Geriatric and Seniors Counselling in Salisbury

Photo of Dr Julie Hare, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Julie Hare
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP4  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years post qualified experience in the NHS. I am experienced in using psychological therapies to help individuals, couples, families and older people presenting with a wide range of mental health distress. I am interested in issues around self esteem/identity/culture, childhood neglect, trauma, difficult relationships, mood problems and managing long term health conditions. I also work with adults with ASD/ADHD. In addition to working with distress I offer ‘life reflection’ sessions for individuals who just need a space to ‘pause’ and think about their wellbeing, and for self development.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 18 years post qualified experience in the NHS. I am experienced in using psychological therapies to help individuals, couples, families and older people presenting with a wide range of mental health distress. I am interested in issues around self esteem/identity/culture, childhood neglect, trauma, difficult relationships, mood problems and managing long term health conditions. I also work with adults with ASD/ADHD. In addition to working with distress I offer ‘life reflection’ sessions for individuals who just need a space to ‘pause’ and think about their wellbeing, and for self development.
01544 301359 View 01544 301359
Photo of Phoebe Clausen-Sternwald, MBACP, Counsellor
Phoebe Clausen-Sternwald
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP5
I also specialise in Anxiety, Developmental trauma, OCD, Grief, Child loss, Cancer and Dementia.
I am a Counsellor and a Grief Educator with a background in Nursing. I provide short-term and long-term (open-ended) counselling to adults, age over 18. In-person counselling is conducted in Burley, New Forest and in Rownhams, Southampton. Remote counselling sessions can take place via Zoom WhatsApp, Team and phone call. You may feel apprehensive about choosing the right counsellor for the issues you wish to process. I offer a free 20 minute session to chat with me via WhatsApp or Zoom. This is an opportunity for you to find out if I would be a good fit for you. Please feel free to contact me for a no-obligation initial chat.
I also specialise in Anxiety, Developmental trauma, OCD, Grief, Child loss, Cancer and Dementia.
I am a Counsellor and a Grief Educator with a background in Nursing. I provide short-term and long-term (open-ended) counselling to adults, age over 18. In-person counselling is conducted in Burley, New Forest and in Rownhams, Southampton. Remote counselling sessions can take place via Zoom WhatsApp, Team and phone call. You may feel apprehensive about choosing the right counsellor for the issues you wish to process. I offer a free 20 minute session to chat with me via WhatsApp or Zoom. This is an opportunity for you to find out if I would be a good fit for you. Please feel free to contact me for a no-obligation initial chat.
01480 277359 View 01480 277359
Photo of Verity Salmon - Counselling With Verity, MBACP, Counsellor
Counselling With Verity
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury SP5
Beginning therapy is a brave and sometimes difficult decision. My approach is to build a trusting relationship where we can work in collaboration with one another. If you're struggling, the most important thing I hope you to feel in my practice is safe, safe to explore your feelings and experiences so that together we can help establish a way forward. Please note that occasional responses to enquiries can land in your email's "junk" or "spam" f older. If you are waiting for a reply, please check there. I aim to respond to all enquiries within three working days.
Beginning therapy is a brave and sometimes difficult decision. My approach is to build a trusting relationship where we can work in collaboration with one another. If you're struggling, the most important thing I hope you to feel in my practice is safe, safe to explore your feelings and experiences so that together we can help establish a way forward. Please note that occasional responses to enquiries can land in your email's "junk" or "spam" f older. If you are waiting for a reply, please check there. I aim to respond to all enquiries within three working days.
07449 517701 View 07449 517701
Photo of Steve Anna Holmes - The Salisbury Practice Ltd, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
The Salisbury Practice Ltd
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
My CBT, Psychology and Psychiatry colleagues and I work together, supporting each other in providing a tailored, timely service, with warmth, confidentiality, and professionalism at it's heart. We now offer this service on-line as well as face to face within our small team at our two practices in Salisbury and Stockbridge UK . You can arrange a telephone discussion with one of our senior Practitioners, free of charge, giving you the opportunity to explore your specific needs and wishes and allowing us to suggest recommendations from within or outside our team.
My CBT, Psychology and Psychiatry colleagues and I work together, supporting each other in providing a tailored, timely service, with warmth, confidentiality, and professionalism at it's heart. We now offer this service on-line as well as face to face within our small team at our two practices in Salisbury and Stockbridge UK . You can arrange a telephone discussion with one of our senior Practitioners, free of charge, giving you the opportunity to explore your specific needs and wishes and allowing us to suggest recommendations from within or outside our team.
