Dementia Therapists in Luzerne County, PA

Kristen L. Shipsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Luzerne, PA 18709
Are you a caregiver for someone with a chronic illness or dementia?
I believe there is hope for a better quality of life. I offer a person-centered approach to therapy which acknowledges the client as the expert of their life story. I help by meeting clients where they are and creating a plan utilizing their strengths to help them move forward. I provide an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments.
Are you a caregiver for someone with a chronic illness or dementia?
I believe there is hope for a better quality of life. I offer a person-centered approach to therapy which acknowledges the client as the expert of their life story. I help by meeting clients where they are and creating a plan utilizing their strengths to help them move forward. I provide an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments.

I have worked with older adults and their caregivers in multiple settings: community based mental health and suicide prevention programs, geriatric psychiatric inpatient and outpatient hospitals, elder abuse and domestic violence prevention programs, and as an advocate for residents in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities.
Being a caregiver for a loved one who has a chronic or terminal illness can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It also comes with stresses that can be hard for friends and family to understand. Being a person who needs help to manage day to day activities of living can also be hard to handle, even if the help is appreciated. Sudden life changes are difficult to navigate; such as loss of a loved one, death of a pet, or diagnosis of a debilitating disease. Even positive changes like retirement, downsizing, or relocation can be painful at times. Talking it through can help.
I have worked with older adults and their caregivers in multiple settings: community based mental health and suicide prevention programs, geriatric psychiatric inpatient and outpatient hospitals, elder abuse and domestic violence prevention programs, and as an advocate for residents in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities.
Being a caregiver for a loved one who has a chronic or terminal illness can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It also comes with stresses that can be hard for friends and family to understand. Being a person who needs help to manage day to day activities of living can also be hard to handle, even if the help is appreciated. Sudden life changes are difficult to navigate; such as loss of a loved one, death of a pet, or diagnosis of a debilitating disease. Even positive changes like retirement, downsizing, or relocation can be painful at times. Talking it through can help.

Comprehensive Psychological is a psychological and integrative medicine practice committed to helping people improve their their mental and physical well-being through mental health services as well as integrative medicine, including aromatherapy, guided imagery, mindfulness, meditation, nutrition, relaxation, and other means. It is our mission to help our patients address the problems in their lives through a holistic approach and find more effective ways of living.
Comprehensive Psychological is a psychological and integrative medicine practice committed to helping people improve their their mental and physical well-being through mental health services as well as integrative medicine, including aromatherapy, guided imagery, mindfulness, meditation, nutrition, relaxation, and other means. It is our mission to help our patients address the problems in their lives through a holistic approach and find more effective ways of living.

Hill Counseling is committed to helping clients grow. Please click on the link to our website (underneath the profile picture) for specific information as to our specialties and our therapists. We pride ourselves on being able to see clients quickly as we generally have no waiting list. Thank you for choosing Hill Counseling!
Hill Counseling is committed to helping clients grow. Please click on the link to our website (underneath the profile picture) for specific information as to our specialties and our therapists. We pride ourselves on being able to see clients quickly as we generally have no waiting list. Thank you for choosing Hill Counseling!

Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, 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 ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.

Life is really hard sometimes and we all need someone we can talk to. I would love to be that person for you. My counseling passions: are anxiety, depression, career challenges, marital challenges, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief/loss, life transitions, and those that just need to talk. My goal is to help you navigate life’s difficult challenges. I am happy to listen to your story and empathize during difficult moments. I aim to provide a safe and comforting space for you to share what is going on in your life. And together we can come up with a plan to help you meet your goals and heal in a way that is needed.
Life is really hard sometimes and we all need someone we can talk to. I would love to be that person for you. My counseling passions: are anxiety, depression, career challenges, marital challenges, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief/loss, life transitions, and those that just need to talk. My goal is to help you navigate life’s difficult challenges. I am happy to listen to your story and empathize during difficult moments. I aim to provide a safe and comforting space for you to share what is going on in your life. And together we can come up with a plan to help you meet your goals and heal in a way that is needed.
Online Therapists

