Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Karen Kessler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I enjoy working with older adults/ seniors who are struggling to cope with issues such as anxiety and depression, loss of a loved one, health concerns, retirement adjustments, loneliness, low self-esteem, stress management, and difficult family dynamics,.
Hello. I'm Karen Kessler, a seasoned and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of comprehensive clinical experience. My background includes working in diverse inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, which has provided me with a solid foundation for addressing issues such as aging, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, life transitions, caregiver stress, work-life balance, self-esteem, stress management, and relationship challenges.
I enjoy working with older adults/ seniors who are struggling to cope with issues such as anxiety and depression, loss of a loved one, health concerns, retirement adjustments, loneliness, low self-esteem, stress management, and difficult family dynamics,.
Hello. I'm Karen Kessler, a seasoned and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of comprehensive clinical experience. My background includes working in diverse inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, which has provided me with a solid foundation for addressing issues such as aging, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, life transitions, caregiver stress, work-life balance, self-esteem, stress management, and relationship challenges.
(657) 571-7130 View (657) 571-7130
Photo of Davis Lo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Davis Lo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues.
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life.
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues.
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life.
(562) 566-3553 View (562) 566-3553
Photo of Jennifer DerGregorian, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer DerGregorian
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many people struggle to form and maintain healthy friendships and romantic relationships as adults or older adults, and are not sure how they can change their patterns.
I enjoy working with adults and older adults who are actively seeking healthier attachments and improvement in their relationships. My clients want to understand their early relationships and experiences in order to heal and move toward healthy attachments and interactions. These deeper changes can take more time and are longer lasting. I love working to help those who are looking for improved relationships, improved mood, and better quality of life.
Many people struggle to form and maintain healthy friendships and romantic relationships as adults or older adults, and are not sure how they can change their patterns.
I enjoy working with adults and older adults who are actively seeking healthier attachments and improvement in their relationships. My clients want to understand their early relationships and experiences in order to heal and move toward healthy attachments and interactions. These deeper changes can take more time and are longer lasting. I love working to help those who are looking for improved relationships, improved mood, and better quality of life.
(626) 269-6205 View (626) 269-6205
Photo of Chelsea Canning - www.Chelsea CanningLCSW.com, MSW, LCSW, C-ASWCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
www.Chelsea CanningLCSW.com
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializing in Chronic Illness, Older Adults (& families) working thru life transition.
We all need a little help from time to time to pull ourselves out of our...grief, trauma, depression, confusing thoughts, self criticism, intense feelings, and improve our relationship with ourselves and others. Helping ease your painful moments is the most important work we can accomplish together. Sometimes we just need someone to stand by us, assure us that it's going to be okay and guide us through the tough parts. Please give me a call today, we can see how to work together for a better quality of life.
Specializing in Chronic Illness, Older Adults (& families) working thru life transition.
We all need a little help from time to time to pull ourselves out of our...grief, trauma, depression, confusing thoughts, self criticism, intense feelings, and improve our relationship with ourselves and others. Helping ease your painful moments is the most important work we can accomplish together. Sometimes we just need someone to stand by us, assure us that it's going to be okay and guide us through the tough parts. Please give me a call today, we can see how to work together for a better quality of life.
(424) 338-9400 View (424) 338-9400
Photo of Steve McLaughlin, PhD, Psychologist
Steve McLaughlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have experience working with older adults in a variety of settings.
Iam an experienced therapist who has worked with people with many different issues and problems. I like what I do. I want to meet people where they are and provide a supportive, safe relationship where they can open up and talk about pressing issues and concerns.
I have experience working with older adults in a variety of settings.
Iam an experienced therapist who has worked with people with many different issues and problems. I like what I do. I want to meet people where they are and provide a supportive, safe relationship where they can open up and talk about pressing issues and concerns.
(657) 317-7336 View (657) 317-7336
Stuart S Riskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90067
I have worked with individuals from young adolescents to the very elderly; with families facing issues of blending, divorce, adoption, childhood illness and domestic violence; to help individuals with stage-of-life struggles; as well as addressing the many kinds of trauma that people face throughout their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 25 years. My professional experience as a clinician, supervisor, and educator in both the public and private sectors has equipped me with a unique set of skills, a wealth of knowledge, and clinical expertise to support and facilitate my clients’ personal growth and development.
