Dementia Therapists in Hollywood, FL
![Photo of James Triana - Infinity Clinical Research , PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df4a3eb7-47a1-4c38-9f38-1cb09a5b9534/1/320x400.png)
Infinity Clinical Research
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33024
I offer memory loss screenings.
Licensed over 24 years. Bilingual. I am licensed in New York, California, Texas, and Florida for live video counseling and psychological immigration evaluations. I have over 17 years of experience working in Alzheimer's research and I provide memory loss screening in conjunction with the Alzheimer's Association. I provide services to immigration attorneys to help with their clients' immigration status. Direct Client Portal for convenient scheduling at https://drtriana.clientsecure.me
I offer memory loss screenings.
Licensed over 24 years. Bilingual. I am licensed in New York, California, Texas, and Florida for live video counseling and psychological immigration evaluations. I have over 17 years of experience working in Alzheimer's research and I provide memory loss screening in conjunction with the Alzheimer's Association. I provide services to immigration attorneys to help with their clients' immigration status. Direct Client Portal for convenient scheduling at https://drtriana.clientsecure.me
![Photo of Alison Ruth Morris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c310ae2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am dedicated to providing a supportive counseling environment to help clients achieve awareness, leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to creating the best possible environment for self exploration and permanent change. I take the time to assess my client's needs and work with them to create the life and relationships that they will find ultimately fulfilling.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am dedicated to providing a supportive counseling environment to help clients achieve awareness, leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to creating the best possible environment for self exploration and permanent change. I take the time to assess my client's needs and work with them to create the life and relationships that they will find ultimately fulfilling.
![Photo of Luciana Da Costa, M Ed, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9606806-2121-4e2f-a23e-211ca1f1f70e/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a BCBA therapist with a Master's in Exceptional Student Education and extensive experience in ABA therapy and ESE education specializing in working with children with autism, ADHD, and developmental delay I understand the unique needs of families navigating the challenges of raising their children with special needs. My approach is deeply empathetic, focusing on each child's and their family's individual needs. I recognize that every situation is different, and I tailor my interventions accordingly, ensuring that each child receives the personalized support they require to thrive to live an independent life as they grow older.
As a BCBA therapist with a Master's in Exceptional Student Education and extensive experience in ABA therapy and ESE education specializing in working with children with autism, ADHD, and developmental delay I understand the unique needs of families navigating the challenges of raising their children with special needs. My approach is deeply empathetic, focusing on each child's and their family's individual needs. I recognize that every situation is different, and I tailor my interventions accordingly, ensuring that each child receives the personalized support they require to thrive to live an independent life as they grow older.
![Photo of Holly McIntyre, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7f00ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Holly McIntyre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hollywood, FL 33026
Hi! I'm Holly McIntyre LCSW, I am a compassionate and accepting psychotherapist. I offer a judgement-free, safe space for individuals (Children and Adults), couples and family therapy. My approach to therapeutic healing is based on the understanding that each client is special and has a distinctive personal experience and story to tell. I am trained in several treatment modalities; Hypnotherapy, Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Narrative Therapy. Call or email me to schedule a free initial phone consultation. I look forward to connecting with you.
Hi! I'm Holly McIntyre LCSW, I am a compassionate and accepting psychotherapist. I offer a judgement-free, safe space for individuals (Children and Adults), couples and family therapy. My approach to therapeutic healing is based on the understanding that each client is special and has a distinctive personal experience and story to tell. I am trained in several treatment modalities; Hypnotherapy, Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Narrative Therapy. Call or email me to schedule a free initial phone consultation. I look forward to connecting with you.
![Photo of Bonnie Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c608766-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bonnie Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33021 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a highly skilled therapist with over 25 years experience working with couples, individuals and children? Relationship issues, lack of communication or conflict resolution skills leave people stuck and frustrated. Finances, health, grief, trauma, transitions and education challenges all take their toll on people's psyche. Being anxious or depressed can cause a person to lose their confidence and skew their decision making. Coming to therapy offers a new perspective, and non-judgemental suggestions. When people become clearer, centered and more focused , they can set goals and work towards them.
Are you looking for a highly skilled therapist with over 25 years experience working with couples, individuals and children? Relationship issues, lack of communication or conflict resolution skills leave people stuck and frustrated. Finances, health, grief, trauma, transitions and education challenges all take their toll on people's psyche. Being anxious or depressed can cause a person to lose their confidence and skew their decision making. Coming to therapy offers a new perspective, and non-judgemental suggestions. When people become clearer, centered and more focused , they can set goals and work towards them.
