Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Berkeley County, SC

Photo of Ellen Thorne, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Thorne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Goose Creek, SC 29445  (Online Only)
I see individuals ranging in age from14 to Seniors, both male and female.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have over 30 years of practice and experience in the fields of Social work and mental health. I have worked in a variety of settings including clinics, hospitals, prisons and a Managed care company. Currently I maintain a private practice in North Charleston,SC. I accept a variety of insurances and offer sliding scale fees as well for those without insurance. Please see my website: http://www.ethornelisw.com
I see individuals ranging in age from14 to Seniors, both male and female.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have over 30 years of practice and experience in the fields of Social work and mental health. I have worked in a variety of settings including clinics, hospitals, prisons and a Managed care company. Currently I maintain a private practice in North Charleston,SC. I accept a variety of insurances and offer sliding scale fees as well for those without insurance. Please see my website: http://www.ethornelisw.com
(843) 605-4467 View (843) 605-4467
Photo of Viva Lewis, MA, LPCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Viva Lewis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Ladson, SC 29456  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Viva and I am an LPC-A. I am deeply committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you. My approach is rooted in the belief that healing is a holistic journey, encompassing mind, body, and spirit. Through a combination of integrative techniques, I strive to help individuals find hope, resilience, and restoration. I understand that trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on your life. My goal is to walk alongside you on your healing journey, offering guidance and support every step of the way. I have successfully worked with others who have been through trauma as well.
Hello, My name is Viva and I am an LPC-A. I am deeply committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for you. My approach is rooted in the belief that healing is a holistic journey, encompassing mind, body, and spirit. Through a combination of integrative techniques, I strive to help individuals find hope, resilience, and restoration. I understand that trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on your life. My goal is to walk alongside you on your healing journey, offering guidance and support every step of the way. I have successfully worked with others who have been through trauma as well.
(843) 938-0644 View (843) 938-0644
Photo of Alice West, MEd, LMSW, LAC, LPC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alice West
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMSW, LAC, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goose Creek, SC 29445
I understand that the therapy process can be intimidating for many. It is my goal to provide you with a respectful, confidential and supportive environment where you will feel comfortable in sharing your needs and leave feeling heard and empowered.
I understand that the therapy process can be intimidating for many. It is my goal to provide you with a respectful, confidential and supportive environment where you will feel comfortable in sharing your needs and leave feeling heard and empowered.
(843) 594-0003 View (843) 594-0003
Photo of Bridget Lisa Schmidt, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Lisa Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492
Have you been to therapy before and feel like you are back to square one in dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions or adult/young adult struggles? Has life turned out very different than you imagined? Do you feel like it's a battle every day in parenting or do you have an adolescent who needs the help of a counselor? Are you looking for longer term relief from pain or anxiety that seems to come back? If so, you have found the right place. Whether you are new to counseling or not, we will work together through individualized, evidenced based techniques to help you from session ONE. Brighter days await you!
Have you been to therapy before and feel like you are back to square one in dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions or adult/young adult struggles? Has life turned out very different than you imagined? Do you feel like it's a battle every day in parenting or do you have an adolescent who needs the help of a counselor? Are you looking for longer term relief from pain or anxiety that seems to come back? If so, you have found the right place. Whether you are new to counseling or not, we will work together through individualized, evidenced based techniques to help you from session ONE. Brighter days await you!
(843) 905-2502 View (843) 905-2502
Photo of Holly Hansen, LPC, LPCS, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCS, LAC
Verified Verified
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
I would not say that I have an ideal client. I strive to meet my clients wherever they are at and go at the pace set by each client, as I believe that my clients know best about what they need and how to get there. My role is that of helping them untangle all of the thoughts and things that have gotten them to where they are and help them untangle them so that they can "see through the tangled mess" and I can help them formulate a path out.
I would not say that I have an ideal client. I strive to meet my clients wherever they are at and go at the pace set by each client, as I believe that my clients know best about what they need and how to get there. My role is that of helping them untangle all of the thoughts and things that have gotten them to where they are and help them untangle them so that they can "see through the tangled mess" and I can help them formulate a path out.
(843) 920-3595 View (843) 920-3595
Photo of Dale Belluscio, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dale Belluscio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
I have many years experience working with a wide age range from 3 to 90 yrs old. I believe in helping my clients find a sense of empowerment within. i believe everyone can be supported and helped in working with their mental illness and emotional issues. I create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for all of my clients. I offer day, evening and Saturday appointments, therefore there is usually not a wait list. I have worked with non profit agencies, the federal probation program, and in a group practice. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, ADHD, PTSD, trauma and many other diagnoses.
