Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Blackburn

Dr . F. Abdoola
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB2
“MBBCHB - M.D, D.Psychotherapy, MRCPsych, RCGP -C.Alcohol &Substance”. Dr. F. Abdoola is a highly respected Consultant Psychiatrist, with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. He currently provides a non judgemental and confidential psychotherapy service, with the aim of individuals discovering , understanding and exploring their most inner, deepest and traumatic feelings and emotions. He helps Identify and managing the root/stressor's which are causing/contributing to their mental health difficulties. Dr. Abdoola takes a holistic, bespoke and individualised approach with children, adults, and older adults.
“MBBCHB - M.D, D.Psychotherapy, MRCPsych, RCGP -C.Alcohol &Substance”. Dr. F. Abdoola is a highly respected Consultant Psychiatrist, with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. He currently provides a non judgemental and confidential psychotherapy service, with the aim of individuals discovering , understanding and exploring their most inner, deepest and traumatic feelings and emotions. He helps Identify and managing the root/stressor's which are causing/contributing to their mental health difficulties. Dr. Abdoola takes a holistic, bespoke and individualised approach with children, adults, and older adults.
01772 503281 View 01772 503281
Photo of Angela Verity, BACP, Counsellor
Angela Verity
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blackburn BB1
Waitlist for new clients
Hi I'm Angela. Coming to counselling can feel like such a big step. There may be an obvious reason as to why you're feeling low, such as bereavement or a traumatic event. Equally you could be feeling sad and you don't really understand why. Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or you're having panic attacks? Many people are struggling with their mental health for the first time due to COVID 19. Whatever you're going through I'd like to help you feel better. I'm trained in both Person Centred Counselling and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). You can choose to work with either model or a combination of the two.
Hi I'm Angela. Coming to counselling can feel like such a big step. There may be an obvious reason as to why you're feeling low, such as bereavement or a traumatic event. Equally you could be feeling sad and you don't really understand why. Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety or depression, or you're having panic attacks? Many people are struggling with their mental health for the first time due to COVID 19. Whatever you're going through I'd like to help you feel better. I'm trained in both Person Centred Counselling and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). You can choose to work with either model or a combination of the two.
01580 234507 View 01580 234507
Photo of Bernadette Sansome - Berny Sansome, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Berny Sansome
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Blackburn BB2
If you are facing life challenges right now, and you are looking for a safe non judgemental space to explore your concerns, do get in touch. We can meet in-person in Manchester or Blackburn or via video call. Let us walk the path together. You will find a safe space as your answers unfold. I recognise that beginning counselling can feel daunting. Sometimes the work may feel overwhelming. You are not alone on your journey. I will be with you. I offer flexible appointment times if this is what you need Working with me you will find warmth, but not softness, compassion but not pity, empathy but not sympathy.
If you are facing life challenges right now, and you are looking for a safe non judgemental space to explore your concerns, do get in touch. We can meet in-person in Manchester or Blackburn or via video call. Let us walk the path together. You will find a safe space as your answers unfold. I recognise that beginning counselling can feel daunting. Sometimes the work may feel overwhelming. You are not alone on your journey. I will be with you. I offer flexible appointment times if this is what you need Working with me you will find warmth, but not softness, compassion but not pity, empathy but not sympathy.
0161 696 8223 View 0161 696 8223
Photo of John Warrington, MBACP, Counsellor
John Warrington
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB1
Hi, I'm John. I offer down to earth counselling to help you make sense of whatever it is you're experiencing. I will offer you time and space for you to talk through your problems confidentially. I am there to listen to you. I will not use complicated jargon but will listen to what you have to say, with an appropriate use of humour to put you at ease. I will try to see the world through your eyes, whilst not judging and being genuine. I served in the Royal Navy and worked in high-pressured Businesses. My Facebook Page is Counselling Minds. Also on Instagram, Linkedin and Twitter. Thanks for reading! I hope to hear from you soon.
