Dementia Therapists in Washington

Photo of Faith Marshall - Awakenings Hypnosis and Coaching
Through a process of hypnotic suggestions hypnosis may also calm and improve some aspects of memory recall.
Welcome to Awakenings Hypnosis & Coaching. I’m Faith Marshall CHT, and I’m glad you’re here. When used together, hypnosis and coaching are very powerful techniques for better understanding ourselves and making lasting changes. I am a certified Medical Hypnotherapist, specializing in Stress, Sleep and Pain Management. My passion is helping clients with Dementia & Parkinson's families providing education, resources, and hypnosis as support for caregivers and families. My services bring comfort and peace of mind, and even show families how to allow joy to be present the journey. And Remember When you feel the beat...DANCE!
Through a process of hypnotic suggestions hypnosis may also calm and improve some aspects of memory recall.
Welcome to Awakenings Hypnosis & Coaching. I’m Faith Marshall CHT, and I’m glad you’re here. When used together, hypnosis and coaching are very powerful techniques for better understanding ourselves and making lasting changes. I am a certified Medical Hypnotherapist, specializing in Stress, Sleep and Pain Management. My passion is helping clients with Dementia & Parkinson's families providing education, resources, and hypnosis as support for caregivers and families. My services bring comfort and peace of mind, and even show families how to allow joy to be present the journey. And Remember When you feel the beat...DANCE!
(206) 309-1195 View (206) 309-1195
Photo of Amy Astle-Raaen, MSW, GMHS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Astle-Raaen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, GMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
I work with older adults and their caregivers to address depression, stress, anxiety, grief, family conflict and end of life issues.
Amy Astle-Raaen, MSW, is a Geriatric Mental Health Specialist. She provides home visits and tele-health in the greater Seattle area for therapeutic counseling and serves individuals, families, couples and caregivers. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Willamette University, a Master of Social Work degree in Multigenerational Health/Policy Practice from the University of Washington and a Certificate in Advanced Dementia Practice from the University of Michigan.
I work with older adults and their caregivers to address depression, stress, anxiety, grief, family conflict and end of life issues.
Amy Astle-Raaen, MSW, is a Geriatric Mental Health Specialist. She provides home visits and tele-health in the greater Seattle area for therapeutic counseling and serves individuals, families, couples and caregivers. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Willamette University, a Master of Social Work degree in Multigenerational Health/Policy Practice from the University of Washington and a Certificate in Advanced Dementia Practice from the University of Michigan.
(206) 203-5718 View (206) 203-5718
Photo of Laura Vaillancourt - Eldercare Counseling and Guidance Services, MA, LMHC, GMHS, Counselor
Eldercare Counseling and Guidance Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, GMHS
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98508
While some therapists are generalists, our team specializes in counseling family caregivers and older adults.
We specialize in serving folks who are caring for aging family members, older adults and those living with chronic medical conditions. Our clients report that they feel lost and alone and have a hard time seeing an end to the stress they are experiencing. We recognize the unique loss and grief that can come with aging and caring for aging loved ones. Sometimes, the right support can be a lifeline when you are navigating complex decisions. You are trying to do your best to provide care and support to your loved one and not lose yourself in the process. We understand that sometimes, even reaching out for help can feel overwhelming.
While some therapists are generalists, our team specializes in counseling family caregivers and older adults.
We specialize in serving folks who are caring for aging family members, older adults and those living with chronic medical conditions. Our clients report that they feel lost and alone and have a hard time seeing an end to the stress they are experiencing. We recognize the unique loss and grief that can come with aging and caring for aging loved ones. Sometimes, the right support can be a lifeline when you are navigating complex decisions. You are trying to do your best to provide care and support to your loved one and not lose yourself in the process. We understand that sometimes, even reaching out for help can feel overwhelming.
(360) 858-8159 View (360) 858-8159
Photo of Colleen Storey, LICSWA, GRMS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Storey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA, GRMS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Have you experienced a loss? Are you grieving and haven't seemed to be able to move forward in your life? Perhaps you have just gone through a divorce, a bad break-up, or have begun the difficult journey of walking beside a loved one on their journey through Dementia/ Alzheimer's. The Grief Recovery Method (GRM) is an action orientated program designed to help an individual like you complete the relationship to pain, isolation, and loneliness caused by a significant loss. It provides a method of releasing unfinished business which then allows you, the griever, to more forward towards a more healthy, joyful, and productive life.
