Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Rego Park, NY
![Photo of Joseph F. Atanasio, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4711afa7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When working with older adolescents to older adults, I find that combining a person-centered therapy model with CBT, Gestalt, and Mindfulness interventions can be especially helpful.
There are times when we ask ourselves questions we feel we have no answers to: "Why am I not happy?", "How do I improve my life?" and "Will I ever find a solution to this problem that is consistent and stressful?". Have hope! The answers are there inside of you, waiting to be discovered. I strive to support my clients without judgement, challenging those who are ready to explore themes of personal responsibility, meaning, and resolution. Through genuine client/therapist interactions, the emotional impact of trauma, loss, depression, and/or anxiety can be relieved, and answers found.
When working with older adolescents to older adults, I find that combining a person-centered therapy model with CBT, Gestalt, and Mindfulness interventions can be especially helpful.
There are times when we ask ourselves questions we feel we have no answers to: "Why am I not happy?", "How do I improve my life?" and "Will I ever find a solution to this problem that is consistent and stressful?". Have hope! The answers are there inside of you, waiting to be discovered. I strive to support my clients without judgement, challenging those who are ready to explore themes of personal responsibility, meaning, and resolution. Through genuine client/therapist interactions, the emotional impact of trauma, loss, depression, and/or anxiety can be relieved, and answers found.
![Photo of Douglas J Uhlig, PhD, MBA, CASAC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47179739-ec23-4dfa-91ee-94f6a9d42bb8/1/320x400.png)
Within each of us is a deeper or higher self we can contact. Through Meditation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnosis, and Gestalt Therapy, I help people contact this part of themselves, shed negative patterns of behavior, and realize their full potential. I am a psychologist and therapist who focuses on marriage counseling, ADHD, Alcohol and substance abuse, identity formation and parenting issues. I address feelings of emptiness, difficulties in managing emotions, relationships, anger, anxiety and depression in order to increase your level of self-awareness which can be totally life changing. I also do psychological evaluations for court, custody, bariatric and academic achievement.
Within each of us is a deeper or higher self we can contact. Through Meditation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnosis, and Gestalt Therapy, I help people contact this part of themselves, shed negative patterns of behavior, and realize their full potential. I am a psychologist and therapist who focuses on marriage counseling, ADHD, Alcohol and substance abuse, identity formation and parenting issues. I address feelings of emptiness, difficulties in managing emotions, relationships, anger, anxiety and depression in order to increase your level of self-awareness which can be totally life changing. I also do psychological evaluations for court, custody, bariatric and academic achievement.
![Photo of Comprehensive Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/507f53e8-80cc-4a87-8330-b705a8da0cc7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate Availability: 1199, Healthfirst, and Fidelis. Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. We provide teletherapy sessions for maximum scheduling flexibility.
Immediate Availability: 1199, Healthfirst, and Fidelis. Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. We provide teletherapy sessions for maximum scheduling flexibility.
![Photo of Matthew Cordova Frankel, PhD, MA, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45cb5d15-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Cordova Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MA, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rego Park, NY 11374
Perhaps this is the first time you have searched for a therapist and are simply not sure where to start; or perhaps you have met with therapists in the past yet still find yourself wrestling with such stubborn difficulties as depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or self-sabotaging behavior. No matter your history with psychotherapy, current predicament, age, race, or gender, you can feel confident that I will welcome you into treatment with basic compassion, professional competence, and a deep sensitivity to the specific circumstances motivating you to seek help at this time.
Perhaps this is the first time you have searched for a therapist and are simply not sure where to start; or perhaps you have met with therapists in the past yet still find yourself wrestling with such stubborn difficulties as depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, or self-sabotaging behavior. No matter your history with psychotherapy, current predicament, age, race, or gender, you can feel confident that I will welcome you into treatment with basic compassion, professional competence, and a deep sensitivity to the specific circumstances motivating you to seek help at this time.