020 8106 5576 View 020 8106 5576
Photo of Pamela Sanderson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Pamela Sanderson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
I am a fully qualified person centred therapist with over 15 years experience. I specialise in working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression and stress and take great pleasure in seeing clients make progress. In each session, I apply the core conditions of the person centred approach; empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard. Sessions with me are non-directive and non-judgmental, helping to create a supportive environment where you can share your journey freely. Together, we will work through the challenges you're facing and work towards a place where you can feel at ease with yourself.
I am a fully qualified person centred therapist with over 15 years experience. I specialise in working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression and stress and take great pleasure in seeing clients make progress. In each session, I apply the core conditions of the person centred approach; empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard. Sessions with me are non-directive and non-judgmental, helping to create a supportive environment where you can share your journey freely. Together, we will work through the challenges you're facing and work towards a place where you can feel at ease with yourself.
01962 587307 View 01962 587307
Photo of Deborah K Cooper - Help To Heal Counselling and Supervision Services., MBABCP, Counsellor
Help To Heal Counselling and Supervision Services.
Counsellor, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1  (Online Only)
I am a BACP Accredited Humanistic Integrative Counsellor and have worked with young and adult clients for some time. Being an Integrative Counsellor means I draw upon several different theories, so I may offer a seamless and tailor made approach for each individual client. I have full Indemnity Insurance and take monthly supervision for both my Online and telephone services. Working with clients is my passion, I am able to offer a space where the client can be free to express themselves without judgement or pressure. I take great care to maintain my client's confidentiality at all times and adhere to the BACP's ethical framework.
I am a BACP Accredited Humanistic Integrative Counsellor and have worked with young and adult clients for some time. Being an Integrative Counsellor means I draw upon several different theories, so I may offer a seamless and tailor made approach for each individual client. I have full Indemnity Insurance and take monthly supervision for both my Online and telephone services. Working with clients is my passion, I am able to offer a space where the client can be free to express themselves without judgement or pressure. I take great care to maintain my client's confidentiality at all times and adhere to the BACP's ethical framework.
01592 809974 View 01592 809974

Online Therapists

Photo of Bernard Horsford - Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Advanced Assessments Expert Witness Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London W1J
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia.
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING: Neuropsychological testing online using different types of neuropsychological tests of brain injury and dementia.
PSYCHOLOGY EXPERT SERVICES: Psychological assessment, educational testing services and occupational health assessments. EXPERT PSYCHOLOGIST ASSESSMENT OF SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITY & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL CONDITIONS: Dyslexia tests, dyslexia in children, dyspraxia tests, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum, ADHD tests, and official IQ testing. MENTAL HEALTH: Personality disorder testing, mental health assessment online, wellbeing, and assessments of malingering disorders. We provide occupational health checks, undertake occupational health referrals, work capability assessments and advise on sickness absence policy.
020 3962 0179 View 020 3962 0179
Photo of Paula Marshall-Smith, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Paula Marshall-Smith
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Petersfield GU31
I run a successful private practice in Petersfield in Hampshire. I work relationally and empathically with people from all walks of life, young people, mid-life, the elderly and couples. Clients come in with lots of different issues that can be very troubling. Depression can leave clients barely functioning, anxiety can leave a client cripplingly isolated. Couples are left in despair when their relationships break down. Young people are feeling desperate in a world that demands so much of them. The elderly can be full of fear at what tomorrow might have in store for them.
I run a successful private practice in Petersfield in Hampshire. I work relationally and empathically with people from all walks of life, young people, mid-life, the elderly and couples. Clients come in with lots of different issues that can be very troubling. Depression can leave clients barely functioning, anxiety can leave a client cripplingly isolated. Couples are left in despair when their relationships break down. Young people are feeling desperate in a world that demands so much of them. The elderly can be full of fear at what tomorrow might have in store for them.