I have many years experience working with a wide age range from 3 to 90 yrs old. I believe in helping my clients find a sense of empowerment within. i believe everyone can be supported and helped in working with their mental illness and emotional issues. I create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for all of my clients. I offer day, evening and Saturday appointments, therefore there is usually not a wait list. I have worked with non profit agencies, the federal probation program, and in a group practice. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, ADHD, PTSD, trauma and many other diagnoses.
(401) 305-2128 View (401) 305-2128
Photo of Nicole Moriarty - Nicole Moriarty: Complete Trauma Resolution, MS, LPC, LPCC, Counselor
Nicole Moriarty: Complete Trauma Resolution
Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29492
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any experience or pattern of experiences that overwhelms our resources. If we don't have enough safety, support and understanding to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any experience or pattern of experiences that overwhelms our resources. If we don't have enough safety, support and understanding to process it, we store it.
(888) 496-2970 View (888) 496-2970
Photo of Danielle Larkins, MS, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Larkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goose Creek, SC 29445
Elodie LLC specializes in guiding couples through challenges like communication breakdowns and conflicts, addressing needs such as communication skills and trust rebuilding. Our focus is on empowering couples to strengthen emotional bonds, navigate challenges, and build lasting, fulfilling partnerships. At Elodie LLC, clients value our supportive and confidential space, seeking practical tools for improved communication and intimacy. Our goal is to help couples build, bringing joy, understanding, and fulfillment in their relationships.
Elodie LLC specializes in guiding couples through challenges like communication breakdowns and conflicts, addressing needs such as communication skills and trust rebuilding. Our focus is on empowering couples to strengthen emotional bonds, navigate challenges, and build lasting, fulfilling partnerships. At Elodie LLC, clients value our supportive and confidential space, seeking practical tools for improved communication and intimacy. Our goal is to help couples build, bringing joy, understanding, and fulfillment in their relationships.
(843) 631-4701 View (843) 631-4701
Photo of Cindy Boatwright, MA, MEd, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Boatwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29492
You've started looking for a therapist because something is getting in the way of your leading the life you want: worsening anxiety, a life event, feeling down, stuck or unhappy. I offer individualized counseling based on the personality, needs and goals of my patients. I don't judge. I will be your biggest cheerleader to help you overcome whatever hurdles are in your way. Everyone wants to lead life to the fullest, and we should feel worthy of that life. All too often I hear patients say, "I don't deserve.." or "I'm not good enough." We get trapped in comparing ourselves to others and hearing past messages of discouragement.
You've started looking for a therapist because something is getting in the way of your leading the life you want: worsening anxiety, a life event, feeling down, stuck or unhappy. I offer individualized counseling based on the personality, needs and goals of my patients. I don't judge. I will be your biggest cheerleader to help you overcome whatever hurdles are in your way. Everyone wants to lead life to the fullest, and we should feel worthy of that life. All too often I hear patients say, "I don't deserve.." or "I'm not good enough." We get trapped in comparing ourselves to others and hearing past messages of discouragement.
(843) 408-4142 View (843) 408-4142

Online Therapists

Photo of Don Stone, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Don Stone
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
"I'm sorry" "This is the last time" "Never again" "What's wrong with me?" Does this sound familiar? Why give up everything for this one thing, when you can give up this one thing and have everything? Long time Experience with addiction treatment. Work extremely well with 18-25 year old range but specializing in older population ( 55+) with alcohol and opiate (other drug) addiction treatment and recovery. Specific to those with long term recovery with relapse and has restarted the stages of change cycle. Dual Diagnosis, Spirituality and Codependency Disorders are addressed to provide a life free from addiction.
"I'm sorry" "This is the last time" "Never again" "What's wrong with me?" Does this sound familiar? Why give up everything for this one thing, when you can give up this one thing and have everything? Long time Experience with addiction treatment. Work extremely well with 18-25 year old range but specializing in older population ( 55+) with alcohol and opiate (other drug) addiction treatment and recovery. Specific to those with long term recovery with relapse and has restarted the stages of change cycle. Dual Diagnosis, Spirituality and Codependency Disorders are addressed to provide a life free from addiction.
(252) 327-5293 View (252) 327-5293
Photo of Holly Bruhn, MSW, LISW-CP, MHA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Bruhn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, MHA
Verified Verified
Summerville, SC 29485
Holly enjoys working with all age groups, including children, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.
