Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Norwich

Photo of Dr Jinnie Ooi, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Jinnie Ooi
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Norwich NR2
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
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Photo of Dr Aishah Shadi, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Aishah Shadi
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Norwich NR2
Services offered: Autism Screening. Autism Diagnosis (from the age of 12 months to adult age). ADHD Screening. ADHD Diagnosis (from the age of 7 Years old to adult age). Combined Autism and ADHD screening. Combined Autism and ADHD Diagnosis. Full Detailed Diagnostic Report. I accept health insurances from (AVIVA and Vitality), I also offer payment plans to help spread the cost.
Services offered: Autism Screening. Autism Diagnosis (from the age of 12 months to adult age). ADHD Screening. ADHD Diagnosis (from the age of 7 Years old to adult age). Combined Autism and ADHD screening. Combined Autism and ADHD Diagnosis. Full Detailed Diagnostic Report. I accept health insurances from (AVIVA and Vitality), I also offer payment plans to help spread the cost.
01603 361103 View 01603 361103
Photo of Sarah Seymour - Sarah Seymour Counsellor & EMDR Practitioner , MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sarah Seymour Counsellor & EMDR Practitioner
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Norwich NR15  (Online Only)
I am a qualified BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner, warm, approachable and work in a collaborative and pragmatic way, with the aim to provide you with the space and opportunity to restore and develop new ways of coping.  I have been working with people for over 10 years within the NHS and privately, who have been experiencing difficulties in their lives, emotionally distressed or struggling in some way.  This may be with anxiety and depression, low self esteem following a relationship break up, or have gotten into the habit of thinking about themselves or the world negatively.
I am a qualified BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner, warm, approachable and work in a collaborative and pragmatic way, with the aim to provide you with the space and opportunity to restore and develop new ways of coping.  I have been working with people for over 10 years within the NHS and privately, who have been experiencing difficulties in their lives, emotionally distressed or struggling in some way.  This may be with anxiety and depression, low self esteem following a relationship break up, or have gotten into the habit of thinking about themselves or the world negatively.
01227 532619 View 01227 532619
Photo of Sam Grainger, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Sam Grainger
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Norwich NR2
Hello. I'm Sam. Thank you for considering my profile. I understand that it is sometimes difficult to take the first step and you may be feeling nervous and apprehensive. You may feel like your thought processes are jumbled, you don't know where to start and it feels like your mind is on spin cycle. This constant battle can feel exhausting and overwhelming. My aim will be to help you feel comfortable. I will listen and provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore anything that may be confusing, painful or uncomfortable. Being heard for the first time allow us to unload our burdens.
Hello. I'm Sam. Thank you for considering my profile. I understand that it is sometimes difficult to take the first step and you may be feeling nervous and apprehensive. You may feel like your thought processes are jumbled, you don't know where to start and it feels like your mind is on spin cycle. This constant battle can feel exhausting and overwhelming. My aim will be to help you feel comfortable. I will listen and provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore anything that may be confusing, painful or uncomfortable. Being heard for the first time allow us to unload our burdens.
020 3857 8082 View 020 3857 8082
Photo of Sandra Ann Geary, BACP, Counsellor
Sandra Ann Geary
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich NR1
Hello, I'm Sandra Geary and it will be my privilege to work with you Whatever is holding you back from living your life on your terms with meaning, peace of mind and self-compassion is worth having a conversation about I have over 29 years experience working in Statutory Services, NHS, voluntary and private sectors. I have worked extensively with people presenting with moderate and severe mental health conditions. I am experienced in working with, depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, domestic violence, sexual and emotional abuse, self harm, anger issues, stress, addiction.
Hello, I'm Sandra Geary and it will be my privilege to work with you Whatever is holding you back from living your life on your terms with meaning, peace of mind and self-compassion is worth having a conversation about I have over 29 years experience working in Statutory Services, NHS, voluntary and private sectors. I have worked extensively with people presenting with moderate and severe mental health conditions. I am experienced in working with, depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, domestic violence, sexual and emotional abuse, self harm, anger issues, stress, addiction.
01493 804857 View 01493 804857
Photo of Susan Jennifer Cappaert, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Susan Jennifer Cappaert
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Norwich NR1
Do you have times in your life when you feel unable to cope and are struggling with your thoughts and feelings, finding it difficult to make sense of why you may feel anxious, troubled or distressed. Counselling provides a unique opportunity to understand why things are difficult, sad or painful and for personal growth, so that you can make positive changes in your life which will impact your well-being. I offer a professional, confidential service for you to explore openly and safely. Contact me by telephone or email for a free telephone consultation where we can discuss your concerns.