Hi, I'm John. I offer down to earth counselling to help you make sense of whatever it is you're experiencing. I will offer you time and space for you to talk through your problems confidentially. I am there to listen to you. I will not use complicated jargon but will listen to what you have to say, with an appropriate use of humour to put you at ease. I will try to see the world through your eyes, whilst not judging and being genuine. I served in the Royal Navy and worked in high-pressured Businesses. My Facebook Page is Counselling Minds. Also on Instagram, Linkedin and Twitter. Thanks for reading! I hope to hear from you soon.
01524 917953 View 01524 917953

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephen Pattinson - Counselling Psychotherapy Services, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Stephen Pattinson - Counselling Psychotherapy Services
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnley BB10  (Online Only)
Hello if you want a safe and caring environment and want to take back control in your life you have come to the right place. I have over 25 years experience of helping people with their mental wellbeing. I have worked for mental health services including NHS as a cognitive behavioural/ Psychodynamic therapist treating depression, anxiety, confidence, self esteem, bereavement and phobia disorders. my aim is to help people back on their feet as soon as possible and feel empowered from the first session. I offer a free 30 minute consultation online from the comfort your own safe space to clearly identify your personal goals /treatment.
Hello if you want a safe and caring environment and want to take back control in your life you have come to the right place. I have over 25 years experience of helping people with their mental wellbeing. I have worked for mental health services including NHS as a cognitive behavioural/ Psychodynamic therapist treating depression, anxiety, confidence, self esteem, bereavement and phobia disorders. my aim is to help people back on their feet as soon as possible and feel empowered from the first session. I offer a free 30 minute consultation online from the comfort your own safe space to clearly identify your personal goals /treatment.
07380 316751 View 07380 316751
Photo of Katie Robinson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Katie Robinson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Preston PR1
I believe you strive to want to do what's best for you, no matter what conditions you may find yourself in. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and that you have the capacity to be the expert in your own world, as only you know how you truly feel, and what you really want. You are the only person who can decide who you want to be, and how you want to be living your life. I believe you deserve respect for the values and choices you decide to live by and strongly believe that through the trustworthy relationship I hope to build with you, that together, we will find the path that is hidden from you.
I believe you strive to want to do what's best for you, no matter what conditions you may find yourself in. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual and that you have the capacity to be the expert in your own world, as only you know how you truly feel, and what you really want. You are the only person who can decide who you want to be, and how you want to be living your life. I believe you deserve respect for the values and choices you decide to live by and strongly believe that through the trustworthy relationship I hope to build with you, that together, we will find the path that is hidden from you.
01772 595016 View 01772 595016

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr Claire Williams, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Claire Williams
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menai Bridge LL59
I specialise in working with children and adults who have Brain Injury or Health conditions and in Asperger’s/Autism (ASD). I offer support/therapy for issues such as head injury, stroke, neurological conditions including MS, Guillain-Barre syndrome, locked in syndrome, dementia, and FND including communication and behavioural difficulties and psychological effects of long term conditions. I have a special interest in working with children who have continence difficulties. I also undertake Expert Witness work for Family Courts and conduct Cognitive and Capacity Assessments
I specialise in working with children and adults who have Brain Injury or Health conditions and in Asperger’s/Autism (ASD). I offer support/therapy for issues such as head injury, stroke, neurological conditions including MS, Guillain-Barre syndrome, locked in syndrome, dementia, and FND including communication and behavioural difficulties and psychological effects of long term conditions. I have a special interest in working with children who have continence difficulties. I also undertake Expert Witness work for Family Courts and conduct Cognitive and Capacity Assessments
07476 546690 View 07476 546690
Photo of Steven Michael Millership, MBACP, Counsellor
Steven Michael Millership
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bewdley DY12
It can be daunting trying to find the right therapist, it takes a little courage but it can be very rewarding. I offer face to face or online therapy with both young and older adults from two safe and private locations in Bewdley and Worcester areas. Life can be very difficult and hard to manage at times, sometimes we find ourselves stuck not knowing where to turn. I help clients feel less anxious, increase their confidence, improve relationships and find emotional balance with increased assertiveness. I help with stress relief, the ability to set boundaries, find resolution to past trauma and help dealing with grief and loss.