I have worked with individuals from young adolescents to the very elderly; with families facing issues of blending, divorce, adoption, childhood illness and domestic violence; to help individuals with stage-of-life struggles; as well as addressing the many kinds of trauma that people face throughout their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 25 years. My professional experience as a clinician, supervisor, and educator in both the public and private sectors has equipped me with a unique set of skills, a wealth of knowledge, and clinical expertise to support and facilitate my clients’ personal growth and development.
(323) 991-9095 View (323) 991-9095
Photo of Alexis Gilliam Lerner, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexis Gilliam Lerner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I also enjoy working with BIPOC clients' challenges and joy, male clients' trauma and difficulties, support for female clients in all aspects and stages of life, our wonderful Geriatric population, LGBTQIA+ clients, and adolescents.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. Looking for a therapist can be mutually daunting and exciting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and vulnerability to decide to get support in any area of your life, and I am available to empower and guide you on your therapeutic journey. I offer a Relational Gestalt approach to therapy, which means that we build an alliance together focusing on embodiment and what is present for you in the moment. I bear witness and support you in increasing your awareness of your experience as we share space for your transformational healing.
I also enjoy working with BIPOC clients' challenges and joy, male clients' trauma and difficulties, support for female clients in all aspects and stages of life, our wonderful Geriatric population, LGBTQIA+ clients, and adolescents.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. Looking for a therapist can be mutually daunting and exciting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and vulnerability to decide to get support in any area of your life, and I am available to empower and guide you on your therapeutic journey. I offer a Relational Gestalt approach to therapy, which means that we build an alliance together focusing on embodiment and what is present for you in the moment. I bear witness and support you in increasing your awareness of your experience as we share space for your transformational healing.
(424) 387-3578 View (424) 387-3578
Photo of Usc Psychology Services Center - USC Psychology Services Center, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
USC Psychology Services Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089
We are now accepting adults, older adults, and children/families/teens as new clients.
At the USC Psychology Services Center, we currently offer both in-person and telehealth therapy and assessment supported by science. Our services are provided by doctoral students in the Department of Psychology at USC, and supervised by psychology faculty or community-based licensed psychologists. This allows us to offer you a unique, treatment team based approach. We offer services for individuals and families, across the age range from young children to older adults. We do not offer same-day or emergency/crisis services. Currently, we have immediate openings for adolescents ages 13-17 in need of assessment services.
We are now accepting adults, older adults, and children/families/teens as new clients.
At the USC Psychology Services Center, we currently offer both in-person and telehealth therapy and assessment supported by science. Our services are provided by doctoral students in the Department of Psychology at USC, and supervised by psychology faculty or community-based licensed psychologists. This allows us to offer you a unique, treatment team based approach. We offer services for individuals and families, across the age range from young children to older adults. We do not offer same-day or emergency/crisis services. Currently, we have immediate openings for adolescents ages 13-17 in need of assessment services.
(323) 693-8670 View (323) 693-8670
Photo of Emmanuel Santana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emmanuel Santana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young professionals & seniors with chronic illness and use a wide array of modalities that promote a deeper understanding of how past experiences are linked to behavioral and emotional patterns.
On the road to self-realization and fulfillment, we often encounter hurdles and obstacles that can make us feel like we have been knocked off course. In many instances, therapy can be an effective means to get us back on track. It is a way to develop a higher level of insight and understanding of ourselves and our place in the world around us. I offer support and guidance in your exploration of your past and present, via a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgmental relationship, in order to help you reach a sense of awareness and empowerment.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young professionals & seniors with chronic illness and use a wide array of modalities that promote a deeper understanding of how past experiences are linked to behavioral and emotional patterns.
On the road to self-realization and fulfillment, we often encounter hurdles and obstacles that can make us feel like we have been knocked off course. In many instances, therapy can be an effective means to get us back on track. It is a way to develop a higher level of insight and understanding of ourselves and our place in the world around us. I offer support and guidance in your exploration of your past and present, via a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgmental relationship, in order to help you reach a sense of awareness and empowerment.
(626) 593-8759 View (626) 593-8759
Photo of Dr. Tara Samiy, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tara Samiy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Perhaps you are a new mother, or caring for elderly parents.
