Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Jonathan David Gerson, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Jonathan David Gerson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
In my 18 years of practice I have helped many adults; for example, members of the Veterans community, LGBTQ+ community and Seniors.
Welcome! I am skilled in working with adults of all ages. Life can be challenging and difficult to navigate. Seeking guidance is key on that journey. I offer a compassionate healing space for my clients and together we work towards improving your day to day joy and engagement in life. I meet you exactly where you are and we work from there. I utilize various modalities, such a depth psychology and narrative therapy. Additionally, I have expertise with seniors suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's. Our geriatric population needs and deserves the best of care as they take on aging challenges. I would be honored to work with you.
In my 18 years of practice I have helped many adults; for example, members of the Veterans community, LGBTQ+ community and Seniors.
Welcome! I am skilled in working with adults of all ages. Life can be challenging and difficult to navigate. Seeking guidance is key on that journey. I offer a compassionate healing space for my clients and together we work towards improving your day to day joy and engagement in life. I meet you exactly where you are and we work from there. I utilize various modalities, such a depth psychology and narrative therapy. Additionally, I have expertise with seniors suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's. Our geriatric population needs and deserves the best of care as they take on aging challenges. I would be honored to work with you.
(206) 279-2013 View (206) 279-2013
Photo of Susan M Mccurry, PhD, Psychologist
Susan M Mccurry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with midlife and older adults. I use a contextual behavioral science approach to provide evidence-based treatment for enhancing quality of life in healthy aging adults, and also in individuals experiencing age-related changes in physical, cognitive, or psychological function, disturbances in sleep, or residential care transitions and adjustments. I recognize the broad and complex contextual factors that influence the aging process and welcome interdisciplinary collaboration.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with midlife and older adults. I use a contextual behavioral science approach to provide evidence-based treatment for enhancing quality of life in healthy aging adults, and also in individuals experiencing age-related changes in physical, cognitive, or psychological function, disturbances in sleep, or residential care transitions and adjustments. I recognize the broad and complex contextual factors that influence the aging process and welcome interdisciplinary collaboration.
(206) 743-9484 View (206) 743-9484
Photo of Amy Astle-Raaen, MSW, GMHS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Astle-Raaen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, GMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
Amy Astle-Raaen, MSW, is a Geriatric Mental Health Specialist. She provides home visits and tele-health in the greater Seattle area for therapeutic counseling and serves individuals, families, couples and caregivers. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Willamette University, a Master of Social Work degree in Multigenerational Health/Policy Practice from the University of Washington and a Certificate in Advanced Dementia Practice from the University of Michigan.
Amy Astle-Raaen, MSW, is a Geriatric Mental Health Specialist. She provides home visits and tele-health in the greater Seattle area for therapeutic counseling and serves individuals, families, couples and caregivers. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Willamette University, a Master of Social Work degree in Multigenerational Health/Policy Practice from the University of Washington and a Certificate in Advanced Dementia Practice from the University of Michigan.
(206) 203-5718 View (206) 203-5718
Photo of Leanne King Devitt - Seattle Elder Connections, MA, LMHC, CCM, Counselor
Seattle Elder Connections
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCM
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a Certified Geriatric Care Manager.
If you are looking for support in dealing with your own changing life situation I offer individual counseling specializing in issues around aging and transitions. Consultation is available for the adult child who may be a caregiver or is wondering what the next steps could be or what community resources are available for an aging parent. Many adult children do not live near their parents or do not have the time to manage their parent's care. Having a local Geriatric Care Manager can ease some of the burden and worry around safety, care and placement concerns.
I am a Certified Geriatric Care Manager.
If you are looking for support in dealing with your own changing life situation I offer individual counseling specializing in issues around aging and transitions. Consultation is available for the adult child who may be a caregiver or is wondering what the next steps could be or what community resources are available for an aging parent. Many adult children do not live near their parents or do not have the time to manage their parent's care. Having a local Geriatric Care Manager can ease some of the burden and worry around safety, care and placement concerns.
