Dementia Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Felicia Greenfield, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Greenfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I provide therapy to people struggling to cope with age-related changes, caregivers, people with a known risk of developing dementia, and those experiencing grief or ambiguous losses.
I specialize in helping people navigate challenges related to aging, illness, caregiving, and grief & loss. If you are seeking psychotherapy, I will work with you to explore how your thoughts and behaviors might affect your relationships and well-being. I will help you assess your emotions and empower you to meet the goals you set for yourself. My approach is relational and gentle, yet direct. During my assessment, I will work with you to understand your goals and preferences and may incorporate aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, loss frameworks, or other modalities to best meet your needs.
I provide therapy to people struggling to cope with age-related changes, caregivers, people with a known risk of developing dementia, and those experiencing grief or ambiguous losses.
I specialize in helping people navigate challenges related to aging, illness, caregiving, and grief & loss. If you are seeking psychotherapy, I will work with you to explore how your thoughts and behaviors might affect your relationships and well-being. I will help you assess your emotions and empower you to meet the goals you set for yourself. My approach is relational and gentle, yet direct. During my assessment, I will work with you to understand your goals and preferences and may incorporate aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, loss frameworks, or other modalities to best meet your needs.
(215) 607-8409 View (215) 607-8409
Photo of Stephanie Sawa-Vassallo - Stephanie Vassallo, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Vassallo, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am PA/NJ licensed clinical social worker with over 20 yrs experience. I received my BA in Psychology in 1994 and my MSW in 1997. Since then, I have worked in various settings including the Behavioral Health System of Philadelphia, numerous behavioral health facilities which include psychiatric units, detox and rehabs, college counseling settings and in assisted living/nursing facilities with older adults. In 2013, I started an in person private practice and then made the jump to telehealth during the pandemic. I find that telehealth is much more accessible and convenient for clients as we are still able to do amazing work!
I am PA/NJ licensed clinical social worker with over 20 yrs experience. I received my BA in Psychology in 1994 and my MSW in 1997. Since then, I have worked in various settings including the Behavioral Health System of Philadelphia, numerous behavioral health facilities which include psychiatric units, detox and rehabs, college counseling settings and in assisted living/nursing facilities with older adults. In 2013, I started an in person private practice and then made the jump to telehealth during the pandemic. I find that telehealth is much more accessible and convenient for clients as we are still able to do amazing work!
(215) 782-6299 View (215) 782-6299
Photo of Cynthia Clyburn, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Clyburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
As a trained psychotherapist, I help individuals and families cope with the challenges associated with neurological illness such as Alzheimer's Disease, Frontotemporal Degeneration, Lewy Body Dementia, ALS, Stroke, Parkinson's Disease, and other rare conditions.
I specialize in supporting individuals, caregivers, and families affected by illness. I practice with warmth and compassion and utilize a strengths-based approach with my clients. Coping with illness and caregiving can be incredibly difficult. I offer a safe space to emotionally process these issues individually, and also assist with facilitating thoughtful, but challenging conversations between couples and family members. I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my practice. I also offer grief counseling for those coping with loss and major life change.
As a trained psychotherapist, I help individuals and families cope with the challenges associated with neurological illness such as Alzheimer's Disease, Frontotemporal Degeneration, Lewy Body Dementia, ALS, Stroke, Parkinson's Disease, and other rare conditions.
I specialize in supporting individuals, caregivers, and families affected by illness. I practice with warmth and compassion and utilize a strengths-based approach with my clients. Coping with illness and caregiving can be incredibly difficult. I offer a safe space to emotionally process these issues individually, and also assist with facilitating thoughtful, but challenging conversations between couples and family members. I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my practice. I also offer grief counseling for those coping with loss and major life change.
(843) 212-6819 View (843) 212-6819
Photo of Dr. Anna Hahn Weaver, PhD, LPC, MAMT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Anna Hahn Weaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAMT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19092  (Online Only)
Struggling with emotional or developmental challenges? Pandemic Fatigue, Front-Line Decision-Making Fatigue? Dementia, grief, or other concerns? There is HOPE.
Tempo! is now accepting most insurances. How can I help? I currently work using Teletherapy in PA and FL. I have over 20 years of experience in both Psychotherapy and Board-Certified Music Therapy where I am trained in both Psychotherapeutic and Medical Models. I enjoy working with those individuals ages 2 through end of life. My life’s work as a teacher, medical worker, trainer, clinician and clinical supervisor have prepared me to treat various patients by providing psychotherapy to other professionals as well as those struggling with finding their way in these challenging times. Helping others to heal is my passion.
Struggling with emotional or developmental challenges? Pandemic Fatigue, Front-Line Decision-Making Fatigue? Dementia, grief, or other concerns? There is HOPE.