My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in psychodynamic theory and weaves multiple therapeutic modalities & research, including trauma-informed interventions, somatic therapy, neuroscience, and attachment theory. My clients appreciate my relaxed, warmly inquisitive and direct style. I adhere to a nonpathologizing model, recognizing coping mechanisms as survival strategies. I believe that emotions are powerful messengers, pointing to authentic needs and feelings. I work with people who are interested in understanding how their strategies are perpetuating anxiety & self doubt, preventing them from experiencing peace and confidence.
Perhaps you are a new mother, or caring for elderly parents.
My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in psychodynamic theory and weaves multiple therapeutic modalities & research, including trauma-informed interventions, somatic therapy, neuroscience, and attachment theory. My clients appreciate my relaxed, warmly inquisitive and direct style. I adhere to a nonpathologizing model, recognizing coping mechanisms as survival strategies. I believe that emotions are powerful messengers, pointing to authentic needs and feelings. I work with people who are interested in understanding how their strategies are perpetuating anxiety & self doubt, preventing them from experiencing peace and confidence.
(562) 284-2233 View (562) 284-2233
Photo of Angele Caron, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angele Caron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hi! I'm Angele. I am a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and have extensive knowledge of the unique experiences of older adults and their families. My experience is personal and professional, spans the course of the past decade, and includes caregiving, concerns with grief and mortality, and clinical support for those experiencing memory loss and the families that care for them.
Hi! I'm Angele. I am a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and have extensive knowledge of the unique experiences of older adults and their families. My experience is personal and professional, spans the course of the past decade, and includes caregiving, concerns with grief and mortality, and clinical support for those experiencing memory loss and the families that care for them.
(310) 299-9942 View (310) 299-9942
Photo of Liora Pourati, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liora Pourati
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I received my Masters degree from Philips Graduate Institute in 2003, and have been providing services to children, couples, families, elders and adolescents in different settings such as Private Practice, hospitals, and Health Care centers. I use different approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Awareness Integration Model, Family systems and so on. Services: Life Coaching; Couple Therapy and Coaching; Family Therapy and Coaching; Hypnosis; Individual Therapy for Adolescents, Children, Elderly, Men and Women; Parenting; Family Therapy; Sex Therapy; Relationship and Intimacy; Stress Management, and so on.
I received my Masters degree from Philips Graduate Institute in 2003, and have been providing services to children, couples, families, elders and adolescents in different settings such as Private Practice, hospitals, and Health Care centers. I use different approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Awareness Integration Model, Family systems and so on. Services: Life Coaching; Couple Therapy and Coaching; Family Therapy and Coaching; Hypnosis; Individual Therapy for Adolescents, Children, Elderly, Men and Women; Parenting; Family Therapy; Sex Therapy; Relationship and Intimacy; Stress Management, and so on.
(310) 751-7495 View (310) 751-7495
Photo of Martha Jane Joachim, Psychologist
Martha Jane Joachim
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with and train others to work effectively with diverse people, issues and modalities: relationships, parenting, seniors (Medicare), LGBT, illness, addiction, eating disorders, life challenges.
I have had many years of gratifying experience in deeply engaging with the people I work with, and training and supervising doctoral students and therapists (many on this site have been my students!). Discovering what has been causing personal distress, worry, loneliness, or disappointment is what transforms life. These underlying stresses can cause problems with relationship, career, mood, or just general feelings of dissatisfaction. The personal growth that blooms in the therapy opens doors inside and out, and creates the rich opportunities and experiences we all want in life.
I work with and train others to work effectively with diverse people, issues and modalities: relationships, parenting, seniors (Medicare), LGBT, illness, addiction, eating disorders, life challenges.
I have had many years of gratifying experience in deeply engaging with the people I work with, and training and supervising doctoral students and therapists (many on this site have been my students!). Discovering what has been causing personal distress, worry, loneliness, or disappointment is what transforms life. These underlying stresses can cause problems with relationship, career, mood, or just general feelings of dissatisfaction. The personal growth that blooms in the therapy opens doors inside and out, and creates the rich opportunities and experiences we all want in life.
(424) 250-2779 View (424) 250-2779
Photo of Dr. Kelsey Anne Holiday - Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am passionate about helping clients understand their cognitive changes and cope after a diagnosis such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, stroke/aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cancer/chemotherapy, and other forms of dementia.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or feeling overwhelmed by stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
I am passionate about helping clients understand their cognitive changes and cope after a diagnosis such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, stroke/aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cancer/chemotherapy, and other forms of dementia.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or feeling overwhelmed by stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
(310) 919-1598 View (310) 919-1598
Photo of Victor A Ross, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victor A Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide treatment to adults, teenagers and seniors.