![Photo of Amanda Strunin, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69c5f00c-6b46-48c9-ba31-47e4cad05593/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, eating problems, existential and grief issues, and difficulty in relationships. I also specialize in behavioral medicine and the treatment of sleep disorders, chronic pain, smoking cessation, trouble with behavior modification, and stressors related to managing a chronic illness. Having worked with individuals, couples and families in both hospital and private practice settings, I welcome the opportunity to help you find creative and innovative solutions to living a balanced life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, eating problems, existential and grief issues, and difficulty in relationships. I also specialize in behavioral medicine and the treatment of sleep disorders, chronic pain, smoking cessation, trouble with behavior modification, and stressors related to managing a chronic illness. Having worked with individuals, couples and families in both hospital and private practice settings, I welcome the opportunity to help you find creative and innovative solutions to living a balanced life.
![Photo of Julie Galinanes, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/507c641d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Galinanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hollywood, FL 33027 (Online Only)
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one? Divorce? Recently become a new parent? Or perhaps you're experiencing imbalance in your life due to everyday stress, anxiety or depression? As a licensed Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience I can assist you with finding solutions that are practical yet unique to your situation. I offer a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy which helps my clients feel understood. I believe that with compassionate guidance and exploration of the issues at hand, you can eliminate the obstacles standing in the way of living a richer, fuller, more satisfying life.
Have you recently experienced the death of a loved one? Divorce? Recently become a new parent? Or perhaps you're experiencing imbalance in your life due to everyday stress, anxiety or depression? As a licensed Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience I can assist you with finding solutions that are practical yet unique to your situation. I offer a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy which helps my clients feel understood. I believe that with compassionate guidance and exploration of the issues at hand, you can eliminate the obstacles standing in the way of living a richer, fuller, more satisfying life.
![Photo of Danielle Jacobs, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d93155d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I can help improve your quality of life. Healers, caregivers, moms. Are you looking for an experienced and caring therapist, a place where you will not be judged, feel comfortable and safe to share what's on your mind? Are you ready for positive changes? Stop looking further and call me today to start therapy or hypnotherapy. Gain valuable insights and learn new coping skills to deal with life's challenges. You will feel empowered to overcome obstacles, feel calmer and (re)discover joy and flow in your life. I enjoy working together with my clients to see them move forward on their life path towards reaching their potential.
I can help improve your quality of life. Healers, caregivers, moms. Are you looking for an experienced and caring therapist, a place where you will not be judged, feel comfortable and safe to share what's on your mind? Are you ready for positive changes? Stop looking further and call me today to start therapy or hypnotherapy. Gain valuable insights and learn new coping skills to deal with life's challenges. You will feel empowered to overcome obstacles, feel calmer and (re)discover joy and flow in your life. I enjoy working together with my clients to see them move forward on their life path towards reaching their potential.
![Photo of Kelly Walker, MA, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f60c3b36-c3df-468d-8af8-83be1c2e0236/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kelly Walker and I'm a Mental Health Therapist who has been working in the mental health field for the last 20 years. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Sociology and then obtained my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with clients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings. I have also worked extensively with couples and families during my career as a therapist.
My name is Kelly Walker and I'm a Mental Health Therapist who has been working in the mental health field for the last 20 years. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Sociology and then obtained my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I have experience working with clients of all ages in a variety of clinical settings. I have also worked extensively with couples and families during my career as a therapist.
![Photo of Susi Blitman - Psych4U, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/273cfe25-378e-4dc2-b6eb-57af6cb4708e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susi Blitman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, who earned her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2007. Blitman counts on over 12 years of experience helping clients overcome their struggles, improve their lives and the lives of their families. As a mother of two, Blitman has a special interest in helping families, children, and teens with difficult behaviors, self-esteem issues, ADHD, depression, and academic performance issues. Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Blitman is trilingual speaking English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Susi Blitman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, who earned her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2007. Blitman counts on over 12 years of experience helping clients overcome their struggles, improve their lives and the lives of their families. As a mother of two, Blitman has a special interest in helping families, children, and teens with difficult behaviors, self-esteem issues, ADHD, depression, and academic performance issues. Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Blitman is trilingual speaking English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
![Photo of Gabor Ferenczy, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a377c911-3934-4a2f-b7ab-2aae25ff462b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are experiencing dementia symptoms or encountering other difficulties with memory and thinking, reach out to me for a free consultation.
Do you have trouble recalling things? Are you experiencing brain fog or memory loss? Through my clinic, I offer specialist evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for cognitive and memory disorders, including mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and long COVID syndrome. I provide compassionate, personalized care for individuals with various brain health conditions. I am here to help you get the answers, support, and medical care that you need.
Whether you are experiencing dementia symptoms or encountering other difficulties with memory and thinking, reach out to me for a free consultation.