Have you experienced a loss? Are you grieving and haven't seemed to be able to move forward in your life? Perhaps you have just gone through a divorce, a bad break-up, or have begun the difficult journey of walking beside a loved one on their journey through Dementia/ Alzheimer's. The Grief Recovery Method (GRM) is an action orientated program designed to help an individual like you complete the relationship to pain, isolation, and loneliness caused by a significant loss. It provides a method of releasing unfinished business which then allows you, the griever, to more forward towards a more healthy, joyful, and productive life.
(833) 627-0215 View (833) 627-0215
Photo of Sandra L O'Brien, RN, MN, CL, CPC, ACM
Sandra L O'Brien
RN, MN, CL, CPC, ACM
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I provide support and help for adults and senior individuals as they transition through the many challenges and stages of life. I use Counseling, Coaching and Consulting to help guide you in the journey to meeting goals. My many years of experience and specialty training in Mental Health, Geriatric Care, Alzheimer's Disease/ Dementia along with Teaching and Case Management have prepared me for results-oriented outcomes in short periods of time. And, most of all; sometimes it is just good to have a "safe place" for sharing thoughts, feelings and grief. Your energy is precious, don't waste it. Give me a call.
I provide support and help for adults and senior individuals as they transition through the many challenges and stages of life. I use Counseling, Coaching and Consulting to help guide you in the journey to meeting goals. My many years of experience and specialty training in Mental Health, Geriatric Care, Alzheimer's Disease/ Dementia along with Teaching and Case Management have prepared me for results-oriented outcomes in short periods of time. And, most of all; sometimes it is just good to have a "safe place" for sharing thoughts, feelings and grief. Your energy is precious, don't waste it. Give me a call.
(253) 358-8595 View (253) 358-8595
Photo of Susan M Mccurry, PhD, Psychologist
Susan M Mccurry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of clinical specialty include: Assisting with life transition issues impacting quality of life and adaptation to aging; treatment of sleep problems in healthy individuals and persons with contributing medical co-morbidities, including menopause vasomotor symptoms, chronic pain, and dementia; and caregiver training for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with midlife and older adults. I use a contextual behavioral science approach to provide evidence-based treatment for enhancing quality of life in healthy aging adults, and also in individuals experiencing age-related changes in physical, cognitive, or psychological function, disturbances in sleep, or residential care transitions and adjustments. I recognize the broad and complex contextual factors that influence the aging process and welcome interdisciplinary collaboration.
Areas of clinical specialty include: Assisting with life transition issues impacting quality of life and adaptation to aging; treatment of sleep problems in healthy individuals and persons with contributing medical co-morbidities, including menopause vasomotor symptoms, chronic pain, and dementia; and caregiver training for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with midlife and older adults. I use a contextual behavioral science approach to provide evidence-based treatment for enhancing quality of life in healthy aging adults, and also in individuals experiencing age-related changes in physical, cognitive, or psychological function, disturbances in sleep, or residential care transitions and adjustments. I recognize the broad and complex contextual factors that influence the aging process and welcome interdisciplinary collaboration.
(206) 743-9484 View (206) 743-9484
Photo of Dana Turnbull, PhD, CEDS, APIT, CPQ, Psychologist
Dana Turnbull
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS, APIT, CPQ
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I also specialize in treating caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Eating disorders have the highest mortality of all psychiatric diagnoses. I'm a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist. You aren't sick because you want to be (see Neurobiology.) The change we need to live healthy can seem more difficult than the pain. The emptiness of escapism, whether through restriction, drugs, alcohol, food, etc. obscures your potential. If it's not dangerous, you don't have to run. When you practice avoidance, you also avoid experiences producing self-trust, self-confidence and self-esteem. If you want to practice bravery, I'm here. I teach skills and assign homework. I'm willing to work as hard as you are.
I also specialize in treating caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Eating disorders have the highest mortality of all psychiatric diagnoses. I'm a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist. You aren't sick because you want to be (see Neurobiology.) The change we need to live healthy can seem more difficult than the pain. The emptiness of escapism, whether through restriction, drugs, alcohol, food, etc. obscures your potential. If it's not dangerous, you don't have to run. When you practice avoidance, you also avoid experiences producing self-trust, self-confidence and self-esteem. If you want to practice bravery, I'm here. I teach skills and assign homework. I'm willing to work as hard as you are.