(206) 539-1018 View (206) 539-1018
Photo of Carol Sherwood, MSW, LICSW, GMHS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Sherwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, GMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I have an extensive background working with adults of all ages. I provide supervision for Master's level clinicians working towards licensure. In addition, I supervise for Geriatric Mental Health specialization. I am currently focusing on providing supervision for LICSW and LMHC licensure and supervision for GMHS. I have loved working with adults of any age as they've uncovered their strengths and worked towards their goals. I use this same approach for licensure supervision.
I have an extensive background working with adults of all ages. I provide supervision for Master's level clinicians working towards licensure. In addition, I supervise for Geriatric Mental Health specialization. I am currently focusing on providing supervision for LICSW and LMHC licensure and supervision for GMHS. I have loved working with adults of any age as they've uncovered their strengths and worked towards their goals. I use this same approach for licensure supervision.
(206) 350-4170 View (206) 350-4170
Photo of Jenna Rumberger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Rumberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Accepting new clients! You are trying your best to care for your aging parents or spouse, and you feel like it is never enough. Dementia has taken a piece of your person and you are already grieving that loss even though they are still physically here. Therapy is a safe space where all parts of you are welcomed. It is a time to process and explore the feelings that often come up with dementia caregiving like fear, worry, and frustrations. My goal is for you to feel heard and valued. We can do this together.
Accepting new clients! You are trying your best to care for your aging parents or spouse, and you feel like it is never enough. Dementia has taken a piece of your person and you are already grieving that loss even though they are still physically here. Therapy is a safe space where all parts of you are welcomed. It is a time to process and explore the feelings that often come up with dementia caregiving like fear, worry, and frustrations. My goal is for you to feel heard and valued. We can do this together.
(425) 270-7336 View (425) 270-7336
Photo of Suzanna P McCarthy, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanna P McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work primarily with older adults at a crossroads, unsure of path and purpose, helping you experience wisdom, clarity, well-being and a life that you love.
I love to work with adults 65+ who wish to focus on the everyday challenges of aging: anxiety, depression, loneliness, retirement, grief and loss, care-giving, end of life, meaning and purpose, illness, diminishing capabilities and the list goes on. Aging has a way of exposing us to forces beyond our control. What worked before doesn’t fit now as we grapple with subtle and no-so-subtle changes in our life. We can battle these challenges for a while, but issues in aging march to their own drummer. The inner peace and blessings of aging are elsewhere.
I work primarily with older adults at a crossroads, unsure of path and purpose, helping you experience wisdom, clarity, well-being and a life that you love.
I love to work with adults 65+ who wish to focus on the everyday challenges of aging: anxiety, depression, loneliness, retirement, grief and loss, care-giving, end of life, meaning and purpose, illness, diminishing capabilities and the list goes on. Aging has a way of exposing us to forces beyond our control. What worked before doesn’t fit now as we grapple with subtle and no-so-subtle changes in our life. We can battle these challenges for a while, but issues in aging march to their own drummer. The inner peace and blessings of aging are elsewhere.
(425) 407-5117 View (425) 407-5117
Photo of Meredith Vender, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Vender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and older adults with cancer and chronic illness as well as parents of children with cancer, chronic illness and developmental disabilities.
I am passionate about supporting clients through life's many challenges such as receiving a new medical diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness, shifting to a caregiver role or grieving the death of a loved one. My practice offers a safe and affirming therapeutic space to learn and grow. I tailor treatment using a variety of techniques and view our time together as a shared endeavor to help you achieve your goals. I am skilled in navigating the complex medical system and can help foster collaboration and communication with your medical treatment team. As a Certified Case Manager I can also assist with healthcare-related documents.
I specialize in working with adults and older adults with cancer and chronic illness as well as parents of children with cancer, chronic illness and developmental disabilities.
I am passionate about supporting clients through life's many challenges such as receiving a new medical diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness, shifting to a caregiver role or grieving the death of a loved one. My practice offers a safe and affirming therapeutic space to learn and grow. I tailor treatment using a variety of techniques and view our time together as a shared endeavor to help you achieve your goals. I am skilled in navigating the complex medical system and can help foster collaboration and communication with your medical treatment team. As a Certified Case Manager I can also assist with healthcare-related documents.
