Dementia Therapists in Solana Beach, CA
We understand that many people are worried about their memory, attention, or other thinking abilities, or they may be concerned about a family member or loved one.
Our comprehensive assessments are designed to understand each unique person's background and life situation, and we create an individualized evaluation to address your specific concerns. We specialize in assessments for dementia (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Lewy Body, vascular), stroke, concussion / brain injury, or brain tumor, as well as ADHD, etc.
We understand that many people are worried about their memory, attention, or other thinking abilities, or they may be concerned about a family member or loved one.
Our comprehensive assessments are designed to understand each unique person's background and life situation, and we create an individualized evaluation to address your specific concerns. We specialize in assessments for dementia (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Lewy Body, vascular), stroke, concussion / brain injury, or brain tumor, as well as ADHD, etc.
I have specialized in working with families of aging or chronically ill patients, specifically patients with dementia and brain injury.
Caring for loved ones with dementia can be extremely challenging and stressful. The patient will do better if the caregiver can learn about available resources and know they are not alone in the process.
I have specialized in working with families of aging or chronically ill patients, specifically patients with dementia and brain injury.
Caring for loved ones with dementia can be extremely challenging and stressful. The patient will do better if the caregiver can learn about available resources and know they are not alone in the process.
I can help because I have over 25 years of experience in psychology but more than twice that as a caring human being striving to find my own way. I've worked in psychiatric hospitals, in prisons and in private practice, with people with all kinds of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety and Schizophrenia. Equally important than any experience I might bring to the therapy session, I bring compassion, empathy and an understanding that we're all just doing the best we can.
I can help because I have over 25 years of experience in psychology but more than twice that as a caring human being striving to find my own way. I've worked in psychiatric hospitals, in prisons and in private practice, with people with all kinds of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety and Schizophrenia. Equally important than any experience I might bring to the therapy session, I bring compassion, empathy and an understanding that we're all just doing the best we can.
I've supported seniors and caregivers navigate the progression of dementia.
Are thoughts racing through your mind, making it tough to get some rest? Maybe you find yourself caught up in how things should be or worrying about the future, which can leave you feeling anxious, even causing shortness of breathing, or a racing heart. Do you sometimes feel like you’re not quite yourself, maybe feeling a bit isolated, tired, and losing interest in the things you used to love? Is taking care of a loved one starting to feel overwhelming, with your own needs slipping down the list of priorities? No matter your story, you are not alone, there's hope.Many people find it challenging to navigate life's challenges.
I've supported seniors and caregivers navigate the progression of dementia.
Are thoughts racing through your mind, making it tough to get some rest? Maybe you find yourself caught up in how things should be or worrying about the future, which can leave you feeling anxious, even causing shortness of breathing, or a racing heart. Do you sometimes feel like you’re not quite yourself, maybe feeling a bit isolated, tired, and losing interest in the things you used to love? Is taking care of a loved one starting to feel overwhelming, with your own needs slipping down the list of priorities? No matter your story, you are not alone, there's hope.Many people find it challenging to navigate life's challenges.
Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct legal / forensic / psychological evaluations for court and provide expert witness testimony. I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct legal / forensic / psychological evaluations for court and provide expert witness testimony. I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
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.
As an LMFT with 20+ years of experience devoted to working with folks throughout their lifespan, I help clients find the preferred stories of their lives. I provide an open, all-inclusive spirit where change can be realized, strengths are celebrated and a warm and welcoming space awaits. I lean on a solution-focused lens to guide our dialogues and am informed by my mindfulness training to support you in leading a more balanced and healthy life. I bring a non-pathologizing, non-hierarchical perspective, where individual differences, diversity, and alternative ways of being are honored.
As an LMFT with 20+ years of experience devoted to working with folks throughout their lifespan, I help clients find the preferred stories of their lives. I provide an open, all-inclusive spirit where change can be realized, strengths are celebrated and a warm and welcoming space awaits. I lean on a solution-focused lens to guide our dialogues and am informed by my mindfulness training to support you in leading a more balanced and healthy life. I bring a non-pathologizing, non-hierarchical perspective, where individual differences, diversity, and alternative ways of being are honored.
