Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Hatboro, PA

Photo of Donna Lauck, APNA, ASCH
Donna Lauck
APNA, ASCH
Verified Verified
Hatboro, PA 19040
My journey to healing others began over 30 years ago, when I entered the field of medicine. I only ever wanted to be a nurse – from the time I could say the word. I gradually evolved into this field, practicing new specialties, and earning more degrees. I’ve received my Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and Doctorate in Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania. I am associated with APNA and ASCH, and a known Reiki Master and IET Specialist, as well as 100 volunteer hours with WOAR. I specialize in treating adults of all ages, suffering from a range of mental and physical illnesses.
My journey to healing others began over 30 years ago, when I entered the field of medicine. I only ever wanted to be a nurse – from the time I could say the word. I gradually evolved into this field, practicing new specialties, and earning more degrees. I’ve received my Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and Doctorate in Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania. I am associated with APNA and ASCH, and a known Reiki Master and IET Specialist, as well as 100 volunteer hours with WOAR. I specialize in treating adults of all ages, suffering from a range of mental and physical illnesses.
(215) 888-9100 View (215) 888-9100
Photo of Karen Fithian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Fithian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hatboro, PA 19040
Life can bring stress and challenges that often leave us feeling unsure and overwhelmed of our next steps. Making the decision to seek therapy is a personal and at times difficult process. I tailor my work to my client's diverse needs and concerns and provide a safe and supportive environment to allow for personal growth. I enjoy working with individuals and families to help them find their way through difficult times and emerge stronger, happier and more hopeful about their futures.
Life can bring stress and challenges that often leave us feeling unsure and overwhelmed of our next steps. Making the decision to seek therapy is a personal and at times difficult process. I tailor my work to my client's diverse needs and concerns and provide a safe and supportive environment to allow for personal growth. I enjoy working with individuals and families to help them find their way through difficult times and emerge stronger, happier and more hopeful about their futures.
(215) 839-3249 View (215) 839-3249
Photo of Paul Zarroli, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Zarroli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hatboro, PA 19040
I am a Christian counselor who can help individuals, families and couples overcome hurdles in their lives. I can help people with many psychological issues that they are dealing with including trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, abuse and behavior modification. In addition I can offer mediation and life coaching services. I specialize in using EMDR and CBT.
I am a Christian counselor who can help individuals, families and couples overcome hurdles in their lives. I can help people with many psychological issues that they are dealing with including trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, abuse and behavior modification. In addition I can offer mediation and life coaching services. I specialize in using EMDR and CBT.
(215) 874-5593 View (215) 874-5593

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel A. Schwarz - Daniel A Schwarz and Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel A Schwarz and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
TOD WEINSTEIN, LCSW and Diplomate in Social Work specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy with families and older adults.
Dr. DANIEL SCHWARZ is a Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist in private practice for over 30 years. He specializes in working with children who have learning challenges, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other behavioral problems. He provides family therapy, parent training and couples therapy. Dr. Schwarz consults with schools and clients' physicians to help coordinate treatment. He is fluent in Spanish and is unique in his ability to be culturally sensitive to his clients needs. Dr. Schwarz provides psychological evaluations for Immigration Issues and Waivers. Dr. Schwarz has three experienced providers in his practice.
TOD WEINSTEIN, LCSW and Diplomate in Social Work specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy with families and older adults.
Dr. DANIEL SCHWARZ is a Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist in private practice for over 30 years. He specializes in working with children who have learning challenges, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other behavioral problems. He provides family therapy, parent training and couples therapy. Dr. Schwarz consults with schools and clients' physicians to help coordinate treatment. He is fluent in Spanish and is unique in his ability to be culturally sensitive to his clients needs. Dr. Schwarz provides psychological evaluations for Immigration Issues and Waivers. Dr. Schwarz has three experienced providers in his practice.
(215) 646-3695 View (215) 646-3695
Photo of Dana Rummery, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Rummery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're grieving, a professional caregiver, caring for young or elderly kin, or finding a hard time caring for yourself.
When was the last time you took care of you? As a person that’s taking care of everyone else and the endless task list, you don’t remember the last time you watered your own garden (or where the heck the watering can even is). And even though you are really doing an amazing job taking care of everyone around you, you’re exhausted, burnt out, and wondering when this drought is going to stop. Oh, and by the way, you ARE allowed to fill your own water tank…without feeling guilty and while still caregiving or helping others heal around you. What if you could find a little peace in your day as you do all the 879 things on your list?
Whether you're grieving, a professional caregiver, caring for young or elderly kin, or finding a hard time caring for yourself.
