Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Seminole, FL

Photo of Maria M Erickson, LMHC, Counselor
Maria M Erickson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33772
Your challenges may be the result of trauma, life adjustments, grief/loss, divorce, addiction, age, anxiety and fear, depression, significant others, elderly parents, children, codependency, ineffective boundary setting, inadequate coping skills, inadequate conflict resolution, and confusion/difficulty in goal setting, and career development to name a few.
There are times in our lives when we find ourselves "stuck" and/or feeling like we are wading through quicksand to move forward. Our situations appear hopeless and sometimes overwhelming. They can be due to difficulties beyond our control, unresolved issues from our past that have resurfaced, or the consequence of wrong choices. We seek alternative methods for looking at ourselves, managing our situations, as well as the outside influences in our lives, but we don't know how to access them. We need someone to help us discover who we have become and how to move forward in a healthy manner mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Your challenges may be the result of trauma, life adjustments, grief/loss, divorce, addiction, age, anxiety and fear, depression, significant others, elderly parents, children, codependency, ineffective boundary setting, inadequate coping skills, inadequate conflict resolution, and confusion/difficulty in goal setting, and career development to name a few.
There are times in our lives when we find ourselves "stuck" and/or feeling like we are wading through quicksand to move forward. Our situations appear hopeless and sometimes overwhelming. They can be due to difficulties beyond our control, unresolved issues from our past that have resurfaced, or the consequence of wrong choices. We seek alternative methods for looking at ourselves, managing our situations, as well as the outside influences in our lives, but we don't know how to access them. We need someone to help us discover who we have become and how to move forward in a healthy manner mentally, spiritually, and physically.
(727) 947-1483 View (727) 947-1483
Photo of Judy C. Lunden - Lunden Psychological Services, Inc., PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Lunden Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33776
Lunden Psychological Services exists to serve you; treating the whole person from a solution-focused approach to emotional health and wellbeing. In serving you, and your relationship with others, LPS offers effective individual, marital, couple, family, and elderly counseling together with comprehensive psychological evaluation from a Christian worldview. Lunden Psychological Services provides you with a compassionate collaborative relationship and practical skills designed to promote life change and growth potentially transforming marital problems, family conflict, divorce, depression, panic attacks, memory loss, social anxiety, addictions, etc. into opportunities to experience new life with hope, purpose, meaning, and the freedom to thrive.
Lunden Psychological Services exists to serve you; treating the whole person from a solution-focused approach to emotional health and wellbeing. In serving you, and your relationship with others, LPS offers effective individual, marital, couple, family, and elderly counseling together with comprehensive psychological evaluation from a Christian worldview. Lunden Psychological Services provides you with a compassionate collaborative relationship and practical skills designed to promote life change and growth potentially transforming marital problems, family conflict, divorce, depression, panic attacks, memory loss, social anxiety, addictions, etc. into opportunities to experience new life with hope, purpose, meaning, and the freedom to thrive.
(727) 914-2276 View (727) 914-2276
Photo of Jeryl (Jeri) Devale, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeryl (Jeri) Devale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33778
I have had 45 years experience working with with individuals, couples, marriages, families, and businesses where I combine a holistic psychotherapy (mind-body-spirit philosophy) with psychodynamic and therapeutic techniques. I help you learn effective communication skills for your life, marriages and businesses. People become more enlightened and confident as individuals allowing them to achieve more success, peace and happiness in their lives. I also help people with serious physical illnesses let go of them and remain disease free. use nutrition. meditation, psychotherapeutic techniques and spiritual exercises. help businesses
I have had 45 years experience working with with individuals, couples, marriages, families, and businesses where I combine a holistic psychotherapy (mind-body-spirit philosophy) with psychodynamic and therapeutic techniques. I help you learn effective communication skills for your life, marriages and businesses. People become more enlightened and confident as individuals allowing them to achieve more success, peace and happiness in their lives. I also help people with serious physical illnesses let go of them and remain disease free. use nutrition. meditation, psychotherapeutic techniques and spiritual exercises. help businesses
(727) 477-9614 View (727) 477-9614
Photo of Sandra Flamenco, ACHP-SW, LCSW, MSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Flamenco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACHP-SW, LCSW, MSW, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seminole, FL 33772
My commitment is to assist you utilizing your own virtues and resilience If suffering of sadness or depression, due to: grief and loss; going trough major life changes that are causing you anxiety and stress; need to increase self-esteem and improve satisfaction and quality of life; need to increase feeling of well-being; need to repair and enhance relationships; raising a child with special needs, which becomes overwhelming and requires specific parenting skills. If you are experiencing any of this, I can partner with you and offer my clinical skills and expertise to enhance your strengths and overcome those difficulties.
My commitment is to assist you utilizing your own virtues and resilience If suffering of sadness or depression, due to: grief and loss; going trough major life changes that are causing you anxiety and stress; need to increase self-esteem and improve satisfaction and quality of life; need to increase feeling of well-being; need to repair and enhance relationships; raising a child with special needs, which becomes overwhelming and requires specific parenting skills. If you are experiencing any of this, I can partner with you and offer my clinical skills and expertise to enhance your strengths and overcome those difficulties.
(727) 513-1588 View (727) 513-1588

