Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of John Palen, PhD, LCSW
John Palen
PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Clients often feel discouraged as they attempt to navigate the inevitable challenges of life. We'll identify how you can learn to tackle obstacles to becoming a more aware and engaged partner, parent, co-parent and grandparent. Much of my practice involves working with older people, as well as coaching men experiencing the difficulties of a complicated divorce. I also provide co-parenting consultation. In addition, my practice involves working with adolescents and men struggling with their sexuality, as well as with fathers and sons in conflict, and elders who seek guidance related to loss and how best to re-build their lives.
Clients often feel discouraged as they attempt to navigate the inevitable challenges of life. We'll identify how you can learn to tackle obstacles to becoming a more aware and engaged partner, parent, co-parent and grandparent. Much of my practice involves working with older people, as well as coaching men experiencing the difficulties of a complicated divorce. I also provide co-parenting consultation. In addition, my practice involves working with adolescents and men struggling with their sexuality, as well as with fathers and sons in conflict, and elders who seek guidance related to loss and how best to re-build their lives.
(847) 282-0722 View (847) 282-0722
Photo of Susan Swanson - CJE SeniorLife, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CJE SeniorLife
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645
We strive to assist older adults to improve their emotional well-being and ultimately their quality of life.
CJE Counseling Services is staffed by a team of highly skilled Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) who are specialists in the field of mental health and aging. We are dedicated to assisting older adults find more effective strategies to manage challenging life situations.
We strive to assist older adults to improve their emotional well-being and ultimately their quality of life.
CJE Counseling Services is staffed by a team of highly skilled Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) who are specialists in the field of mental health and aging. We are dedicated to assisting older adults find more effective strategies to manage challenging life situations.
(224) 267-9762 View (224) 267-9762
Photo of Alicia Wilson-Thomas, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Wilson-Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Alicia has an expressed passion for providing services to older adult populations (55+).
Alicia is an EMDR trained licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Alicia specializes in trauma-focused therapies, working with diverse age groups and family systems across the Chicagoland communities.
Alicia has an expressed passion for providing services to older adult populations (55+).
Alicia is an EMDR trained licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with certification in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Alicia specializes in trauma-focused therapies, working with diverse age groups and family systems across the Chicagoland communities.
(773) 345-6471 View (773) 345-6471
Photo of Lisa Campbell, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Campbell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
Since writing a personal history of my Irish grandmother, I have felt drawn to helping older adults and their families tell and share their life stories.
Aging can be difficult--whether your own or in people you love. You might be grieving the loss of treasured relationships, frustrated with declining health, struggling with caregiving and changing roles ... or simply wanting to age gracefully. Many people experience worry, depression, and anger at times like this; others feel tired or overwhelmed; few know where to turn for information and guidance you can trust, from people who might understand. Aging is my specialty, and I would like the chance to help you reach some peace with your midlife crisis, life transition, grief or pain, caregiving, ... your life.
Since writing a personal history of my Irish grandmother, I have felt drawn to helping older adults and their families tell and share their life stories.
Aging can be difficult--whether your own or in people you love. You might be grieving the loss of treasured relationships, frustrated with declining health, struggling with caregiving and changing roles ... or simply wanting to age gracefully. Many people experience worry, depression, and anger at times like this; others feel tired or overwhelmed; few know where to turn for information and guidance you can trust, from people who might understand. Aging is my specialty, and I would like the chance to help you reach some peace with your midlife crisis, life transition, grief or pain, caregiving, ... your life.
(224) 676-9539 View (224) 676-9539
Photo of Brittany Lueken, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Lueken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Have you been personally affected by dementia, either as a caregiver or someone who has memory concerns? I can help with an empathetic and practical approach. I also welcome other family members into a "family session" so that we can agree on what path works best for you. Stress, depression, and anxiety often effect both individuals who have been diagnosed with dementia and their care partners. Alleviating stress and navigating the day-to-day challenges that come with life changes are my specialty. If you have memory concerns or care for someone who does and would like to talk to someone, I am here to help!