When was the last time you took care of you? As a person that’s taking care of everyone else and the endless task list, you don’t remember the last time you watered your own garden (or where the heck the watering can even is). And even though you are really doing an amazing job taking care of everyone around you, you’re exhausted, burnt out, and wondering when this drought is going to stop. Oh, and by the way, you ARE allowed to fill your own water tank…without feeling guilty and while still caregiving or helping others heal around you. What if you could find a little peace in your day as you do all the 879 things on your list?
(267) 578-4551 View (267) 578-4551
Photo of Art Bernstein, PhD, Psychologist
Art Bernstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wyncote, PA 19095  (Online Only)
After 25 years of experience in the field of behavioral health & human relations , I continue to be excited and energized by the unique interactions and special challenges that courageous patients bring to the therapy meetings. I have always felt it is an honor and privilege to be doing this type of work.My areas of specialization and training include individual, couples and family therapy. I also work effectively with special populations such as seniors and individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. My approach is eclectic or integrative, but I use many behavioral and cognitive-behavioral approaches in my work.
After 25 years of experience in the field of behavioral health & human relations , I continue to be excited and energized by the unique interactions and special challenges that courageous patients bring to the therapy meetings. I have always felt it is an honor and privilege to be doing this type of work.My areas of specialization and training include individual, couples and family therapy. I also work effectively with special populations such as seniors and individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. My approach is eclectic or integrative, but I use many behavioral and cognitive-behavioral approaches in my work.
(267) 592-6370 View (267) 592-6370
Photo of Elizabeth McElroy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Grief can be related to the death of a loved one; a chronic illness; or as a part of getting older.
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be overwhelming; I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a chronic illness, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.
Grief can be related to the death of a loved one; a chronic illness; or as a part of getting older.
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be overwhelming; I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a chronic illness, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.
(215) 608-6953 View (215) 608-6953
Photo of Bianca O'Connor McDermott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bianca O'Connor McDermott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer online therapy for older adults and caregivers.
Being a caregiver for a loved one who has a chronic or terminal illness can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It also comes with stresses that can be hard for friends and family to understand. Being a person who needs help to manage day to day activities of living can also be hard to handle, even if the help is appreciated. Sudden life changes are difficult to navigate; such as loss of a loved one, death of a pet, or diagnosis of a debilitating disease. Even positive changes like retirement, downsizing, or relocation can be painful at times. Talking it through can help.
I offer online therapy for older adults and caregivers.
Being a caregiver for a loved one who has a chronic or terminal illness can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It also comes with stresses that can be hard for friends and family to understand. Being a person who needs help to manage day to day activities of living can also be hard to handle, even if the help is appreciated. Sudden life changes are difficult to navigate; such as loss of a loved one, death of a pet, or diagnosis of a debilitating disease. Even positive changes like retirement, downsizing, or relocation can be painful at times. Talking it through can help.
(215) 486-2674 View (215) 486-2674
Photo of Kimberly A. Gilles, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly A. Gilles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Montgomeryville, PA 18936
Welcome to my practice! I currently have a wait list of 3 months.I work with children from 5 years old to the dear elderly population. I have a specialty in Play Therapy and I am only one of a few Registered Play Therapists in Bucks County. I hold an MSW degree, and have a graduate certificate from Temple University in Play Therapy.Play Therapy can help with behavioral issues, abuse, social skills, school issues, phobias, abandonment, grief, trauma, divorce, crisis, self injurious behaviors, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression and grief just to mention a few areas.
Welcome to my practice! I currently have a wait list of 3 months.I work with children from 5 years old to the dear elderly population. I have a specialty in Play Therapy and I am only one of a few Registered Play Therapists in Bucks County. I hold an MSW degree, and have a graduate certificate from Temple University in Play Therapy.Play Therapy can help with behavioral issues, abuse, social skills, school issues, phobias, abandonment, grief, trauma, divorce, crisis, self injurious behaviors, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression and grief just to mention a few areas.
(215) 337-2063 View (215) 337-2063
Photo of Tamar Kornitzer - Watermark Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Kornitzer - Watermark Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with young children, adults, and the elderly who present with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, parenting stress, or relationship and family conflict, as well as with the elderly and those with chronic pain.
If you are reading this, you have already taken the first and critical step in your healing journey. You may have found me because you are feeling tired, rundown, and burnt out from life's demands and relationships. You are no stranger to pain and feeling at a loss. My hope is that together we can put an end to your anguish and the answers you seek are near. My goal is that your level of motivation and commitment to yourself will be rewarded.
