Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Chamblee, GA

Photo of Jenny Barwick, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Barwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chamblee, GA 30341
Are you depressed? Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you find yourself wanting to cry but not knowing why? My favorite quote is, "The opposite of depression is not happiness, but vitality" and I wholeheartedly believe in it. Depression does not discriminate. I specialize in depression treatment among different populations- infertility, perinatal mood disorders, older adults, and midlife adults. Another speciality includes caregiving and different types of grief. You don't have to do this alone. I believe therapy makes the world a better place and you are brave for seeking help.
Are you depressed? Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you find yourself wanting to cry but not knowing why? My favorite quote is, "The opposite of depression is not happiness, but vitality" and I wholeheartedly believe in it. Depression does not discriminate. I specialize in depression treatment among different populations- infertility, perinatal mood disorders, older adults, and midlife adults. Another speciality includes caregiving and different types of grief. You don't have to do this alone. I believe therapy makes the world a better place and you are brave for seeking help.
(770) 637-7266 View (770) 637-7266
Photo of Timothy Riney, PsyD, Psychologist
Timothy Riney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chamblee, GA 30341
If you are here, you are considering taking an important step towards your own personal development. The complexities of our world today can leave you feeling pulled in so many different directions, leaving little time and space for reflection and self-care. Therapy is an investment in your own self-care and the therapeutic relationship can provide the ideal environment for self- exploration and sorting things out. I look forward to working with you to uncover your true potential to attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. Please visit my website where you can request an appointment: www.drtimothyriney.com
If you are here, you are considering taking an important step towards your own personal development. The complexities of our world today can leave you feeling pulled in so many different directions, leaving little time and space for reflection and self-care. Therapy is an investment in your own self-care and the therapeutic relationship can provide the ideal environment for self- exploration and sorting things out. I look forward to working with you to uncover your true potential to attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. Please visit my website where you can request an appointment: www.drtimothyriney.com
(404) 800-1377 View (404) 800-1377
Photo of Mindy Jewett - Mindy Jewett, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Jewett, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chamblee, GA 30341
Not accepting new clients
Do you want to have a more balanced life? Are feelings of sadness, disconnection, and fear getting in the way of following the path that you want? I utilize an approach that's focused on acceptance and change to help you overcome obstacles in your life. Learn how to let go of your struggles, be more mindful, and clarify what really matters so you can start committing to living a full and vibrant life. I provide a safe and compassionate place to unpack the burdens that you have been carrying, and will sit with you in your experience without being critical or judgmental.
Do you want to have a more balanced life? Are feelings of sadness, disconnection, and fear getting in the way of following the path that you want? I utilize an approach that's focused on acceptance and change to help you overcome obstacles in your life. Learn how to let go of your struggles, be more mindful, and clarify what really matters so you can start committing to living a full and vibrant life. I provide a safe and compassionate place to unpack the burdens that you have been carrying, and will sit with you in your experience without being critical or judgmental.
(678) 929-2962 View (678) 929-2962
Photo of Hafsa Ahmed, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor
Hafsa Ahmed
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chamblee, GA 30341  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Embracing a holistic view of human psychology, I incorporate several modalities into my work with clients including CBT, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based approaches. I seek to help individuals identify and use their own unique strengths to experience empowerment, find new ways to cope and build resiliency to stress and anxiety, all while finding meaning in their narratives and regaining control of their lives through self-care; leaving them feeling centered, balanced, and confident. The therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process in which the therapist and client work together to bring positive change and growth.
Embracing a holistic view of human psychology, I incorporate several modalities into my work with clients including CBT, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based approaches. I seek to help individuals identify and use their own unique strengths to experience empowerment, find new ways to cope and build resiliency to stress and anxiety, all while finding meaning in their narratives and regaining control of their lives through self-care; leaving them feeling centered, balanced, and confident. The therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process in which the therapist and client work together to bring positive change and growth.