Clients who benefit from my help appreciate a therapist who is warm, nurturing and supportive in his approach and at the same time confronts the difficult issues that bring people to seek my assistance. I am an experienced clinician, and I draw upon a variety of techniques ranging from talk therapy to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. My clients feel I help them with life issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I provide treatment to adults, teenagers and seniors.
Clients who benefit from my help appreciate a therapist who is warm, nurturing and supportive in his approach and at the same time confronts the difficult issues that bring people to seek my assistance. I am an experienced clinician, and I draw upon a variety of techniques ranging from talk therapy to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. My clients feel I help them with life issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(424) 250-2348 View (424) 250-2348
Photo of Nicole Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Book with me using my website link! I specialize in helping older adults through issues relating to Aging, Loss and Grief, Anxiety, Depression and Life Transitions. My background includes a keen interest/knowledge of those who are aging with a Developmental Disability as well as the families who are caring for a loved one. If you have experienced any of these, I am available to help you as you navigate life's journey....together you and I will work to "add life to your years."
Book with me using my website link! I specialize in helping older adults through issues relating to Aging, Loss and Grief, Anxiety, Depression and Life Transitions. My background includes a keen interest/knowledge of those who are aging with a Developmental Disability as well as the families who are caring for a loved one. If you have experienced any of these, I am available to help you as you navigate life's journey....together you and I will work to "add life to your years."
(424) 476-1453 View (424) 476-1453
Photo of Joni Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joni Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have specific expertise in working with young adults/students, older adults and people impacted by cancer as well as their caregivers.
Welcome! I’m Joni, a licensed therapist with a breadth of experience providing therapy to people going through a variety of life’s challenges. I approach our space with curiosity, kindness and a genuine belief that everyone has the capacity for change, growth and healing. My goal is to be a safe space for you to feel seen, heard, and explore ways to better get to know yourself, your emotions, and the skills you have to manage what life throws your way.
I have specific expertise in working with young adults/students, older adults and people impacted by cancer as well as their caregivers.
Welcome! I’m Joni, a licensed therapist with a breadth of experience providing therapy to people going through a variety of life’s challenges. I approach our space with curiosity, kindness and a genuine belief that everyone has the capacity for change, growth and healing. My goal is to be a safe space for you to feel seen, heard, and explore ways to better get to know yourself, your emotions, and the skills you have to manage what life throws your way.
(424) 306-0454 View (424) 306-0454
Photo of Ari Kalechstein - Executive Mental Health - Ari Kalechstein, Ph.D. , Psychologist
Executive Mental Health - Ari Kalechstein, Ph.D.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Online Only
EMH also offers neuropsychological testing to evaluate memory and other areas of cognition for older adolescents, adults, elderly individuals, and caregivers to provide recommendations that are tailored to the needs of the examinee and/or caregiver.
Founded in 1996 by Dr. Ari D. Kalechstein, Executive Mental Health (EMH) is a provider of integrated mental health services, including psychotherapy, neuropsychological assessment, and psychiatric care. EMH offers these services on behalf of patients who experience a wide array of mental health conditions. Our good reputation is based on the capacity of EMH clinicians to forge solid therapeutic relationships with patients, work with them to identify their needs, and to use best practices during the course of treatment.
EMH also offers neuropsychological testing to evaluate memory and other areas of cognition for older adolescents, adults, elderly individuals, and caregivers to provide recommendations that are tailored to the needs of the examinee and/or caregiver.
Founded in 1996 by Dr. Ari D. Kalechstein, Executive Mental Health (EMH) is a provider of integrated mental health services, including psychotherapy, neuropsychological assessment, and psychiatric care. EMH offers these services on behalf of patients who experience a wide array of mental health conditions. Our good reputation is based on the capacity of EMH clinicians to forge solid therapeutic relationships with patients, work with them to identify their needs, and to use best practices during the course of treatment.