Brandon LeBoeuf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I aim to help adults, older adults, families, and couples stop struggling with difficult emotions and start living a life that aligns with their values.
My work is informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have extensive training in both and am working on my IFS certification. I have a clinical gerontology credential and am adept at working with older adults. I also enjoy working with younger adults, couples, families and other mental health professionals.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I aim to help adults, older adults, families, and couples stop struggling with difficult emotions and start living a life that aligns with their values.
My work is informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have extensive training in both and am working on my IFS certification. I have a clinical gerontology credential and am adept at working with older adults. I also enjoy working with younger adults, couples, families and other mental health professionals.

Advanced Counseling and Testing Solutions, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
IEE's, ADHD, Dementia/ Alzheimer's, Police Academy, Expert & 2nd Opinion, College Evals, Neuropsychological, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ADOS-II).
Summer is almost here. ACTS is accepting new clients for Counseling/Psychotherapy, Neurofeedback, and Testing. ACTS is a reputable practice with a seasoned group of professionals with a long-standing reputation for helping clients achieve results. Relationship challenges, experiencing turmoil or simply need solutions to life's problems, ACTS is here! Stressed, depressed, anxious, feel overwhelmed; do you or your child having learning or behavioral challenges? ACTS excels at creating solutions to life's problems, in a caring & empathic environment. Call today & focus on yourself or your child!
IEE's, ADHD, Dementia/ Alzheimer's, Police Academy, Expert & 2nd Opinion, College Evals, Neuropsychological, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ADOS-II).
Summer is almost here. ACTS is accepting new clients for Counseling/Psychotherapy, Neurofeedback, and Testing. ACTS is a reputable practice with a seasoned group of professionals with a long-standing reputation for helping clients achieve results. Relationship challenges, experiencing turmoil or simply need solutions to life's problems, ACTS is here! Stressed, depressed, anxious, feel overwhelmed; do you or your child having learning or behavioral challenges? ACTS excels at creating solutions to life's problems, in a caring & empathic environment. Call today & focus on yourself or your child!

Stephanie Vassallo, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Since then, I have worked in various settings including the Behavioral Health System of Philadelphia, numerous behavioral health facilities which include psychiatric units, detox and rehabs, college counseling settings and in assisted living/nursing facilities with older adults.
I work with almost anyone over 16 years old. I have specialized experience working with college aged clients and the older adult population. I have a long history of working with those from the LGBTQIA+ population as well. I look forward to meeting and connecting with you!
Since then, I have worked in various settings including the Behavioral Health System of Philadelphia, numerous behavioral health facilities which include psychiatric units, detox and rehabs, college counseling settings and in assisted living/nursing facilities with older adults.
I work with almost anyone over 16 years old. I have specialized experience working with college aged clients and the older adult population. I have a long history of working with those from the LGBTQIA+ population as well. I look forward to meeting and connecting with you!

My practice focuses on successful aging and I work with older adults, families experiencing dementia caregiving stress, and people in mid-life or the sandwich generation.
My objective is to be respectful of my patient's life story and experience. I take a gentle, personable, interactive approach, using evidence based practices and supportive techniques. In addition to individual psychotherapy, I offer consultation services for family members seeking guidance on how to best support their loved ones.
My practice focuses on successful aging and I work with older adults, families experiencing dementia caregiving stress, and people in mid-life or the sandwich generation.
My objective is to be respectful of my patient's life story and experience. I take a gentle, personable, interactive approach, using evidence based practices and supportive techniques. In addition to individual psychotherapy, I offer consultation services for family members seeking guidance on how to best support their loved ones.

