Dementia Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Dr. Grace Peterson, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Grace Peterson
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Of course, there are parts of you that are grateful you can show up every day to take care of your loved one, but your zest for life is getting worn down from the constant demands and changes with dementia.
As a psychologist, I offer online therapy, no need to drive to another appointment. We'll get clear on your challenges. We'll practice how to deal with what is within your control to change, and with what is not. We'll build a wealth of resources to help you feel more present as a caregiver, and, importantly, as an individual, spouse, parent, and friend.
Of course, there are parts of you that are grateful you can show up every day to take care of your loved one, but your zest for life is getting worn down from the constant demands and changes with dementia.
As a psychologist, I offer online therapy, no need to drive to another appointment. We'll get clear on your challenges. We'll practice how to deal with what is within your control to change, and with what is not. We'll build a wealth of resources to help you feel more present as a caregiver, and, importantly, as an individual, spouse, parent, and friend.
(858) 365-5981 View (858) 365-5981
Photo of Dr. Alexis Olson, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Alexis Olson
Psychologist, PhD
San Diego, CA 92110
I address goals for thinking skills (e.g., memory, attention) using an evidenced-based cognitive rehabilitation program called CogSMART.
I'm a licensed clinical neuropsychologist. My professional background is with people rehabilitating from illness or injury, and with those facing declining health (as themselves or their caregivers) due to brain disease. Such conditions can affect individuals, as well as couples and families. Common goals include assessing or improving thinking skills and emotional resilience, while adapting to unexpected changes in physical/mental abilities. I work with you to clarify values and develop new cognitive and emotional skills that allow you to be resilient to injury, illness, stress, and discomfort.
I address goals for thinking skills (e.g., memory, attention) using an evidenced-based cognitive rehabilitation program called CogSMART.
I'm a licensed clinical neuropsychologist. My professional background is with people rehabilitating from illness or injury, and with those facing declining health (as themselves or their caregivers) due to brain disease. Such conditions can affect individuals, as well as couples and families. Common goals include assessing or improving thinking skills and emotional resilience, while adapting to unexpected changes in physical/mental abilities. I work with you to clarify values and develop new cognitive and emotional skills that allow you to be resilient to injury, illness, stress, and discomfort.
(858) 295-1174 View (858) 295-1174
Photo of Kathy J Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kathy J Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92108
One of my specialties, is working with care-givers who have had a family member diagnosed with dementia.
I have provided individual and group treatment for people who are grieving over 35 years. I am Certified in EMDR and IADC ( Induced After Death Communication). Both modalities are both extremely helpful when dealing with complicated or traumatic death. As a result of therapy, people often have a new and different relationship with the person who died.
One of my specialties, is working with care-givers who have had a family member diagnosed with dementia.
I have provided individual and group treatment for people who are grieving over 35 years. I am Certified in EMDR and IADC ( Induced After Death Communication). Both modalities are both extremely helpful when dealing with complicated or traumatic death. As a result of therapy, people often have a new and different relationship with the person who died.
(619) 649-4433 View (619) 649-4433
Photo of Marla Jean English, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marla Jean English
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92117
Whether you are an individual, a couple, or an elder, I would like to help you deal with the problems that prevent you from living a life with meaning and contentment.
Whether you are an individual, a couple, or an elder, I would like to help you deal with the problems that prevent you from living a life with meaning and contentment.
(619) 552-2151 View (619) 552-2151
Laraine Lipori
Psychologist, PsyD
San Diego, CA 92122
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Specialist based in San Diego and North Counties. I have been working for over 10 years in the fields of both Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology providing individual therapy, couples therapy, as well as psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, to children and adults. I specialize in providing cognitive behavioral therapy, combined with complimentary therapeutic approaches and techniques to help you uncover and correct long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling, meaningful and successful life.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Specialist based in San Diego and North Counties. I have been working for over 10 years in the fields of both Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology providing individual therapy, couples therapy, as well as psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, to children and adults. I specialize in providing cognitive behavioral therapy, combined with complimentary therapeutic approaches and techniques to help you uncover and correct long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling, meaningful and successful life.