I have extensive experience working with young children, adults, and the elderly who present with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, parenting stress, or relationship and family conflict, as well as with the elderly and those with chronic pain.
If you are reading this, you have already taken the first and critical step in your healing journey. You may have found me because you are feeling tired, rundown, and burnt out from life's demands and relationships. You are no stranger to pain and feeling at a loss. My hope is that together we can put an end to your anguish and the answers you seek are near. My goal is that your level of motivation and commitment to yourself will be rewarded.
(203) 779-6178 View (203) 779-6178
Photo of Michelle Tiger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Tiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Struggling in your marriage? Having trouble saying "No," but feeling overcommitted and wondering when you'll find time for yourself? Are you a caregiver for an older or disabled family member? Are you going through a major life change and trying to get back on your feet? Have you lost a cherished family member or pet? On the career front, are you disenchanted with your job? Not confident negotiating job offers? I work with adults ages 20 and older on these issues and more. I've worked in many settings, including geriatrics, medical, behavioral health, correctional facilities, adult day programs, and animal welfare.
Struggling in your marriage? Having trouble saying "No," but feeling overcommitted and wondering when you'll find time for yourself? Are you a caregiver for an older or disabled family member? Are you going through a major life change and trying to get back on your feet? Have you lost a cherished family member or pet? On the career front, are you disenchanted with your job? Not confident negotiating job offers? I work with adults ages 20 and older on these issues and more. I've worked in many settings, including geriatrics, medical, behavioral health, correctional facilities, adult day programs, and animal welfare.
(267) 609-5982 View (267) 609-5982
Photo of Inger Colzie, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inger Colzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Whether you are a young person dealing with the transition to adulthood, an adult dealing with overwhelming responsibilities of balancing a career and personal life, or an elderly person coping with depression, the mission of my practice is to help you find a stable physical and mental place.
Are you living the life you really want? Sometimes it's hard to believe you will feel better when you are struggling. It's important to understand the ways which your present emotions and outlooks are guided by your past experiences. I can help how you see your life and empower you to create your own change and move forward to get the full life you want in a successful and effective way. We will discover where you are and where you want to go. I will provide tools; strategies and support that help you accomplish healing and create happiness.
Whether you are a young person dealing with the transition to adulthood, an adult dealing with overwhelming responsibilities of balancing a career and personal life, or an elderly person coping with depression, the mission of my practice is to help you find a stable physical and mental place.
Are you living the life you really want? Sometimes it's hard to believe you will feel better when you are struggling. It's important to understand the ways which your present emotions and outlooks are guided by your past experiences. I can help how you see your life and empower you to create your own change and move forward to get the full life you want in a successful and effective way. We will discover where you are and where you want to go. I will provide tools; strategies and support that help you accomplish healing and create happiness.
(484) 282-3830 View (484) 282-3830
Photo of Linda Santana, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Santana
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington, PA 18976
I am a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with adolescents, adults and older adults. I also work with couples. The majority of the clients I work with are of diverse populations that struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions and relational issues to name a few. Treatment goals are specific in helping clients regain control of their lives and help them develop trust within themselves to do the work to live happier lives.
I am a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with adolescents, adults and older adults. I also work with couples. The majority of the clients I work with are of diverse populations that struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions and relational issues to name a few. Treatment goals are specific in helping clients regain control of their lives and help them develop trust within themselves to do the work to live happier lives.
(267) 214-6130 View (267) 214-6130
Photo of Twain Gonzales, PsyD, Psychologist
Twain Gonzales
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience treating adults and seniors suffering from trauma, the pain of loss and grief, low self-esteem, and challenging life transitions. In addition to my years in private practice, I worked at Jefferson Hospital in geriatrics; served as Clinical Director at Voyage House working with at-risk youth and members of the LQBTQ+ community; and as a Disability Specialist at Delaware Technical Community College, I was honored with the Governor's Award for my "Service to Individuals with Disabilities".
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience treating adults and seniors suffering from trauma, the pain of loss and grief, low self-esteem, and challenging life transitions. In addition to my years in private practice, I worked at Jefferson Hospital in geriatrics; served as Clinical Director at Voyage House working with at-risk youth and members of the LQBTQ+ community; and as a Disability Specialist at Delaware Technical Community College, I was honored with the Governor's Award for my "Service to Individuals with Disabilities".