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Taylor Madison Cooper - Cypress Wellness Center, MSW, LMSW, RCSWI
Cypress Wellness Center
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, LMSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
My services apply to clients of all ages but specialize in older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. My modality is a strength-based approach to allow individuals to find resiliency in the difficulties they face due to normal aging processes, pain, disease management, caregiver fatigue, grief and burnout. My approach focuses on helping you recognize your inherent strengths and fostering resilience through mindfulness and stress reduction techniques.
My services apply to clients of all ages but specialize in older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. My modality is a strength-based approach to allow individuals to find resiliency in the difficulties they face due to normal aging processes, pain, disease management, caregiver fatigue, grief and burnout. My approach focuses on helping you recognize your inherent strengths and fostering resilience through mindfulness and stress reduction techniques.
(727) 496-7817 View (727) 496-7817
Photo of Lynda Gurvitz, PhD, Psychologist
Lynda Gurvitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33765
I specialize in helping older adults and their families cope with the challenges associated with aging.
As a clinical psychologist with over forty years of experience, I work with adults and older adults experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, and relationship issues. My goal is to work with my patients to make develop the capacity to make significant and lasting changes that improve their quality of life.
I specialize in helping older adults and their families cope with the challenges associated with aging.
As a clinical psychologist with over forty years of experience, I work with adults and older adults experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, and relationship issues. My goal is to work with my patients to make develop the capacity to make significant and lasting changes that improve their quality of life.
(727) 269-5686 View (727) 269-5686
Photo of Theodora Coffman - Shoreline Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Shoreline Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
With offices in St. Pete, Palmetto, Sarasota, and Port Charlotte, the staff at Shoreline Psychological Services, PLLC are skilled at assessing people's current concerns and providing direction/resources to assist individuals with addressing these difficulties. We specialize in psychoeducational assessments, including the assessment of ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, gifted/talented children, forensic, neuropsychological, dementia, and general mental health evaluations. Evaluations in Spanish available upon request.
With offices in St. Pete, Palmetto, Sarasota, and Port Charlotte, the staff at Shoreline Psychological Services, PLLC are skilled at assessing people's current concerns and providing direction/resources to assist individuals with addressing these difficulties. We specialize in psychoeducational assessments, including the assessment of ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, gifted/talented children, forensic, neuropsychological, dementia, and general mental health evaluations. Evaluations in Spanish available upon request.
(727) 325-5442 View (727) 325-5442
Photo of Toy Newcomb - Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
(804) 207-5721 View (804) 207-5721
Photo of Cheryl Ann D' La Rotta, LMHC, Counselor
Cheryl Ann D' La Rotta
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for the State of Florida. I am very sensitive to the issues of diversity, oppression, and discrimination. I am a Certified Trauma Professional with the ITAP and advocate in the issues of the LGBT, sexual assault survivors, childhood sexual abuse survivors, elderly abuse, intimate partner violence and many other types of trauma. I have created a safe and secure environment for my clients to unveil their lived experiences, as I help guide them towards their goals and a better way of life. My own lived experiences allow me to be vulnerable, empathetic, and non-judgmental
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for the State of Florida. I am very sensitive to the issues of diversity, oppression, and discrimination. I am a Certified Trauma Professional with the ITAP and advocate in the issues of the LGBT, sexual assault survivors, childhood sexual abuse survivors, elderly abuse, intimate partner violence and many other types of trauma. I have created a safe and secure environment for my clients to unveil their lived experiences, as I help guide them towards their goals and a better way of life. My own lived experiences allow me to be vulnerable, empathetic, and non-judgmental
(786) 565-4802 View (786) 565-4802
Photo of Malissa B Harris, LCSW, MSW, CMC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malissa B Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CMC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
While I primarily work with Seniors and aging adults, and adults with disabilities, I do also accept other populations.
I am a certified Geriatric Care Manager and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide mental health therapy along with care management which includes attending medical appointments, referrals and resources, communicating with families and providers, and being the point of contact and liaison between all parties. I have a holistic approach as I focus on the person as a whole to incorporate not just your diagnoses, but your environment as well. I work with individuals, caregivers, and families, especially of those with aging issues, Dementia (such as Alzheimer’s), cognitive impairment and caregiver burnout.
While I primarily work with Seniors and aging adults, and adults with disabilities, I do also accept other populations.