Have you been personally affected by dementia, either as a caregiver or someone who has memory concerns? I can help with an empathetic and practical approach. I also welcome other family members into a "family session" so that we can agree on what path works best for you. Stress, depression, and anxiety often effect both individuals who have been diagnosed with dementia and their care partners. Alleviating stress and navigating the day-to-day challenges that come with life changes are my specialty. If you have memory concerns or care for someone who does and would like to talk to someone, I am here to help!
(314) 937-6514 View (314) 937-6514
Photo of Deneen Amanda Holmes, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deneen Amanda Holmes
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653
However, I am also a Licensed Practical Nurse as well as a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
Hi! I’m Deneen Holmes and I like using humor to help my clients feel connected and safe. Everyone can benefit from having someone listen to them with patience, empathy, and understanding. When we bear witness to another’s experience, we help them feel seen and cared for as individuals. This type of connection allows us to work through tough times more easily. I approach sessions with clients by understanding, it is okay to not be okay. My goal is to provide the space to show up and work towards the goals they have for themselves and their lives, which creates a calm yet motivating atmosphere to pave the way for healing and comfort.
However, I am also a Licensed Practical Nurse as well as a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
Hi! I’m Deneen Holmes and I like using humor to help my clients feel connected and safe. Everyone can benefit from having someone listen to them with patience, empathy, and understanding. When we bear witness to another’s experience, we help them feel seen and cared for as individuals. This type of connection allows us to work through tough times more easily. I approach sessions with clients by understanding, it is okay to not be okay. My goal is to provide the space to show up and work towards the goals they have for themselves and their lives, which creates a calm yet motivating atmosphere to pave the way for healing and comfort.
(312) 465-4712 View (312) 465-4712
Photo of Shelly Quiles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly Quiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
I am a caring and compassionate therapist with experience working with Black and Brown youth, young adults, middle aged adults and seniors. I am passionate about social justice and work to continue building my own cultural responsiveness. I consider my practice trauma informed in order to elevate the growth, resiliency, and healing of my clients. I treat clients who are seeking to manage their suffering, and may struggle with depression, anxiety, stress management, searching for identity and meaning, relationship issues, low self-concept, sexual/physical and emotional abuse, neglect, traumatic events and racial stress/trauma.
I am a caring and compassionate therapist with experience working with Black and Brown youth, young adults, middle aged adults and seniors. I am passionate about social justice and work to continue building my own cultural responsiveness. I consider my practice trauma informed in order to elevate the growth, resiliency, and healing of my clients. I treat clients who are seeking to manage their suffering, and may struggle with depression, anxiety, stress management, searching for identity and meaning, relationship issues, low self-concept, sexual/physical and emotional abuse, neglect, traumatic events and racial stress/trauma.
(872) 204-0145 View (872) 204-0145
Photo of Theresa Patton, LCPC, Counselor
Theresa Patton
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
My primary objective is to offer support and treatment to adults, seniors, and families who are seeking help for their mental health and addiction disorders.
I am a licensed clinical and rehabilitation therapist based in Illinois, with over two decades of experience in treating mood disorders, anxiety, family systems, and addiction or substance misuse.
My primary objective is to offer support and treatment to adults, seniors, and families who are seeking help for their mental health and addiction disorders.
I am a licensed clinical and rehabilitation therapist based in Illinois, with over two decades of experience in treating mood disorders, anxiety, family systems, and addiction or substance misuse.
(224) 347-6715 View (224) 347-6715
Photo of Sungsim Lee, MSW, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sungsim Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
She has work experience with children, adolescents, and older adults in Korean and American communities.
Sungsim believes that all human beings are born with spirituality that can be expressed in religious or non-religious ways. Discovering, recovering, and nurturing spiritual capacity related to finding meaning, purpose, connection, and well-being is a primary goal with her clients. She is committed to spiritually sensitive practice and education for developing human potential and social justice.
She has work experience with children, adolescents, and older adults in Korean and American communities.
Sungsim believes that all human beings are born with spirituality that can be expressed in religious or non-religious ways. Discovering, recovering, and nurturing spiritual capacity related to finding meaning, purpose, connection, and well-being is a primary goal with her clients. She is committed to spiritually sensitive practice and education for developing human potential and social justice.
