Dementia Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Ursula Alford, PhD, Psychologist
Ursula Alford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
Have you/your loved one experienced a medical event or new diagnosis? Are you having a difficult time adjusting? It is common to experience both physical and emotional struggles following stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, cancer diagnoses, dementia, and other illness onset. Often our roles within our family transition from caregiver to the one who needs to be cared for. Decreased independence and being more dependent on others often makes us feel like a burden. Fears related to these diagnoses can cause anxiety and depression. Role change may place stress on relationships and family dynamics.
Have you/your loved one experienced a medical event or new diagnosis? Are you having a difficult time adjusting? It is common to experience both physical and emotional struggles following stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, cancer diagnoses, dementia, and other illness onset. Often our roles within our family transition from caregiver to the one who needs to be cared for. Decreased independence and being more dependent on others often makes us feel like a burden. Fears related to these diagnoses can cause anxiety and depression. Role change may place stress on relationships and family dynamics.
(940) 204-0615 View (940) 204-0615
Photo of Wendy K. Ringe - Wendy K. Ringe, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Wendy K. Ringe, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
As a Psychologist with a subspecialty in Neuropsychology, I see a wide range of clients, including adults struggling with emotional challenges or dealing with life stressors, families with adult children with psychiatric illness, couples, or those who have experienced neurologic (dementia, epilepsy, MS, PD, brain injury, etc.
My passion is helping people cope with, learn from and overcome their unique life challenges. I offer clients expertise in short- or long-term psychotherapy, family consultation, and cognitive remediation as tools to help us identify goals and meet them through our work together. I am qualified and experienced to help adults cope with or resolve a wide range of challenges, including depression or anxiety, relationship issues, making decisions or transitions, recovering from injury or illness, working through current or past trauma, as well as diagnosing and treating various psychiatric and cognitive disorders.
As a Psychologist with a subspecialty in Neuropsychology, I see a wide range of clients, including adults struggling with emotional challenges or dealing with life stressors, families with adult children with psychiatric illness, couples, or those who have experienced neurologic (dementia, epilepsy, MS, PD, brain injury, etc.
My passion is helping people cope with, learn from and overcome their unique life challenges. I offer clients expertise in short- or long-term psychotherapy, family consultation, and cognitive remediation as tools to help us identify goals and meet them through our work together. I am qualified and experienced to help adults cope with or resolve a wide range of challenges, including depression or anxiety, relationship issues, making decisions or transitions, recovering from injury or illness, working through current or past trauma, as well as diagnosing and treating various psychiatric and cognitive disorders.
(469) 444-2137 View (469) 444-2137
Photo of Tamara Addis, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara Addis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Amongst Tamara's areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD/ Trauma, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, Self-Esteem, Stress, Grief, Life Transitions, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Substance Use, Traumatic Brain Injury, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parenting Issues, Family System Issues and Relationship Issues. Tamara enjoys working with teens, adults, seniors, couples, and families.
Amongst Tamara's areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD/ Trauma, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, Self-Esteem, Stress, Grief, Life Transitions, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Substance Use, Traumatic Brain Injury, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parenting Issues, Family System Issues and Relationship Issues. Tamara enjoys working with teens, adults, seniors, couples, and families.
(972) 619-7276 View (972) 619-7276
Photo of Rob Novick - Rob Novick, LCSW-S, LCSW-S, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Novick, LCSW-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I work with adults and families, specializing in assisting those living with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, senior/aging-related issues, such as dementia, and the stress caused by caregiving.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
I work with adults and families, specializing in assisting those living with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, senior/aging-related issues, such as dementia, and the stress caused by caregiving.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
(214) 740-3929 View (214) 740-3929
Photo of Nicole Rae Grandjean, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Rae Grandjean
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Could you benefit from a neuropsychological evaluation? If you have a family history of dementia, the answer is yes.