I am a certified Geriatric Care Manager and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide mental health therapy along with care management which includes attending medical appointments, referrals and resources, communicating with families and providers, and being the point of contact and liaison between all parties. I have a holistic approach as I focus on the person as a whole to incorporate not just your diagnoses, but your environment as well. I work with individuals, caregivers, and families, especially of those with aging issues, Dementia (such as Alzheimer’s), cognitive impairment and caregiver burnout.
(586) 300-3058 View (586) 300-3058
Photo of Farah Benenati At Nassau Psychology Pc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Farah Benenati At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Farah has worked with many different populations in different modalities. She has vast experience working with adolescents, adults and families. Most recently, she has provided memory training and psychotherapy to the geriatric population. She meets her clients where they are and together, Farah and her clients find ways to improve their lives through obstacles such as depression, anxiety and relationship conflicts. Farah provides support, empathy, and to help her clients overcome challenges.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Farah has worked with many different populations in different modalities. She has vast experience working with adolescents, adults and families. Most recently, she has provided memory training and psychotherapy to the geriatric population. She meets her clients where they are and together, Farah and her clients find ways to improve their lives through obstacles such as depression, anxiety and relationship conflicts. Farah provides support, empathy, and to help her clients overcome challenges.
(904) 560-5952 View (904) 560-5952
Photo of A. LaVerne Feaster, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A. LaVerne Feaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
Emotional Healing begins with you. You must make the choice to face your fears. Fear is crippling and results in being "stuck"emotionally. The road to recovery starts with personal discovery. My experience includes over 40 years in the field of Mental Health. I worked 8 years at a private psychiatric inpatient facility with adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations. I worked 30 years at a VA Medical Center with Veterans dealing with Addictions, Relationship conflict, Behavioral problems, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, and PTSD.
Emotional Healing begins with you. You must make the choice to face your fears. Fear is crippling and results in being "stuck"emotionally. The road to recovery starts with personal discovery. My experience includes over 40 years in the field of Mental Health. I worked 8 years at a private psychiatric inpatient facility with adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations. I worked 30 years at a VA Medical Center with Veterans dealing with Addictions, Relationship conflict, Behavioral problems, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, and PTSD.
(727) 478-3029 View (727) 478-3029
Photo of Kristjan Olafsson - Neuropsychology Assessment Service, PhD, Psychologist
Neuropsychology Assessment Service
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33760
Neuropsychological evaluations are provided for children as young as toddlers all the way to the geriatric population.
I am currently in my twelth year of providing neuropsychological assessments services throughout Florida. I accept referrals from many physicians and case manages. However, often, family members concerned about the functioning of parents with memory issues, other family members with brain injuries, or children with learning and/or behavioral difficulties contact me directly to arrange an evaluation. Once an evaluation is completed, interventions are implemented to facilitate improved functioning. Fortunately, many insurance carriers including Medicare will pay for the services.
Neuropsychological evaluations are provided for children as young as toddlers all the way to the geriatric population.
I am currently in my twelth year of providing neuropsychological assessments services throughout Florida. I accept referrals from many physicians and case manages. However, often, family members concerned about the functioning of parents with memory issues, other family members with brain injuries, or children with learning and/or behavioral difficulties contact me directly to arrange an evaluation. Once an evaluation is completed, interventions are implemented to facilitate improved functioning. Fortunately, many insurance carriers including Medicare will pay for the services.
(727) 498-2794 View (727) 498-2794
Photo of Diane Lindsay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Lindsay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755
Diane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for the last 14 years. She has provided individual, group, couple's and family services to youth and adults from as young as (4) years old to older adults. Some of the therapeutic approaches Diane uses when working with clients include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, to address trauma, depression, and anxiety, to name a few.
Diane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for the last 14 years. She has provided individual, group, couple's and family services to youth and adults from as young as (4) years old to older adults. Some of the therapeutic approaches Diane uses when working with clients include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, to address trauma, depression, and anxiety, to name a few.
(727) 947-1525 View (727) 947-1525
Photo of Cassandra Julian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Julian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
People seeking therapy are looking to gain emotional support, coping skills, self-discovery, and help with significant traumas or losses. It is my role to facilitate your journey of healing and growth and help you along the way while providing a safe space for all people of all cultures. My goal is to help you become one step closer to where you want to be with each therapy session. I have years of experience with adolescents, adults, and older adults. Through my integrated approach of evidence based modalities, I aim to help clients build resilience, enhance self-awareness, and create meaningful changes in their lives.