(312) 598-1139 View (312) 598-1139
Photo of Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I specifically specialize in working with the elderly and their caregivers.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
I specifically specialize in working with the elderly and their caregivers.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
(708) 887-2158 View (708) 887-2158
Photo of Karen Glaza, LCSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Glaza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612  (Online Only)
I am an empathetic and reliable therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth only. In addition to Illinois, I am also licensed in Arizona, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri and Texas. It takes courage to understand the circumstances of our personal journeys. I provide a safe and collaborative environment to help client's identify concerns, establish achievable goals, and provide support and encouragement towards higher functioning. I empower my clients to identify their own strengths, experiences, and interpersonal relationships to help guide them to positive change.
I am an empathetic and reliable therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth only. In addition to Illinois, I am also licensed in Arizona, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri and Texas. It takes courage to understand the circumstances of our personal journeys. I provide a safe and collaborative environment to help client's identify concerns, establish achievable goals, and provide support and encouragement towards higher functioning. I empower my clients to identify their own strengths, experiences, and interpersonal relationships to help guide them to positive change.
(312) 217-2259 View (312) 217-2259
Photo of Jeffrey J Shore - Partners For Change, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Partners For Change, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I pay careful attention to the significance and challenge of major developmental transitions: relationship commitment, career choices, decisions regarding children, marriage,divorce and the challenges of dealing with elderly parents.
I am an active, cognitive behavioral therapist who forms strong therapeutic partnerships, laced with humor, gentleness, thoughtful confrontation and the belief that individuals have the right,responsibility and capacity to decide how they want to live. I am both supportive and challenging. I help individuals examine their belief systems, identify strengths, work through barriers to growth and develop specific strategies for modifying their behavior. While I believe that the client is ultimately responsible for life choices, I am actively involved as a consultant, supporter, strategist and trusted advisor.
I pay careful attention to the significance and challenge of major developmental transitions: relationship commitment, career choices, decisions regarding children, marriage,divorce and the challenges of dealing with elderly parents.
I am an active, cognitive behavioral therapist who forms strong therapeutic partnerships, laced with humor, gentleness, thoughtful confrontation and the belief that individuals have the right,responsibility and capacity to decide how they want to live. I am both supportive and challenging. I help individuals examine their belief systems, identify strengths, work through barriers to growth and develop specific strategies for modifying their behavior. While I believe that the client is ultimately responsible for life choices, I am actively involved as a consultant, supporter, strategist and trusted advisor.
(773) 417-5218 x22 View (773) 417-5218 x22
Photo of Lisa Marie Carlson - Carlson Counseling Connection, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlson Counseling Connection
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Our practice works with clients of all ages; whether you are a 6 year old with ADHD, a 17 year old with a history of depression and self-harm, an adult with a PTSD, or an older adult adjusting to life and health changes, We can help you.
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients struggle with a variety of mood disorders and mental health needs. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
Our practice works with clients of all ages; whether you are a 6 year old with ADHD, a 17 year old with a history of depression and self-harm, an adult with a PTSD, or an older adult adjusting to life and health changes, We can help you.
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients struggle with a variety of mood disorders and mental health needs. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
(630) 360-8995 View (630) 360-8995
Photo of Lisa Sniderman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Sniderman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety; depression; grief and loss; young-adult identity challenges; parenting challenges; concerns of midlife and older age; and family-of-origin concerns such as relational trauma and estrangement.
Welcome to therapy! I work from a place of common humanity: everyone has self-defeating behavior, and everyone needs help sometimes. Therapy can help you break free from unhelpful cycles such as avoidance, panic, overthinking, and people-pleasing. It sounds paradoxical, but "fighting" these cycles often creates more pain. Therapy can help you accept and make sense of your struggles, reduce the pain associated with them, and use them as tools for growth. I enjoy helping clients with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, unhealthy relationships, ambivalence about change, life transitions, and mood swings.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety; depression; grief and loss; young-adult identity challenges; parenting challenges; concerns of midlife and older age; and family-of-origin concerns such as relational trauma and estrangement.