(267) 651-7185 View (267) 651-7185
Photo of Karin Murphy, LPC, CT, GC-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karin Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CT, GC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
I help adult women and men who are grieving and feeling stuck, whether the loss comes from the death of a loved one (including beloved pets) or a living loss associated with dementia, addiction, chronic illness, divorce, infertility, or life transitions. I partner with you to help you explore how you are feeling, find new ways to cope and make a plan for moving forward as you are ready. There is no right way to grieve and no predictable timeline. It is important to me that during our time together, you feel supported, safe, and accepted. Through teletherapy or in-person appointments I can guide you through your difficult time.
I help adult women and men who are grieving and feeling stuck, whether the loss comes from the death of a loved one (including beloved pets) or a living loss associated with dementia, addiction, chronic illness, divorce, infertility, or life transitions. I partner with you to help you explore how you are feeling, find new ways to cope and make a plan for moving forward as you are ready. There is no right way to grieve and no predictable timeline. It is important to me that during our time together, you feel supported, safe, and accepted. Through teletherapy or in-person appointments I can guide you through your difficult time.
(267) 245-0105 View (267) 245-0105
Photo of Maureen E Sweeney, PsyD, Psychologist
Maureen E Sweeney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bensalem, PA 19020
I have completed a Post-Doctoral Training Program in Geriatric Psychology.
Psychology Services for Seniors. Website: www.maureensweeneypsyd.com Offices in Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Original Medicare Insurance accepted. In person or telehealth appointments offered. Psychology Services for seniors provided in your Home, Community Center, or by Telehealth (Zoom Video or Telephone). Licensed in both PA and CT. CT appointments are provided at the Estuary in Old Saybrook the second Monday of the month. PA License PS015686 CT License 004656
I have completed a Post-Doctoral Training Program in Geriatric Psychology.
Psychology Services for Seniors. Website: www.maureensweeneypsyd.com Offices in Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Original Medicare Insurance accepted. In person or telehealth appointments offered. Psychology Services for seniors provided in your Home, Community Center, or by Telehealth (Zoom Video or Telephone). Licensed in both PA and CT. CT appointments are provided at the Estuary in Old Saybrook the second Monday of the month. PA License PS015686 CT License 004656
(215) 995-1154 View (215) 995-1154
Photo of Abigail Abbas - Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19126
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© ( older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© ( older adults with complicated grief/loss); chronic illness/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!
(267) 460-7146 View (267) 460-7146
Photo of Dr. L. Wayne Kenney, MHS, LPC, CAADC, EAPS, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. L. Wayne Kenney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC, CAADC, EAPS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19126
Hello everyone I am accepting new virtual patients in Pennsylvania. I am here to help you overcome personal issues and life challenges. I am a psychotherapist, who specializes in working with adults, children and adolescents who suffer from mood disorders, trauma, and disruptive behavioral disorders. I also work with young/ older adults struggling with marital issues, grief & loss or life transitions. I strive to help clients realize and actualize their strengths in their life, marriage, home environments and in their relationships. I am a veteran, author, lecturer, consultant, and founder of Next Level Therapy LLC.
Hello everyone I am accepting new virtual patients in Pennsylvania. I am here to help you overcome personal issues and life challenges. I am a psychotherapist, who specializes in working with adults, children and adolescents who suffer from mood disorders, trauma, and disruptive behavioral disorders. I also work with young/ older adults struggling with marital issues, grief & loss or life transitions. I strive to help clients realize and actualize their strengths in their life, marriage, home environments and in their relationships. I am a veteran, author, lecturer, consultant, and founder of Next Level Therapy LLC.
(215) 608-2408 View (215) 608-2408
Photo of Joseph Galasso - Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD, Psychologist
Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
(201) 297-9710 View (201) 297-9710
Photo of Marcy Shoemaker, PsyD, Psychologist
Marcy Shoemaker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
I believe strongly in helping people move forward in their lives by recognizing their strengths and helping them solve their problems. I am an action oriented psychologist with both business and healthcare experience. My form of psychology is not to merely listen but identify problems and developing a plan of action. Often problems are based on transitions which are difficult for everyone. By identifying the issues, developing steps and solutions, individuals will move forward in their lives. Transitions are a difficult time for many individuals which may occur with new jobs, changes in life e.g. becoming an empty nester and/or facing retirement
I believe strongly in helping people move forward in their lives by recognizing their strengths and helping them solve their problems. I am an action oriented psychologist with both business and healthcare experience. My form of psychology is not to merely listen but identify problems and developing a plan of action. Often problems are based on transitions which are difficult for everyone. By identifying the issues, developing steps and solutions, individuals will move forward in their lives. Transitions are a difficult time for many individuals which may occur with new jobs, changes in life e.g. becoming an empty nester and/or facing retirement
(215) 515-2068 View (215) 515-2068

See more therapy options for Hatboro

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.