(310) 455-8405 View (310) 455-8405
Photo of Laura Vaillancourt - Eldercare Counseling and Guidance Services, MA, LMHC, GMHS, Counselor
Eldercare Counseling and Guidance Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, GMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
We specialize in serving folks who are caring for aging family members, older adults and those living with chronic medical conditions. Our clients report that they feel lost and alone and have a hard time seeing an end to the stress they are experiencing. We recognize the unique loss and grief that can come with aging and caring for aging loved ones. Sometimes, the right support can be a lifeline when you are navigating complex decisions. You are trying to do your best to provide care and support to your loved one and not lose yourself in the process. We understand that sometimes, even reaching out for help can feel overwhelming.
We specialize in serving folks who are caring for aging family members, older adults and those living with chronic medical conditions. Our clients report that they feel lost and alone and have a hard time seeing an end to the stress they are experiencing. We recognize the unique loss and grief that can come with aging and caring for aging loved ones. Sometimes, the right support can be a lifeline when you are navigating complex decisions. You are trying to do your best to provide care and support to your loved one and not lose yourself in the process. We understand that sometimes, even reaching out for help can feel overwhelming.
(360) 858-8159 View (360) 858-8159
Photo of Joan Arbor, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Arbor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My specialties are the following: Depression Anxiety and Panic Stress Management Caregiver Stress Caregivers for Alzheimer's and Dementia The Aging Process Managing Chronic Health Conditions Life Transition End of Life Decisions Substance Use and Addiction Grief/Loss Trauma PTSD Self Esteem ADD/ADHD Oppression LGBTQIA+ Emotional Regulation.
My approach as a mental health counselor is to support you in a collaborative process to nurture the growth and change that aligns with your goals, values, strengths, and resilience. Anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loneliness, oppression, or addiction can stand in the way of healing from painful situations. My therapeutic style is one of respect, safety, and compassion. I incorporate many therapeutic modalities tailored to your needs to create the growth you would like to see. ​
My specialties are the following: Depression Anxiety and Panic Stress Management Caregiver Stress Caregivers for Alzheimer's and Dementia The Aging Process Managing Chronic Health Conditions Life Transition End of Life Decisions Substance Use and Addiction Grief/Loss Trauma PTSD Self Esteem ADD/ADHD Oppression LGBTQIA+ Emotional Regulation.
My approach as a mental health counselor is to support you in a collaborative process to nurture the growth and change that aligns with your goals, values, strengths, and resilience. Anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loneliness, oppression, or addiction can stand in the way of healing from painful situations. My therapeutic style is one of respect, safety, and compassion. I incorporate many therapeutic modalities tailored to your needs to create the growth you would like to see. ​
(971) 260-9315 View (971) 260-9315
Photo of Renee Hoffman - Renee Hoffman LSWAIC at The Vibrant Tapestry, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Hoffman LSWAIC at The Vibrant Tapestry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
Over the last decade, I have worked in direct geriatric care, hospice, medical palliative hospital care and with the Program for the All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly. I specialize in working with elderly individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, and adjustment disorders. Additionally, I have expertise in addressing age-related concerns such as loneliness, caregiver stress, chronic illness, and end-of-life planning. My goal is to empower older adults to navigate these challenges with resilience and dignity, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Over the last decade, I have worked in direct geriatric care, hospice, medical palliative hospital care and with the Program for the All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly. I specialize in working with elderly individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, and adjustment disorders. Additionally, I have expertise in addressing age-related concerns such as loneliness, caregiver stress, chronic illness, and end-of-life planning. My goal is to empower older adults to navigate these challenges with resilience and dignity, enhancing their overall quality of life.
(253) 400-3954 View (253) 400-3954
Photo of Chris Schad - Moonrise Mental Health, PLLC, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moonrise Mental Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I specialize in grief and loss, and offer support through life transitions such as: divorce, job loss, and health issues. My background is in gerontology and hospice care. I've worked with older adults and their caregivers in the health field since 2006. I use a strengths based, person-centered approach. My clinical focus includes working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+. I identify as Queer and celebrate the resilience that can be found in overcoming adversity through community and connection. I work with Veterans and their families. I advocate for healthcare equity for Transgender Veterans and gender non-conforming folks.