(858) 217-4142 View (858) 217-4142
Photo of Jeffrey Young - Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Photo of Marcela Polanco - marcela polanco, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
marcela polanco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My work as a family therapist has been shaped not only by formal training, but most deeply by the many stories shared by people in therapeutic conversations. These encounters have taught me that the struggles we face, while painful, can also open unexpected opportunities for renewal as possibilities often hidden under the weight of the problem itself. I pay close attention to the ways problems are shaped by social expectations around race, gender, class, sexuality, body, language, and more. Through conversation, I join people in exploring problems' cracks, searching for other possible ways of living.
My work as a family therapist has been shaped not only by formal training, but most deeply by the many stories shared by people in therapeutic conversations. These encounters have taught me that the struggles we face, while painful, can also open unexpected opportunities for renewal as possibilities often hidden under the weight of the problem itself. I pay close attention to the ways problems are shaped by social expectations around race, gender, class, sexuality, body, language, and more. Through conversation, I join people in exploring problems' cracks, searching for other possible ways of living.
(619) 367-0610 View (619) 367-0610
Photo of Sarah Minas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Minas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My philosophy is simple: Make the most of life's transitions and challenges to develop insight and tools for the future. My practice provides a safe and judgment-free space to explore those things most important to you.
My philosophy is simple: Make the most of life's transitions and challenges to develop insight and tools for the future. My practice provides a safe and judgment-free space to explore those things most important to you.
(858) 946-4941 View (858) 946-4941
Photo of Michael McKinnon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS, BA, AA
Michael McKinnon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS, BA, AA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Though it seems that there is no single answer, through communication and self-reflection, we can increase our strength, resilience, and hope. As an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I am eager to help you on your personal journeys toward health and happiness, walking alongside you as you find your rhythm. With virtual access, we can create a collaborative space, where trust and safety are clear, where support is abundant and true happiness is attainable. I believe we can meet the continuing challenges we face, together, with purpose and confidence.
Though it seems that there is no single answer, through communication and self-reflection, we can increase our strength, resilience, and hope. As an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I am eager to help you on your personal journeys toward health and happiness, walking alongside you as you find your rhythm. With virtual access, we can create a collaborative space, where trust and safety are clear, where support is abundant and true happiness is attainable. I believe we can meet the continuing challenges we face, together, with purpose and confidence.
(619) 319-9902 View (619) 319-9902
Photo of Meredith Hanna-Wheelock, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Meredith Hanna-Wheelock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am Meredith Hanna, a marriage and family therapist with 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My specialties include substance abuse, codependency, life transitions, relationships, infertility issues, Self-worth and self-compassion, and mood disorders. I see the therapeutic relationship as a healing path to change. As a therapist, I deeply value connection with my clients and view the therapeutic process as a genuine and collaborative effort.
I am Meredith Hanna, a marriage and family therapist with 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My specialties include substance abuse, codependency, life transitions, relationships, infertility issues, Self-worth and self-compassion, and mood disorders. I see the therapeutic relationship as a healing path to change. As a therapist, I deeply value connection with my clients and view the therapeutic process as a genuine and collaborative effort.
(909) 531-4410 View (909) 531-4410
Photo of Cynthia A Cotter, Psychologist, PhD
Cynthia A Cotter
Psychologist, PhD
San Diego, CA 92130
Her neuropsychological evaluations describe and quantify cognitive deficits typically found in older adults.
Dr. Cotter has over twenty years of experience working with older adults and received her training in hospital, rehabilitation, university research, and private practice settings. She completed her doctoral dissertation in conjunction with The 90+ Study at U.C. Irvine, the most comprehensive study of the very old to date.
Her neuropsychological evaluations describe and quantify cognitive deficits typically found in older adults.
Dr. Cotter has over twenty years of experience working with older adults and received her training in hospital, rehabilitation, university research, and private practice settings. She completed her doctoral dissertation in conjunction with The 90+ Study at U.C. Irvine, the most comprehensive study of the very old to date.
(619) 992-4519 View (619) 992-4519
Photo of Palak Kothari, Psychologist, PhD
Palak Kothari
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
You may be experiencing emotional, physical, or spiritual difficulties that feel overwhelming. These challenges often originate from identifiable patterns such as fears, avoidance, irritability, and pervasive fatigue or exhaustion. Developing awareness around these underlying processes can foster a deeper, more compassionate understanding of your experience. Approaching yourself with curiosity can foster growth, resilience, and self-efficacy; and, engender sense of calm, stability, and clarity, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges. Ultimately, you'll be feeling increased strength, confidence, and a stronger sense of agency.
