Dementia Therapists in Maitland, FL

Photo of Nicole Chacho, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Chacho
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Neurocognitive specialist for children, teens, adults, couples, & families navigating trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, adjustments (including homeschooling), stressors from chronic medical issues (e.g., various types of dementia, Alzheimer’s, post stroke, aphasia, TBI, cancer), & neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/autism). Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Therapist with certifications in the areas of complex trauma (Levels I & II), dementia care, autism, ADHD, anxiety, and grief. Former psychometrist for Dr. Dano Leli (neuropsychologist), where I helped individuals navigate next steps & healing post evals.
Neurocognitive specialist for children, teens, adults, couples, & families navigating trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, adjustments (including homeschooling), stressors from chronic medical issues (e.g., various types of dementia, Alzheimer’s, post stroke, aphasia, TBI, cancer), & neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/autism). Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Therapist with certifications in the areas of complex trauma (Levels I & II), dementia care, autism, ADHD, anxiety, and grief. Former psychometrist for Dr. Dano Leli (neuropsychologist), where I helped individuals navigate next steps & healing post evals.
(407) 706-3936 View (407) 706-3936
Photo of Beth Davalos - Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW, MSW, RPT-S, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RPT-S, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
NOW accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. Sunshine Senior Counseling is a group practice of 12 clinicians. We specialize in working with adults in a variety of living settings and private homes. Our therapists have expertise working in areas of grief, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life transitions, mental illness, trauma, early-stage Dementia & Alzheimer’s, as well as with caregivers. I am the Clinical Director at Sunshine Counseling with over 30 years of experience working with seniors, adults, children, and teens. I love my work and strive to provide a caring & uplifting environment in which our clients can heal and grow.
NOW accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. Sunshine Senior Counseling is a group practice of 12 clinicians. We specialize in working with adults in a variety of living settings and private homes. Our therapists have expertise working in areas of grief, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life transitions, mental illness, trauma, early-stage Dementia & Alzheimer’s, as well as with caregivers. I am the Clinical Director at Sunshine Counseling with over 30 years of experience working with seniors, adults, children, and teens. I love my work and strive to provide a caring & uplifting environment in which our clients can heal and grow.
(689) 202-2900 View (689) 202-2900
Photo of Daniel Paulson, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Paulson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
I offer a range of services for adults and older adults who are seeking to improve their mental health, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), memory function and dementia assessments, and targeted therapy for insomnia and sleep disorders.
Seeking therapy means acknowledging that life isn't just what we'd like, and finding hope that the future can be better. I specialize in the unique challenges faced by older adults and their families. Mental health is an important component of overall well-being, and through therapy, we will collaborate to identify your goals and use scientifically supported strategies to accomplish those goals. People who complete psychotherapy are happier in their relationships and more satisfied with their lives. I am proud to be a part of that transition for my patients.
I offer a range of services for adults and older adults who are seeking to improve their mental health, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), memory function and dementia assessments, and targeted therapy for insomnia and sleep disorders.
Seeking therapy means acknowledging that life isn't just what we'd like, and finding hope that the future can be better. I specialize in the unique challenges faced by older adults and their families. Mental health is an important component of overall well-being, and through therapy, we will collaborate to identify your goals and use scientifically supported strategies to accomplish those goals. People who complete psychotherapy are happier in their relationships and more satisfied with their lives. I am proud to be a part of that transition for my patients.
(407) 512-8332 View (407) 512-8332
Photo of Jennifer Noto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Noto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over fifteen years of work experience. I specialize in working with senior individuals and their caregivers. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical diagnoses. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, transitions to new life stages, trauma, grief and loss. I am passionate about my work and strive to provide a caring and uplifting environment in which clients can heal and grow.
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over fifteen years of work experience. I specialize in working with senior individuals and their caregivers. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical diagnoses. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, transitions to new life stages, trauma, grief and loss. I am passionate about my work and strive to provide a caring and uplifting environment in which clients can heal and grow.
(407) 807-6802 View (407) 807-6802
Photo of Christine Boido, TLHT , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Boido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, TLHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I have over 20 years as a therapist helping people of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I have helped many to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, relationships, work issues, health struggles, grief, pain management, memory issues and trauma. I believe in the 4 A’s of Mental Health: Awareness, Accommodations, Assistance, and Access and strive to provide a safe environment for clients where they can heal or grow.
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I have over 20 years as a therapist helping people of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I have helped many to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, relationships, work issues, health struggles, grief, pain management, memory issues and trauma. I believe in the 4 A’s of Mental Health: Awareness, Accommodations, Assistance, and Access and strive to provide a safe environment for clients where they can heal or grow.