![Photo of Robert Bergen, MS, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e323b7f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My specialties include the treatment of depression, anxiety, destructive and self-defeating behaviors, and the many unique forms of inner anguish that defy categorization. Within my scope, as well, are the compelling problems generated by situations that were once somehow manageable for the client but have suddenly become overwhelming - a failing relationship, an escalating parenting or school problem, increasing reliance on substances, and others. I have much experience, as well, treating the range of symptoms that commonly accompany significant life changes or transitions such as illness,personal losses, post partum depression, and the impact of aging.
My specialties include the treatment of depression, anxiety, destructive and self-defeating behaviors, and the many unique forms of inner anguish that defy categorization. Within my scope, as well, are the compelling problems generated by situations that were once somehow manageable for the client but have suddenly become overwhelming - a failing relationship, an escalating parenting or school problem, increasing reliance on substances, and others. I have much experience, as well, treating the range of symptoms that commonly accompany significant life changes or transitions such as illness,personal losses, post partum depression, and the impact of aging.
![Photo of Betty S Steinman, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5f241a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my psychotherapy practice, I specialize in eliminating the underlying causes of emotional difficulties and stressful problems. I work with conditions such as anxiety, depression, phobias, trauma, posttraumatic stress, sexual and physical abuse, grief, life purpose and a variety of relationship issues including codependency. Having been trained in powerful and effective techniques such as EMDR (as a gentle tapping technique) and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), meditation and hypnosis, the removal of painful, limiting beliefs and behaviors are successfully achieved during the process with my clients.
In my psychotherapy practice, I specialize in eliminating the underlying causes of emotional difficulties and stressful problems. I work with conditions such as anxiety, depression, phobias, trauma, posttraumatic stress, sexual and physical abuse, grief, life purpose and a variety of relationship issues including codependency. Having been trained in powerful and effective techniques such as EMDR (as a gentle tapping technique) and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), meditation and hypnosis, the removal of painful, limiting beliefs and behaviors are successfully achieved during the process with my clients.
![Photo of Gwen Alter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43956873-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
LET'S TALK. Ever since psychotherapy (the talking cure) was conceived over 100 years ago it has grown and evolved. But one thing remains constant: talking with someone about the things that bother you, in a safe and empathic environment is curative. It is the first step to changing the way you think, feel and act. In more than 20 years of practice, I have studied and mastered various techniques of psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral, relational, psychodynamic) and will utilize these in our work together.
LET'S TALK. Ever since psychotherapy (the talking cure) was conceived over 100 years ago it has grown and evolved. But one thing remains constant: talking with someone about the things that bother you, in a safe and empathic environment is curative. It is the first step to changing the way you think, feel and act. In more than 20 years of practice, I have studied and mastered various techniques of psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral, relational, psychodynamic) and will utilize these in our work together.
![Photo of Stephanie Tolli-Abraham - Integral Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, CASAC, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83b35794-5ac0-4bc5-ad38-70e607beefac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Integral Mental Health Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rego Park, NY 11374
We are a private psychotherapy practice in Corona, Queens. We have extensive experience successfully assessing, counseling and supporting varying client populations in multiple settings, We have multiple bilingual specialized professionals for your service and care. We specialize in all types of psychological disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety to name a few. We provide parenting classes, marriage counseling, psychotherapy for adolescents, group family therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy for children, students with academic and behavioral problems, response prevention and more.
We are a private psychotherapy practice in Corona, Queens. We have extensive experience successfully assessing, counseling and supporting varying client populations in multiple settings, We have multiple bilingual specialized professionals for your service and care. We specialize in all types of psychological disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety to name a few. We provide parenting classes, marriage counseling, psychotherapy for adolescents, group family therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy for children, students with academic and behavioral problems, response prevention and more.
![Photo of Diane Garfinkle, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a9d55b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help, while making you feel comfortable. Each person comes in with their own unique life experience and problems. I try to work with compassion so that you will feel supported as we explore your thoughts and feelings about your past and present situations. Together we will examine ways in which you can find solutions to current probIems. Some of the most common problems I see include relationship and career issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, infertility, grief, chronic illnesses (including cancer), and elder care.