Dr. Nicole Rae Grandjean is a neuropsychologist who specializes in the differential diagnosis of psychiatric and neurocognitive disorders. She obtained her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from The University of North Texas in 2004. Dr. Grandjean evaluates people with neurocognitive disorders stemming from traumatic brain injury, toxic exposure, stroke, Parkinson's, and dementia. As a clinical psychologist, she specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her psychotherapy practice focuses on treating PTSD from rape, combat, catastrophic events, assault and childhood sexual/physical abuse.
Could you benefit from a neuropsychological evaluation? If you have a family history of dementia, the answer is yes.
Dr. Nicole Rae Grandjean is a neuropsychologist who specializes in the differential diagnosis of psychiatric and neurocognitive disorders. She obtained her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from The University of North Texas in 2004. Dr. Grandjean evaluates people with neurocognitive disorders stemming from traumatic brain injury, toxic exposure, stroke, Parkinson's, and dementia. As a clinical psychologist, she specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her psychotherapy practice focuses on treating PTSD from rape, combat, catastrophic events, assault and childhood sexual/physical abuse.
(214) 740-6192 View (214) 740-6192
Photo of David Stroud, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Stroud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
It takes strength and courage to seek help! I work with individuals, couples, and families in areas such as anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, couples tune-ups, and infertility. I am particularly interested in working with men's issues as well as stress management, self-esteem, post-divorce parenting, and career burnout/ career coaching. I am also experienced in working with senior adults and families dealing with issues related to aging, life transitions, and memory difficulties.
It takes strength and courage to seek help! I work with individuals, couples, and families in areas such as anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, couples tune-ups, and infertility. I am particularly interested in working with men's issues as well as stress management, self-esteem, post-divorce parenting, and career burnout/ career coaching. I am also experienced in working with senior adults and families dealing with issues related to aging, life transitions, and memory difficulties.
(972) 893-9044 View (972) 893-9044
Photo of Stephen Chock, PhD, Psychologist
Stephen Chock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL / PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION: assess dementia, learning disabilities, or other brain dysfunction; suggest treatment strategies.
MY GOAL: to promote mental, physical, & spiritual health for people at each developmental phase of life. Your struggles might include mood disorder or inefficient brain function. My broad-range experience: studied at Ohio State University under top-ranked professors in Counseling Psychology and brain injury. RESIDENCIES: Minneapolis VA hospital; Ohio State's brain injury rehab unit. 17+ years inpatient rehab neuropsychology experience at Baylor Rehab Dallas, Pate Rehab. 1990-95: Christian counseling & neuropsychology at Minirth-Meier Clinic. Adjunct Professor: LPC-level Counseling degree program at Dallas Theological Seminary.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL / PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION: assess dementia, learning disabilities, or other brain dysfunction; suggest treatment strategies.
MY GOAL: to promote mental, physical, & spiritual health for people at each developmental phase of life. Your struggles might include mood disorder or inefficient brain function. My broad-range experience: studied at Ohio State University under top-ranked professors in Counseling Psychology and brain injury. RESIDENCIES: Minneapolis VA hospital; Ohio State's brain injury rehab unit. 17+ years inpatient rehab neuropsychology experience at Baylor Rehab Dallas, Pate Rehab. 1990-95: Christian counseling & neuropsychology at Minirth-Meier Clinic. Adjunct Professor: LPC-level Counseling degree program at Dallas Theological Seminary.
(469) 804-7893 View (469) 804-7893
Photo of Toneisha Baker, LCSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toneisha Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWS
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Toneisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and supervisor with over 15 years of experience working with preteens, teens, adults, and older adults. Toneisha has a warm and friendly personality which makes you feel welcomed and at ease when you enter the therapy room. She is eager to help clients develop problem solving abilities and coping skills and assist them in finding and utilizing resources available to them.
Toneisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and supervisor with over 15 years of experience working with preteens, teens, adults, and older adults. Toneisha has a warm and friendly personality which makes you feel welcomed and at ease when you enter the therapy room. She is eager to help clients develop problem solving abilities and coping skills and assist them in finding and utilizing resources available to them.
