Dementia Therapists in Gainesville, GA
![Photo of Vanessa A Schaeffer, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2c7a2c0-d7c2-4578-aea1-cf9187b1bbf9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help the people who love and care for older adults.
I specialize in working with adults 65 and older and individuals of any age who are providing caregiving for those adults. My goal is to help older adults enhance functioning and support meaningful relationships. I work to help people find meaning in difficult times; to deal with medical conditions that alter life; to manage traumatic loss; to transition in living situations and to navigate changes in independence. I am here to help identify the best possible resources to assist you and help guide you as you face challenges. I offer support and education for caregivers and I teach strategies to help them stay healthy and well.
I help the people who love and care for older adults.
I specialize in working with adults 65 and older and individuals of any age who are providing caregiving for those adults. My goal is to help older adults enhance functioning and support meaningful relationships. I work to help people find meaning in difficult times; to deal with medical conditions that alter life; to manage traumatic loss; to transition in living situations and to navigate changes in independence. I am here to help identify the best possible resources to assist you and help guide you as you face challenges. I offer support and education for caregivers and I teach strategies to help them stay healthy and well.
![Photo of Margaret Amoss, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498f5016-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Amoss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, GA 30506 (Online Only)
I work with a wide variety of clients, from younger to older adults, across cultures, and LGBTQ. I am skilled at helping with issues including addiction, anger management, relationship problems, parenting, anxiety and depression, trauma, and more.
I work with a wide variety of clients, from younger to older adults, across cultures, and LGBTQ. I am skilled at helping with issues including addiction, anger management, relationship problems, parenting, anxiety and depression, trauma, and more.
![Photo of Grant Bright, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d53ac59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Spring is here. Is your energy ready? Is your mood ready? Maybe you had a "bump on the head," and headaches afterward? Anxiety, poor concentration, depression, and poor sleep can be helped with a "brain tune up." This is a non-invasive, non medication approach to making thing better.
Spring is here. Is your energy ready? Is your mood ready? Maybe you had a "bump on the head," and headaches afterward? Anxiety, poor concentration, depression, and poor sleep can be helped with a "brain tune up." This is a non-invasive, non medication approach to making thing better.
![Photo of Gina Wright Parris - Gina Parris LMFT, LLC, EdS, MSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bd77064-9330-4282-9713-aedc1b7f416a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gina Parris LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, MSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gainesville, GA 30506 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I strive to create a safe space in which every person feels respected and comfortable sharing their struggles. Many persons who come to me for treatment are having trouble with relationships, mood or anxiety problems, career issues or work stress, or parenting and blended family difficulties. I listen and give feedback to help you tap into your inner strengths and resources in approaching problems. I assist you in setting goals for therapy and work to provide research based tools and techniques to best meet those goals.I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, couples, and families of all configurations.
Hello and welcome! I strive to create a safe space in which every person feels respected and comfortable sharing their struggles. Many persons who come to me for treatment are having trouble with relationships, mood or anxiety problems, career issues or work stress, or parenting and blended family difficulties. I listen and give feedback to help you tap into your inner strengths and resources in approaching problems. I assist you in setting goals for therapy and work to provide research based tools and techniques to best meet those goals.I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, couples, and families of all configurations.
![Photo of Debby L Lazarine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a737040f-1613-4b3c-9b51-c8813ebf1cde/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with direct experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing a wide range of modalities in order to maximize a person-centered approach. I received a Master’s degree in Social Work in December 2016 from Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, TN. In 2018, my family and I relocated to South Georgia.Since then, I worked with adolescents at Donalsonville Hospital Behavioral Health Unit, and I completed the Georgia required hours to become an LCSW in September 2020.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with direct experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, utilizing a wide range of modalities in order to maximize a person-centered approach. I received a Master’s degree in Social Work in December 2016 from Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, TN. In 2018, my family and I relocated to South Georgia.Since then, I worked with adolescents at Donalsonville Hospital Behavioral Health Unit, and I completed the Georgia required hours to become an LCSW in September 2020.
![Photo of Rees Chapman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b94c56-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I regard much of 'psychopathology' as well-intended (but ineffective) efforts to contend with pain and fear, and to pursue needs and wants. So, in psychotherapy, I invite my clients to explore, identify, and take guidance from their emotional experiences, honoring their depression, anxiety, and other symptoms while finding more effective ways of living well. I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessments.
I regard much of 'psychopathology' as well-intended (but ineffective) efforts to contend with pain and fear, and to pursue needs and wants. So, in psychotherapy, I invite my clients to explore, identify, and take guidance from their emotional experiences, honoring their depression, anxiety, and other symptoms while finding more effective ways of living well. I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessments.