My goal is to help, while making you feel comfortable. Each person comes in with their own unique life experience and problems. I try to work with compassion so that you will feel supported as we explore your thoughts and feelings about your past and present situations. Together we will examine ways in which you can find solutions to current probIems. Some of the most common problems I see include relationship and career issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, infertility, grief, chronic illnesses (including cancer), and elder care.
![Photo of David Shipper, LMHC, CCTP, MBA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6a7b3a9-6a8e-493c-b955-dfa3051a4a33/1/320x400.jpeg)
My primary focus of treatment is trauma recovery, depression, and anxiety. Many people have chronic low self-esteem stemming from early childhood messages received from adults and others in their lives. The coping skills used at that time may have been adaptive, but in the present, they are no longer helpful. If you are depressed, anxious, and feel alone, don't know what to do, or if you suffer from a difficult past, I can help. You're not alone. I engage in strengths-based, solution-focused person-centered work and use a variety of traditional mental health modalities.
My primary focus of treatment is trauma recovery, depression, and anxiety. Many people have chronic low self-esteem stemming from early childhood messages received from adults and others in their lives. The coping skills used at that time may have been adaptive, but in the present, they are no longer helpful. If you are depressed, anxious, and feel alone, don't know what to do, or if you suffer from a difficult past, I can help. You're not alone. I engage in strengths-based, solution-focused person-centered work and use a variety of traditional mental health modalities.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Shahal Rozenblatt - Advanced Psychological Assessment, P.C., PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d8d24d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a New York State licensed clinical psychologist with office in Smithtown, Forest Hills & Murray Hill. I specialize in the neuropsychological assessment of individuals with special needs. My clientele includes children, adolescents & adults with genetic disorders, epilepsy, intellectual disabilities, autism, concussion and traumatic brain injury, sex chromosome differences, dementia and acquired brain disorders. I also work extensively with children who present with learning disorders, including dyslexia, problems with behavior and attention (e.g., ADHD and Conduct Disorder), and/or who require academic modifications for giftedness.
I am a New York State licensed clinical psychologist with office in Smithtown, Forest Hills & Murray Hill. I specialize in the neuropsychological assessment of individuals with special needs. My clientele includes children, adolescents & adults with genetic disorders, epilepsy, intellectual disabilities, autism, concussion and traumatic brain injury, sex chromosome differences, dementia and acquired brain disorders. I also work extensively with children who present with learning disorders, including dyslexia, problems with behavior and attention (e.g., ADHD and Conduct Disorder), and/or who require academic modifications for giftedness.
![Photo of Felicia Ivey - Mind-Body And Inner-Self Mental Health Counseling, PhD, LMHC, SAP, MCAP, CAMS-II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8e3732-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mind-Body And Inner-Self Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, SAP, MCAP, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
Are you saying to yourself that you will give your all to being a better person? Are you living your dreams? Do you have a secret that you need to share or serve in an active duty war zone? We all have moments where we need some extra help. I work within a group practice and we will listen to your relationship, family members, pain, depression, anxiety, addiction and how you really feel. We want to talk to you and offer open feedback without judgment. I work with seniors, adults, teens. We are motivating and optimistic therapists with years of experience working with employment, mental health and substance abuse addictions.
Are you saying to yourself that you will give your all to being a better person? Are you living your dreams? Do you have a secret that you need to share or serve in an active duty war zone? We all have moments where we need some extra help. I work within a group practice and we will listen to your relationship, family members, pain, depression, anxiety, addiction and how you really feel. We want to talk to you and offer open feedback without judgment. I work with seniors, adults, teens. We are motivating and optimistic therapists with years of experience working with employment, mental health and substance abuse addictions.
![Photo of Paul Cohen - Paul Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b92163c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also have special interests in bereavement therapy, trauma, geriatric issues, college student concerns, adoption/infertility counseling, and anger management (NAMA Certified Anger Management Specialist-I),.