(214) 571-7759 View (214) 571-7759
Photo of Terrie L Naramor, PhD, Psychologist
Terrie L Naramor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
At Acorn to Oak I offer testing to clients ranging from preschool age through adulthood. Are you a parent whose child is struggling in school? Are you an adult worried about your cognitive processes due to a health event, accident, or family history of dementia? I offer testing to figure out what's going on and then recommend treatment options. Additionally, we offer a unique Skills Training program for clients to come weekly for cognitive behavior therapy, individualized academic assistance, or focused training based on behavorial, developmental, or life skills needs.
At Acorn to Oak I offer testing to clients ranging from preschool age through adulthood. Are you a parent whose child is struggling in school? Are you an adult worried about your cognitive processes due to a health event, accident, or family history of dementia? I offer testing to figure out what's going on and then recommend treatment options. Additionally, we offer a unique Skills Training program for clients to come weekly for cognitive behavior therapy, individualized academic assistance, or focused training based on behavorial, developmental, or life skills needs.
(972) 666-5130 View (972) 666-5130
Photo of Dr. Amy Kreins, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Amy Kreins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025
I have previously worked with geriatrics in long-term care facilities, as well as, taught workshops on eating disorders, body image, stress management, dementia, and depression.
I deliver cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments to adult, seniors, and teens with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems. I try to build on an individual's strengths and individualize therapy to each person's need. I believe psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources to increase self-understanding, to improve decision-making, to solve problems, and to create paths to the lives they want. I use mindfulness training to help clients live in the moment, with a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach.
I have previously worked with geriatrics in long-term care facilities, as well as, taught workshops on eating disorders, body image, stress management, dementia, and depression.
I deliver cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments to adult, seniors, and teens with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems. I try to build on an individual's strengths and individualize therapy to each person's need. I believe psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources to increase self-understanding, to improve decision-making, to solve problems, and to create paths to the lives they want. I use mindfulness training to help clients live in the moment, with a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach.
(469) 812-8492 View (469) 812-8492
Photo of Levi Armstrong, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Levi Armstrong
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Dr. Levi Armstrong is a doctoral-level, clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in testing and treatment for children (ages 3+), adolescents, and adults suffering from diseases and illnesses affecting the brain. Common diagnoses evaluated for include ADHD or ADD, autism or Asperger's, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and dementia. With a down-to-earth attitude and a genuine desire to be as clinically helpful as possible, our compassionate clinical staff believe that each patient is much more than a diagnosis and that testing should always be a therapeutic process.
Dr. Levi Armstrong is a doctoral-level, clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in testing and treatment for children (ages 3+), adolescents, and adults suffering from diseases and illnesses affecting the brain. Common diagnoses evaluated for include ADHD or ADD, autism or Asperger's, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and dementia. With a down-to-earth attitude and a genuine desire to be as clinically helpful as possible, our compassionate clinical staff believe that each patient is much more than a diagnosis and that testing should always be a therapeutic process.
(972) 442-0605 View (972) 442-0605
Photo of Leslie Wegner - North Texas Voice and Speech, MS, CCC-SLP
North Texas Voice and Speech
MS, CCC-SLP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75025
I specialize in helping children and adults diagnosed with muscle tension dysphonia, vocal fold dysfunction/paradoxical vocal fold motion, cognitive communication disorder following stroke/TBI, dementia, Parkinson Disease.
Are you struggling with voice, cognitive, or swallowing issues following a traumatic experience or serious illness? Are you frustrated with seeking resources and training for transgender voice affirmation? Are you an athlete with breathing issues that aren't explained or helped by asthma diagnosis and treatment? Are you frustrated with changes in your voice as you age?
