
These include general psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injury, dementia or posttraumatic stress disorder.
Dr. Ekemo recently relocated his practice to Auburn, CA from Bellevue Washington. He has been providing psychological services for over 20 years mainly to public safety agencies (pre-employment screening, fitness for duty, critical incident debriefings, job coaching and management consultations). He also specializes in individual Neuropsychological evaluations (brain injuries, dementia etc.) and Risk Management consultations to private sector organizations and HR departments. If you are an employer or school concerned about violence in your work setting; training programs and workshops are available for your staff.
(425) 336-1364 View (425) 336-1364
Photo of Anica Leon-Weil, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anica Leon-Weil
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I have experience working with folks across the lifespan in regards to relational issues, polyamory/open relationships, work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, & caregiving for elders, especially those with dementia.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and appreciate that it can take a lot to start the process of finding support. I believe we all have the capacity to experience satisfaction, fulfillment, and moments of joy in our lives. Let's explore the barriers to these things- both internally and externally, increase self understanding, and develop coping skills for the challenges you face. Life can be hard and we don’t always get to choose our circumstances but we can try to find ways to get through the best we can. I use a holistic approach with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, and compassionate care.
I have experience working with folks across the lifespan in regards to relational issues, polyamory/open relationships, work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, & caregiving for elders, especially those with dementia.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and appreciate that it can take a lot to start the process of finding support. I believe we all have the capacity to experience satisfaction, fulfillment, and moments of joy in our lives. Let's explore the barriers to these things- both internally and externally, increase self understanding, and develop coping skills for the challenges you face. Life can be hard and we don’t always get to choose our circumstances but we can try to find ways to get through the best we can. I use a holistic approach with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, and compassionate care.
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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.