Tempo! is now accepting most insurances. How can I help? I currently work using Teletherapy in PA and FL. I have over 20 years of experience in both Psychotherapy and Board-Certified Music Therapy where I am trained in both Psychotherapeutic and Medical Models. I enjoy working with those individuals ages 2 through end of life. My life’s work as a teacher, medical worker, trainer, clinician and clinical supervisor have prepared me to treat various patients by providing psychotherapy to other professionals as well as those struggling with finding their way in these challenging times. Helping others to heal is my passion.
(717) 523-9434 View (717) 523-9434
Photo of Heather Clark, BC-DMT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I take a person-centered approach and tailor my sessions with clients based on their needs. My goal is always to help clients feel heard and seen without feeling judged. I work with adults and older adults presenting with a variety of mental health concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Psychosis. In addition, I help clients experiencing stress, grief, relationship issues, divorce, communication issues, and more. I also focus on the mind-body connection, addressing breathing techniques, relaxation skills, and grounding techniques. I offer both in-person and teletherapy sessions.
I take a person-centered approach and tailor my sessions with clients based on their needs. My goal is always to help clients feel heard and seen without feeling judged. I work with adults and older adults presenting with a variety of mental health concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Psychosis. In addition, I help clients experiencing stress, grief, relationship issues, divorce, communication issues, and more. I also focus on the mind-body connection, addressing breathing techniques, relaxation skills, and grounding techniques. I offer both in-person and teletherapy sessions.
(484) 613-2721 View (484) 613-2721
Photo of Michele Robins, Psychologist
Michele Robins
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Michele Robins, Ph.D., ACT is a licensed and school certified psychologist. Dr. Robins is a fellow of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and she trains other professionals to learn the most effective therapy interventions. Her goal is to provide the best care and support for her clients and she provides counseling for individuals seeking further intervention for developmental disorders, learning and memory disorders, and mood problems throughout the lifespan. With over thirty years of experience, she integrates cognitive behavior therapy and family therapy,
Michele Robins, Ph.D., ACT is a licensed and school certified psychologist. Dr. Robins is a fellow of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and she trains other professionals to learn the most effective therapy interventions. Her goal is to provide the best care and support for her clients and she provides counseling for individuals seeking further intervention for developmental disorders, learning and memory disorders, and mood problems throughout the lifespan. With over thirty years of experience, she integrates cognitive behavior therapy and family therapy,
(484) 546-7076 View (484) 546-7076
Photo of Anna Kozlowska, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kozlowska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am open to working with clients from all walks of life, those who know what their goals are, and those who are uncertain about what they expect from therapy. My professional and lived experience helps me relate to clients who have difficulties adjusting to changes in life, as well as older adults, caregivers, and people of all ages struggling with family issues. A psychodynamic approach helps clients feel listened to and encouraged to develop their story, gain insight and self-awareness, & notice the connection between past events and current difficulties.
I am open to working with clients from all walks of life, those who know what their goals are, and those who are uncertain about what they expect from therapy. My professional and lived experience helps me relate to clients who have difficulties adjusting to changes in life, as well as older adults, caregivers, and people of all ages struggling with family issues. A psychodynamic approach helps clients feel listened to and encouraged to develop their story, gain insight and self-awareness, & notice the connection between past events and current difficulties.
(267) 797-8771 View (267) 797-8771
Photo of Kyonghui Janice Shin - Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19126
We also welcome older adults, couples and families seeking counseling.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
We also welcome older adults, couples and families seeking counseling.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
(844) 982-2464 View (844) 982-2464
Photo of Rachel Gross, MD
Rachel Gross
MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
, Parkinson's disease, ALS, and various forms of dementia) and offer a variety of treatment approaches to individuals and caregivers living with these conditions.
In my practice, I see people with a variety of concerns about their relationships, careers, and other aspects of their lives. Whether you are experiencing troubling symptoms like depression or anxiety, feeling dissatisfied or held back, or having difficulty coming to terms with loss or other stressful life events, my goal would be to help you understand yourself better, feel more content, and live your life more fully. My approach is kind, thoughtful, and collaborative. I typically start by listening to your story, to get to know you and what led you to seek treatment.
, Parkinson's disease, ALS, and various forms of dementia) and offer a variety of treatment approaches to individuals and caregivers living with these conditions.
In my practice, I see people with a variety of concerns about their relationships, careers, and other aspects of their lives. Whether you are experiencing troubling symptoms like depression or anxiety, feeling dissatisfied or held back, or having difficulty coming to terms with loss or other stressful life events, my goal would be to help you understand yourself better, feel more content, and live your life more fully. My approach is kind, thoughtful, and collaborative. I typically start by listening to your story, to get to know you and what led you to seek treatment.