(817) 670-8974 View (817) 670-8974
Photo of James Keyes, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
James Keyes
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012
-Adult, including ADOS & ADI Gold Standard Approach) *ADHD *Anxiety/Depression/Mood Issues *Trauma / PTSD *Behavioral Problems *Family Treatment / Adjustment Problems *Cognitive Evaluation - Ranging From Academic; Post-Concussion Issues to Dementia *Chronic Pain; L& I / Worker's Compensation.
AUGUST 2021 - PRACTICE PRIMARILY FULL. (I have a few AM appointment openings - NO AFTER SCHOOL TIMES right now; I AM available for COGNITIVE ( dementia or ADHD; learning) & Autism EVALUATIONS; no therapy). I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
-Adult, including ADOS & ADI Gold Standard Approach) *ADHD *Anxiety/Depression/Mood Issues *Trauma / PTSD *Behavioral Problems *Family Treatment / Adjustment Problems *Cognitive Evaluation - Ranging From Academic; Post-Concussion Issues to Dementia *Chronic Pain; L& I / Worker's Compensation.
AUGUST 2021 - PRACTICE PRIMARILY FULL. (I have a few AM appointment openings - NO AFTER SCHOOL TIMES right now; I AM available for COGNITIVE ( dementia or ADHD; learning) & Autism EVALUATIONS; no therapy). I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
(425) 276-6752 x9 View (425) 276-6752 x9
Photo of Jenna Rumberger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Rumberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Caring for your person with dementia is challenging.
Accepting new clients! You are trying your best to care for your aging parents or spouse, and you feel like it is never enough. You feel overwhelmed by the never ending caregiving responsibilities and feel spread way too thin. You may feel alone in your journey or like no one else really understands what you are going through. Dementia has taken a piece of your person and you are already grieving that loss even though they are still physically here.
Caring for your person with dementia is challenging.
Accepting new clients! You are trying your best to care for your aging parents or spouse, and you feel like it is never enough. You feel overwhelmed by the never ending caregiving responsibilities and feel spread way too thin. You may feel alone in your journey or like no one else really understands what you are going through. Dementia has taken a piece of your person and you are already grieving that loss even though they are still physically here.
(425) 270-7336 View (425) 270-7336
Photo of Katy Crouch, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Crouch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
I work with senior's and caregivers who provide assistance for older adults.
I specialize in working with people in transition, individuals, couples and young adults. As a Generalist with an emphasis in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I tailor my approach to each individual I work with. I want to fully understand your story; however, I recognize it is important for you to feel comfortable. My first job is to help you become comfortable enough to begin sharing your story. Without a therapeutic partnership, it is difficult to make progress and build the trust necessary for growth and change.
I work with senior's and caregivers who provide assistance for older adults.
I specialize in working with people in transition, individuals, couples and young adults. As a Generalist with an emphasis in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I tailor my approach to each individual I work with. I want to fully understand your story; however, I recognize it is important for you to feel comfortable. My first job is to help you become comfortable enough to begin sharing your story. Without a therapeutic partnership, it is difficult to make progress and build the trust necessary for growth and change.
(425) 390-8062 View (425) 390-8062
Photo of Shannon Mitchell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
My practice focuses on the treatment of mental health issues as they relate to teens, adults, older adults, and LGBTQ+. A guiding principle that informs my therapeutic approach is a Strengths Perspective. I believe we are each looking for meaning and purpose in life. Life can bring challenges and circumstances that leave us feeling alone, scared, lost, or hopeless. It is my belief that each individual has the solutions, and my role is to create a safe and affirming environment in which solutions can be identified, growth can begin, and healing can be achieved.
My practice focuses on the treatment of mental health issues as they relate to teens, adults, older adults, and LGBTQ+. A guiding principle that informs my therapeutic approach is a Strengths Perspective. I believe we are each looking for meaning and purpose in life. Life can bring challenges and circumstances that leave us feeling alone, scared, lost, or hopeless. It is my belief that each individual has the solutions, and my role is to create a safe and affirming environment in which solutions can be identified, growth can begin, and healing can be achieved.
(509) 608-3041 View (509) 608-3041
Photo of Kaarin A Hanzlian, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kaarin A Hanzlian
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
I provide compassion-centered counseling, support and encouragement for adults, older adults, aging families, and caregivers in a safe and welcoming space.