People seeking therapy are looking to gain emotional support, coping skills, self-discovery, and help with significant traumas or losses. It is my role to facilitate your journey of healing and growth and help you along the way while providing a safe space for all people of all cultures. My goal is to help you become one step closer to where you want to be with each therapy session. I have years of experience with adolescents, adults, and older adults. Through my integrated approach of evidence based modalities, I aim to help clients build resilience, enhance self-awareness, and create meaningful changes in their lives.
(727) 205-1365 View (727) 205-1365
Photo of Melissa Farrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Farrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710  (Online Only)
I specialize in seeing seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA community with mood, trauma/PTSD issues, as well as those facing life changes and adjustment to new roles and situations.
I provide video telehealth and telephone appointments for residents throughout the state of Florida. Are you having problems controlling anxiety and depression or experiencing other uncomfortable emotional issues? Have you been feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances? I would love to speak with you to decide how best I can help! I provide support, encouragement and guidance and have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. I am compassionate, non-judgmental, and down to earth.
I specialize in seeing seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA community with mood, trauma/PTSD issues, as well as those facing life changes and adjustment to new roles and situations.
I provide video telehealth and telephone appointments for residents throughout the state of Florida. Are you having problems controlling anxiety and depression or experiencing other uncomfortable emotional issues? Have you been feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances? I would love to speak with you to decide how best I can help! I provide support, encouragement and guidance and have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. I am compassionate, non-judgmental, and down to earth.
(727) 369-6078 View (727) 369-6078
Photo of Dr. Kristin Amicone, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Kristin Amicone
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I am offering individual Teletherapy in FL, IL, & KS for preteens, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
Finding balance in this unpredictable world can sometimes seem unachievable. Together, we can find a balance that best fits you. Our fast-pace and demanding society makes limited time for personal issues or difficult life events, causing a detriment to our mental health and wellbeing. With an integrated approach, we can target your health from all angles including mind, body, and spirit. My goal for therapy is teaching you the skills needed to find your balance so you can flourish in your daily life. Whatever your journey, I will help you implement knowledge and tools to overcome barriers of the past, present, and future.
I am offering individual Teletherapy in FL, IL, & KS for preteens, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
Finding balance in this unpredictable world can sometimes seem unachievable. Together, we can find a balance that best fits you. Our fast-pace and demanding society makes limited time for personal issues or difficult life events, causing a detriment to our mental health and wellbeing. With an integrated approach, we can target your health from all angles including mind, body, and spirit. My goal for therapy is teaching you the skills needed to find your balance so you can flourish in your daily life. Whatever your journey, I will help you implement knowledge and tools to overcome barriers of the past, present, and future.
(708) 787-8794 View (708) 787-8794
Photo of Carrie A Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie A Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710  (Online Only)
There's a crack in everything. That is how the light gets in." - L.Cohen I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults who are navigating all types of life struggles. I believe in companioning people who are trying to make sense of the uncertainties of life. I specialize in grief and loss whether that's due to death or other life losses such as relationships ending, job loss, or empty nest. My background is in medical social work including women's health, hospice, school social work, and nursing home and geriatric services.
There's a crack in everything. That is how the light gets in." - L.Cohen I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults who are navigating all types of life struggles. I believe in companioning people who are trying to make sense of the uncertainties of life. I specialize in grief and loss whether that's due to death or other life losses such as relationships ending, job loss, or empty nest. My background is in medical social work including women's health, hospice, school social work, and nursing home and geriatric services.
(727) 513-4162 View (727) 513-4162
Photo of Pamela Osborne, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33709
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
(941) 219-0401 View (941) 219-0401
Photo of Tamara Statz, MA, LMFT, FT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tamara Statz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, FT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
A client once reflected , "You help us have hard conversations." I couldn't have said it better myself. I help individuals, couples, and families talk about the stuff no one wants to talk about. Grief, loss, death, dying, moving to memory care, etc - these aren't dinner table conversations folks want to have. But we need to have them. That's where I come in.
A client once reflected , "You help us have hard conversations." I couldn't have said it better myself. I help individuals, couples, and families talk about the stuff no one wants to talk about. Grief, loss, death, dying, moving to memory care, etc - these aren't dinner table conversations folks want to have. But we need to have them. That's where I come in.
(612) 223-7492 View (612) 223-7492
Geriatric and Seniors Therapists