Do you have times in your life when you feel unable to cope and are struggling with your thoughts and feelings, finding it difficult to make sense of why you may feel anxious, troubled or distressed. Counselling provides a unique opportunity to understand why things are difficult, sad or painful and for personal growth, so that you can make positive changes in your life which will impact your well-being. I offer a professional, confidential service for you to explore openly and safely. Contact me by telephone or email for a free telephone consultation where we can discuss your concerns.
01268 269977 View 01268 269977
Photo of Amanda Jayne Eade (Nee Goss) - MD of Harley St. Psychotherapy Ltd (Amanda Goss), MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
MD of Harley St. Psychotherapy Ltd (Amanda Goss)
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Norwich NR1
Are you anxious/depressed/stressed/unhappy? Maybe you know the issue and don't want to feel this way any more? Even if you don't exactly know what is wrong, we will work with you to find out the cause so that you can live a happier, more contented life. We aim to get to the root of the problem so that the change is permanent. If you haven't had counselling before, or feel nervous about it, please call me for an informal chat. Counselling can be (and often is) a life changing experience. We suggest a 1st session, by the end of which you will know if you want to carry on. If you are a couple we have a specialist. Feel free to call.
Are you anxious/depressed/stressed/unhappy? Maybe you know the issue and don't want to feel this way any more? Even if you don't exactly know what is wrong, we will work with you to find out the cause so that you can live a happier, more contented life. We aim to get to the root of the problem so that the change is permanent. If you haven't had counselling before, or feel nervous about it, please call me for an informal chat. Counselling can be (and often is) a life changing experience. We suggest a 1st session, by the end of which you will know if you want to carry on. If you are a couple we have a specialist. Feel free to call.
020 4538 3988 View 020 4538 3988
Photo of Jess Bezance, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Jess Bezance
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Norwich NR1
I can imagine deciding whether you want to have therapy or need therapy is a big question. Perhaps you have suffered a loss, a trauma or are going through a transition of some kind and you want the space and time to work through it. Perhaps this emotional distress whether it be anxiety, low mood, is impacting on your relationships, work and your home life. It could be that you’ve tried many things and for some reason those old ways of coping that have done you well in the past just aren’t working anymore and you feel like you’re struggling. I provide evidence based psychological treatment that might help.
I can imagine deciding whether you want to have therapy or need therapy is a big question. Perhaps you have suffered a loss, a trauma or are going through a transition of some kind and you want the space and time to work through it. Perhaps this emotional distress whether it be anxiety, low mood, is impacting on your relationships, work and your home life. It could be that you’ve tried many things and for some reason those old ways of coping that have done you well in the past just aren’t working anymore and you feel like you’re struggling. I provide evidence based psychological treatment that might help.
01454 809569 View 01454 809569

Online Therapists

Photo of Shanaz Begum, MBACP, Counsellor
Shanaz Begum
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N4
I work with students, adults, and older people with a range of psychosocial challenges.
Seeking support can stem from various issues like life changes, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-esteem concerns. Taking the first step may feel overwhelming. In our sessions, I'll listen attentively and empathetically, not just to what you say but also to what remains unspoken. You'll find a safe, non-judgmental space with me where you can explore your experiences, identify challenges, and work through them at your own pace. I offer Integrative Counselling, Walk and Talk Therapy, and Coaching sessions.
I work with students, adults, and older people with a range of psychosocial challenges.
Seeking support can stem from various issues like life changes, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-esteem concerns. Taking the first step may feel overwhelming. In our sessions, I'll listen attentively and empathetically, not just to what you say but also to what remains unspoken. You'll find a safe, non-judgmental space with me where you can explore your experiences, identify challenges, and work through them at your own pace. I offer Integrative Counselling, Walk and Talk Therapy, and Coaching sessions.
020 4572 0376 View 020 4572 0376
Photo of Debbie Espie, MBACP, Counsellor
Debbie Espie
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Saint Neots PE19
I work with children aged 10yrs+ and young people as well as adults and older adults.
I am a passionate and dedicated counsellor with a strong commitment to helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential. My approach to counselling is client-centred and integrative, meaning that I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address the root causes of their challenges, helping them develop effective coping strategies and achieve long-term healing and growth.
I work with children aged 10yrs+ and young people as well as adults and older adults.
I am a passionate and dedicated counsellor with a strong commitment to helping individuals overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential. My approach to counselling is client-centred and integrative, meaning that I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address the root causes of their challenges, helping them develop effective coping strategies and achieve long-term healing and growth.