Do you have trouble recalling things? Are you experiencing brain fog or memory loss? Through my clinic, I offer specialist evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for cognitive and memory disorders, including mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and long COVID syndrome. I provide compassionate, personalized care for individuals with various brain health conditions. I am here to help you get the answers, support, and medical care that you need.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Marina A Breydo, MEd, LMHC, MD, Europe, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c31e438-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Marina A Breydo
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, MD, Europe
Verified Verified
Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 (Online Only)
I have a special interest working with a patients with dementia (and their families).
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I really enjoy what i am doing for all of this years. I have worked in different countries,with people from the different cultures,but i learned that people everywhere have the same problems.. They need to be loved,understood and to feel accepted. I consult with individuals , families and couples about personal life and life challengers,difficult transition or crisis ,low self esteem ,stress that may benefit from a focused solution-based approach . This will transform your life ,allow you to become better at feeling and moving toward your values.
I have a special interest working with a patients with dementia (and their families).
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. I really enjoy what i am doing for all of this years. I have worked in different countries,with people from the different cultures,but i learned that people everywhere have the same problems.. They need to be loved,understood and to feel accepted. I consult with individuals , families and couples about personal life and life challengers,difficult transition or crisis ,low self esteem ,stress that may benefit from a focused solution-based approach . This will transform your life ,allow you to become better at feeling and moving toward your values.
![Photo of Amanda Wolfson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1bf0f42-b571-4b90-b79d-2c423ffbeee7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Wolfson focused her graduate training and post-doctoral experiences on specializing in working with those impacted by trauma, anxiety, major life transitions, incarceration, and relationships, as well as conducting neuropsychological evaluations with adults and older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders, and forensic evaluations for those seeking asylum.
Dr. Wolfson focused her graduate training and post-doctoral experiences on specializing in working with those impacted by trauma, anxiety, major life transitions, incarceration, and relationships, as well as conducting neuropsychological evaluations with adults and older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders, and forensic evaluations for those seeking asylum.
![Photo of Dagmar E. Nuñez, Psy D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02f20950-cf0f-434d-8c4b-086cf4a835a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also conduct psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for personality disorders, attention problems (ADHD), memory, dementia, autism, school/college accommodations (16+).
With 15 years of experience providing support and understanding through life’s challenges. I specialize in psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grief. My approach centers on creating a safe, compassionate space where we can work together to help you navigate difficulties and find relief. I incorporate mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral strategies, with a holistic focus on the brain, mind, body, and spirit. Currently, I only offer sessions via telehealth.
I also conduct psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for personality disorders, attention problems (ADHD), memory, dementia, autism, school/college accommodations (16+).
With 15 years of experience providing support and understanding through life’s challenges. I specialize in psychotherapy for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grief. My approach centers on creating a safe, compassionate space where we can work together to help you navigate difficulties and find relief. I incorporate mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral strategies, with a holistic focus on the brain, mind, body, and spirit. Currently, I only offer sessions via telehealth.
![Photo of Jane Statlander-Slote, LCSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65c05777-28ab-4b6b-8998-44e37fe48f9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jane Statlander-Slote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
I work with adults, children, teens, the older adults, couples, families, and LGBTQ in an atmosphere of great kindness, hope and respect.
Healing is a relational process in which therapist and client begin a journey of discovering the self through the therapist's creation of a place the client feels felt, seen, safe, understood, soothed, and secure. A womb is created in the room of therapy. This is a recreation of the mother-infant bonding and positive attachment that was lacking or inadequate. In this client-therapist relationship, healing is achieved through playfulness, acceptance, curiosity and empathy.
I work with adults, children, teens, the older adults, couples, families, and LGBTQ in an atmosphere of great kindness, hope and respect.
Healing is a relational process in which therapist and client begin a journey of discovering the self through the therapist's creation of a place the client feels felt, seen, safe, understood, soothed, and secure. A womb is created in the room of therapy. This is a recreation of the mother-infant bonding and positive attachment that was lacking or inadequate. In this client-therapist relationship, healing is achieved through playfulness, acceptance, curiosity and empathy.
![Photo of Ana T Santana - Center for Neuropsychological Services (CNS), PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4501f537-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center for Neuropsychological Services (CNS)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
Assessments included neurological, psychiatric, and comorbidities including ptsd, epilepsy, adhd, and dementia.
Dr. Ana Santana is a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, for the state of Florida. She specializes in psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluations, psychoeducational and vocational rehabilitation psychodiagnostic testing for job-related recommendations. She has received extensive bilingual training conducting neuropsychological evaluations with neurologically impaired outpatients and inpatients, with a diverse clinical diagnosis including traumatic brain injury; polytrauma; cerebrovascular accidents and a variety of neurological and medical disorders. Her approach to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and empirically based treatments. Within her approach she integrates therapeutic modalities that work best with the treatment needs of the individual.