![Photo of Barbara Tamayo, LPC, LMHC, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d5564c5-b351-4726-89e7-98bb57e98f9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
For some people, therapy is scary. I understand that. We will work through that & I will work hard to make sure that you are comfortable talking with me. Cuss if you want to. Cry if you want to. It changes nothing about our dynamic or my desire to help you. If you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and unhappy, let's work on changing that, together, so you can live the best life you were meant to live! Let's get to work. I can't wait to meet you!
For some people, therapy is scary. I understand that. We will work through that & I will work hard to make sure that you are comfortable talking with me. Cuss if you want to. Cry if you want to. It changes nothing about our dynamic or my desire to help you. If you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and unhappy, let's work on changing that, together, so you can live the best life you were meant to live! Let's get to work. I can't wait to meet you!
Online Therapists
![Photo of Jocelyn Chen Wise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94cdc729-c7bd-43be-ae65-bee9142abfeb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Chen Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
![Photo of Margaret Amoss, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2255266-9db1-4fcc-a999-a0b0f71667a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Amoss
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (Online Only)
I also worked for some years with older adults in an intensive outpatient facility at a hospital.
Even during the best of times navigating the complexities and demands of life can be challenging, and at this time in history we all face life situations for which we may not be entirely equipped. Despite the news of the day in the world around us, now is always a good time to begin a journey of healing. Such a journey brings new perspective and also reveals hidden strengths and skills. Thus, in addition to resolving issues I also see as a goal of counseling for clients to find increased meaning and joy in life. In 2009 I graduated from Brenau University with a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling.
I also worked for some years with older adults in an intensive outpatient facility at a hospital.
Even during the best of times navigating the complexities and demands of life can be challenging, and at this time in history we all face life situations for which we may not be entirely equipped. Despite the news of the day in the world around us, now is always a good time to begin a journey of healing. Such a journey brings new perspective and also reveals hidden strengths and skills. Thus, in addition to resolving issues I also see as a goal of counseling for clients to find increased meaning and joy in life. In 2009 I graduated from Brenau University with a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling.
![Photo of Megan Roberson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8b73bba-6f18-4a80-a95b-d4b6cefaeca5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adults, older adults, caregivers, and those coping with depression, anxiety, isolation, family stress, and severe and chronic illness.
I seek to create a safe and supportive environment in which clients can navigate life's transitions and challenges using mindfulness, self-compassion, and values-driven action. I teach mindfulness skills and self-compassion to help clients learn new ways to respond to difficult thoughts and life's challenges and help clients pivot their actions to focus on what matters to the client as an individual. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy,
I specialize in working with adults, older adults, caregivers, and those coping with depression, anxiety, isolation, family stress, and severe and chronic illness.
I seek to create a safe and supportive environment in which clients can navigate life's transitions and challenges using mindfulness, self-compassion, and values-driven action. I teach mindfulness skills and self-compassion to help clients learn new ways to respond to difficult thoughts and life's challenges and help clients pivot their actions to focus on what matters to the client as an individual. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy,
![Photo of Zainab Delawalla, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46935a99-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also offer neuropsychological testing for attention disorders, memory complaints, concussion, stroke, seizures, substance use, and oncological treatments.
I work collaboratively with people who struggle to manage depressive thoughts or are caught in a cycle of anxiety and avoidance. There are no magic cures but I believe developing self-awareness about what drives your behavior and challenging automatic thoughts are important components of therapy. I have experience in working with people from diverse backgrounds and dealing with cultural and identity issues. My goal is to equip you with the tools you need to optimize functioning and enhance well being.
I also offer neuropsychological testing for attention disorders, memory complaints, concussion, stroke, seizures, substance use, and oncological treatments.
I work collaboratively with people who struggle to manage depressive thoughts or are caught in a cycle of anxiety and avoidance. There are no magic cures but I believe developing self-awareness about what drives your behavior and challenging automatic thoughts are important components of therapy. I have experience in working with people from diverse backgrounds and dealing with cultural and identity issues. My goal is to equip you with the tools you need to optimize functioning and enhance well being.
![Photo of Vonetta M Dotson - CerebroFit LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25a7ffa8-140b-4e19-9632-152923f53681/2/320x400.jpeg)
Contact us if you are concerned about your memory or thinking skills, or if you are interested in starting and maintaining a brain healthy lifestyle.
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.