Becoming aware of our beliefs and behaviors can support our overall mental and physical wellbeing. We all face transitions at various life stages. I also recognize the quality care and support that is beckoning within the aging community, which includes aging with unconditional acceptance, support and guidance for aging families and promoting self-care for caregivers.
I provide compassion-centered counseling, support and encouragement for adults, older adults, aging families, and caregivers in a safe and welcoming space.
Becoming aware of our beliefs and behaviors can support our overall mental and physical wellbeing. We all face transitions at various life stages. I also recognize the quality care and support that is beckoning within the aging community, which includes aging with unconditional acceptance, support and guidance for aging families and promoting self-care for caregivers.
(206) 208-1459 View (206) 208-1459
Photo of Laura Anne Farley, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Anne Farley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
I have more than thirty-five years of experience serving older adults, people with disabilities, and people living with chronic physical and mental illness.
My caseload is full and I will update my profile when openings are available. Contact my office if you would like to be on my waitlist. People are resilient and capable of change to improve the quality of their lives. Whether desiring to get unstuck from a pattern of behavior (e.g., ineffective communication or substance use); struggling with anxiety, fear, depression, or trauma symptoms; or facing a difficult loss or transition, people often feel alone in their suffering and desire for change. These are human experiences. You are not alone. Together we will partner to identify and treat the crux of the problem.
I have more than thirty-five years of experience serving older adults, people with disabilities, and people living with chronic physical and mental illness.
My caseload is full and I will update my profile when openings are available. Contact my office if you would like to be on my waitlist. People are resilient and capable of change to improve the quality of their lives. Whether desiring to get unstuck from a pattern of behavior (e.g., ineffective communication or substance use); struggling with anxiety, fear, depression, or trauma symptoms; or facing a difficult loss or transition, people often feel alone in their suffering and desire for change. These are human experiences. You are not alone. Together we will partner to identify and treat the crux of the problem.
(844) 397-6361 View (844) 397-6361
Photo of Jonathan David Gerson, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Jonathan David Gerson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Welcome! I am skilled in working with adults of all ages. Life can be challenging and difficult to navigate. Seeking guidance is key on that journey. I offer a compassionate healing space for my clients and together we work towards improving your day to day joy and engagement in life. I meet you exactly where you are and we work from there. I utilize various modalities, such a depth psychology and narrative therapy. Additionally, I have expertise with seniors suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's. Our geriatric population needs and deserves the best of care as they take on aging challenges. I would be honored to work with you.
Welcome! I am skilled in working with adults of all ages. Life can be challenging and difficult to navigate. Seeking guidance is key on that journey. I offer a compassionate healing space for my clients and together we work towards improving your day to day joy and engagement in life. I meet you exactly where you are and we work from there. I utilize various modalities, such a depth psychology and narrative therapy. Additionally, I have expertise with seniors suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's. Our geriatric population needs and deserves the best of care as they take on aging challenges. I would be honored to work with you.
(206) 279-2013 View (206) 279-2013
Photo of Jameson C Lontz, PhD, Psychologist
Jameson C Lontz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Forensic Psychology, Traumatic brain injury, Dementia, Stroke, Pre-surgery (e.
Blue Mountain Psychology is committed to excellent therapeutic services including comprehensive forensic, neuropsychological, and psychological assessments while treating each person with dignity, integrity, and respect in a compassionate environment. Blue Mountain's mission is to maximize independence and individual accomplishments toward improved participation in society. Comprehensive, objective, unbiased forensic, neuropsychological, and psychological evaluations include testing in the areas of intelligence (IQ), memory, sensorimotor, language, academic, attention, concentration, executive, and psychosocial functions as indicated. Please visit our website for more information, to make a referral, or schedule an appointment: www.bluemountainpsychology.com
Forensic Psychology, Traumatic brain injury, Dementia, Stroke, Pre-surgery (e.