I specialize in helping children and adults diagnosed with muscle tension dysphonia, vocal fold dysfunction/paradoxical vocal fold motion, cognitive communication disorder following stroke/TBI, dementia, Parkinson Disease.
Are you struggling with voice, cognitive, or swallowing issues following a traumatic experience or serious illness? Are you frustrated with seeking resources and training for transgender voice affirmation? Are you an athlete with breathing issues that aren't explained or helped by asthma diagnosis and treatment? Are you frustrated with changes in your voice as you age?
(214) 206-4602 View (214) 206-4602
Photo of Levi Armstrong - Integra Psychological Services, PLLC, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Integra Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
Armstrong is a neuropsychologist specializing in ADHD testing, autism, learning disorders, TBI, stroke, and dementia.
Integra Psychological Services, PLLC is owned by clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Levi Armstrong. We provide compassionate psychological and neuropsychological testing / evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. We also provide individual, couples, and marriage/family therapy.
Armstrong is a neuropsychologist specializing in ADHD testing, autism, learning disorders, TBI, stroke, and dementia.
Integra Psychological Services, PLLC is owned by clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Levi Armstrong. We provide compassionate psychological and neuropsychological testing / evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. We also provide individual, couples, and marriage/family therapy.
(214) 225-6975 View (214) 225-6975
Photo of Julian Osuji - Dr J Osuji - Dallas Neurorehab Center, PhD, Psychologist
Dr J Osuji - Dallas Neurorehab Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Life is full of all types of obstacles, but successful people are those who use those obstacles as motivation. The person most likely to benefit from my interventional methods, a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral and Interpersonal Therapy, is motivated to succeed and only needs a little guidance to achieve his/her fullest potential. We take BCBS and Medicare and are out of network on the other panels, but will assist clients with obtaining reimbursements from your carrier, in addition to a sliding fee scale. I am a clinical neuropsychologist, with specific expertise in dementias (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Stroke); ADHD/learning issues; mood/anxiety disorders.
Life is full of all types of obstacles, but successful people are those who use those obstacles as motivation. The person most likely to benefit from my interventional methods, a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral and Interpersonal Therapy, is motivated to succeed and only needs a little guidance to achieve his/her fullest potential. We take BCBS and Medicare and are out of network on the other panels, but will assist clients with obtaining reimbursements from your carrier, in addition to a sliding fee scale. I am a clinical neuropsychologist, with specific expertise in dementias (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Stroke); ADHD/learning issues; mood/anxiety disorders.
(469) 665-8195 View (469) 665-8195
Photo of Trudi Young Taylor, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trudi Young Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a licensed professional counselor, yoga teacher, and massage therapist who believes we all experience the world in a different way. No two people are the same, and neither are their problems. So, I favor a practical and flexible approach to helping my clients find solutions that fit best with their resources and constraints: as your coach, mentor, and advocate, I’ll help you generate motivation to create new behaviors, develop skills to sustain the behavior change, and gain wisdom to be the best you can be.
I’m a licensed professional counselor, yoga teacher, and massage therapist who believes we all experience the world in a different way. No two people are the same, and neither are their problems. So, I favor a practical and flexible approach to helping my clients find solutions that fit best with their resources and constraints: as your coach, mentor, and advocate, I’ll help you generate motivation to create new behaviors, develop skills to sustain the behavior change, and gain wisdom to be the best you can be.
(469) 373-8935 View (469) 373-8935
Photo of Eryn E Hicker, LCSW-S, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eryn E Hicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
I am EMDR certified. We've all experienced ups and downs, of life, as the ocean we navigate through ebbs and flows. We may be in the same ocean of chaos around us, but out boats are all crafted differently. Some surf through waves in their expensive, privileged Yachts, and some of us are barely keeping afloat in our tattered paddle boats. No matter your type of boat, we all get tossed into the water from time to time. Don't let the waves flood you. Learn to keep your head above the waves, and eventually build up ability to surf over those rough waves with confidence.