It can be daunting trying to find the right therapist, it takes a little courage but it can be very rewarding. I offer face to face or online therapy with both young and older adults from two safe and private locations in Bewdley and Worcester areas. Life can be very difficult and hard to manage at times, sometimes we find ourselves stuck not knowing where to turn. I help clients feel less anxious, increase their confidence, improve relationships and find emotional balance with increased assertiveness. I help with stress relief, the ability to set boundaries, find resolution to past trauma and help dealing with grief and loss.
01299 667718 View 01299 667718
Photo of Lucy Hughes - Mantle Psychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mantle Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Holmfirth HD9
At Mantle Psychology we work with you to help you understand your mental health difficulties, develop a picture of why they might be happening, and help you to improve your wellbeing. Having the time and space to explore your difficulties can be very beneficial and we aim to provide you with the most appropriate intervention to meet your needs. We can work with young people, families, adults, and older adults. We treat all mental health problems and we see everyone as an individual with their own unique circumstances and difficulties, and will use the most appropriate psychological therapy based on your goals.
At Mantle Psychology we work with you to help you understand your mental health difficulties, develop a picture of why they might be happening, and help you to improve your wellbeing. Having the time and space to explore your difficulties can be very beneficial and we aim to provide you with the most appropriate intervention to meet your needs. We can work with young people, families, adults, and older adults. We treat all mental health problems and we see everyone as an individual with their own unique circumstances and difficulties, and will use the most appropriate psychological therapy based on your goals.
01484 240639 View 01484 240639
Photo of Mary Attwood, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Mary Attwood
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Barnsley S71  (Online Only)
I work with young people, adults and elderly.
Are you trying to make sense of your life right now, and don't understand what's happening or why you're not coping so well with every day life? Perhaps you feel alone from a loss or breakdown of a relationship. There could be events from your past that interfere in your life today, do you wish to explore and understand why this is happening? Maybe your emotions are becoming increasingly difficult to cope with. Are you finding your relationship with family or friends difficult or strained or perhaps you'd like to feel more confident. These are some of the challenges we face and perhaps you would like some help to overcome these.
I work with young people, adults and elderly.
Are you trying to make sense of your life right now, and don't understand what's happening or why you're not coping so well with every day life? Perhaps you feel alone from a loss or breakdown of a relationship. There could be events from your past that interfere in your life today, do you wish to explore and understand why this is happening? Maybe your emotions are becoming increasingly difficult to cope with. Are you finding your relationship with family or friends difficult or strained or perhaps you'd like to feel more confident. These are some of the challenges we face and perhaps you would like some help to overcome these.
01787 323190 View 01787 323190
Photo of Dr Rachel Crane, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rachel Crane
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Wakefield WF1
I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have over 15 years of experience working in the NHS with older people, adults, adolescents and children.
I offer a compassionate and supportive space to work towards goals of effectively handling difficult thoughts, feelings and experiences. I support clients to gain a deeper insight into what is most important and meaningful to them, which helps to make significant changes, fostering personal growth and well-being, creating a rich and values-focused life. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that is collaborative and non-judgmental and draws on a number of evidence-based models to best suit the needs of each client allowing them to make sense of their difficulties and adopt new ways to cope.
I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have over 15 years of experience working in the NHS with older people, adults, adolescents and children.
I offer a compassionate and supportive space to work towards goals of effectively handling difficult thoughts, feelings and experiences. I support clients to gain a deeper insight into what is most important and meaningful to them, which helps to make significant changes, fostering personal growth and well-being, creating a rich and values-focused life. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that is collaborative and non-judgmental and draws on a number of evidence-based models to best suit the needs of each client allowing them to make sense of their difficulties and adopt new ways to cope.
0113 519 1167 View 0113 519 1167
Photo of Kevin Coogan, MBACP, Counsellor
Kevin Coogan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M20
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for over 30 years.
The pandemic and lockdown saw a dramatic increase in social isolation and loneliness, but it also saw an increase in people reaching out for help from counselling and psychotherapy. As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have seen this change first-hand. It’s okay to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that you are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that you know is doing you no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in your life that you want to change. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with you to create a space from which change is possible.
I’ve worked with people with dementia, learning disabilities or autism for over 30 years.