Worked with the developmentally disabled, dementia patients and severely mentally ill adults.
A person seeking my psychotherapy services is looking to be accepted for who he or she is. To be able to express their thoughts and feelings freely without fear of being judged. Clients looking for ways to cope with anxiety, depression, stress on relationships or identity issues will find comfort in my company. Those that are creative and willing to try new things will appreciate my interest and passion for art and music. Anyone ever curious about Art Therapy will learn some basic skills and activities and have the benefit of my training and experience working a variety of populations in different settings. Now using teletherapy.
Worked with the developmentally disabled, dementia patients and severely mentally ill adults.
A person seeking my psychotherapy services is looking to be accepted for who he or she is. To be able to express their thoughts and feelings freely without fear of being judged. Clients looking for ways to cope with anxiety, depression, stress on relationships or identity issues will find comfort in my company. Those that are creative and willing to try new things will appreciate my interest and passion for art and music. Anyone ever curious about Art Therapy will learn some basic skills and activities and have the benefit of my training and experience working a variety of populations in different settings. Now using teletherapy.
Are you feeling weighed down by memories or experiences that hold you back, battling persistent sadness or emptiness, and dealing with anxious thoughts that make daily life feel daunting? You are not alone, and I commend your courage in seeking support. Seeking therapy can feel like a big step, and I want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and client-centered. I believe therapy should feel like a safe space where you can bring your whole self, your struggles, your hopes, and your strengths, without judgment.
Are you feeling weighed down by memories or experiences that hold you back, battling persistent sadness or emptiness, and dealing with anxious thoughts that make daily life feel daunting? You are not alone, and I commend your courage in seeking support. Seeking therapy can feel like a big step, and I want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and client-centered. I believe therapy should feel like a safe space where you can bring your whole self, your struggles, your hopes, and your strengths, without judgment.
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.
I specialize in working with neurocognitive disorders, such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's, and others.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
I specialize in working with neurocognitive disorders, such as ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's, and others.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
Are you constantly striving for perfection, putting others’ needs before your own, and feeling like you’re never quite enough? I specialize in helping overachievers, perfectionists, and people pleasers who struggle with these patterns, often rooted in childhood experiences where their emotional needs weren’t fully supported. Together, we’ll unpack the past, build healthy coping strategies, set boundaries without guilt, and create a life of balance, self-compassion, and purpose—free from burnout and emotional exhaustion
Are you constantly striving for perfection, putting others’ needs before your own, and feeling like you’re never quite enough? I specialize in helping overachievers, perfectionists, and people pleasers who struggle with these patterns, often rooted in childhood experiences where their emotional needs weren’t fully supported. Together, we’ll unpack the past, build healthy coping strategies, set boundaries without guilt, and create a life of balance, self-compassion, and purpose—free from burnout and emotional exhaustion
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life.
The conditions I work with include:
Concussion & traumatic brain injury (TBI),
ADHD & executive function challenges,
Mild cognitive impairment & memory concerns,
Stroke & transient ischemic attack (TIA),
Neurodegenerative disorders (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and others),
Chemotherapy-related cognitive changes ("Chemo Brain"),
Autoimmune disorders, and
other medical and psychiatric conditions affecting cognition.
Cognitive Testing: A thorough assessment of your unique profile to clarify diagnoses and strengths and weaknesses.
Evidence-Based Cognitive Training: Strategies to support memory, attention, executive function, and the cognitive skills most affected by your condition.
Therapeutic Support: A space to process the emotional weight of neurological changes.
The conditions I work with include:
Concussion & traumatic brain injury (TBI),
ADHD & executive function challenges,
Mild cognitive impairment & memory concerns,
Stroke & transient ischemic attack (TIA),
Neurodegenerative disorders (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and others),
Chemotherapy-related cognitive changes ("Chemo Brain"),
Autoimmune disorders, and
other medical and psychiatric conditions affecting cognition.