My work encompasses individuals across the age spectrum, from youths to older adults.
Our ideal clients come from all walks of life, united by a quest for deeper meaning, connection, and understanding. Many of our clients face emotional and spiritual struggles, such as grief, loss, or a sense of emptiness. They seek a safe space to express their feelings and find solace. Others grapple with existential questions about life's purpose and their place in the universe, desiring thoughtful engagement. Significant life transitions—like career shifts or relationship changes—often bring clients to us for spiritual support. Join us on a path of exploration, healing, and growth. Our services are designed to support your goals.
My work encompasses individuals across the age spectrum, from youths to older adults.
Our ideal clients come from all walks of life, united by a quest for deeper meaning, connection, and understanding. Many of our clients face emotional and spiritual struggles, such as grief, loss, or a sense of emptiness. They seek a safe space to express their feelings and find solace. Others grapple with existential questions about life's purpose and their place in the universe, desiring thoughtful engagement. Significant life transitions—like career shifts or relationship changes—often bring clients to us for spiritual support. Join us on a path of exploration, healing, and growth. Our services are designed to support your goals.

This includes measuring cognitive functions, like memory, attention, and executive functioning, along with diagnostic testing and personality assessment.
I am a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. For the last 20 years, I have helped well over 1000 individuals and families navigate challenging issues based upon their unique circumstances. I will work with you to identify a plan that suits your particular needs, and adapt it along the way as we work together. I work with patients of all ages, across a range of anxiety and mood disorders, and have expertise in OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Panic Disorder. I use a blend of CBT, DBT, and ACT principles to help patients overcome their difficulties.
This includes measuring cognitive functions, like memory, attention, and executive functioning, along with diagnostic testing and personality assessment.
I am a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. For the last 20 years, I have helped well over 1000 individuals and families navigate challenging issues based upon their unique circumstances. I will work with you to identify a plan that suits your particular needs, and adapt it along the way as we work together. I work with patients of all ages, across a range of anxiety and mood disorders, and have expertise in OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Panic Disorder. I use a blend of CBT, DBT, and ACT principles to help patients overcome their difficulties.

As part of the team at Easton Neuropsychology, I currently provide comprehensive evaluation and assessment services, children through older adult, for people experiencing cognitive, memory, attentional, or psychological issues.
I am a neuropsychologist with many years of training and experience in my field. I understand that it's not always easy to figure out what is going on and what a problem is, and I like to help. I have many tools at my disposal with which to perform testing and assessment, which is a different way of looking at an issue than therapy or psychiatry alone.
As part of the team at Easton Neuropsychology, I currently provide comprehensive evaluation and assessment services, children through older adult, for people experiencing cognitive, memory, attentional, or psychological issues.
I am a neuropsychologist with many years of training and experience in my field. I understand that it's not always easy to figure out what is going on and what a problem is, and I like to help. I have many tools at my disposal with which to perform testing and assessment, which is a different way of looking at an issue than therapy or psychiatry alone.

I also offer Christian counseling, pre-marital counseling, counseling to couples in their early years of marriage, and counseling to older adults navigating aging-related issues.
My areas of interest include emerging adulthood, self-worth & identity concerns, mood disorders, navigating pressure & boundaries, deepening understanding in relationships, multicultural concerns, third culture individuals, and Christian faith issues. I have experience with college students, working adults, caregivers, and older adults.
I also offer Christian counseling, pre-marital counseling, counseling to couples in their early years of marriage, and counseling to older adults navigating aging-related issues.
My areas of interest include emerging adulthood, self-worth & identity concerns, mood disorders, navigating pressure & boundaries, deepening understanding in relationships, multicultural concerns, third culture individuals, and Christian faith issues. I have experience with college students, working adults, caregivers, and older adults.

I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity & respect.
Knowing you are the expert of your life, I use a person-centered approach and collaborate with you, matching various therapeutic modalities to what will work best for you. I provide a comfortable, empathic, and non-judgmental atmosphere to support you in accomplishing your goals.
I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity & respect.
Knowing you are the expert of your life, I use a person-centered approach and collaborate with you, matching various therapeutic modalities to what will work best for you. I provide a comfortable, empathic, and non-judgmental atmosphere to support you in accomplishing your goals.

