Dementia Therapists in Richardson, TX
![Photo of Harry L Cates, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39204e39-90e4-40c7-888e-8cb168a5436c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in the aging population, dementia, the sandwich generation, caring for caregivers, and professional men successful in their work but struggling at home.
Life is difficult... for all of us, but there are times it seems especially hard to know how to face life's challenges. I am here to help you find a way through the challenges and to grow in the process. With over 32 years of counseling experience, it is my hope to bring a unique blend of kindness care and wisdom to your situation. I know we never stop needing help and our ability to be resilient and navigate life depends on getting the quality help we all need. As a counselor I will walk with you and be a helper and guide as you face this journey.
I also specialize in the aging population, dementia, the sandwich generation, caring for caregivers, and professional men successful in their work but struggling at home.
Life is difficult... for all of us, but there are times it seems especially hard to know how to face life's challenges. I am here to help you find a way through the challenges and to grow in the process. With over 32 years of counseling experience, it is my hope to bring a unique blend of kindness care and wisdom to your situation. I know we never stop needing help and our ability to be resilient and navigate life depends on getting the quality help we all need. As a counselor I will walk with you and be a helper and guide as you face this journey.
![Photo of Holly Lindsey Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bc064b7-69db-4e07-8a56-b872e88076ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Lindsey Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081 (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients do the work to assist them in developing the tools & strategies that result in the outcome that they are pleased with. As we age, we deal with grief, loss, and life events that may change the trajectory of goals and lifelong plans. It is important to process these changes in a healthy and productive way.
I enjoy helping clients do the work to assist them in developing the tools & strategies that result in the outcome that they are pleased with. As we age, we deal with grief, loss, and life events that may change the trajectory of goals and lifelong plans. It is important to process these changes in a healthy and productive way.
![Photo of Sabrina S Austin, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a59374-5023-4ce0-a106-75ea50cf61d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
![Photo of Michelle Jones, DSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1f9d30d-11a1-419a-9798-c8efb07ffb67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. Yes, you are in the right place no doubt about it. Your internal navigator has landed you right in the center of Heart Matters. A place where…. “The Matters Of Your Heart, Matter To Me!” Take a look around and see how I will help you from a HEART perspective!! I understand you may be dealing with a traumatic experience, feeling anxious, depressed, or going in circles with gridlocked issues.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. Yes, you are in the right place no doubt about it. Your internal navigator has landed you right in the center of Heart Matters. A place where…. “The Matters Of Your Heart, Matter To Me!” Take a look around and see how I will help you from a HEART perspective!! I understand you may be dealing with a traumatic experience, feeling anxious, depressed, or going in circles with gridlocked issues.
![Photo of Ashley Prietto, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd608873-3b07-4bab-96ab-3d630e0e123d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Prietto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Healing yourself is tough. Searching for a therapist is frustrating. Especially when you're struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression and overwhelm. I am proud to provide personalized mental health treatment tailored to the unique needs of adults diagnosed with ADHD (certified in ADHD clinical management skills) and caregiver burnout. As someone living with ADHD, and who has experienced the challenges of caregiving, I see you, and I get it. It's time to learn how to work with yourself, not against. Burnout recovery is possible. Improved executive functioning is an attainable goal. Let's figure it out together.
Healing yourself is tough. Searching for a therapist is frustrating. Especially when you're struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression and overwhelm. I am proud to provide personalized mental health treatment tailored to the unique needs of adults diagnosed with ADHD (certified in ADHD clinical management skills) and caregiver burnout. As someone living with ADHD, and who has experienced the challenges of caregiving, I see you, and I get it. It's time to learn how to work with yourself, not against. Burnout recovery is possible. Improved executive functioning is an attainable goal. Let's figure it out together.
![Photo of Dr. Nicole Keehn - Lokahi Life Center, PLLC, PsyD, RN, MS(N), Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b698a45b-86d0-41a0-8447-5c401da9f801/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lokahi Life Center, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, RN, MS(N)
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Not accepting new clients
We tailor specialized psychological therapies and/ or assessments to meet your goals as quickly as possible. Our strength is in the holistic care and broad range of expertise we provide to our patients. Our practitioners provide supportive and evidence-based in-office therapy, advanced assessment strategies, and teletherapy for teens and adults. Lokahi Life Center, PLLC is a nursing consultation and clinical psychology center focused on optimizing physical and mental health through current research-based methods. We believe everyone has the potential to achieve happiness and success.
We tailor specialized psychological therapies and/ or assessments to meet your goals as quickly as possible. Our strength is in the holistic care and broad range of expertise we provide to our patients. Our practitioners provide supportive and evidence-based in-office therapy, advanced assessment strategies, and teletherapy for teens and adults. Lokahi Life Center, PLLC is a nursing consultation and clinical psychology center focused on optimizing physical and mental health through current research-based methods. We believe everyone has the potential to achieve happiness and success.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ursula Alford, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b25c02d-2201-4c4c-93c3-6043a9f97e73/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Wendy K. Ringe - Wendy K. Ringe, PhD, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f629630-7e21-4cff-b3ec-a101ca132fda/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of David Stroud, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd96eeb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Levi Armstrong - Integra Psychological Services, PLLC, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/978fbdba-e841-41dd-a185-43dc18b389ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mindy Kitchens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb430383-47b3-4fa4-bc25-dccf3f5cc5f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that we are all our own best experts and advocates. As such, I approach the therapeutic relationship from a place of deep respect for client’s needs, strengths, and personal goals. As a clinician, I prioritize bringing a calm, peaceful environment to sessions – by instilling a sense of safety and unconditional acceptance, we can work collaboratively through life’s challenges. I have experience working with adults and older adults with a variety of care needs. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, aging, LGBTQ issues, substance use, and caregiver support.
I believe that we are all our own best experts and advocates. As such, I approach the therapeutic relationship from a place of deep respect for client’s needs, strengths, and personal goals. As a clinician, I prioritize bringing a calm, peaceful environment to sessions – by instilling a sense of safety and unconditional acceptance, we can work collaboratively through life’s challenges. I have experience working with adults and older adults with a variety of care needs. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, aging, LGBTQ issues, substance use, and caregiver support.
![Photo of Dr. Amy Kreins, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ad2faa1-1578-4b24-b1a5-229717806dfd/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Terrie L Naramor, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca8d8f2-a24d-408b-8dc0-d494a509a55e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Leslie Wegner - North Texas Voice and Speech, MS, CCC-SLP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a1dd48a-7144-45c0-9e00-4cb204fa4282/2/320x400.jpeg)
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?
![Photo of Nicole Rae Grandjean, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54344704-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Toneisha Baker, LCSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/550dff35-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Tamara Addis, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83baf3e1-998a-42ff-9987-fa46d7a72867/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Stephen Chock, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfe841e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Levi Armstrong, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93229dc3-96ed-4394-b3a2-19a2213ffc2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rob Novick - Rob Novick, LCSW-S, LCSW-S, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439e008b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Richardson
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.