(813) 592-6285 View (813) 592-6285
Photo of Mary Beth McDermott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth McDermott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Now accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. i am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over sixteen years of work experience. I specialize in the fields of adults, geriatrics, and caregivers. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, depression, anxiety, coping with medical issues, or experiencing grief. I am also passionate about helping caregivers cope with the stress of this role and communicating their needs. I work with both individuals and family members. I strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
Now accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. i am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over sixteen years of work experience. I specialize in the fields of adults, geriatrics, and caregivers. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, depression, anxiety, coping with medical issues, or experiencing grief. I am also passionate about helping caregivers cope with the stress of this role and communicating their needs. I work with both individuals and family members. I strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
(813) 536-5184 View (813) 536-5184
Photo of Lynn Foltz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Foltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience and have worked with diverse populations from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I have experience in helping clients with reducing stress and anxiety, resolving family conflicts, increasing communication within relationships and families, and working with individuals with PTSD from trauma and abuse. I have worked as a Medical Social Worker and provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and care giver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience and have worked with diverse populations from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I have experience in helping clients with reducing stress and anxiety, resolving family conflicts, increasing communication within relationships and families, and working with individuals with PTSD from trauma and abuse. I have worked as a Medical Social Worker and provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and care giver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss.
(407) 305-7534 View (407) 305-7534
Photo of Nancy Shaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical issues. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and caregiver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss. I love my work and strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal and thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical issues. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and caregiver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss. I love my work and strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal and thrive.
(407) 759-7108 View (407) 759-7108
Photo of Cynthia Quinton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Quinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or are struggling with a medical diagnosis? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over twenty-five years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, coping with medical issues, struggling to communicate with family members, or experiencing grief. I work with individuals and family members to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or are struggling with a medical diagnosis? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over twenty-five years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, coping with medical issues, struggling to communicate with family members, or experiencing grief. I work with individuals and family members to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
(863) 474-8452 View (863) 474-8452
Photo of Anita Vargas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
(407) 863-6989 View (407) 863-6989
Photo of Rachel Creamer, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Creamer
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
Finding balance in our relationships can be a struggle, especially for couples experiencing communication problems, conflict, difficulties with emotional or physical intimacy, or seeking reconciliation after an affair. It takes a lot of courage to seek help in finding that balance. As a Gottman trained therapist, I offer evidence-based care to help my clients focus on effective communication, conflict resolution, enhancing the marital friendship, and rebuilding a foundation of trust.
Finding balance in our relationships can be a struggle, especially for couples experiencing communication problems, conflict, difficulties with emotional or physical intimacy, or seeking reconciliation after an affair. It takes a lot of courage to seek help in finding that balance. As a Gottman trained therapist, I offer evidence-based care to help my clients focus on effective communication, conflict resolution, enhancing the marital friendship, and rebuilding a foundation of trust.
(407) 708-9674 View (407) 708-9674
Photo of Lucas Mario Olan - Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, IMH, CH
Lucas Mario Olan - Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, IMH, CH
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
Anxiety, depression, decisions, and the feelings that are wrapped into all of this is part of what makes us human. We are created with a hardwiring that neurologically adapts to the every changing world we live in. In the midsts of it all is you and your specific, one of a kind, and valuable Mental Heath needs. These needs are important and because of that reason your commitment to them is equally important and for Lucas it is essential. One of Lucas core values is that there is endless options that can be discovered in therapy and the key lies within the client. Needs, goals and concerns are all angles in the process of a solution.
Anxiety, depression, decisions, and the feelings that are wrapped into all of this is part of what makes us human. We are created with a hardwiring that neurologically adapts to the every changing world we live in. In the midsts of it all is you and your specific, one of a kind, and valuable Mental Heath needs. These needs are important and because of that reason your commitment to them is equally important and for Lucas it is essential. One of Lucas core values is that there is endless options that can be discovered in therapy and the key lies within the client. Needs, goals and concerns are all angles in the process of a solution.
(407) 794-4131 View (407) 794-4131
Photo of Anne Rothenberg, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Anne Rothenberg
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression. Please visit: www.AnneRothenberg.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression. Please visit: www.AnneRothenberg.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
(407) 456-8706 View (407) 456-8706
Photo of Counseling Specialists Of Central Florida - Counseling Specialists of Central Florida, Trauma, Anxiety, ADD, ADHD, Grief, Autism
Counseling Specialists of Central Florida
Trauma, Anxiety, ADD, ADHD, Grief, Autism
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
We specialize in helping children, teens, adults, couples, & families overcome trauma (including PTSD, grief/loss, victim/witness recovery); anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias); depression; self-harm; educational & homeschool challenges; neurodevelopmental disorders (including ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/ASD); pre-marital & marital counseling; sexual & intimacy issues; pregnancy-related challenges; medical diagnoses (including debilitating, chronic, terminal illnesses); separation/single parenting/co-parenting challenges; divorce recovery; blended family challenges; legal stressors; eldercare stressors; & life adjustments.
We specialize in helping children, teens, adults, couples, & families overcome trauma (including PTSD, grief/loss, victim/witness recovery); anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias); depression; self-harm; educational & homeschool challenges; neurodevelopmental disorders (including ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/ASD); pre-marital & marital counseling; sexual & intimacy issues; pregnancy-related challenges; medical diagnoses (including debilitating, chronic, terminal illnesses); separation/single parenting/co-parenting challenges; divorce recovery; blended family challenges; legal stressors; eldercare stressors; & life adjustments.
