Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Portland, OR

Ann Kafoury
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
As we age, reminders of growing older hit us every day. We notice that we are slowing down as we do tasks, our bodies may have issues, our minds are not as sharp and we are moving out of the mainstream of society. We need our unique community, need to understand ourselves, and we need the courage to face this phase of life. We will explore your strengths as well as what you need and want in life that is not currently present. We will talk about how to create the life you want within the limitations that you might be experiencing. We will explore ways to step into aging with respect, dignity, and reverence.
As we age, reminders of growing older hit us every day. We notice that we are slowing down as we do tasks, our bodies may have issues, our minds are not as sharp and we are moving out of the mainstream of society. We need our unique community, need to understand ourselves, and we need the courage to face this phase of life. We will explore your strengths as well as what you need and want in life that is not currently present. We will talk about how to create the life you want within the limitations that you might be experiencing. We will explore ways to step into aging with respect, dignity, and reverence.
(503) 306-0703 View (503) 306-0703
Photo of Troy Kindy - Portland Elder Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Portland Elder Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Mental health concerns for aging persons can become crippling. Older adults who experience depression and anxiety will likely continue to do so until its addressed through assessment, diagnosis and treatment by a clinician. Symptoms that indicate depression and anxiety in older adults can include feeling sad or down, feeling lonely, tearfulness, excessive fears and worries, decreases in appetite and weight, extreme mood changes, withdraw from friends, family, and social events, and frequently talking abut death. Now accepting new patients!
Mental health concerns for aging persons can become crippling. Older adults who experience depression and anxiety will likely continue to do so until its addressed through assessment, diagnosis and treatment by a clinician. Symptoms that indicate depression and anxiety in older adults can include feeling sad or down, feeling lonely, tearfulness, excessive fears and worries, decreases in appetite and weight, extreme mood changes, withdraw from friends, family, and social events, and frequently talking abut death. Now accepting new patients!
(503) 543-1408 View (503) 543-1408
Photo of Libby Schwartz, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Libby Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with older adults and professionals who are coping with life transitions, grief and loss, relationships, career, or retirement.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up until it seems impossible to cope with them. These places can feel especially demoralizing if they challenge your self-efficacy--your ability to cope with problems on your own. You are not alone. At times, everyone needs help navigating through life's passages. I believe we all have the capacity to find a deeper, more meaningful life. I can work with you to help you regain your footing to continue your journey stronger than you were before.
I enjoy working with older adults and professionals who are coping with life transitions, grief and loss, relationships, career, or retirement.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up until it seems impossible to cope with them. These places can feel especially demoralizing if they challenge your self-efficacy--your ability to cope with problems on your own. You are not alone. At times, everyone needs help navigating through life's passages. I believe we all have the capacity to find a deeper, more meaningful life. I can work with you to help you regain your footing to continue your journey stronger than you were before.
(503) 272-6204 View (503) 272-6204
Photo of Elaine Kovacs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Kovacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
I provide individual therapy to adults (18+), and I am particularly attuned to the needs of older adults and people with chronic illness.
Having both personal and professional experiences with grief, caregiving, and complex family dynamics, I am particularly attuned to clients facing those challenges, no matter their role. Grief can show up in all sorts of ways from a death of a loved one, a loss of a job, a relationship breakup, family estrangement, or a change in one's health. Our complex feelings around grief and loss can manifest as anxiety, despair, and anger, as well as feeling disconnected from one's community and one's self. My hope is to provide a path to explore these feelings, and find some relief during difficult life transitions.
I provide individual therapy to adults (18+), and I am particularly attuned to the needs of older adults and people with chronic illness.
Having both personal and professional experiences with grief, caregiving, and complex family dynamics, I am particularly attuned to clients facing those challenges, no matter their role. Grief can show up in all sorts of ways from a death of a loved one, a loss of a job, a relationship breakup, family estrangement, or a change in one's health. Our complex feelings around grief and loss can manifest as anxiety, despair, and anger, as well as feeling disconnected from one's community and one's self. My hope is to provide a path to explore these feelings, and find some relief during difficult life transitions.
(971) 298-3631 View (971) 298-3631
Photo of Samantha Jackson, MSW, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
I’m a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Oregon. I have specialized training to support Military families and Veterans, members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and older adults. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and strive to be a supportive listener who helps you define the life that leads you to live within your values. My approach is humerous, validating, soft and genuine. Many clients have reported that they feel very comfortable with me upon our first session and this is something I pride myself on. All people are safe within my space.