Blue Mountain Psychology is committed to excellent therapeutic services including comprehensive forensic, neuropsychological, and psychological assessments while treating each person with dignity, integrity, and respect in a compassionate environment. Blue Mountain's mission is to maximize independence and individual accomplishments toward improved participation in society. Comprehensive, objective, unbiased forensic, neuropsychological, and psychological evaluations include testing in the areas of intelligence (IQ), memory, sensorimotor, language, academic, attention, concentration, executive, and psychosocial functions as indicated. Please visit our website for more information, to make a referral, or schedule an appointment: www.bluemountainpsychology.com
(509) 724-2326 View (509) 724-2326
Photo of Karuna Duval, MSW, LICSW, APBCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karuna Duval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, APBCC
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270  (Online Only)
I am passionate about and energized by my work supporting adults and older adults from all walks of life. I have been working with adults and older adults and their support systems for over 25 years. With specialities in stress reduction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, I work with each person's unique strengths and abilities. I believe each person has the ability to find answers to their questions and heal. We will work together to discover unique solutions to meet YOUR goals in a non-judgmental, safe, respectful and collaborative partnership.
I am passionate about and energized by my work supporting adults and older adults from all walks of life. I have been working with adults and older adults and their support systems for over 25 years. With specialities in stress reduction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, I work with each person's unique strengths and abilities. I believe each person has the ability to find answers to their questions and heal. We will work together to discover unique solutions to meet YOUR goals in a non-judgmental, safe, respectful and collaborative partnership.
(360) 614-4963 View (360) 614-4963
Photo of Cali Anne Caughie, PhD, Psychologist
Cali Anne Caughie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Dr. Cali Anne Caughie currently offers telehealth sessions in Washington and Idaho with a focus on collaborative, supportive therapy to help you process, reflect, and make changes for personal growth. She provides psychotherapy for stress, anxiety, and depression management as well as relational issues. She additionally specializes in behavioral medicine, offering sleep health intervention (CBT-I) and health behavior change consultation. While she does not offer assessment at this time, she is offering consultation services for those experiencing mild cognitive impairment or for those who are caring for individuals with dementia.
Dr. Cali Anne Caughie currently offers telehealth sessions in Washington and Idaho with a focus on collaborative, supportive therapy to help you process, reflect, and make changes for personal growth. She provides psychotherapy for stress, anxiety, and depression management as well as relational issues. She additionally specializes in behavioral medicine, offering sleep health intervention (CBT-I) and health behavior change consultation. While she does not offer assessment at this time, she is offering consultation services for those experiencing mild cognitive impairment or for those who are caring for individuals with dementia.
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Photo of James 'Rick' Crozier - Crozier Counseling, LLC, LMHC, GMHS, Counselor
Crozier Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, GMHS
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 25 years of experience working with adults and older adults.
I work with adult men and women of any age who are ready and motivated to change. I especially enjoy working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, challenges associated with change, grief and loss and those struggling with relationships both at home and in the work place.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 25 years of experience working with adults and older adults.
I work with adult men and women of any age who are ready and motivated to change. I especially enjoy working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, challenges associated with change, grief and loss and those struggling with relationships both at home and in the work place.
(253) 299-2319 View (253) 299-2319
Photo of Maureen Ann (Schuster) Roach - Heart and Soul Therapy, PLLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heart and Soul Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249
My years of experience include issues of marriage, divorce, adoption and aging parents and dementia.
People are afraid, overwhelmed and "stuck". So many people are dealing with isolation, family difficulties and financial stress. They need to know how to get through to the other side and that they are not alone in their journey. They need a clinical perspective and help developing a blue print for change. They want to live a life being more connected and more at peace.
My years of experience include issues of marriage, divorce, adoption and aging parents and dementia.
People are afraid, overwhelmed and "stuck". So many people are dealing with isolation, family difficulties and financial stress. They need to know how to get through to the other side and that they are not alone in their journey. They need a clinical perspective and help developing a blue print for change. They want to live a life being more connected and more at peace.
(360) 523-1755 View (360) 523-1755
Photo of Sunni Dupree, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunni Dupree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188
As a mental health practitioner, fitness, and nutritional educator based in Washington, I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, grief & loss, crisis journeys, Dementia-related diseases, body image, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I approach each client's journey with compassion and personalized care, utilizing evidence-based practices, fitness and nutrition.
As a mental health practitioner, fitness, and nutritional educator based in Washington, I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, grief & loss, crisis journeys, Dementia-related diseases, body image, eating disorders, and women’s issues. I approach each client's journey with compassion and personalized care, utilizing evidence-based practices, fitness and nutrition.
(206) 208-7477 x1 View (206) 208-7477 x1
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Dementia Therapists

Can dementia patients benefit from counseling?

Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counseling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counselors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counselors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.

How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?

To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioral and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.