The pandemic and lockdown saw a dramatic increase in social isolation and loneliness, but it also saw an increase in people reaching out for help from counselling and psychotherapy. As a joint-qualified counsellor and social worker, I have seen this change first-hand. It’s okay to recognise that you are feeling overwhelmed and need help; it’s okay to realise that you are stuck in a pattern of behaviour that you know is doing you no good; it’s okay to recognise that there’s something in your life that you want to change. As a Person-Centred therapist, my job is to work with you to create a space from which change is possible.
0161 524 0011 View 0161 524 0011
Photo of Dr Charlotte Heathcote, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Charlotte Heathcote
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sheffield S11
I work with individuals from child through to older adult, drawing on a range of psychological models and theories based on who you are and what you are bringing to therapy.
Hi, I'm Charlotte and I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist working within the NHS and in private practice. I have been working in mental health services for over 10 years with individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of difficulties. As a Psychologist, I offer a person-centred approach to individuals who may be looking for support with anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties and so on. We begin by engaging in a period of assessment, coming to a shared understanding of your difficulties, and deciding how best to support you to move forward in a longlasting way that continues after therapy.
I work with individuals from child through to older adult, drawing on a range of psychological models and theories based on who you are and what you are bringing to therapy.
Hi, I'm Charlotte and I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist working within the NHS and in private practice. I have been working in mental health services for over 10 years with individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of difficulties. As a Psychologist, I offer a person-centred approach to individuals who may be looking for support with anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties and so on. We begin by engaging in a period of assessment, coming to a shared understanding of your difficulties, and deciding how best to support you to move forward in a longlasting way that continues after therapy.
0114 697 6616 View 0114 697 6616
Photo of Dr Lisa Paul, PhD, BACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Lisa Paul
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester CH1
Hi, I'm Lisa and I am a person-centred therapist. I initially trained as a psychologist but more recently I qualified as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others. Often there might be a combination of several difficulties which is impacting upon someone, and I am experienced in working with people where there are more complex issues.
Hi, I'm Lisa and I am a person-centred therapist. I initially trained as a psychologist but more recently I qualified as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others. Often there might be a combination of several difficulties which is impacting upon someone, and I am experienced in working with people where there are more complex issues.
01244 667281 View 01244 667281
Photo of Dr Sheila Evetts, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sheila Evetts
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG8
Hi, I’m Sheila. I’m a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working as a therapist in the NHS with people of all ages with a diverse range of problems and from a variety of backgrounds. I have particular expertise in issues of later life including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief/bereavement, adjustment to illness, carer burden, living with dementia and other life limiting conditions. I continue to work part-time in the NHS as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service specialising in older people’s mental health. I draw on a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
Hi, I’m Sheila. I’m a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working as a therapist in the NHS with people of all ages with a diverse range of problems and from a variety of backgrounds. I have particular expertise in issues of later life including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief/bereavement, adjustment to illness, carer burden, living with dementia and other life limiting conditions. I continue to work part-time in the NHS as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service specialising in older people’s mental health. I draw on a range of approaches including CBT and EMDR.
01283 372645 View 01283 372645
Photo of Emma Coleman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Emma Coleman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS15
I have experience of working with many problems, including bereavement, miscarriage, relationship and family issues, dementia, anxiety, addiction, medical diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
Clear the clouds for a brighter future. When life becomes challenging, we all need some support, someone who can be by our side, listen to us, be there. I can be that person for you. I am a qualified counsellor, working from an integrative approach. I believe that you have the ability to find the answers and be your best self. I can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings, and to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. I am a former primary school teacher, and have worked with people of all ages, with varying issues.
I have experience of working with many problems, including bereavement, miscarriage, relationship and family issues, dementia, anxiety, addiction, medical diagnoses, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
Clear the clouds for a brighter future. When life becomes challenging, we all need some support, someone who can be by our side, listen to us, be there. I can be that person for you. I am a qualified counsellor, working from an integrative approach. I believe that you have the ability to find the answers and be your best self. I can offer you a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings, and to help you navigate this difficult time in your life. I am a former primary school teacher, and have worked with people of all ages, with varying issues.