(610) 422-3720 View (610) 422-3720
Photo of Stacy Bernstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with individual adults of all ages who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and grief, among many other life challenges. By exploring and processing thoughts, feelings and behaviors together, we can work to promote change and enhance your quality of life. I have a special interest in working with adults navigating major life stage transitions, such as with chronic illness and changes that come with aging. I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity & respect.
I am dedicated to working with individual adults of all ages who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and grief, among many other life challenges. By exploring and processing thoughts, feelings and behaviors together, we can work to promote change and enhance your quality of life. I have a special interest in working with adults navigating major life stage transitions, such as with chronic illness and changes that come with aging. I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity & respect.
(832) 841-4268 View (832) 841-4268
Photo of Peter C Badgio, PhD, Psychologist
Peter C Badgio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Assessment: Badgio Assessment Group offers a wide range of specialized assessments that provide comprehensive, detailed and objective evaluations for issues such as learning differences, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), traumatic brain injury, concussion, memory loss, and complex interaction of mind and brain.
I have been a psychologist for over 25 years, providing therapy and assessment services on an individualized, personal basis to people seeking help for many different aspects of life. I have expertise in neuropsychology, psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I will respond to all calls directly. Your needs will be addressed privately and personally. From the time of the initial inquiry throughout the assessment and therapy process, your comfort and confidentiality is assured.
Assessment: Badgio Assessment Group offers a wide range of specialized assessments that provide comprehensive, detailed and objective evaluations for issues such as learning differences, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), traumatic brain injury, concussion, memory loss, and complex interaction of mind and brain.
I have been a psychologist for over 25 years, providing therapy and assessment services on an individualized, personal basis to people seeking help for many different aspects of life. I have expertise in neuropsychology, psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I will respond to all calls directly. Your needs will be addressed privately and personally. From the time of the initial inquiry throughout the assessment and therapy process, your comfort and confidentiality is assured.
(610) 628-4611 View (610) 628-4611
Photo of William J Ernst, PsyD, Psychologist
William J Ernst
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Neuropsychological evaluation and consultation for learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, concussion, traumatic brain injury, dementia, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to provide clinical services that are practical and informed by research. I do not employ a receptionist or any other support professionals. Therefore, when you call, I will always be the one that answers the phone. I am thorough and collaborative. Typically, I obtain information from multiple sources as appropriate including parents, partners, spouses, teachers and other healthcare professionals (e.g. physicians) with your consent. This allows me to develop a more comprehensive understanding of what is causing you or your family member's difficulties and how I can better help you.
Neuropsychological evaluation and consultation for learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, concussion, traumatic brain injury, dementia, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to provide clinical services that are practical and informed by research. I do not employ a receptionist or any other support professionals. Therefore, when you call, I will always be the one that answers the phone. I am thorough and collaborative. Typically, I obtain information from multiple sources as appropriate including parents, partners, spouses, teachers and other healthcare professionals (e.g. physicians) with your consent. This allows me to develop a more comprehensive understanding of what is causing you or your family member's difficulties and how I can better help you.
(215) 995-5002 View (215) 995-5002
Photo of Sarina Issenberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarina Issenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
Caregiving can be both an act of love and sacrifice and inevitably there will be a point where you begin to feel a strain. Whether you are supporting a loved one happily or hesitantly, if you are at the beginning of this journey or are at the end of your rope, we will work together to improve your capabilities to better care for your loved ones and yourself.
Caregiving can be both an act of love and sacrifice and inevitably there will be a point where you begin to feel a strain. Whether you are supporting a loved one happily or hesitantly, if you are at the beginning of this journey or are at the end of your rope, we will work together to improve your capabilities to better care for your loved ones and yourself.
(267) 578-3769 View (267) 578-3769
Photo of Michael E Keesler, PhD, JD, Psychologist
Michael E Keesler
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
Teletherapy openings available for individuals and couples ... I believe most people are doing their best, with the tools they have, for themselves and those they care about. Making changes may mean adapting old tools, acquiring new ones, or a combination of the two. In my practice we do that with a mixture of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and - especially for couples - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Teletherapy openings available for individuals and couples ... I believe most people are doing their best, with the tools they have, for themselves and those they care about. Making changes may mean adapting old tools, acquiring new ones, or a combination of the two. In my practice we do that with a mixture of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and - especially for couples - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
(215) 437-0632 View (215) 437-0632
Photo of Dr. Kelly McPfimeloronti, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kelly McPfimeloronti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness (www.cbtmindful.com). I have over two decades of experience providing a variety of research-based treatments at all levels of care with clients from all age groups and backgrounds. The primary focus of my work has been treating adults and adolescents with anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, substance use disorders, and medical conditions. I provide evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Gottman Method couples therapy, among others.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness (www.cbtmindful.com). I have over two decades of experience providing a variety of research-based treatments at all levels of care with clients from all age groups and backgrounds. The primary focus of my work has been treating adults and adolescents with anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, OCD, substance use disorders, and medical conditions. I provide evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Gottman Method couples therapy, among others.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Phil Gardner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phil Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148  (Online Only)
I believe in a strengths-based approach to treatment, which means I start by working to understand who my client is, what their concerns are, and what goals they want to achieve. This allows me to collaborate with my clients to develop effective coping skills for substance use, harm reduction, anxiety, depression, adjustment to aging, grief, relationship stress and boundary setting, or reactions to trauma. I also have experience with queer populations (LGBTQ+). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 5 years in therapy practice and 15 years of professional experience in nonprofit.