01730 779929 View 01730 779929
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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Photo of Nicole Rolls, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Nicole Rolls
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sutton SM2
When the present is painful and the way forward uncertain, we may need to be heard and supported in order to see what is happening for us and around us, so that we can find greater understanding and joy in our lives . I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and an Accredited Member of the BACP and of EMDR Europe with 17 years experience. I have been working successfully with a great variety of issues, working in Private Practice, in the NHS, as well as with Sutton Counselling and Goldsmiths University. I work with Adults, older teenagers, ​and couples. www.nicolerolls.co.uk
When the present is painful and the way forward uncertain, we may need to be heard and supported in order to see what is happening for us and around us, so that we can find greater understanding and joy in our lives . I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and an Accredited Member of the BACP and of EMDR Europe with 17 years experience. I have been working successfully with a great variety of issues, working in Private Practice, in the NHS, as well as with Sutton Counselling and Goldsmiths University. I work with Adults, older teenagers, ​and couples. www.nicolerolls.co.uk
01260 542111 View 01260 542111
Photo of Dr Gareth Davies, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Gareth Davies
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Penarth CF64
Hi there and welcome. I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing emotional difficulties relating to grief, loss, shame, blame or self-criticism, and working on healing the impact of trauma/ PTSD. I take a very holistic approach, so whether you feel grief or pain about the past, fear about the future, or anything in between, I’d love to help. I specialise in working with older adults and the LGBTQ+ community and I’m particularly experienced in working with gender identity, sexuality and wider identity concerns.
Hi there and welcome. I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing emotional difficulties relating to grief, loss, shame, blame or self-criticism, and working on healing the impact of trauma/ PTSD. I take a very holistic approach, so whether you feel grief or pain about the past, fear about the future, or anything in between, I’d love to help. I specialise in working with older adults and the LGBTQ+ community and I’m particularly experienced in working with gender identity, sexuality and wider identity concerns.
029 2271 4421 View 029 2271 4421
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 Lise Baker, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lise Baker
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist practising in Guildford, Haslemere, Putney, West London and Private Practice. I offer short or long term therapy and work with adults and the elderly on a one-to-one basis. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space, in professional settings and calm surroundings, where you can find solace and privacy. I hold up-to-date Enhanced Disclosure (DBS) for working with the very vulnerable and continue to develop my skills while I undertake a further MSc in Neuroscience.
I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist practising in Guildford, Haslemere, Putney, West London and Private Practice. I offer short or long term therapy and work with adults and the elderly on a one-to-one basis. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space, in professional settings and calm surroundings, where you can find solace and privacy. I hold up-to-date Enhanced Disclosure (DBS) for working with the very vulnerable and continue to develop my skills while I undertake a further MSc in Neuroscience.
01276 748034 View 01276 748034
Photo of Sonya Price, MBACP, Counsellor
Sonya Price
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leamington Spa CV32
I am currently counselling at Myton Hospice, Age UK taking GP referrals working with Loss, Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Dementia, Neurological conditions.
Hello my name is Sonya, I am a CBT therapist (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Sometimes in life we all get to a point where we just need to reach out. I can offer you time to listen effectively in a comfortable, safe, and confidential environment. Working with CBT enables you to talk about your feelings and emotions in situations as they may affect our behaviours and by recognising this we can adapt some change. Being able to express your feelings or presenting issue may be difficult especially to loved ones, family and friends. Reach Out will empower you to contribute to your well-being, sense of belonging, and self worth in Therapy.
I am currently counselling at Myton Hospice, Age UK taking GP referrals working with Loss, Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Dementia, Neurological conditions.
Hello my name is Sonya, I am a CBT therapist (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Sometimes in life we all get to a point where we just need to reach out. I can offer you time to listen effectively in a comfortable, safe, and confidential environment. Working with CBT enables you to talk about your feelings and emotions in situations as they may affect our behaviours and by recognising this we can adapt some change. Being able to express your feelings or presenting issue may be difficult especially to loved ones, family and friends. Reach Out will empower you to contribute to your well-being, sense of belonging, and self worth in Therapy.
01926 958240 View 01926 958240
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 Kat Sephton, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Kat Sephton
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Rugby CV23
Hi, I'm Dr Kat Sephton, HCPC registered and BPS chartered Clinical Psychologist and owner of Renew Psychology. I specialise in Neuropsychology, supporting those with neurological conditions (e.g. MS, Dementia, Parkinson's), stroke, traumatic brain injury, and illness affecting the brain. I provide individual therapy, neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation, training and consultation. I have more than a decades experience working in mental health and physical health services, hospitals, care homes and in patients own homes.