Holly Bruhn received her Master Degree in Social Work at Boston University. Through field placements in Boston, she gained experience working with adults in recovery from substance abuse and mental health problems in a Residential Treatment Facility setting.Since that time, Holly moved back to South Carolina and worked for a local mental health center as a school-based therapist in an elementary school. She also earned her Master Degree in Healthcare Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina. She has been working in private practice in the Charleston area for the past 15 years
Holly enjoys working with all age groups, including children, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.
Holly Bruhn received her Master Degree in Social Work at Boston University. Through field placements in Boston, she gained experience working with adults in recovery from substance abuse and mental health problems in a Residential Treatment Facility setting.Since that time, Holly moved back to South Carolina and worked for a local mental health center as a school-based therapist in an elementary school. She also earned her Master Degree in Healthcare Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina. She has been working in private practice in the Charleston area for the past 15 years
(843) 242-0726 View (843) 242-0726
Photo of Ashley Gruber, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Gruber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Beaufort, SC 29907  (Online Only)
I specialize in dementia care, memory and brain health, caregiver support, life transitions, grief, anxiety and depression.
Welcome! Like sea glass, it can take time and endurance to evolve into your best self; for life’s transitions, traumas and stressors to smooth. I offer an experienced, client-centered approach providing the confidentiality, safe space and highly customized positive guidance to help you become more functional, seek emotional relief, and identify your next steps. Through individualized sessions, I actively partner with you to process challenges and outline potential ways to maintain control in your life. You are in charge of deciding what changes you want to make—I provide the structure to help.
I specialize in dementia care, memory and brain health, caregiver support, life transitions, grief, anxiety and depression.
Welcome! Like sea glass, it can take time and endurance to evolve into your best self; for life’s transitions, traumas and stressors to smooth. I offer an experienced, client-centered approach providing the confidentiality, safe space and highly customized positive guidance to help you become more functional, seek emotional relief, and identify your next steps. Through individualized sessions, I actively partner with you to process challenges and outline potential ways to maintain control in your life. You are in charge of deciding what changes you want to make—I provide the structure to help.
(843) 929-7170 View (843) 929-7170
Photo of Jordan Watkins, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include working with Veterans and military-related issues as well as older adults who are struggling with chronic illness, grief, and complicated relationships with adult children.
You've tried everything, but nothing seems to work long-term. You're tired of carrying the weight of your struggles on your own and are seeking compassionate, non-judgmental support. If this sounds like you, then you've come to the right place. My goal is to work with you to identify what YOU value most to determine the next steps toward living a full life. Whatever led you to my page, I'm so glad you're here and I'm honored to be considered as your guide through some of life's most difficult challenges.
My specialties include working with Veterans and military-related issues as well as older adults who are struggling with chronic illness, grief, and complicated relationships with adult children.
You've tried everything, but nothing seems to work long-term. You're tired of carrying the weight of your struggles on your own and are seeking compassionate, non-judgmental support. If this sounds like you, then you've come to the right place. My goal is to work with you to identify what YOU value most to determine the next steps toward living a full life. Whatever led you to my page, I'm so glad you're here and I'm honored to be considered as your guide through some of life's most difficult challenges.
(843) 604-3221 View (843) 604-3221
Photo of Hevylla Terlau, MA, LMSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hevylla Terlau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, SC 29936  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on empowering adult and geriatric clients, helping them navigate the complexities of life's later stages, mental health challenges, and personal growth opportunities.
Hello, I am Hevylla Terlau, soon to be a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, with a rich background in psychology and clinical social work. I am not your typical therapist. In our sessions, expect to be engaged actively—I'm here to interact, challenge, and support you as you uncover and strengthen your inner capacities. My approach blends CBT, psychodynamic principles, and interpersonal techniques tailored to foster goal-oriented progress and deep, insightful personal growth.
My practice is focused on empowering adult and geriatric clients, helping them navigate the complexities of life's later stages, mental health challenges, and personal growth opportunities.
Hello, I am Hevylla Terlau, soon to be a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, with a rich background in psychology and clinical social work. I am not your typical therapist. In our sessions, expect to be engaged actively—I'm here to interact, challenge, and support you as you uncover and strengthen your inner capacities. My approach blends CBT, psychodynamic principles, and interpersonal techniques tailored to foster goal-oriented progress and deep, insightful personal growth.
(843) 258-5192 View (843) 258-5192
Photo of Jewel K. M. Rembert - The Ultimate Choice Consulting, LLC, MA, BSW, LPC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Ultimate Choice Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BSW, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29223
Life is filled with countless choices, and at times, these choices can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. However, fear not, for we are here to guide you in making wise decisions and navigating through the choices that have been presented to you. Our mission is to assist individuals we have a diverse background in treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly, couples and families in embracing change and finding solutions to life's most challenging dilemmas.