Assessments included neurological, psychiatric, and comorbidities including ptsd, epilepsy, adhd, and dementia.
Dr. Ana Santana is a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, for the state of Florida. She specializes in psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluations, psychoeducational and vocational rehabilitation psychodiagnostic testing for job-related recommendations. She has received extensive bilingual training conducting neuropsychological evaluations with neurologically impaired outpatients and inpatients, with a diverse clinical diagnosis including traumatic brain injury; polytrauma; cerebrovascular accidents and a variety of neurological and medical disorders. Her approach to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and empirically based treatments. Within her approach she integrates therapeutic modalities that work best with the treatment needs of the individual.
![Photo of Ana Santana - Center for Neuropsychological Svc (CNS), PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45be3379-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Assessments included neurological, psychiatric, and comorbidities including ptsd, epilepsy, adhd, and dementia.
Dr. Ana Santana is a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, for the state of Florida. She specializes in psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluations, psychoeducational and vocational rehabilitation psychodiagnostic testing for job-related recommendations. She has received extensive bilingual training conducting neuropsychological evaluations with neurologically impaired outpatients and inpatients, with a diverse clinical diagnosis including traumatic brain injury; polytrauma; cerebrovascular accidents and a variety of neurological and medical disorders. Her approach to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and empirically based treatments. Within her approach she integrates therapeutic modalities that work best with the treatment needs of the individual.
Assessments included neurological, psychiatric, and comorbidities including ptsd, epilepsy, adhd, and dementia.
Dr. Ana Santana is a Bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Neuropsychologist, for the state of Florida. She specializes in psychotherapy, neuropsychological evaluations, psychoeducational and vocational rehabilitation psychodiagnostic testing for job-related recommendations. She has received extensive bilingual training conducting neuropsychological evaluations with neurologically impaired outpatients and inpatients, with a diverse clinical diagnosis including traumatic brain injury; polytrauma; cerebrovascular accidents and a variety of neurological and medical disorders. Her approach to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and empirically based treatments. Within her approach she integrates therapeutic modalities that work best with the treatment needs of the individual.
![Photo of Sarine Salama, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04c64188-9542-44d0-8148-310cf7bf43bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you going through a major life transition and need support navigating your emotions? My name is Sarine and I am a bi-lingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for MHC interns with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, conflict, life transitions, grief/loss and managing challenging behaviors in children and teens. I also have a passion for working with individuals with Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their family members.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you going through a major life transition and need support navigating your emotions? My name is Sarine and I am a bi-lingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor for MHC interns with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are facing difficulties with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, conflict, life transitions, grief/loss and managing challenging behaviors in children and teens. I also have a passion for working with individuals with Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease as well as their family members.
![Photo of Lonnie Polsyn, LCSW, MSW, CSW-G, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49c8dca5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lonnie Polsyn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSW-G
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33322 (Online Only)
I work with young to older adults.
Now is the time to reach out and get that additional support you need. Whether you are experiencing career changes, anxiety, depression, isolation, fear, chronic illness, grief, aging parents, or stress, I am here to help support you. I offer Telehealth through my HIPAA compliant software (Zoom). Your health, well-being, and confidentiality are important to me.
I work with young to older adults.
Now is the time to reach out and get that additional support you need. Whether you are experiencing career changes, anxiety, depression, isolation, fear, chronic illness, grief, aging parents, or stress, I am here to help support you. I offer Telehealth through my HIPAA compliant software (Zoom). Your health, well-being, and confidentiality are important to me.
![Photo of Glenda Martinez, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3ad335-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Martinez conducts neuropsychological evaluations for Spanish and English speakers to aid in the diagnosis of various neurological complaints including memory disorders.
As a licensed psychologist, I work with children and adults in diagnosing and treating various mental disorders. I have worked extensively in medical and psychiatric settings specializing in neuropsychological testing. My internship was completed at the Miami Veteran's Administration Hospital and my fellowship took place at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. I have worked as a clinical supervisor at Citrus Health Network community health center and taught various courses at Barry University.
Martinez conducts neuropsychological evaluations for Spanish and English speakers to aid in the diagnosis of various neurological complaints including memory disorders.
As a licensed psychologist, I work with children and adults in diagnosing and treating various mental disorders. I have worked extensively in medical and psychiatric settings specializing in neuropsychological testing. My internship was completed at the Miami Veteran's Administration Hospital and my fellowship took place at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. I have worked as a clinical supervisor at Citrus Health Network community health center and taught various courses at Barry University.
See more therapy options for Hollywood
Nearby Dementia Therapists Searches for Hollywood
- Aventura
- Davie
- Fort Lauderdale
- Hialeah
- Miami Beach
- Miami Lakes
- Miramar
- Pembroke Pines
- Plantation
- Sunrise
- Weston
- Wilton Manors
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.