I’m a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Oregon. I have specialized training to support Military families and Veterans, members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and older adults. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and strive to be a supportive listener who helps you define the life that leads you to live within your values. My approach is humerous, validating, soft and genuine. Many clients have reported that they feel very comfortable with me upon our first session and this is something I pride myself on. All people are safe within my space.
(612) 662-3169 View (612) 662-3169
Photo of Jordan Valentine, MA, LPC Intern
Jordan Valentine
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Jordan and I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating teens 14 and older, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, chronic pain/illness, neurodivergent issues, and LGBTQ support. My professional lens is guided by the belief that all individuals have the ability to heal when they have the tools and safe space to do so. I recognize people as experts of their own lives, and work in collaboration with clients in accessing empowerment. I work from an anti-oppressive world view and offer a strength-based approach.
Hello my name is Jordan and I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating teens 14 and older, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, chronic pain/illness, neurodivergent issues, and LGBTQ support. My professional lens is guided by the belief that all individuals have the ability to heal when they have the tools and safe space to do so. I recognize people as experts of their own lives, and work in collaboration with clients in accessing empowerment. I work from an anti-oppressive world view and offer a strength-based approach.
(503) 832-6646 View (503) 832-6646
Photo of Peggy Van Duyne, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Peggy Van Duyne
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97286  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients age 16 and older and have various day and evening availability throughout the week.
I am an Insight oriented, GLBTQIA friendly and anti-racist practitioner. I focus on long-term change and improved well-being while working towards "here and now" self-compassion, self-care and behavioral changes to achieve lasting change. I strive to promote advocacy, social justice and inherent self worth with each client. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma and emotional regulation concerns among other areas of concern. You may see more about my areas of focus in my profile.
I work with clients age 16 and older and have various day and evening availability throughout the week.
I am an Insight oriented, GLBTQIA friendly and anti-racist practitioner. I focus on long-term change and improved well-being while working towards "here and now" self-compassion, self-care and behavioral changes to achieve lasting change. I strive to promote advocacy, social justice and inherent self worth with each client. I work with clients concerned with substance use/abuse, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma and emotional regulation concerns among other areas of concern. You may see more about my areas of focus in my profile.
(503) 451-6538 View (503) 451-6538
Photo of Daniella Marchick, LPC, CRC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniella Marchick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I provide a kind, calm, safe, and understanding environment with a Certificate in Gerontology and experience with Dementia.
5am -1pm Telehealth spots OPEN for you or your parents! I support elder caregivers learn coping skills and emotional awareness so that they can provide consistent, sustainable, and compassionate care to a recipient. As a seasoned therapist specializing in eldercaregivers, I understand the challenges faced by both adult children and spouses as they navigate the complexities including navigating difficult decisions, working together with others, attending to relationship to death and managing burnout. Grappling with a myriad of emotions, including guilt, stress, grief and uncertainty is supported through the safe therapy space.
I provide a kind, calm, safe, and understanding environment with a Certificate in Gerontology and experience with Dementia.
5am -1pm Telehealth spots OPEN for you or your parents! I support elder caregivers learn coping skills and emotional awareness so that they can provide consistent, sustainable, and compassionate care to a recipient. As a seasoned therapist specializing in eldercaregivers, I understand the challenges faced by both adult children and spouses as they navigate the complexities including navigating difficult decisions, working together with others, attending to relationship to death and managing burnout. Grappling with a myriad of emotions, including guilt, stress, grief and uncertainty is supported through the safe therapy space.
(971) 274-5611 View (971) 274-5611
Photo of Mindtree Holistic Counseling Wellness Center - MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC, LMFT, LCSW, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
(503) 210-9420 View (503) 210-9420
Photo of Amy Swallow - Opal & Sage Art Therapy, Amy Swallow, LPC, LCAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Opal & Sage Art Therapy, Amy Swallow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Opal & Sage offers individual and group art therapy and counseling services that are person-centered and strengths-based. I welcome adult clients of all ages and abilities, with any personal concerns and conflicts regarding mental health. I specialize in working with individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities.
Opal & Sage offers individual and group art therapy and counseling services that are person-centered and strengths-based. I welcome adult clients of all ages and abilities, with any personal concerns and conflicts regarding mental health. I specialize in working with individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities.
(503) 506-2941 View (503) 506-2941
Photo of Alana Hartman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice with individuals across the lifespan for the past decade, and currently work with adults 18 and older.