0113 519 0410 View 0113 519 0410
Photo of Dawn Elizabeth Brown, BACP, Counsellor
Dawn Elizabeth Brown
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B14
I am a registered general nurse with over 15 years’ experience working with individuals living with dementia, chronic illnesses, and palliative care.
Do you feel you are battling through circumstances alone? Are you frightened, isolated, or dismayed? Do your days become a mist of confusion with no respite from your despair? Whatever your concern, I am here for you. I acknowledge it takes courage to reach out for support. Well done for taking this step. I can offer a space where you’re seen and heard in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental manner, giving you clarity amidst your despair. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, loss, bereavement, or anticipatory grief or you are caring for a loved one with a life limiting illness, I can help.
I am a registered general nurse with over 15 years’ experience working with individuals living with dementia, chronic illnesses, and palliative care.
Do you feel you are battling through circumstances alone? Are you frightened, isolated, or dismayed? Do your days become a mist of confusion with no respite from your despair? Whatever your concern, I am here for you. I acknowledge it takes courage to reach out for support. Well done for taking this step. I can offer a space where you’re seen and heard in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental manner, giving you clarity amidst your despair. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, loss, bereavement, or anticipatory grief or you are caring for a loved one with a life limiting illness, I can help.
01564 331021 View 01564 331021
Photo of Alex Jordon, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Counsellor
Alex Jordon
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
Working face to face and online with adults, young people and older children, I offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments and charge £65-£85 per session. Difficult relationships with others and challenging traumatic events have a huge impact on our mental and physical health. Often we deal with these by distracting ourselves and numbing these uncomfortable feelings. I help clients process and work through these feelings in a safe and nurturing environment.
Working face to face and online with adults, young people and older children, I offer daytime, evening and weekend appointments and charge £65-£85 per session. Difficult relationships with others and challenging traumatic events have a huge impact on our mental and physical health. Often we deal with these by distracting ourselves and numbing these uncomfortable feelings. I help clients process and work through these feelings in a safe and nurturing environment.
0191 743 3329 View 0191 743 3329
Photo of Nicola Heaps - Guiding light counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Guiding light counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS10
As well as bereavement I have great experience with the elderly.
I specialise in loss and bereavement, particularly through suicide, loss of pregnancy, baby or child. I will help you to understand your situation, working together to bring some kind of acceptance, hope and light. It is possible to come out of this and to feel better than you’re feeling now. I can’t tell you it will be easy but I can give you a safe, non judgemental, trusting place to share your experience, thoughts and feelings. I will be beside you to help you make sense of this painful place. The only way to the other side is through. Each individual journey is very different, your therapy will be bespoke, tailored for you.
As well as bereavement I have great experience with the elderly.
I specialise in loss and bereavement, particularly through suicide, loss of pregnancy, baby or child. I will help you to understand your situation, working together to bring some kind of acceptance, hope and light. It is possible to come out of this and to feel better than you’re feeling now. I can’t tell you it will be easy but I can give you a safe, non judgemental, trusting place to share your experience, thoughts and feelings. I will be beside you to help you make sense of this painful place. The only way to the other side is through. Each individual journey is very different, your therapy will be bespoke, tailored for you.
0113 519 1179 View 0113 519 1179
Photo of Theresa Dubicka-Keen, MBACP, Counsellor
Theresa Dubicka-Keen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sutton Coldfield B75
In the 50 minute session of 1-1 person- centred therapy I work with your values and help to unravel emotional anxiety that is distressing for adults, children, older adults and young people.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
In the 50 minute session of 1-1 person- centred therapy I work with your values and help to unravel emotional anxiety that is distressing for adults, children, older adults and young people.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
01827 214705 View 01827 214705

See more therapy options for Blackburn

Geriatric and Seniors Counsellors

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 counselling for elderly different from counseling for other age groups?

Many aspects of geriatric counselling are similar to counselling in younger age groups; in general, counselling 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 specialise 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. Counselling 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 counselling help people who suffer from dementia?

Counselling can be highly effective for aging adults with dementia. While some therapists specialising 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. Counsellors specialising 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 specialising in dementia may also be trained in specialised forms of therapy for memory loss, such as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)—which can help mentally stimulate dementia clients to preserve cognitive functioning.