(818) 740-6983 View (818) 740-6983
Photo of Dov Gold, PsyD, Psychologist
Dov Gold
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Perhaps you or a loved one struggles with anxiety, mood changes, adjusting to a new situation, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, chronic pain, stroke/brain injury, medical problems (including end-of-life), or cognitive impairment & dementia. Maybe you want to understand yourself better or chart a new path forward. If any of this sounds familiar, I’m glad you’re here. I am experienced in assessing and treating a variety of clinical presentations and have completed a 2-year fellowship in outpatient/inpatient rehabilitation neuropsychology. I am passionate about working with those coping with changes in cognition, behavior, and mobility.
Perhaps you or a loved one struggles with anxiety, mood changes, adjusting to a new situation, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, chronic pain, stroke/brain injury, medical problems (including end-of-life), or cognitive impairment & dementia. Maybe you want to understand yourself better or chart a new path forward. If any of this sounds familiar, I’m glad you’re here. I am experienced in assessing and treating a variety of clinical presentations and have completed a 2-year fellowship in outpatient/inpatient rehabilitation neuropsychology. I am passionate about working with those coping with changes in cognition, behavior, and mobility.
(310) 683-2704 View (310) 683-2704
Photo of Carol Schwartz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90068
My specialization include therapeutic support for people in creative fields, adults who are pursuing fertility interventions and working with geriatric clients and their families during times of change.
Are you struggling with life changes? Do you feel alone? Are you having trouble making decisions? My expertise is helping people who are in transition, struggling with depression or anxiety. My goal is to collaborate with you to achieve your personal and professional potential. By making the decision to begin therapy, you may discover new options for creativity, career or relationships. I can help you recognize negative thought patterns, identify and value your strengths and transcend emotional barriers. Life transitions can be challenging -- yet also provide the opportunity for insight and change.
My specialization include therapeutic support for people in creative fields, adults who are pursuing fertility interventions and working with geriatric clients and their families during times of change.
Are you struggling with life changes? Do you feel alone? Are you having trouble making decisions? My expertise is helping people who are in transition, struggling with depression or anxiety. My goal is to collaborate with you to achieve your personal and professional potential. By making the decision to begin therapy, you may discover new options for creativity, career or relationships. I can help you recognize negative thought patterns, identify and value your strengths and transcend emotional barriers. Life transitions can be challenging -- yet also provide the opportunity for insight and change.
(213) 344-3827 View (213) 344-3827
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Geriatric and Seniors Therapists

Is one ever too old for mental health therapy?

Individuals of all ages can benefit from mental health therapy. Indeed, older adults in particular may benefit from the social and psychological support a therapist can provide; the topics that older adults address in therapy may simply differ from those of younger clients. Seniors should seek out a therapist who has experience working with older individuals and who is well-versed in addressing common concerns among elderly individuals, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, dementia, and physical mobility challenges.

How can geriatric therapy improve the quality of life of aging individuals?

Therapy for aging adults can greatly improve quality of life by providing an opportunity for them to process difficult emotions related to end-of-life, navigate relational or caregiver challenges, and develop coping skills for common mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression. Subsequent reductions in negative emotions and mental health disorder symptoms can make day-to-day living much more manageable for aging adults and those that care for them. The ongoing relationship with a trusted therapist can also help seniors combat loneliness and provide a sense of structure for their routine.

How is counseling for elderly different from counseling for other age groups?

Many aspects of geriatric counseling are similar to counseling in younger age groups; in general, counseling offers an opportunity for clients to process difficult life events and develop coping skills they can use outside of the therapy session. However, therapists who specialize in working with elderly clients may place a special emphasis on specific topics, such as caregiver relationships and reducing loneliness. They may be specially equipped to deal with certain physical conditions or facilitate discussion surrounding end-of-life topics. Counseling for the elderly may also place a greater emphasis on social work-type topics to ensure that geriatric clients have access to necessary resources, such as food, a safe home environment, and healthcare.

Can geriatric counseling help people who suffer from dementia?

Counseling can be highly effective for aging adults with dementia. While some therapists specializing in dementia may work with clients solely on topics surrounding memory loss, they can also assist clients with conditions that may co-occur at old age, such as anxiety or depression. Counselors specializing in working with older adults can also offer an objective assessment of a client’s functioning or disease progression to caregivers, and they may be particularly knowledgeable about community resources that may benefit dementia clients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia may also be trained in specialized forms of therapy for memory-loss|memory loss, such as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)—which can help mentally stimulate dementia clients to preserve cognitive functioning.