As a therapist I’m drawn to those places of breakdown that so often have the potential to become breakthroughs. Usually these are discovered in the midst of broader life-cycle transitions, moments of grief and loss, seasons of depression or anxiety, or in response to the myriad of social and cultural pressures we face. These experiences can be disorienting, frightening and isolating, but with the support of a trusted companion to help us face the journey they can also reveal our own innate wisdom and strength and serve as the gateway to deeper healing and wholeness.
I have been in practice with individuals across the lifespan for the past decade, and currently work with adults 18 and older.
As a therapist I’m drawn to those places of breakdown that so often have the potential to become breakthroughs. Usually these are discovered in the midst of broader life-cycle transitions, moments of grief and loss, seasons of depression or anxiety, or in response to the myriad of social and cultural pressures we face. These experiences can be disorienting, frightening and isolating, but with the support of a trusted companion to help us face the journey they can also reveal our own innate wisdom and strength and serve as the gateway to deeper healing and wholeness.
(971) 306-4485 View (971) 306-4485
Photo of Tamar Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults going through life stage transitions, specifically older adults ages 65+ as well as Millennial/Gen Z young professionals. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression, career changes, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and loneliness. I work with people who have been in therapy before as well as people who are trying therapy for the first time- both are wonderful and both are welcome!
I specialize in working with adults going through life stage transitions, specifically older adults ages 65+ as well as Millennial/Gen Z young professionals. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression, career changes, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and loneliness. I work with people who have been in therapy before as well as people who are trying therapy for the first time- both are wonderful and both are welcome!
(971) 265-8669 View (971) 265-8669
Photo of Rachel Burk, PCA
Rachel Burk
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have a special interest in working with the elderly and LGBTQIA2S+ populations through their unique life struggles.
Life is challenging, and for some, it feels impossible. Unwelcome and harmful thoughts and feelings make happiness a task that seems far out of reach. It can be overwhelming, and it can negatively affect the way we function in our day to day lives. If this speaks to you, I want you to know that you are not alone, and I would be honored to help you work toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
I have a special interest in working with the elderly and LGBTQIA2S+ populations through their unique life struggles.
Life is challenging, and for some, it feels impossible. Unwelcome and harmful thoughts and feelings make happiness a task that seems far out of reach. It can be overwhelming, and it can negatively affect the way we function in our day to day lives. If this speaks to you, I want you to know that you are not alone, and I would be honored to help you work toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
(503) 855-6903 View (503) 855-6903
Photo of John 'davy' Norris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John 'davy' Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
I have over a decade of experience, both clinical and non-clinical, with older adults and care providers, and lived experience with chronic pain/illness.
Later life can be a particularly difficult time with multiple major life changes and transitions, losses, declining health and ability, and other issues. Likewise, those who provide care to aging loved ones or clients may face their own difficulty adjusting to life transitions, caregiver fatigue and burnout, or loss of identity and social connections. You may feel emotionally distant, numb, sad, stressed, anxious, depressed, etc. Regardless of you're specific situation and goals, you're taking a positive step by reaching out for help. I'm happy that you're here!
I have over a decade of experience, both clinical and non-clinical, with older adults and care providers, and lived experience with chronic pain/illness.
Later life can be a particularly difficult time with multiple major life changes and transitions, losses, declining health and ability, and other issues. Likewise, those who provide care to aging loved ones or clients may face their own difficulty adjusting to life transitions, caregiver fatigue and burnout, or loss of identity and social connections. You may feel emotionally distant, numb, sad, stressed, anxious, depressed, etc. Regardless of you're specific situation and goals, you're taking a positive step by reaching out for help. I'm happy that you're here!
(503) 966-0673 View (503) 966-0673
Photo of Cameron Kemper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cameron Kemper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I also have extensive experience with geriatric clients.
I ground my work in respect and compassion which contributes to the foundation of trust, self-acceptance and courage necessary for you to successfully overcome your challenges and create the life you want to live. Through the cultivation of mindful awareness and the implementation of stress management and emotion regulation skills, I will teach you how to calm anxiety, transform distressing feelings, access inner wisdom and review your behaviors and beliefs so that you can learn to commit to those which align with your values. This work will help you realize your personal, professional and relationship goals.
I also have extensive experience with geriatric clients.
I ground my work in respect and compassion which contributes to the foundation of trust, self-acceptance and courage necessary for you to successfully overcome your challenges and create the life you want to live. Through the cultivation of mindful awareness and the implementation of stress management and emotion regulation skills, I will teach you how to calm anxiety, transform distressing feelings, access inner wisdom and review your behaviors and beliefs so that you can learn to commit to those which align with your values. This work will help you realize your personal, professional and relationship goals.