Contact us if you are concerned about your memory or thinking skills, or if you are interested in starting and maintaining a brain healthy lifestyle.
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.
![Photo of Samantha Rae Pasko, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f362e59-cb3e-4af1-b34f-980fe0072e8c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Rae Pasko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
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.
![Photo of Michele Price, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cfdef90-de52-48f3-95d4-ede21f29f72d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I primarily treat adults with functional neurological disorders, specifically functional seizures (PNES). I treat a wide range of mental health disorders, grief, and chronic illness. I have worked with clients and families who have neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, dementia, and movement disorders. It's my goal to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable, be your authentic self, and can share openly without fear. You'll find our work together to be supportive and encouraging.
I primarily treat adults with functional neurological disorders, specifically functional seizures (PNES). I treat a wide range of mental health disorders, grief, and chronic illness. I have worked with clients and families who have neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, dementia, and movement disorders. It's my goal to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable, be your authentic self, and can share openly without fear. You'll find our work together to be supportive and encouraging.
![Photo of Angela McHaney Aderogba, EdD(c), LMSW, LAPSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5df9dc-9b44-421d-aa60-62c2ff46be35/2/320x400.png)
Angela McHaney Aderogba
Master Social Work, EdD(c), LMSW, LAPSW
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30135 (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).
![Photo of LaWunmie Semore - Dr.SemoreDNP Psychiatric NP, DNP, AGNP-CB, PMHNP-B](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2f1aeb9-b7aa-48c8-bb53-eedcde5fb22f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr.SemoreDNP Psychiatric NP
Registered Professional Nurse, DNP, AGNP-CB, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Specialties Medication Management, Issues ADHD , Alzheimer's Anxiety ADD, ADHD, Behavioral Issues, Chronic Illness, Chronic Pain, Coping Skills, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Self Esteem issues, Sleep or Insomnia, Stress Trauma.
Dr. Ogun-Semore- DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP-BC- Treat ACROSS LIFESPAN. In my line of profession and with expertise, I explain pathophysiology of the condition and how medications work, use a rating scale and evidenced-based treatments to support my diagnosis. The services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, chronic depression resisitant to other treatment options and modalities, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, PTSD, memory impairment, ADHD.....etc
Specialties Medication Management, Issues ADHD , Alzheimer's Anxiety ADD, ADHD, Behavioral Issues, Chronic Illness, Chronic Pain, Coping Skills, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Self Esteem issues, Sleep or Insomnia, Stress Trauma.
Dr. Ogun-Semore- DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP-BC- Treat ACROSS LIFESPAN. In my line of profession and with expertise, I explain pathophysiology of the condition and how medications work, use a rating scale and evidenced-based treatments to support my diagnosis. The services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, chronic depression resisitant to other treatment options and modalities, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, PTSD, memory impairment, ADHD.....etc
![Photo of Christine McGrew, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e8f9422-6c10-4b86-a04f-3cd75fb70ae0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine McGrew
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308 (Online Only)
My ultimate goal is to collaborate with you in achieving your desired outcomes, whether that involves alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, dementia support, or enhancing overall quality of life.
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings, sadness, persistent worry, or dealing with a loved one with dementia? I can help with a compassionate and effective therapeutic approach to navigate these difficulties. In my practice, I specialize in addressing the complex needs of individuals with depression, anxiety, and dementia-related challenges. Through a blend of person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I offer a unique framework that honors each individual's experiences and fosters practical strategies for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
My ultimate goal is to collaborate with you in achieving your desired outcomes, whether that involves alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, dementia support, or enhancing overall quality of life.
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings, sadness, persistent worry, or dealing with a loved one with dementia? I can help with a compassionate and effective therapeutic approach to navigate these difficulties. In my practice, I specialize in addressing the complex needs of individuals with depression, anxiety, and dementia-related challenges. Through a blend of person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I offer a unique framework that honors each individual's experiences and fosters practical strategies for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
![Photo of Jenny Barwick, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f854d24-9a87-4b27-a1a2-91167083e35a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Barwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I specialize in depression treatment among different populations- infertility, PMADs (perinatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders), depression, grief, older adults, and caregiving.
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.
I specialize in depression treatment among different populations- infertility, PMADs (perinatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders), depression, grief, older adults, and caregiving.
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.
![Photo of Lucretia DuBose, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8414d22-bf1a-44c0-b8a3-f0401985460b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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."
![Photo of Kelly C. Morgan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54489ff6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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?
See more therapy options for Gainesville
Nearby Dementia Therapists Searches for Gainesville
See More Dementia TherapistsDementia 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.