(678) 928-5588 View (678) 928-5588

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jocelyn Chen Wise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn Chen Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with caregivers who have loved ones experiencing dementia or other serious illness.
I truly believe it is never too late to learn about yourself and take steps toward a full, meaningful life. We may be a good match if you are experiencing anxiety, life transitions, grief or loss, or if you want to increase kindness, compassion, and care toward yourself (yes, yourself!) and others. I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which integrates mindfulness, personal values, and taking active steps to get unstuck. My clients find that it is very possible to learn skills to reduce anxiety, improve communication, and change unhelpful life patterns.
I have many years of experience working with caregivers who have loved ones experiencing dementia or other serious illness.
I truly believe it is never too late to learn about yourself and take steps toward a full, meaningful life. We may be a good match if you are experiencing anxiety, life transitions, grief or loss, or if you want to increase kindness, compassion, and care toward yourself (yes, yourself!) and others. I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which integrates mindfulness, personal values, and taking active steps to get unstuck. My clients find that it is very possible to learn skills to reduce anxiety, improve communication, and change unhelpful life patterns.
(404) 574-5077 View (404) 574-5077
Photo of Stephanie Barnhart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Barnhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I work with curious and eager adults and seniors in the Decatur, GA area who are struggling with anxiety, depression, mid-life transitions, and aging so that they can stop spinning their wheels and can get on to the business of living their lives.
You've been struggling to keep up with the demands of your life. You've been comparing yourself to others and wondering if you're overexaggerating your problems. You're starting to wonder if healing is even possible for you. But what if I told you that I know a secret about you? One that other people in your life know, but that you clearly do not.... YOU are the HERO of your own story.
I work with curious and eager adults and seniors in the Decatur, GA area who are struggling with anxiety, depression, mid-life transitions, and aging so that they can stop spinning their wheels and can get on to the business of living their lives.
You've been struggling to keep up with the demands of your life. You've been comparing yourself to others and wondering if you're overexaggerating your problems. You're starting to wonder if healing is even possible for you. But what if I told you that I know a secret about you? One that other people in your life know, but that you clearly do not.... YOU are the HERO of your own story.
(470) 472-9849 View (470) 472-9849
Photo of Lucretia DuBose, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucretia DuBose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
My specialty is in 20 years of helping the aging community with various situations and families care for loved ones with dementia.
Throughout my life I have wanted to help others. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My desire is to meet you where you are and go through this journey by your side. I will first listen, without judgment, to you and then tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Client review: "Lucretia is a wonderful women in and out, her caring heart shone through every session, her questions were always very deep and helped me get to the root of things. She helped guide me to who I am now."
My specialty is in 20 years of helping the aging community with various situations and families care for loved ones with dementia.
Throughout my life I have wanted to help others. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My desire is to meet you where you are and go through this journey by your side. I will first listen, without judgment, to you and then tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Client review: "Lucretia is a wonderful women in and out, her caring heart shone through every session, her questions were always very deep and helped me get to the root of things. She helped guide me to who I am now."
(678) 535-3279 View (678) 535-3279
Photo of Kelly C. Morgan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly C. Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
During my 20 years as a social worker, I’ve been honored to help older adults and their families adapt & cope with age-related stressors & challenges in ways that recognize the importance of one’s internal and external resources.
“Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength." Betty Friedan. This quote succinctly captures the crossroads we all face, as we age: one can look back with a sense of loss and remorse or one can move forward with hope and inspiration for a better now. Friedan chooses the path towards opportunity and strength. Which path would you like to take? How does one face the myriad of changes that this stage of life presents? Grief & loss. A changing body & mind. Retirement & new freedoms. Family relationships & caregiver concerns. What support would you like along this complex and often unpredictable path?
During my 20 years as a social worker, I’ve been honored to help older adults and their families adapt & cope with age-related stressors & challenges in ways that recognize the importance of one’s internal and external resources.
“Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength." Betty Friedan. This quote succinctly captures the crossroads we all face, as we age: one can look back with a sense of loss and remorse or one can move forward with hope and inspiration for a better now. Friedan chooses the path towards opportunity and strength. Which path would you like to take? How does one face the myriad of changes that this stage of life presents? Grief & loss. A changing body & mind. Retirement & new freedoms. Family relationships & caregiver concerns. What support would you like along this complex and often unpredictable path?
(678) 661-3662 View (678) 661-3662
Photo of Samantha Rae Pasko, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Rae Pasko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
I am passionate about leading families, individuals, and couples through the journey of healing and empowerment. I specialize in mental health counseling for adult and teenage individuals, veterans, older adults, and couples counseling. My goal is to build a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients and work together to meet their identified goals by using experiential, attachment-based, and cognitive behavioral interventions.
I am passionate about leading families, individuals, and couples through the journey of healing and empowerment. I specialize in mental health counseling for adult and teenage individuals, veterans, older adults, and couples counseling. My goal is to build a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients and work together to meet their identified goals by using experiential, attachment-based, and cognitive behavioral interventions.
(678) 990-1380 View (678) 990-1380
Photo of Stephanie Lynn Roach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Lynn Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Building on over 20 years of nonprofit social work with older adults and families, I am committed to a clinical practice that focuses on serving this unique population. I believe that growing older is a process of continual growth and that seeking therapy as a part of that growth is good for your health, your relationships, and your life. In my work with family caregivers, I provide critical emotional and practical support to help you to better cope with the challenges of supporting an older family member while setting good boundaries and practicing essential self care.
Building on over 20 years of nonprofit social work with older adults and families, I am committed to a clinical practice that focuses on serving this unique population. I believe that growing older is a process of continual growth and that seeking therapy as a part of that growth is good for your health, your relationships, and your life. In my work with family caregivers, I provide critical emotional and practical support to help you to better cope with the challenges of supporting an older family member while setting good boundaries and practicing essential self care.
(678) 573-4651 View (678) 573-4651
Photo of Sherian Alecia Sharomi - Renewed Mental Health Senior Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewed Mental Health Senior Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30093
Treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, family conflict, caregiver issues, adjustment to illness/disability, and transitional life changes with the geriatric population.
We are a group of Licensed Clinical Social Workers approved with Medicare, Medicaid, and other private insurance companies to provide mental health services. As a team, we have all individually gained much experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, family conflict, caregiver issues, adjustment to illness/disability, and transitional life changes. We can help provide you or your loved one with the necessary skills, support, and psychotherapy services to improve their quality of life and create a Renewed sense of wellbeing. We are a mobile team who will take our care to where ever you are!!
Treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, family conflict, caregiver issues, adjustment to illness/disability, and transitional life changes with the geriatric population.
We are a group of Licensed Clinical Social Workers approved with Medicare, Medicaid, and other private insurance companies to provide mental health services. As a team, we have all individually gained much experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, family conflict, caregiver issues, adjustment to illness/disability, and transitional life changes. We can help provide you or your loved one with the necessary skills, support, and psychotherapy services to improve their quality of life and create a Renewed sense of wellbeing. We are a mobile team who will take our care to where ever you are!!
(404) 975-2601 View (404) 975-2601
Photo of David Mueller, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30341
Additionally, I have a unique passion to work with older adults as individuals or in relationships, and have extensive experience in this area.
Do you need a safe place to have those difficult conversations as a couple or as an individual? What do you need to talk about but are just "afraid to go there"? Has nagging or snipping at each other become a daily ritual? Emotions keep us from facing our challenges, and lead to avoidance of conflict or limit insight that is necessary for personal or relationship growth. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental, and open space to explore new perspectives and reframe old thoughts and behaviors that may have worked in the past, but are now part of the problem.
Additionally, I have a unique passion to work with older adults as individuals or in relationships, and have extensive experience in this area.