Cognitive Testing: A thorough assessment of your unique profile to clarify diagnoses and strengths and weaknesses.
Evidence-Based Cognitive Training: Strategies to support memory, attention, executive function, and the cognitive skills most affected by your condition.
Therapeutic Support: A space to process the emotional weight of neurological changes.
I am passionate about therapy that produces lasting, inner healing! I use a combination of several psychological theories, depending on what will best meet my client's needs, including ImTT and EMDR, to help clients experience healing and change in the places where their pain originated. This not only creates symptom reduction and/or extinction but also produces an outcome of inner peace, joy and freedom, putting an end to trying harder, pretending or "white-knuckling" through. I love this work and look forward to connecting with you in your journey toward emotional wholeness!
I am passionate about therapy that produces lasting, inner healing! I use a combination of several psychological theories, depending on what will best meet my client's needs, including ImTT and EMDR, to help clients experience healing and change in the places where their pain originated. This not only creates symptom reduction and/or extinction but also produces an outcome of inner peace, joy and freedom, putting an end to trying harder, pretending or "white-knuckling" through. I love this work and look forward to connecting with you in your journey toward emotional wholeness!
If anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, or chronic illness is making it hard to feel grounded in your daily life, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to manage it by yourself.
Many of the clients I work with feel overwhelmed, tense, or stuck on high alert, even when things look “fine” on the outside. Mental health difficulties can affect sleep, focus, relationships, and your sense of safety in the world, but therapy with me can be a place to slow things down and begin feeling steadier again.
If anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, or chronic illness is making it hard to feel grounded in your daily life, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to manage it by yourself.
Many of the clients I work with feel overwhelmed, tense, or stuck on high alert, even when things look “fine” on the outside. Mental health difficulties can affect sleep, focus, relationships, and your sense of safety in the world, but therapy with me can be a place to slow things down and begin feeling steadier again.
At the Relationship Institute, we know you may feel disconnected whether within yourself, with a partner, or in your family. Perhaps you’re navigating transitions, relationship conflicts, or family stress, leaving you feeling isolated. You want to feel seen, valued, and connected in meaningful relationships. We’re here to support you on that journey. Together, we’ll work to build self-compassion, strengthen your bonds, and create harmony in your relationships. You don’t have to do this alone; let’s nurture the connections that matter most to you.
At the Relationship Institute, we know you may feel disconnected whether within yourself, with a partner, or in your family. Perhaps you’re navigating transitions, relationship conflicts, or family stress, leaving you feeling isolated. You want to feel seen, valued, and connected in meaningful relationships. We’re here to support you on that journey. Together, we’ll work to build self-compassion, strengthen your bonds, and create harmony in your relationships. You don’t have to do this alone; let’s nurture the connections that matter most to you.
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.
I believe that therapy is a journey to explore where you've been, where you are, and where you're going. As a Mexican-American, bilingual therapist and an avid animal lover, I understand the importance of culture, language, and the bonds we share with our companions. My goal is to create a relaxed, supportive environment where you feel seen, heard, and safe. You are the expert in your own life, and my role is to guide you and provide the tools you need to explore and manage life’s challenges. Please Note: I can NOT see LA County clients.
I believe that therapy is a journey to explore where you've been, where you are, and where you're going. As a Mexican-American, bilingual therapist and an avid animal lover, I understand the importance of culture, language, and the bonds we share with our companions. My goal is to create a relaxed, supportive environment where you feel seen, heard, and safe. You are the expert in your own life, and my role is to guide you and provide the tools you need to explore and manage life’s challenges. Please Note: I can NOT see LA County clients.
See more therapy options for Solana Beach
Nearby Dementia Therapists Searches for Solana Beach
- Carlsbad
- Chula Vista
- Del Mar
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Oceanside
- San Diego
- San Marcos
- Temecula
- Vista
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.