Life is filled with countless choices, and at times, these choices can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. However, fear not, for we are here to guide you in making wise decisions and navigating through the choices that have been presented to you. Our mission is to assist individuals we have a diverse background in treating adolescents, adults, and the elderly, couples and families in embracing change and finding solutions to life's most challenging dilemmas.
(803) 636-8940 View (803) 636-8940
Photo of Jessica Joyce - Psychological & Counseling Associates of the Lowco, PsyD, Psychologist
Psychological & Counseling Associates of the Lowco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bluffton, SC 29910
The practice is owned by Dr. Jessica Joyce, PsyD and the practice is comprised of doctoral-level psychologists and several other master's and doctoral level licensed clinicians who provide quality mental health care. As a mental health collective, we assist members by providing therapy, assessment, counseling and more. We help our clients to connect with one of our doctors who can meet their needs and is available online or in-person. Our clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and seniors for assessment and psychotherapy.
The practice is owned by Dr. Jessica Joyce, PsyD and the practice is comprised of doctoral-level psychologists and several other master's and doctoral level licensed clinicians who provide quality mental health care. As a mental health collective, we assist members by providing therapy, assessment, counseling and more. We help our clients to connect with one of our doctors who can meet their needs and is available online or in-person. Our clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and seniors for assessment and psychotherapy.
(843) 594-1505 View (843) 594-1505
Photo of John E. Franklin, MD, FAAHPM, HMDC
John E. Franklin
MD, FAAHPM, HMDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johns Island, SC 29455
If you're struggling with chronic pain, emotional distress, or a sense that traditional treatments aren't enough, I’m here to help you find relief and reclaim your sense of well-being. I’m Dr. John Franklin, and I specialize in guiding people like you through the process of healing using a gentle, proven approach rooted in the mind-body connection. With a background in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine, I’ve spent decades helping individuals navigate some of life's most challenging moments.
If you're struggling with chronic pain, emotional distress, or a sense that traditional treatments aren't enough, I’m here to help you find relief and reclaim your sense of well-being. I’m Dr. John Franklin, and I specialize in guiding people like you through the process of healing using a gentle, proven approach rooted in the mind-body connection. With a background in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine, I’ve spent decades helping individuals navigate some of life's most challenging moments.
(843) 517-6101 View (843) 517-6101
Photo of Maria Irina Cromer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Irina Cromer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irmo, SC 29063
I was born in Romania and came to the USA in 2004. As a result, I’m adding a multicultural approach the great journey of the therapeutic process. I have a degree as a special education teacher and have worked for 10 years with a specialty in emotionally disabled children. I also worked as a licensed psychologist in the Romanian Army. Unfortunately, the psychology degree did not transfer in the USA, so I decided to go back to school, pursuing a clinical social work degree at USC. I enjoy working with adults, seniors and families on a variety of issues such as parenting, trauma, complex PTSD, and high functioning autism.
I was born in Romania and came to the USA in 2004. As a result, I’m adding a multicultural approach the great journey of the therapeutic process. I have a degree as a special education teacher and have worked for 10 years with a specialty in emotionally disabled children. I also worked as a licensed psychologist in the Romanian Army. Unfortunately, the psychology degree did not transfer in the USA, so I decided to go back to school, pursuing a clinical social work degree at USC. I enjoy working with adults, seniors and families on a variety of issues such as parenting, trauma, complex PTSD, and high functioning autism.
(803) 274-5715 View (803) 274-5715
Photo of Cynthia Clyburn, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Clyburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29401
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 Veronda Bellamy, LCMHCS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronda Bellamy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223
Congratulations on taking such a huge step in reaching out for guidance - someone that can partner with you on your life's journey. It is critical that you secure a safe place to process your feelings. I get it, feeling stuck can grip you into paralysis. You feel overwhelmed, you feel disconnected, or you may feel like you are behind. You may be struggling in your relationships, in making a smooth career transition, losing a loved one, financial challenges, or women issues. I specialize in trauma and although life feels tough, Happiness is possible and it is at your fingertips! I am already proud of you.
Congratulations on taking such a huge step in reaching out for guidance - someone that can partner with you on your life's journey. It is critical that you secure a safe place to process your feelings. I get it, feeling stuck can grip you into paralysis. You feel overwhelmed, you feel disconnected, or you may feel like you are behind. You may be struggling in your relationships, in making a smooth career transition, losing a loved one, financial challenges, or women issues. I specialize in trauma and although life feels tough, Happiness is possible and it is at your fingertips! I am already proud of you.
(803) 805-6847 View (803) 805-6847

See more therapy options for Berkeley County

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.