I specialize in working with adults and older adults with health related concerns and those struggling with life-altering changes.
I have been afforded a number of opportunities to work with various populations creating a well-rounded and experienced clinician. I provide treatment for acute and chronic medical conditions, aging related/end-of-life issues, bariatrics, substance abuse, and significant life changes (i.e. new diagnoses, incarceration, rehabilitation, relationship changes).
I specialize in working with adults and older adults with health related concerns and those struggling with life-altering changes.
I have been afforded a number of opportunities to work with various populations creating a well-rounded and experienced clinician. I provide treatment for acute and chronic medical conditions, aging related/end-of-life issues, bariatrics, substance abuse, and significant life changes (i.e. new diagnoses, incarceration, rehabilitation, relationship changes).

I am passionate about working with individuals and couples, women, the LGBTQ+ community, expectant and new moms, older adults, and those caring for aging parents.
My mission is to empower my clients with safe space and practical strategies to move forward on their individual healing journeys. Returning to the world of clinical mental health counseling after over five years in the coaching space, I bring knowledge, skills, and experience not only as a counselor, but also as a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, prenatal/postpartum coach, astrologer, and reiki master teacher, having supported clients in building healthy relationships with all aspects of themselves – mind, body, and spirit.
I am passionate about working with individuals and couples, women, the LGBTQ+ community, expectant and new moms, older adults, and those caring for aging parents.
My mission is to empower my clients with safe space and practical strategies to move forward on their individual healing journeys. Returning to the world of clinical mental health counseling after over five years in the coaching space, I bring knowledge, skills, and experience not only as a counselor, but also as a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, prenatal/postpartum coach, astrologer, and reiki master teacher, having supported clients in building healthy relationships with all aspects of themselves – mind, body, and spirit.

My professional and lived experience helps me relate to clients who have difficulties adjusting to changes in life, as well as older adults, caregivers, and people of all ages struggling with family issues.
My experience in evidence-based practices (CBT, mindfulness, DBT, ACT) helps explore techniques that would alleviate mental suffering and help you cope with life challenges.
My professional and lived experience helps me relate to clients who have difficulties adjusting to changes in life, as well as older adults, caregivers, and people of all ages struggling with family issues.
My experience in evidence-based practices (CBT, mindfulness, DBT, ACT) helps explore techniques that would alleviate mental suffering and help you cope with life challenges.

I have a particular interest in working with people with cognitive and physical disabilities and medical comorbities, as well as with older adults and their families/caregivers.
I believe that the key to change in psychotherapy is creating a safe environment in which you can explore the issues that brought you into therapy, and developing new ways of coping with them. This is facilitated by my focus on building a strong and mutually trusting therapeutic relationship. I utilize an insight-oriented approach when underlying factors are contributing to emotional pain, but I also use cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness/relaxation, and problem solving to help people find the right solutions for them.
I have a particular interest in working with people with cognitive and physical disabilities and medical comorbities, as well as with older adults and their families/caregivers.
I believe that the key to change in psychotherapy is creating a safe environment in which you can explore the issues that brought you into therapy, and developing new ways of coping with them. This is facilitated by my focus on building a strong and mutually trusting therapeutic relationship. I utilize an insight-oriented approach when underlying factors are contributing to emotional pain, but I also use cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness/relaxation, and problem solving to help people find the right solutions for them.

Do problems with memory or attention have a negative impact on your functioning?
Elevate Neuropsychology was born out of Dr. Szuchyt's desire to provide a deeper level of understanding to her patients regarding the functional impact of medical and/or psychiatric conditions. Helping individuals to identify their own strengths and weaknesses through a battery of tests increases knowledge and is essential for accurate treatment planning.
Do problems with memory or attention have a negative impact on your functioning?
Elevate Neuropsychology was born out of Dr. Szuchyt's desire to provide a deeper level of understanding to her patients regarding the functional impact of medical and/or psychiatric conditions. Helping individuals to identify their own strengths and weaknesses through a battery of tests increases knowledge and is essential for accurate treatment planning.
See more therapy options for Luzerne County
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.