I believe in a strengths-based approach to treatment, which means I start by working to understand who my client is, what their concerns are, and what goals they want to achieve. This allows me to collaborate with my clients to develop effective coping skills for substance use, harm reduction, anxiety, depression, adjustment to aging, grief, relationship stress and boundary setting, or reactions to trauma. I also have experience with queer populations (LGBTQ+). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 5 years in therapy practice and 15 years of professional experience in nonprofit.
(267) 754-9212 View (267) 754-9212
Photo of Dana Rummery, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, LPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Rummery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
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 took time for your needs or felt truly heard. And even though you are really doing an amazing job taking care of everyone around you, you’re exhausted, burnt out, and wondering when things will change. What if you could find a little peace in your day as you do all the 879 things on your list? What if you could change old patterns, learn to manage the emotional rollercoaster of life and find ways to reduce your stress, anxiety, and isolation. Your needs matter.
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 took time for your needs or felt truly heard. And even though you are really doing an amazing job taking care of everyone around you, you’re exhausted, burnt out, and wondering when things will change. What if you could find a little peace in your day as you do all the 879 things on your list? What if you could change old patterns, learn to manage the emotional rollercoaster of life and find ways to reduce your stress, anxiety, and isolation. Your needs matter.
(267) 578-4551 View (267) 578-4551
Photo of Drew Smith, LPC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Drew Smith
Art Therapist, LPC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Are you looking for new ways to gain perspective and examine your life, access the healthiest version of yourself, and get in touch with your sources of inspiration and meaning? If you're struggling to connect with your health, happiness, creativity and motivation, you don't have to go it alone. Life may feel overwhelming, chaotic, and difficult to navigate, but it doesn't have to be this way. Together, we can identify and address areas for change and growth while celebrating and nourishing your strengths, so that you feel clear, calm, and empowered.
Are you looking for new ways to gain perspective and examine your life, access the healthiest version of yourself, and get in touch with your sources of inspiration and meaning? If you're struggling to connect with your health, happiness, creativity and motivation, you don't have to go it alone. Life may feel overwhelming, chaotic, and difficult to navigate, but it doesn't have to be this way. Together, we can identify and address areas for change and growth while celebrating and nourishing your strengths, so that you feel clear, calm, and empowered.
(971) 293-2742 View (971) 293-2742
Photo of Sallee Decker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sallee Decker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I Integrate a holistic approach to help address the physical and emotional issues that come along with stress, overwhelm, and trauma. I Integrate a holistic approach to help address the physical and emotional issues that come along with stress, overwhelm, and trauma. I will spend time helping you learn grounding techniques coping skills and mindfulness. I use a variety of modalities including CBT, mindfulness, somatic experience, nontraditional techniques, and more.
I Integrate a holistic approach to help address the physical and emotional issues that come along with stress, overwhelm, and trauma. I Integrate a holistic approach to help address the physical and emotional issues that come along with stress, overwhelm, and trauma. I will spend time helping you learn grounding techniques coping skills and mindfulness. I use a variety of modalities including CBT, mindfulness, somatic experience, nontraditional techniques, and more.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Anne Nisenzon, PhD, Psychologist
Anne Nisenzon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Sometimes life throws obstacles at you that are out of your control, but that does not mean you cannot live your optimally healthy life. Being truly healthy includes emotional, social, mental and physical well-being. When these aspects of life are out of balance due to health problems, work stress, or personal issues, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Working through these challenges and learning the best coping tools can help you put it back together. I strive to help you move through challenges in achieving a healthy mind and body using practical, evidence-based strategies and compassionate tailored care.
Sometimes life throws obstacles at you that are out of your control, but that does not mean you cannot live your optimally healthy life. Being truly healthy includes emotional, social, mental and physical well-being. When these aspects of life are out of balance due to health problems, work stress, or personal issues, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Working through these challenges and learning the best coping tools can help you put it back together. I strive to help you move through challenges in achieving a healthy mind and body using practical, evidence-based strategies and compassionate tailored care.
(215) 876-0526 View (215) 876-0526
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Dementia Therapists

Can dementia patients benefit from counseling?

Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counseling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counselors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counselors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.

How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?

To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioral and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.