01480 271049 View 01480 271049
Photo of Dr Ally Tomlins, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ally Tomlins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW1W
Waitlist for new clients
Her areas of expertise are in assessing and treating the following issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, low self esteem, managing transitions in life (such as changes in the family, health related changes, job related changes, parenthood, marriage), bereavement, trauma and dementia.
Dr Tomlins is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. She has won numerous national awards for her work in creating innovative mental health services. She currently leads psychological care for urgent and acute mental health wards of an inner city London NHS Trust. Alongside this, she runs a thriving private practice London. She is a lecturer and Deputy Course Director at UCL for the Clinical Associate in Psychology MSC. Her work as a Clinical Supervisor for doctoral trainees at UCL, UEL, Royal Holloway and Surrey has nurtured the development of many currently practicing psychologists.
Her areas of expertise are in assessing and treating the following issues: Anxiety, depression, stress, low self esteem, managing transitions in life (such as changes in the family, health related changes, job related changes, parenthood, marriage), bereavement, trauma and dementia.
Dr Tomlins is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. She has won numerous national awards for her work in creating innovative mental health services. She currently leads psychological care for urgent and acute mental health wards of an inner city London NHS Trust. Alongside this, she runs a thriving private practice London. She is a lecturer and Deputy Course Director at UCL for the Clinical Associate in Psychology MSC. Her work as a Clinical Supervisor for doctoral trainees at UCL, UEL, Royal Holloway and Surrey has nurtured the development of many currently practicing psychologists.
020 3872 2711 View 020 3872 2711
Photo of Kadija Taha - Blue Ocean, MBACP, Counsellor
Blue Ocean
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE5
Hi, my name is kadija Taha, I am an integrative counsellor and I am also specialised in bereavement counselling. I am very successful as a counsellor, because of my ability to help others overcome problems, such as depression, anxiety, phobia, relationship, grieving and so on. As a counsellor, I use the core conditions to help my clients, this means that, I use the unconditional positive regard to work fairly and genuinely to every client. I also use my empathic understanding to be in my clients world. I work with various age ranges, starting from children as young as 7 years old to the elderly aged 85 and upwards.
Hi, my name is kadija Taha, I am an integrative counsellor and I am also specialised in bereavement counselling. I am very successful as a counsellor, because of my ability to help others overcome problems, such as depression, anxiety, phobia, relationship, grieving and so on. As a counsellor, I use the core conditions to help my clients, this means that, I use the unconditional positive regard to work fairly and genuinely to every client. I also use my empathic understanding to be in my clients world. I work with various age ranges, starting from children as young as 7 years old to the elderly aged 85 and upwards.
020 3947 8955 View 020 3947 8955
Photo of Amy Lyons, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Amy Lyons
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N2
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
020 3870 2957 View 020 3870 2957
Photo of Dr Maina Amin, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Maina Amin
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE1
For example, if changes in thinking and memory are due to normal aging, a neurological illness such as a type of dementia, physical and mental health conditions or other causes.
I provide evidence-based psychological therapy and neuropsychological assessments for adults and older adults. Are you experiencing changes in your mood such as symptoms of anxiety and depression, perhaps due to a life event or a long-term physical or mental health difficulty? Do you have a neurological condition, such as a type of dementia or a chronic physical health condition (e.g. cancer, pain, MS etc.) which has affected your quality of life? Are you worried about your memory and thinking skills, perhaps due to ageing, long-covid, or a medical condition? Are you concerned about a loved one's memory or mental health?
For example, if changes in thinking and memory are due to normal aging, a neurological illness such as a type of dementia, physical and mental health conditions or other causes.
I provide evidence-based psychological therapy and neuropsychological assessments for adults and older adults. Are you experiencing changes in your mood such as symptoms of anxiety and depression, perhaps due to a life event or a long-term physical or mental health difficulty? Do you have a neurological condition, such as a type of dementia or a chronic physical health condition (e.g. cancer, pain, MS etc.) which has affected your quality of life? Are you worried about your memory and thinking skills, perhaps due to ageing, long-covid, or a medical condition? Are you concerned about a loved one's memory or mental health?
020 8106 2088 View 020 8106 2088
Photo of Cara Japon Mbacp Mbpss, BACP, Counsellor
Cara Japon Mbacp Mbpss
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelmsford CM1
However, by having the opportunity to offload it may help to come to terms with the loss of the person they were before Dementia.