You may be experiencing emotional, physical, or spiritual difficulties that feel overwhelming. These challenges often originate from identifiable patterns such as fears, avoidance, irritability, and pervasive fatigue or exhaustion. Developing awareness around these underlying processes can foster a deeper, more compassionate understanding of your experience. Approaching yourself with curiosity can foster growth, resilience, and self-efficacy; and, engender sense of calm, stability, and clarity, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges. Ultimately, you'll be feeling increased strength, confidence, and a stronger sense of agency.
(650) 694-9873 View (650) 694-9873
Photo of Candace Fanale, Psychologist, PhD
Candace Fanale
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I also work with older adults (65+) with transition to retirement, as well as caregivers of those who have cognitive impairment and issues of self-care.
I specialize in general clinical psychology (various anxiety and mood disorders), health psychology, and evidence-based practice. I use cognitive behavioral therapy with a collaborate approach. At the beginning of treatment, we work toward figuring out what isn’t working for you and how to initially get you some symptom relief. I value getting to know you and your thoughts, beliefs, and coping strategies. I help you find ways to cope that are more effective. I strive for genuine relationships with my clients at any stage of adulthood where we can discuss issues openly. You are included in treatment-related decisions.
I also work with older adults (65+) with transition to retirement, as well as caregivers of those who have cognitive impairment and issues of self-care.
I specialize in general clinical psychology (various anxiety and mood disorders), health psychology, and evidence-based practice. I use cognitive behavioral therapy with a collaborate approach. At the beginning of treatment, we work toward figuring out what isn’t working for you and how to initially get you some symptom relief. I value getting to know you and your thoughts, beliefs, and coping strategies. I help you find ways to cope that are more effective. I strive for genuine relationships with my clients at any stage of adulthood where we can discuss issues openly. You are included in treatment-related decisions.
(619) 737-3935 View (619) 737-3935
Photo of Omar Alhassoon, Psychologist, LCP
Omar Alhassoon
Psychologist, LCP
Online Only
Also, my training in neuropsychology qualifies me to work with clients suffering from memory and other cognitive difficulties (e.g., attention deficit disorder), traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders and their caretakers.
Are you seeking a therapist who combines warmth and understanding with cutting-edge neuroscience-informed psychotherapy? My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to understand your unique experiences. I graduated in 2003 from the University of California San Diego with a PhD in Clinical Neuropsychology. My background allows me to offer a blend of support and scientific insight drawing from my own research in neuroscience. I integrate the latest findings into our sessions, providing an understanding of the mind-body connection and how it influences emotions, behaviors, and thoughts.
Also, my training in neuropsychology qualifies me to work with clients suffering from memory and other cognitive difficulties (e.g., attention deficit disorder), traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders and their caretakers.
Are you seeking a therapist who combines warmth and understanding with cutting-edge neuroscience-informed psychotherapy? My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to understand your unique experiences. I graduated in 2003 from the University of California San Diego with a PhD in Clinical Neuropsychology. My background allows me to offer a blend of support and scientific insight drawing from my own research in neuroscience. I integrate the latest findings into our sessions, providing an understanding of the mind-body connection and how it influences emotions, behaviors, and thoughts.
(562) 414-5437 View (562) 414-5437
Photo of Jessica Rothery, Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Jessica Rothery
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
San Diego, CA 92116
I have spent time with caregivers, veterans, and folks with dementia, focusing on grief, reminiscence therapy, and end of life transitions.
Hi, I’m Jessica. You might be feeling off lately, disconnected, unmotivated, or stuck in patterns that no longer work. Maybe things feel tense in your relationship, or you're not sure how to communicate what you need. Whether you’re navigating change on your own or with a partner, I’m here to offer a space to slow down, reflect, and move forward with more clarity and intention. I approach each therapeutic relationship with curiosity, patience, non-judgement, and the goal of reducing emotional suffering while increasing relationship satisfaction. My goal is to help you to feel grounded, connected, and in touch with what matters most.
I have spent time with caregivers, veterans, and folks with dementia, focusing on grief, reminiscence therapy, and end of life transitions.