(503) 743-8833 View (503) 743-8833
Photo of Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I offer psychotherapy to adults (from college age to older adults) struggling with a variety of problems, including chronic pain, medical conditions, trauma, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and work/relationship difficulties.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA and OR, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
I offer psychotherapy to adults (from college age to older adults) struggling with a variety of problems, including chronic pain, medical conditions, trauma, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and work/relationship difficulties.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA and OR, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
(408) 556-9974 View (408) 556-9974
Photo of Stephan A Tobin, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Stephan A Tobin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
As a psychologist with over 40 years in practice, I have worked with many kinds of people with many kinds of problems: depression, anxiety, childhood physical and sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, addictions. I work with late adolescents, adults and seniors. My orientation is integrative, with much experience in psychodynamic therapies, Gestalt Therapy and am certified in EMDR. I have offered phone and internet video therapy for many years for those who lived outside my area, including people in other countries. During the coronavirus epidemic, I am working completely online or by phone.
As a psychologist with over 40 years in practice, I have worked with many kinds of people with many kinds of problems: depression, anxiety, childhood physical and sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, addictions. I work with late adolescents, adults and seniors. My orientation is integrative, with much experience in psychodynamic therapies, Gestalt Therapy and am certified in EMDR. I have offered phone and internet video therapy for many years for those who lived outside my area, including people in other countries. During the coronavirus epidemic, I am working completely online or by phone.
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Photo of Amy Friday, PhD, Psychologist
Amy Friday
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you worried whether someone is suffering from depression, dementia, or other medical or emotional problems? We work with you and your doctors to answer those questions.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist specializing in geropsychology and neuropsychology. I complete neuropsychological assessments to give patients and doctors information about brain functioning (memory, decision making, etc). OPAL, an institute for Passionate Aging and Living, is the organization through which I help people embrace and optimize their aging experience. I work with patients to use brain, emotional, and social strengths and resources to work around areas of weakness or problems. I also have a YouTube channel ("This Beautiful Brain") that helps people learn how science helps us age well, and a weekly newsletter.
Are you worried whether someone is suffering from depression, dementia, or other medical or emotional problems? We work with you and your doctors to answer those questions.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist specializing in geropsychology and neuropsychology. I complete neuropsychological assessments to give patients and doctors information about brain functioning (memory, decision making, etc). OPAL, an institute for Passionate Aging and Living, is the organization through which I help people embrace and optimize their aging experience. I work with patients to use brain, emotional, and social strengths and resources to work around areas of weakness or problems. I also have a YouTube channel ("This Beautiful Brain") that helps people learn how science helps us age well, and a weekly newsletter.
(971) 832-5906 View (971) 832-5906
Photo of Monika Zoretic, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Monika Zoretic
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
I am experienced helping people with eating disorders, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), trauma, and PTSD. Adoption and blended family problems are also close to my heart and I enjoy helping others in these areas. I am Star Behavioral Health Tier 2 trained and have lived the military life as a spouse of a career Marine. I work with those aged 5 and older. If you need someone who can really listen to you and help you figure out how to change your life for the better, I can help you.
I am experienced helping people with eating disorders, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), trauma, and PTSD. Adoption and blended family problems are also close to my heart and I enjoy helping others in these areas. I am Star Behavioral Health Tier 2 trained and have lived the military life as a spouse of a career Marine. I work with those aged 5 and older. If you need someone who can really listen to you and help you figure out how to change your life for the better, I can help you.
(614) 441-9988 View (614) 441-9988
Photo of Tova Mccall - Tova: Anxiety Postpartum Infertility And Couples, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tova: Anxiety Postpartum Infertility And Couples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Does it sometimes feel like life can be a struggle? Are you constantly feeling stuck or fighting with your loved ones? Is your past affecting your present? You've come to the right place! My name is Tova McCall and I am a licensed clinical social worker, practicing in New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Vermont. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for older teens, adults, and couples. You can reach out to me at www.theholisticbump.com to schedule a free 15 minute consultation call.
Does it sometimes feel like life can be a struggle? Are you constantly feeling stuck or fighting with your loved ones? Is your past affecting your present? You've come to the right place! My name is Tova McCall and I am a licensed clinical social worker, practicing in New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Vermont. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for older teens, adults, and couples. You can reach out to me at www.theholisticbump.com to schedule a free 15 minute consultation call.
(862) 307-9161 View (862) 307-9161
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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.