Is one ever too old for mental health therapy?

Individuals of all ages can benefit from mental health therapy. Indeed, older adults in particular may benefit from the social and psychological support a therapist can provide; the topics that older adults address in therapy may simply differ from those of younger clients. Seniors should seek out a therapist who has experience working with older individuals and who is well-versed in addressing common concerns among elderly individuals, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, dementia, and physical mobility challenges.

How can geriatric therapy improve the quality of life of aging individuals?

Therapy for aging adults can greatly improve quality of life by providing an opportunity for them to process difficult emotions related to end-of-life, navigate relational or caregiver challenges, and develop coping skills for common mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression. Subsequent reductions in negative emotions and mental health disorder symptoms can make day-to-day living much more manageable for aging adults and those that care for them. The ongoing relationship with a trusted therapist can also help seniors combat loneliness and provide a sense of structure for their routine.

How is counseling for elderly different from counseling for other age groups?

Many aspects of geriatric counseling are similar to counseling in younger age groups; in general, counseling offers an opportunity for clients to process difficult life events and develop coping skills they can use outside of the therapy session. However, therapists who specialize in working with elderly clients may place a special emphasis on specific topics, such as caregiver relationships and reducing loneliness. They may be specially equipped to deal with certain physical conditions or facilitate discussion surrounding end-of-life topics. Counseling for the elderly may also place a greater emphasis on social work-type topics to ensure that geriatric clients have access to necessary resources, such as food, a safe home environment, and healthcare.

Can geriatric counseling help people who suffer from dementia?

Counseling can be highly effective for aging adults with dementia. While some therapists specializing in dementia may work with clients solely on topics surrounding memory loss, they can also assist clients with conditions that may co-occur at old age, such as anxiety or depression. Counselors specializing in working with older adults can also offer an objective assessment of a client’s functioning or disease progression to caregivers, and they may be particularly knowledgeable about community resources that may benefit dementia clients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia may also be trained in specialized forms of therapy for memory-loss|memory loss, such as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)—which can help mentally stimulate dementia clients to preserve cognitive functioning.