Welcome to therapy! I work from a place of common humanity: everyone has self-defeating behavior, and everyone needs help sometimes. Therapy can help you break free from unhelpful cycles such as avoidance, panic, overthinking, and people-pleasing. It sounds paradoxical, but "fighting" these cycles often creates more pain. Therapy can help you accept and make sense of your struggles, reduce the pain associated with them, and use them as tools for growth. I enjoy helping clients with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, unhealthy relationships, ambivalence about change, life transitions, and mood swings.
(872) 266-9521 View (872) 266-9521
Photo of Cassandra Kandah, MS, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Cassandra Kandah
Psychologist, MS, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
(224) 470-8061 View (224) 470-8061
Photo of Hannah Trobe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Trobe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialized in gerontology in my graduate coursework and have extensive experience working with families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Whether it involves utilizing specific therapeutic techniques or just having a safe place to say things out loud, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and affirming therapeutic space in which to explore the challenges and complexities of being human. I practice from a queer-affirming, HAES-informed, harm-reduction lens and specialize in working with folks experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, aging and grief. My therapy style can be described as curious, collaborative and strengths-based.
I specialized in gerontology in my graduate coursework and have extensive experience working with families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Whether it involves utilizing specific therapeutic techniques or just having a safe place to say things out loud, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and affirming therapeutic space in which to explore the challenges and complexities of being human. I practice from a queer-affirming, HAES-informed, harm-reduction lens and specialize in working with folks experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, aging and grief. My therapy style can be described as curious, collaborative and strengths-based.
(872) 266-2545 View (872) 266-2545
Photo of Kelsey Collett, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Collett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My experience has primarily been working with adults and older adults who are coping with anxiety, depression, complex grief, loss (of any kind), end-of-life planning, major life transitions, caregiving stress, and chronic or terminal illness. I am passionate about facilitating empathic conversations which address the social stigma and fear around death and dying, and helping clients identify what it means to have “a good death.” I am also interested in working with young adult (18+) and adult clients, particularly those facing “quarter-life crises,” relationship issues, and difficulty with substance use.
My experience has primarily been working with adults and older adults who are coping with anxiety, depression, complex grief, loss (of any kind), end-of-life planning, major life transitions, caregiving stress, and chronic or terminal illness. I am passionate about facilitating empathic conversations which address the social stigma and fear around death and dying, and helping clients identify what it means to have “a good death.” I am also interested in working with young adult (18+) and adult clients, particularly those facing “quarter-life crises,” relationship issues, and difficulty with substance use.
(773) 825-8707 View (773) 825-8707
Photo of Robin Zazove, LCPC
Robin Zazove
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
After many years working in nursing homes, hospice, and memory care, I am uniquely capable of helping individuals and families navigate aging/end-of-life issues, and have been a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
After many years working in nursing homes, hospice, and memory care, I am uniquely capable of helping individuals and families navigate aging/end-of-life issues, and have been a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
(708) 627-9689 View (708) 627-9689
Photo of Jennifer Stelter, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Stelter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Stelter's most recent area of significant interest has been focused on elderly care.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
Stelter's most recent area of significant interest has been focused on elderly care.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
(312) 551-2404 View (312) 551-2404
Photo of Tytannie Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tytannie Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60653
Tytannie Harris, LCSW is a Clinical Therapist and owner of TMH Behavioral Services, P.C. TMH is comprised of licensed practitioners who are here to guide you through life transitions. TMH is confident in your ability to tap into your inner strength via an environment of compassion and support. We specialize in solution focused and strengths based therapy bringing years of experience working with individuals, couples, seniors, children, adolescents, and families. We are committed to helping you overcome obstacles in your life through transformation of the body, mind and soul. Bilingual therapists available upon request.
Tytannie Harris, LCSW is a Clinical Therapist and owner of TMH Behavioral Services, P.C. TMH is comprised of licensed practitioners who are here to guide you through life transitions. TMH is confident in your ability to tap into your inner strength via an environment of compassion and support. We specialize in solution focused and strengths based therapy bringing years of experience working with individuals, couples, seniors, children, adolescents, and families. We are committed to helping you overcome obstacles in your life through transformation of the body, mind and soul. Bilingual therapists available upon request.
(773) 365-9497 View (773) 365-9497
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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.