I specialize in grief and loss, and offer support through life transitions such as: divorce, job loss, and health issues. My background is in gerontology and hospice care. I've worked with older adults and their caregivers in the health field since 2006. I use a strengths based, person-centered approach. My clinical focus includes working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+. I identify as Queer and celebrate the resilience that can be found in overcoming adversity through community and connection. I work with Veterans and their families. I advocate for healthcare equity for Transgender Veterans and gender non-conforming folks.
(360) 564-1405 View (360) 564-1405
Photo of Carolann Freedman, MA, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Carolann Freedman
MA, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I treat anxiety, depression, emotional eating and addiction in older teens and adults.
As a clinical therapist, I help people who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and loss. I teach my clients to practice what I call "the reverse golden rule": treat yourself as you would treat others! We are often so critical of ourselves, while with a friend we would be kind, supportive, compassionate. My 20+ years of experience have given me the tools to work using an eclectic approach that I tailor to each client. I offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, where you can feel heard, understood and validated.
I treat anxiety, depression, emotional eating and addiction in older teens and adults.
As a clinical therapist, I help people who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and loss. I teach my clients to practice what I call "the reverse golden rule": treat yourself as you would treat others! We are often so critical of ourselves, while with a friend we would be kind, supportive, compassionate. My 20+ years of experience have given me the tools to work using an eclectic approach that I tailor to each client. I offer a comfortable, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, where you can feel heard, understood and validated.
(206) 999-3883 View (206) 999-3883
Photo of Betsy Zuber, MS, LMHC, GMHS, Counselor
Betsy Zuber
Counselor, MS, LMHC, GMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136
I provide counseling for adults, older adults, and families caring for loved ones with dementia. I have over 30 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, family conflict, stress-related concerns, help with personal and life transitions and behaviors related to dementia. I can help you to create and practice effective communication for positive relationships, develop new coping skills for life transitions, and help with conflict management and family dilemmas.
I provide counseling for adults, older adults, and families caring for loved ones with dementia. I have over 30 years of experience treating depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, family conflict, stress-related concerns, help with personal and life transitions and behaviors related to dementia. I can help you to create and practice effective communication for positive relationships, develop new coping skills for life transitions, and help with conflict management and family dilemmas.
(206) 219-0091 View (206) 219-0091
Photo of Kris S. Morgan, PhD, Psychologist
Kris S. Morgan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have 28 years experience specializing in LGBTQ therapy, trauma treatment, and working with seniors and their caregivers. I work well with a wide variety of clients, best with those who are curious about themselves and are ready to consider changing things in their lives for the better. I support your well-being as you define it. I am interested in learning what is most important to you, what has heart and meaning for you. I help you apply your strengths wherever needed. I offer warm, compassionate conversation which focuses on connecting with you.
I have 28 years experience specializing in LGBTQ therapy, trauma treatment, and working with seniors and their caregivers. I work well with a wide variety of clients, best with those who are curious about themselves and are ready to consider changing things in their lives for the better. I support your well-being as you define it. I am interested in learning what is most important to you, what has heart and meaning for you. I help you apply your strengths wherever needed. I offer warm, compassionate conversation which focuses on connecting with you.
(206) 518-9753 View (206) 518-9753
Photo of Sunni Dupree, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunni Dupree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188
As a mental health practitioner, fitness, and nutritional educator based in Washington, I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, grief & loss, crisis journeys, Dementia-related diseases, body image, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I approach each client's journey with compassion and personalized care, utilizing evidence-based practices, fitness and nutrition.
As a mental health practitioner, fitness, and nutritional educator based in Washington, I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, grief & loss, crisis journeys, Dementia-related diseases, body image, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I approach each client's journey with compassion and personalized care, utilizing evidence-based practices, fitness and nutrition.
(206) 208-7477 x1 View (206) 208-7477 x1
Photo of Dr. Larissa Del Piero, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Larissa Del Piero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
I offer assessment and intervention services for people with cognitive (memory, attention) difficulties, traumatic brain injury, strokes, and other chronic health conditions. I help people understand their personal strengths and use tailored coping tools to improve their lives. I offer evidence-based therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy focused on coping with health conditions, pain, and changes in physical abilities linked to injury, illness, and aging. I also offer learning disability, ADHD, dementia, and comprehensive neuropsychological assessments. I work with teenagers and adults (ages 12+).