While change is difficult, it is never too late! My clients have ranged in age through 97. I see both individuals and families dealing with a large spectrum of emotional issues. I am warm, encouraging, a strong motivator, and honor each individual's unique characteristics and strengths. To that end, I try to tailor my methods to the individual needs of the client - utilizing psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive behavioral therapy modes.
As a feature of my practice, I make house calls to elderly or infirm clients in my local area.
I also have special interests in bereavement therapy, trauma, geriatric issues, college student concerns, adoption/infertility counseling, and anger management (NAMA Certified Anger Management Specialist-I),.
While change is difficult, it is never too late! My clients have ranged in age through 97. I see both individuals and families dealing with a large spectrum of emotional issues. I am warm, encouraging, a strong motivator, and honor each individual's unique characteristics and strengths. To that end, I try to tailor my methods to the individual needs of the client - utilizing psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive behavioral therapy modes.
As a feature of my practice, I make house calls to elderly or infirm clients in my local area.
![Photo of Avi Miodownik, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39a71055-4f5c-4b38-a9d4-457ee9675fb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New York specializing in individual and couples therapy. In my practice, I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship conflict, and the consequences of traumatic experiences. I also work with individuals looking to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. Much of the way I think about people, relationships, and psychotherapy is rooted in relational, psychodynamic theory which emphasizes non-judgemental curiosity about one’s thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns within the context of a therapeutic relationship.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New York specializing in individual and couples therapy. In my practice, I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship conflict, and the consequences of traumatic experiences. I also work with individuals looking to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. Much of the way I think about people, relationships, and psychotherapy is rooted in relational, psychodynamic theory which emphasizes non-judgemental curiosity about one’s thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns within the context of a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Inga Goldstein, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e0658a7-cc7b-4170-bf21-ab3a5d0fa653/2/320x400.png)
Optimal mental health is essential for overall Wellness. My approach is integrative and wholistic. I use evidence based treatment models to address specific challenges and struggles. I will help you identify obstacles that are holding you back from being your best self. You really do deserve to be happy, and I would love to guide you on your journey. My focus is on getting you feeling better quickly. Therapy does not need to take years and years -AND... can even be fun:) I am warm and easy to talk to, so why not take the first step and reach out to me. You won't regret it.
Optimal mental health is essential for overall Wellness. My approach is integrative and wholistic. I use evidence based treatment models to address specific challenges and struggles. I will help you identify obstacles that are holding you back from being your best self. You really do deserve to be happy, and I would love to guide you on your journey. My focus is on getting you feeling better quickly. Therapy does not need to take years and years -AND... can even be fun:) I am warm and easy to talk to, so why not take the first step and reach out to me. You won't regret it.
![Photo of Foyzul Ahmed, MSW, LCSW-R, R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef7416b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Foyzul Ahmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R, R
Verified Verified
Woodhaven, NY 11421 (Online Only)
Often our mental health issues are triggered by the highly demanding lifestyle in a stressful environment. We are not able to process all the issues we face all by ourselves. We need professional perspectives of our issues. In therapy I help patients analyze their issues in a scientific manner. My approach is holistic: health, body, mind, spirit, biology, and the environmental factors. Every human being has potentials to overcome their problems through time, patience, insight, using proper resources, and applying their inner strengths. I have faith in my patience. My motto: Educate. Empower. Evolve. I am inspired by what I see!
Often our mental health issues are triggered by the highly demanding lifestyle in a stressful environment. We are not able to process all the issues we face all by ourselves. We need professional perspectives of our issues. In therapy I help patients analyze their issues in a scientific manner. My approach is holistic: health, body, mind, spirit, biology, and the environmental factors. Every human being has potentials to overcome their problems through time, patience, insight, using proper resources, and applying their inner strengths. I have faith in my patience. My motto: Educate. Empower. Evolve. I am inspired by what I see!