Hi, I'm Dr Kat Sephton, HCPC registered and BPS chartered Clinical Psychologist and owner of Renew Psychology. I specialise in Neuropsychology, supporting those with neurological conditions (e.g. MS, Dementia, Parkinson's), stroke, traumatic brain injury, and illness affecting the brain. I provide individual therapy, neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation, training and consultation. I have more than a decades experience working in mental health and physical health services, hospitals, care homes and in patients own homes.
01788 228409 View 01788 228409
Photo of Jurgen Wolfram Schwarz, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jurgen Wolfram Schwarz
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
My clients are adults, men and women (I particularly welcome older adults) who realise they need support in dealing with a broad range of life challenges such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, anger, loneliness, or work related stress.
As a compassionate and nurturing male with experience working with Mind, the NHS and a leading dementia charity as well as volunteering with the Samaritans and Cruse Bereavement Support, I offer a special therapeutic relationship for those undergoing unwanted and distressing changes in their lives. I therefore place great store by the initial free phone or Zoom meeting as a ‘get to know’ session, where we will also explore how best I could support you. I will not claim to erase life problems, but I can help you to cope positively with them through developing new insights, enabling you to live with purpose.
My clients are adults, men and women (I particularly welcome older adults) who realise they need support in dealing with a broad range of life challenges such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, anger, loneliness, or work related stress.
As a compassionate and nurturing male with experience working with Mind, the NHS and a leading dementia charity as well as volunteering with the Samaritans and Cruse Bereavement Support, I offer a special therapeutic relationship for those undergoing unwanted and distressing changes in their lives. I therefore place great store by the initial free phone or Zoom meeting as a ‘get to know’ session, where we will also explore how best I could support you. I will not claim to erase life problems, but I can help you to cope positively with them through developing new insights, enabling you to live with purpose.
01392 321548 View 01392 321548
Photo of Gem Duncan, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Gem Duncan
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hereford HR1
I am a Relate-trained couple counsellor and have also trained to work for Rape Crisis and in NHS psychology department counselling older people. For the last 14 years I was a lecturer training students in Person-Centered counselling from Basic to degree level.
I am a Relate-trained couple counsellor and have also trained to work for Rape Crisis and in NHS psychology department counselling older people. For the last 14 years I was a lecturer training students in Person-Centered counselling from Basic to degree level.
01432 803705 View 01432 803705
Photo of Samantha Dewhurst, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Samantha Dewhurst
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC2A
My experience ranges from working with older adults to child psychotherapy, with clients experiencing a variety of psychological difficulties.
I am a Counselling Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience both within the NHS and private sectors working to the highest level with a wide range of psychological challenges and client demographics. My integrative approach to therapy ensures that I am able to offer bespoke treatment plans based on an individual's requirements rather than offer a 'one-size fits all' approach. I draw on humanistic cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic psychotherapeutic perspectives depending on the needs and wishes of clients. I provide an open, sensitive and confidential space where you will be met with warmth, respect and acceptance.
My experience ranges from working with older adults to child psychotherapy, with clients experiencing a variety of psychological difficulties.
I am a Counselling Psychologist with more than 10 years of experience both within the NHS and private sectors working to the highest level with a wide range of psychological challenges and client demographics. My integrative approach to therapy ensures that I am able to offer bespoke treatment plans based on an individual's requirements rather than offer a 'one-size fits all' approach. I draw on humanistic cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic psychotherapeutic perspectives depending on the needs and wishes of clients. I provide an open, sensitive and confidential space where you will be met with warmth, respect and acceptance.
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Photo of Susanna Hailstone Walker, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Susanna Hailstone Walker
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW12
Hello. I’m an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist, specialising in adult and older adult mental health. I practice psychodynamically, which means helping people work through complex and often unexplored issues, problems and fears. In psychodynamic therapy, past experiences are as important as present ones. Our early lives - especially our childhood and relationships with parents, caregivers and families - shape our personalities, our way of thinking and behaving, and how we relate to,other people. And sometimes those thoughts, feelings and patterns which start early can become the cause of problems later on.
Hello. I’m an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist, specialising in adult and older adult mental health. I practice psychodynamically, which means helping people work through complex and often unexplored issues, problems and fears. In psychodynamic therapy, past experiences are as important as present ones. Our early lives - especially our childhood and relationships with parents, caregivers and families - shape our personalities, our way of thinking and behaving, and how we relate to,other people. And sometimes those thoughts, feelings and patterns which start early can become the cause of problems later on.
020 4524 5282 View 020 4524 5282

See more therapy options for Salisbury

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.