Hi, I’m Jessica. You might be feeling off lately, disconnected, unmotivated, or stuck in patterns that no longer work. Maybe things feel tense in your relationship, or you're not sure how to communicate what you need. Whether you’re navigating change on your own or with a partner, I’m here to offer a space to slow down, reflect, and move forward with more clarity and intention. I approach each therapeutic relationship with curiosity, patience, non-judgement, and the goal of reducing emotional suffering while increasing relationship satisfaction. My goal is to help you to feel grounded, connected, and in touch with what matters most.
(619) 598-0216 View (619) 598-0216
Photo of Susan Bolea, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Susan Bolea
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Together we lay the groundwork for habits that work for you specifically and that will endure for a lifetime; honoring self-compassion and acceptance. When clients seek help reclaiming their optimal path, I accompany them. Together we'll strive to understand the life events, health, and relationship issues that have interrupted or sidelined you. I utilize myriad fun and “ah ha” provoking techniques to help you open up to your truth and recognize who you are at present. My job is to establish security and space for you to relax during our exploration.
Together we lay the groundwork for habits that work for you specifically and that will endure for a lifetime; honoring self-compassion and acceptance. When clients seek help reclaiming their optimal path, I accompany them. Together we'll strive to understand the life events, health, and relationship issues that have interrupted or sidelined you. I utilize myriad fun and “ah ha” provoking techniques to help you open up to your truth and recognize who you are at present. My job is to establish security and space for you to relax during our exploration.
(510) 257-9774 View (510) 257-9774
Photo of Ana Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, APHSW-C
Ana Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, APHSW-C
Online Only
Are you struggling with life's transitions? Maybe you’re dealing with a job loss, a relationship ending, relocation, or the loss of a loved one to illness or death. And despite trying your best, you still feel adrift, caught in waves of anger, sadness, confusion, and frustration. I understand this journey intimately. My own experiences with cross-country moves, cultural adaptation, career changes, and personal losses have taught me that these breaking points can become our most powerful catalysts for transformation. When everything feels overwhelming, this is precisely when healing and growth can come together.
Are you struggling with life's transitions? Maybe you’re dealing with a job loss, a relationship ending, relocation, or the loss of a loved one to illness or death. And despite trying your best, you still feel adrift, caught in waves of anger, sadness, confusion, and frustration. I understand this journey intimately. My own experiences with cross-country moves, cultural adaptation, career changes, and personal losses have taught me that these breaking points can become our most powerful catalysts for transformation. When everything feels overwhelming, this is precisely when healing and growth can come together.
(619) 404-5832 View (619) 404-5832
Photo of Iren Fellegvari, Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, LADC
Iren Fellegvari
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, LADC
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
As a life coach I help you to reach your full potential in your business or in your personal life. Biofeedback helps to decrease stress. As a psychologist working with individuals and families I use talk therapy: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused brief therapy or EMDR and ETT, EFT based on the person's choice and comfort level. During my 15 years of praxis I have helped people with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, codependency, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, eating disorder and addictions. Lots of couples regained their love for each other. Teenagers and their parents learnt to solve their problems.
As a life coach I help you to reach your full potential in your business or in your personal life. Biofeedback helps to decrease stress. As a psychologist working with individuals and families I use talk therapy: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused brief therapy or EMDR and ETT, EFT based on the person's choice and comfort level. During my 15 years of praxis I have helped people with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, codependency, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, eating disorder and addictions. Lots of couples regained their love for each other. Teenagers and their parents learnt to solve their problems.
(858) 386-7291 View (858) 386-7291
Photo of Annette M Conway - #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service, Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
(619) 492-4586 View (619) 492-4586
Photo of Jessica Carrasco, Psychologist, PhD
Jessica Carrasco
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals from diverse and marginalized communities, offering care that meets you where you are and centers your lived experience. My focus is on helping people navigate trauma, mental health challenges, and cognitive difficulties. With a background in neuropsychological assessment and therapy, I bring both professional expertise and a deep understanding of how systemic and individual stressors impact mental well-being. Whether you're just beginning to explore your mental health or have been navigating ongoing challenges for a while, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I work with individuals from diverse and marginalized communities, offering care that meets you where you are and centers your lived experience. My focus is on helping people navigate trauma, mental health challenges, and cognitive difficulties. With a background in neuropsychological assessment and therapy, I bring both professional expertise and a deep understanding of how systemic and individual stressors impact mental well-being. Whether you're just beginning to explore your mental health or have been navigating ongoing challenges for a while, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(619) 330-5402 View (619) 330-5402

See more therapy options for San Diego

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.