![Photo of Martin Sussman, LCSW-R, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b48fceb-6036-4b8f-ad8e-1c3db9db7d68/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a practicing Social Worker for over 30 years. It has been my passion to help those in need . I graduated New York University in 1991 with a Masters Degree in Social Work and am also a Certified Life Coach. I also am the Vice President for a Private Not for Profit Social Service Agency in New York City serving those who live with mental illness, the homeless, HIV/AIDS, and Developmental Disabilities. In my private practice I have helped clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, addictions and issues around self-esteem.
I have been a practicing Social Worker for over 30 years. It has been my passion to help those in need . I graduated New York University in 1991 with a Masters Degree in Social Work and am also a Certified Life Coach. I also am the Vice President for a Private Not for Profit Social Service Agency in New York City serving those who live with mental illness, the homeless, HIV/AIDS, and Developmental Disabilities. In my private practice I have helped clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, addictions and issues around self-esteem.
![Photo of Joy-Hee N Lee - Joyful Hearts Therapy/Joy-Hee Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acd52749-f88d-4e09-b070-37f476110cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joyful Hearts Therapy/Joy-Hee Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11355
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or just need someone to talk to, then, Joy-Hee is here to listen to your life story and help you begin your road to healing and joy. She has specialized training and many years of experience serving individuals and families affected by relationship abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, intellectual developmental disabilities, marriage conflicts, familial/parenting/parental/life transitional issues, and low self-esteem.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or just need someone to talk to, then, Joy-Hee is here to listen to your life story and help you begin your road to healing and joy. She has specialized training and many years of experience serving individuals and families affected by relationship abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, intellectual developmental disabilities, marriage conflicts, familial/parenting/parental/life transitional issues, and low self-esteem.
![Photo of Beth Waldorf, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ecc78db-18c1-4b29-83db-fe1e7cdd621f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Waldorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11368 (Online Only)
Beth has experience working with adults, managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, social-emotional stressors, interpersonal problems, chronic mental illness, and dual diagnoses. Beth utilizes aspects of multiple modalities, including, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive Therapy. Beth takes a client centered, strength- based approach in an open and genuine environment. Beth’s prior experience includes working as a psychotherapist in an outpatient behavioral health clinic and as a psychotherapist in an addictions clinic working with dual diagnosis clients.
Beth has experience working with adults, managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, social-emotional stressors, interpersonal problems, chronic mental illness, and dual diagnoses. Beth utilizes aspects of multiple modalities, including, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive Therapy. Beth takes a client centered, strength- based approach in an open and genuine environment. Beth’s prior experience includes working as a psychotherapist in an outpatient behavioral health clinic and as a psychotherapist in an addictions clinic working with dual diagnosis clients.
![Photo of Nelson Ho, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69096068-4dea-496c-95dd-e6366d14d79f/2/320x400.jpeg)
In a session together we will shift feelings of overwhelmed, stress and any adjustment, transition concerns with tenderness, and engaged compassion. We are present with your range of emotions, in an open, curious, empathetic expansive space and we aim to tap into your innate wisdom through insight, humor and joy; and if need be actionable steps. I hope that each session will be restorative, empowering, insightful and powerful in aiding you to identify your values and integrating them organically in your life. I also offer brief/time-limited/1-3 sessions if that is your need.
In a session together we will shift feelings of overwhelmed, stress and any adjustment, transition concerns with tenderness, and engaged compassion. We are present with your range of emotions, in an open, curious, empathetic expansive space and we aim to tap into your innate wisdom through insight, humor and joy; and if need be actionable steps. I hope that each session will be restorative, empowering, insightful and powerful in aiding you to identify your values and integrating them organically in your life. I also offer brief/time-limited/1-3 sessions if that is your need.
See more therapy options for Rego Park
Nearby Geriatric and Seniors Therapists Searches for Rego Park
- Astoria
- Corona
- Elmhurst
- Flushing
- Forest Hills
- Fresh Meadows
- Jackson Heights
- Jamaica
- Kew Gardens
- Long Island City
- Ridgewood
- Woodside
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.