I am a BACP registered Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor and a member of the BPS. I am trained in Person-Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR and Psychodynamics. I specialise in Relationship and Family Counselling, Dementia and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, work-related stress and breakdowns. I also have vast experience of bereavement counselling. I have many years experience (9+) of working with Carers/family members who care for their loved ones who are living with Dementia. When caring for a loved one, our own emotions and feelings can sometimes be forgotten.
However, by having the opportunity to offload it may help to come to terms with the loss of the person they were before Dementia.
I am a BACP registered Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor and a member of the BPS. I am trained in Person-Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, EMDR and Psychodynamics. I specialise in Relationship and Family Counselling, Dementia and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, work-related stress and breakdowns. I also have vast experience of bereavement counselling. I have many years experience (9+) of working with Carers/family members who care for their loved ones who are living with Dementia. When caring for a loved one, our own emotions and feelings can sometimes be forgotten.
01702 680425 View 01702 680425
Photo of Dr Chancy Marsh CPsychol, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Chancy Marsh CPsychol
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
I work across the lifespan, this includes children, adolescents, adults, older adults and can include couples, individual or even family sessions.
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
I work across the lifespan, this includes children, adolescents, adults, older adults and can include couples, individual or even family sessions.
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
01702 418809 View 01702 418809
Photo of Katherine Nova Garmonsway
Katherine Nova Garmonsway
Verified Verified
Witham CM8  (Online Only)
24+ years’ experience in CAMHS, including MOD, Assertive Outreach, Local Government and Private Healthcare.  Treating Adults, Adolescents, Children and Elderly patients in both military and civilian environments.
24+ years’ experience in CAMHS, including MOD, Assertive Outreach, Local Government and Private Healthcare.  Treating Adults, Adolescents, Children and Elderly patients in both military and civilian environments.
01376 315829 View 01376 315829
Photo of Shweta Mohata, BACP, Counsellor
Shweta Mohata
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
London WC1H
I am a fully qualified Psycho dynamic Psychotherapist, practicing in King's Cross area of London. I have worked with older adults at the NHS for over a year and a half. I practice both, short term, 12-18 sessions, and long term open ended sessions. This can help not only with relief of symptoms but can promote deep and lasting change. The aim is to bring the unconscious mind into consciousness, helping to unravel and unlock true, deep-rooted feelings in order to re-frame and resolve them.
I am a fully qualified Psycho dynamic Psychotherapist, practicing in King's Cross area of London. I have worked with older adults at the NHS for over a year and a half. I practice both, short term, 12-18 sessions, and long term open ended sessions. This can help not only with relief of symptoms but can promote deep and lasting change. The aim is to bring the unconscious mind into consciousness, helping to unravel and unlock true, deep-rooted feelings in order to re-frame and resolve them.
020 4538 3660 View 020 4538 3660
Photo of Emma Catherine Coyle, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Emma Catherine Coyle
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Stansted CM24
My background is in counselling young adults (14+) through to older clients (94 being my eldest to date).
I aim to instil an overall sense of mental wellbeing and health; to help clients work through past traumas by showing them a different, more positive way of understanding them; and to free individuals from long held anxieties so they can maintain better relationships and live a happier life. Alongside Private Practice, I work for the NHS as the Health and Wellbeing Practitioner at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire, offering onsite counselling to staff members. Prior to re-training as a Counsellor, I worked for 14 years in the Financial Sector and so have plenty of knowledge and understanding of the Corporate world.
My background is in counselling young adults (14+) through to older clients (94 being my eldest to date).
I aim to instil an overall sense of mental wellbeing and health; to help clients work through past traumas by showing them a different, more positive way of understanding them; and to free individuals from long held anxieties so they can maintain better relationships and live a happier life. Alongside Private Practice, I work for the NHS as the Health and Wellbeing Practitioner at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire, offering onsite counselling to staff members. Prior to re-training as a Counsellor, I worked for 14 years in the Financial Sector and so have plenty of knowledge and understanding of the Corporate world.
07588 727030 View 07588 727030
Photo of Tania Thorn - Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr. Tania Thorn: ADHD & Autism specialist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tring HP23  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I specialise in working with late and young onset dementia.
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
In addition, I specialise in working with late and young onset dementia.
I'm a neurodivergent, dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and Family & Couples Therapist with over 25 years experience, including working as a NHS Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I divide my time between a NHS specialist ADHD & Autism Service and my private practice, specialising in neurodiversity in adults. I provide ADHD & Autism screening and diagnosis, utilising validated and structured assessments. I also offer CBT for ADHD group therapy, coaching and evidence based therapy. For neurodivergent people in employment, intervention may be funded by Access to Work.
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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.