(321) 517-0894 View (321) 517-0894
Photo of Dr. Jeremiah T. Stokes, EdD, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Jeremiah T. Stokes
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
My primary goal as a professional psychotherapist is to help people grow. I provide individualized and evidenced-based counseling practices that are tailored to fit an individual's specific needs. I help people to identify the challenges within their lives that may be creating barriers to their happiness, peace and success. I also work collaboratively with people to establish solution-oriented methods to overcoming challenges and problems. A great deal of my practice is based around helping people tap into their own strengths, while helping them achieve self-empowerment, insight and awareness. My objective is to help people develop.
My primary goal as a professional psychotherapist is to help people grow. I provide individualized and evidenced-based counseling practices that are tailored to fit an individual's specific needs. I help people to identify the challenges within their lives that may be creating barriers to their happiness, peace and success. I also work collaboratively with people to establish solution-oriented methods to overcoming challenges and problems. A great deal of my practice is based around helping people tap into their own strengths, while helping them achieve self-empowerment, insight and awareness. My objective is to help people develop.
(407) 269-8425 View (407) 269-8425
Photo of Melixa Carbonell - A Different Lens Counseling, MA, LMHC, NCC, ADHD-, CCSP, Counselor
A Different Lens Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751  (Online Only)
I provide compassionate support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of anxiety, adult ADHD, and the unique experiences of healthcare professionals and the LGBTQIA community. Having specialized knowledge in these areas, I aim to create a safe, inclusive, and a nonjudgmental space where clients can openly explore their fears and worries, develop coping strategies, and regain control over their lives. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to lead fulfilling lives, cultivate emotional well-being, and develop effective coping mechanisms.
I provide compassionate support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of anxiety, adult ADHD, and the unique experiences of healthcare professionals and the LGBTQIA community. Having specialized knowledge in these areas, I aim to create a safe, inclusive, and a nonjudgmental space where clients can openly explore their fears and worries, develop coping strategies, and regain control over their lives. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to lead fulfilling lives, cultivate emotional well-being, and develop effective coping mechanisms.
(321) 415-7810 View (321) 415-7810
Photo of Gabrielle Buettow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Buettow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
NOW accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience and specialize in work with adults and geriatric individuals. I am highly skilled in helping clients cope with trauma, medical issues, and pain management, grief, depression, anxiety and loneliness. I feel privileged to accompany people on their journey toward growth and healing, especially those suffering from PTSD, various forms of trauma, and other disturbing events.
NOW accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience and specialize in work with adults and geriatric individuals. I am highly skilled in helping clients cope with trauma, medical issues, and pain management, grief, depression, anxiety and loneliness. I feel privileged to accompany people on their journey toward growth and healing, especially those suffering from PTSD, various forms of trauma, and other disturbing events.
(863) 474-5521 View (863) 474-5521
Photo of Susan Wald, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Wald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
NOW accepting new clients as of 08/15/2024. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience, specializing in work with adults and geriatric individuals. I believe in a non-judgmental and emotionally supportive environment, which I feel is the key to successful and professional relationships. I understand that it’s not easy to seek help and the first step is being able to allow yourself or family members to be open to change. I help with identifying and reducing stressors and anxiety that may make daily life difficult.
NOW accepting new clients as of 08/15/2024. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience, specializing in work with adults and geriatric individuals. I believe in a non-judgmental and emotionally supportive environment, which I feel is the key to successful and professional relationships. I understand that it’s not easy to seek help and the first step is being able to allow yourself or family members to be open to change. I help with identifying and reducing stressors and anxiety that may make daily life difficult.
(321) 291-8155 View (321) 291-8155
Photo of Melvin Barnes - Sunshine Senior Counseling Melvin Barnes LCSW , LCSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Senior Counseling Melvin Barnes LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
NOW Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. My goal is to help people reach a sense of purpose and peace. You will find a relaxed and judgment-free environment with me. I have more than 37 years of clinical experience in the fields of adults, geriatrics, psychiatry, health and physical rehabilitation, and clinical social work. I am also certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers and hold advanced certification in hospice and palliative social work.
NOW Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. My goal is to help people reach a sense of purpose and peace. You will find a relaxed and judgment-free environment with me. I have more than 37 years of clinical experience in the fields of adults, geriatrics, psychiatry, health and physical rehabilitation, and clinical social work. I am also certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers and hold advanced certification in hospice and palliative social work.
(407) 499-3498 View (407) 499-3498
Photo of Marisol Alcibar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisol Alcibar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and work with a variety of clients from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, pain management and medical issues as I have done extensive work in dialysis centers and hospitals as well as in private practice. I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime, creating a safe, validating environment where clients can thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 7/20/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and work with a variety of clients from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, pain management and medical issues as I have done extensive work in dialysis centers and hospitals as well as in private practice. I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime, creating a safe, validating environment where clients can thrive.
(305) 306-8580 View (305) 306-8580
1
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.