Do you need a safe place to have those difficult conversations as a couple or as an individual? What do you need to talk about but are just "afraid to go there"? Has nagging or snipping at each other become a daily ritual? Emotions keep us from facing our challenges, and lead to avoidance of conflict or limit insight that is necessary for personal or relationship growth. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental, and open space to explore new perspectives and reframe old thoughts and behaviors that may have worked in the past, but are now part of the problem.
(770) 769-1353 View (770) 769-1353
Photo of Vonetta M Dotson - CerebroFit LLC, PhD, Psychologist
CerebroFit LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
Am I losing my memory? Do I have Alzheimer's disease? How can I keep my mind sharp? These are questions that I hear on a regular basis from my clients. We launched CerebroFit Integrated Brain Health to address these questions. Our company is based on research showing that healthy behaviors such as exercise, good nutrition, and treating mental illness are linked to better memory and cognitive functioning as we age, and can even slow down or prevent Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia.
Am I losing my memory? Do I have Alzheimer's disease? How can I keep my mind sharp? These are questions that I hear on a regular basis from my clients. We launched CerebroFit Integrated Brain Health to address these questions. Our company is based on research showing that healthy behaviors such as exercise, good nutrition, and treating mental illness are linked to better memory and cognitive functioning as we age, and can even slow down or prevent Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia.
(678) 329-9355 View (678) 329-9355
Photo of Chris Dorsey, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Dorsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Led by a deep curiosity of the human condition and my own experience in complex life transitions, medical social work, palliative care, both in hospice and my own father's journey with dementia, I whole heartedly guide clients through the most challenging of circumstances while also transforming their lives.
Feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when outcomes do not meet your expectations? Burdened with strong emotions that continually cause reactivity and negative consequences? Experiencing pain and suffering from a recent loss of a loved one, job, relationship or even a pet? Clients need a clinician skilled at providing a safe space in which their pain is validated and their nervous system can relax in order to further explore issues at-hand. I take great pride in providing that environment. Someone did that for me and it transformed my life. It would be a privilege to do the same for you.
Led by a deep curiosity of the human condition and my own experience in complex life transitions, medical social work, palliative care, both in hospice and my own father's journey with dementia, I whole heartedly guide clients through the most challenging of circumstances while also transforming their lives.
Feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when outcomes do not meet your expectations? Burdened with strong emotions that continually cause reactivity and negative consequences? Experiencing pain and suffering from a recent loss of a loved one, job, relationship or even a pet? Clients need a clinician skilled at providing a safe space in which their pain is validated and their nervous system can relax in order to further explore issues at-hand. I take great pride in providing that environment. Someone did that for me and it transformed my life. It would be a privilege to do the same for you.
(404) 309-5789 View (404) 309-5789
Photo of Diana Hope-Baker - Hope Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
My work has also allowed me to support older adults with truama, infertility,and depression.
Are you feeling stuck are you looking for a way to build momentum? Many times life transitions, feelings of loneliness, isolation, sadness, and anxiety can lead to one feeling unable to get the traction needed to be able to accomplish many of the goals they have set for themselves. My eclectic approach to psychotherapy can support you during this journey.
My work has also allowed me to support older adults with truama, infertility,and depression.
Are you feeling stuck are you looking for a way to build momentum? Many times life transitions, feelings of loneliness, isolation, sadness, and anxiety can lead to one feeling unable to get the traction needed to be able to accomplish many of the goals they have set for themselves. My eclectic approach to psychotherapy can support you during this journey.
(678) 329-9523 View (678) 329-9523
Photo of Heather V Youngblood - Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30346
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031
Photo of Shirley Amanda Saar-McPherson, PhD
Shirley Amanda Saar-McPherson
PhD
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30360
My clients have a wide range of reasons for seeking a psychological evaluation. I am able to work in many expert areas and have over 20 years of clinical experience. Adult and child autism and ADHD assessments are offered. I also do forensic evaluations for guardianship, competency, court-ordered evaluations, etc. I also offer neuropsychological evaluations for many concerns such as dementia or TBI. I offer educational/academic evaluations for college students who need accommodations or persons who wish to document a disability and apply for disability.