I am EMDR certified. We've all experienced ups and downs, of life, as the ocean we navigate through ebbs and flows. We may be in the same ocean of chaos around us, but out boats are all crafted differently. Some surf through waves in their expensive, privileged Yachts, and some of us are barely keeping afloat in our tattered paddle boats. No matter your type of boat, we all get tossed into the water from time to time. Don't let the waves flood you. Learn to keep your head above the waves, and eventually build up ability to surf over those rough waves with confidence.
(214) 380-1431 View (214) 380-1431
Photo of Amanda Cortez - Counseling Center of North Texas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
Our group has the perfect therapist for you. With more than 40 therapists, each one has treatment areas as well as therapeutic approaches and strategies that make them unique. We offer individual, family, couples, and group therapy for children as young as 3, preteens, teens, and adults of all ages. Our therapists are all passionate about helping those who are struggling with life's up and downs and committed to finding the treatment strategies you need. We offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments both in-person and via telehealth.
Our group has the perfect therapist for you. With more than 40 therapists, each one has treatment areas as well as therapeutic approaches and strategies that make them unique. We offer individual, family, couples, and group therapy for children as young as 3, preteens, teens, and adults of all ages. Our therapists are all passionate about helping those who are struggling with life's up and downs and committed to finding the treatment strategies you need. We offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments both in-person and via telehealth.
(469) 844-4241 View (469) 844-4241
Photo of Breiane Cage, MA, LMFT, CCTP, CNT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Breiane Cage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP, CNT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
My greatest strength is empathy, the ability to put myself in the shoes of my client to understand what they are feeling. Every brain is as unique as DNA, which means problems can present differently in people and can be triggered by different issues. I work with all ages, from children with ADHD to senior citizens with cognitive decline. Sometimes the client needs to build a toolbox, and other times, we can teach the brain new ways of processing information. It all depends on what issues you are dealing with in order to determine what solutions are available. I will guide you through what options are available for you to decide.
My greatest strength is empathy, the ability to put myself in the shoes of my client to understand what they are feeling. Every brain is as unique as DNA, which means problems can present differently in people and can be triggered by different issues. I work with all ages, from children with ADHD to senior citizens with cognitive decline. Sometimes the client needs to build a toolbox, and other times, we can teach the brain new ways of processing information. It all depends on what issues you are dealing with in order to determine what solutions are available. I will guide you through what options are available for you to decide.
(469) 423-8079 View (469) 423-8079
Photo of Danni Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danni Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with teens and young adults as they explore and become the adults they want to be, assisting them in setting good boundaries and finding ways to safely express themselves while being and growing into productive members of society. I enjoy working with teens and their families regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, family composition, religious backgrounds and beliefs, or schooling choices. I believe in solution-focused therapies that bring families together in healthy ways, integrating the needs of both teens and parents. I am also kink aware and familiar with ENM. I meet you where you are.
I am passionate about working with teens and young adults as they explore and become the adults they want to be, assisting them in setting good boundaries and finding ways to safely express themselves while being and growing into productive members of society. I enjoy working with teens and their families regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, family composition, religious backgrounds and beliefs, or schooling choices. I believe in solution-focused therapies that bring families together in healthy ways, integrating the needs of both teens and parents. I am also kink aware and familiar with ENM. I meet you where you are.
(469) 240-6932 View (469) 240-6932
Photo of Donna P. Xu, MS, LMFT, LPC-A, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna P. Xu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm EMDR therapy trained (treatment for trauma). I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
¡Hola a todos! Me llamo Donna, Mexicana a hueso colorado y soy bilingüe en Ingles y Español. I'm EMDR therapy trained (treatment for trauma). I am here to help you to the best of my ability and most of all, I'm open-minded about cultures, beliefs, sexual orientation, and walks of life. My office space is a judgment-free zone. I work with grief, anxiety, depression, intergenerational and religious trauma, losses, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(979) 399-5929 View (979) 399-5929
1
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.