I offer assessment and intervention services for people with cognitive (memory, attention) difficulties, traumatic brain injury, strokes, and other chronic health conditions. I help people understand their personal strengths and use tailored coping tools to improve their lives. I offer evidence-based therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy focused on coping with health conditions, pain, and changes in physical abilities linked to injury, illness, and aging. I also offer learning disability, ADHD, dementia, and comprehensive neuropsychological assessments. I work with teenagers and adults (ages 12+).
(206) 202-4346 View (206) 202-4346
Photo of Susan L Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Susan L Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Additionally, I work with youth of middle school ages and older and their parents in relation to anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues and understand the school/home relationship, having worked as a middle school teacher.
I work with people who have experienced a loss, grief, trauma, or painful transition or change in their lives, and individuals who see troubling patterns but are not sure why they keep repeating them. I am a skilled, nonjudgmental listener who can help you understand yourself better, discover your full potential, and make positive changes. With 20 plus years of experience as a therapist working with adults and youth, including 2 years of post-doctoral advanced therapy training, I create a supportive space where you and I delve beneath the surface, reduce anxieties, discover new motivation, and unlock the changes you've been seeking.
Additionally, I work with youth of middle school ages and older and their parents in relation to anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral issues and understand the school/home relationship, having worked as a middle school teacher.
I work with people who have experienced a loss, grief, trauma, or painful transition or change in their lives, and individuals who see troubling patterns but are not sure why they keep repeating them. I am a skilled, nonjudgmental listener who can help you understand yourself better, discover your full potential, and make positive changes. With 20 plus years of experience as a therapist working with adults and youth, including 2 years of post-doctoral advanced therapy training, I create a supportive space where you and I delve beneath the surface, reduce anxieties, discover new motivation, and unlock the changes you've been seeking.
(206) 258-7725 View (206) 258-7725
Photo of Abraham Peña, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abraham Peña
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
Not accepting new clients
I'm specialized in working with Older Adults.
I am in awe of the function of human beings as story-tellers and meaning-makers. The meaning you make from your experience is important and valuable. Sometimes the meaning made from an experience can be a barrier; to intimacy, to growth, to happiness. Undergoing psychotherapy can be a highly rewarding and beneficial process to explore yourself. Therapy is taking a moment to step out of the role of ‘doing’ in order to just ‘be’ so to reflect on your current life, especially as it is informed by the past. Encouraging self-awareness and, in particular, self-acceptance, are ongoing goals that are the cornerstones of the work I do.
I'm specialized in working with Older Adults.
I am in awe of the function of human beings as story-tellers and meaning-makers. The meaning you make from your experience is important and valuable. Sometimes the meaning made from an experience can be a barrier; to intimacy, to growth, to happiness. Undergoing psychotherapy can be a highly rewarding and beneficial process to explore yourself. Therapy is taking a moment to step out of the role of ‘doing’ in order to just ‘be’ so to reflect on your current life, especially as it is informed by the past. Encouraging self-awareness and, in particular, self-acceptance, are ongoing goals that are the cornerstones of the work I do.
(206) 666-4730 View (206) 666-4730
Photo of Shelly L Rienhardt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly L Rienhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy to older adolescents and adults of all ages. I am drawn to working with individuals who want to resolve issues stemming from childhood and or adult trauma adversities. The areas I most work with are trauma and somatic related disorders, depression, mood and schizoaffective disorders, ADHD and learning difficulties, interpersonal relationship skills, narcissistic abuse, phase of life issues, and spiritual concerns/issues. Furthermore, I am passionate to assist individuals who are suffering with health issues, traumatic brain injury, and strokes to overcome mental and physical barriers.
I provide individual therapy to older adolescents and adults of all ages. I am drawn to working with individuals who want to resolve issues stemming from childhood and or adult trauma adversities. The areas I most work with are trauma and somatic related disorders, depression, mood and schizoaffective disorders, ADHD and learning difficulties, interpersonal relationship skills, narcissistic abuse, phase of life issues, and spiritual concerns/issues. Furthermore, I am passionate to assist individuals who are suffering with health issues, traumatic brain injury, and strokes to overcome mental and physical barriers.
(205) 953-4956 View (205) 953-4956
1
...
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.