My clients have a wide range of reasons for seeking a psychological evaluation. I am able to work in many expert areas and have over 20 years of clinical experience. Adult and child autism and ADHD assessments are offered. I also do forensic evaluations for guardianship, competency, court-ordered evaluations, etc. I also offer neuropsychological evaluations for many concerns such as dementia or TBI. I offer educational/academic evaluations for college students who need accommodations or persons who wish to document a disability and apply for disability.
(912) 513-8634 View (912) 513-8634
Photo of Angela McHaney Aderogba, EdD(c), LMSW, LAPSW
Angela McHaney Aderogba
Master Social Work, EdD(c), LMSW, LAPSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
I work with adults, couples, families and older adults.
Greetings! My ideal clients are one who may be at a crossroad, who may be struggling with balancing life, trying to manage stress, depression and/or anxiety, establishing and maintaining boundaries, one who may want to change careers or one who may be currently going through a divorce or struggling with his/her sexual dysfunction or fantasies. I have many years of clinical experience working with the aforementioned, caregivers of aging parents, veterans, parenting support, coaching, empowering and reality testing. I encourage you to step outside of your comfort zone and allow me to assist with identifying and reaching your goal(s).
I work with adults, couples, families and older adults.
Greetings! My ideal clients are one who may be at a crossroad, who may be struggling with balancing life, trying to manage stress, depression and/or anxiety, establishing and maintaining boundaries, one who may want to change careers or one who may be currently going through a divorce or struggling with his/her sexual dysfunction or fantasies. I have many years of clinical experience working with the aforementioned, caregivers of aging parents, veterans, parenting support, coaching, empowering and reality testing. I encourage you to step outside of your comfort zone and allow me to assist with identifying and reaching your goal(s).
(678) 672-6355 View (678) 672-6355
Photo of Lyresa McGriff - Forensic Evaluations | Board Certified, LPC, CCFMHE, CAMSII, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Forensic Evaluations | Board Certified
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCFMHE, CAMSII, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I work with Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Seniors and Veterans struggling with difficulties that causes anxiety & depression, family and/or marital distress and many other factors that impede on enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
We provide court approved Forensic Evaluations for substance use, anger management and psychological testing services. We are a trusted provider offering a comprehensive range of court mandated and employer mandated services. These services include alcohol and drug evaluations, anger management evaluations, SAP Evaluations, mental health evaluations, anger management classes, shoplifting prevention classes. MRT program is available as well.
I work with Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Seniors and Veterans struggling with difficulties that causes anxiety & depression, family and/or marital distress and many other factors that impede on enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
We provide court approved Forensic Evaluations for substance use, anger management and psychological testing services. We are a trusted provider offering a comprehensive range of court mandated and employer mandated services. These services include alcohol and drug evaluations, anger management evaluations, SAP Evaluations, mental health evaluations, anger management classes, shoplifting prevention classes. MRT program is available as well.
(678) 971-2359 View (678) 971-2359
Photo of Dana Evans, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on providing evidence-based treatment for adults, of all ages, with a variety of concerns. I enjoy helping people with emotional and behavioral health issues improve their sense of well-being, alleviate feelings of distress, resolve concerns and live a better life. I have over 20 years of experience working in multiple mental & behavioral health environments to include inpatient, out-patient, military, substance abuse, geriatric and employment settings.
My practice focuses on providing evidence-based treatment for adults, of all ages, with a variety of concerns. I enjoy helping people with emotional and behavioral health issues improve their sense of well-being, alleviate feelings of distress, resolve concerns and live a better life. I have over 20 years of experience working in multiple mental & behavioral health environments to include inpatient, out-patient, military, substance abuse, geriatric and employment settings.
(470) 486-9857 View (470) 486-9857
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.