Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Natasha Belfor, PhD, Psychologist
Natasha Belfor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
-Seniors worried about cognitive decline, difficulties driving, diagnosed with a neuro degenerative condition (FrontoTemporal Dementia, Alzheimers, Lewy Body Disease) -Babyboomers worried about losing memory, inability to concentrate, problems making decisions, cognitive decline -Professionals dealing with social, personal, professional stressors and anxiety.
I'm a scientist and a clinician. I believe in evidence-based treatments supported by extensive clinical research at the best medical institutions in the world. My methods have been evaluated and used by scientists and clinicians at the Mayo Clinic, USC, UCSF, Yale, Stanford, Harvard University Center for Brain Science, Johns Hopkins, University of Haifa, MIT, Cambridge, Hebrew University etc
-Seniors worried about cognitive decline, difficulties driving, diagnosed with a neuro degenerative condition (FrontoTemporal Dementia, Alzheimers, Lewy Body Disease) -Babyboomers worried about losing memory, inability to concentrate, problems making decisions, cognitive decline -Professionals dealing with social, personal, professional stressors and anxiety.
I'm a scientist and a clinician. I believe in evidence-based treatments supported by extensive clinical research at the best medical institutions in the world. My methods have been evaluated and used by scientists and clinicians at the Mayo Clinic, USC, UCSF, Yale, Stanford, Harvard University Center for Brain Science, Johns Hopkins, University of Haifa, MIT, Cambridge, Hebrew University etc
(415) 889-8545 View (415) 889-8545
Photo of Sarah Stroe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Stroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I’m so glad to meet you. Many clients come to see me because they are experiencing loss, serious or chronic illness, or struggling with grief. Others have a sense that something is not right. I have specific experience and training in geriatric social work and nearly a decade of experience helping individuals and their families navigate psychosocial challenges of grief, loss and serious illness. I can also help with conceptualizing end of life wishes and legacy work.
I’m so glad to meet you. Many clients come to see me because they are experiencing loss, serious or chronic illness, or struggling with grief. Others have a sense that something is not right. I have specific experience and training in geriatric social work and nearly a decade of experience helping individuals and their families navigate psychosocial challenges of grief, loss and serious illness. I can also help with conceptualizing end of life wishes and legacy work.
(628) 277-5785 View (628) 277-5785
Photo of Winston J. Hendzel, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Winston J. Hendzel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
I have spent 15+ years working with older adults facing life transitions and needing to develop coping skills for ongoing life problems as well as symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
I believe that psychotherapy is an interpersonal journey of discovery of new perspectives and new ideas on the issues that concern the client(s). The therapist lends his or her knowledge of psychotherapeutic techniques, desire to help, ability to empathize, and his or her ideas from past and present experience The client brings curiosity about himself or herself, expertise on his or her own experience, and a desire/need to change.
I have spent 15+ years working with older adults facing life transitions and needing to develop coping skills for ongoing life problems as well as symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
I believe that psychotherapy is an interpersonal journey of discovery of new perspectives and new ideas on the issues that concern the client(s). The therapist lends his or her knowledge of psychotherapeutic techniques, desire to help, ability to empathize, and his or her ideas from past and present experience The client brings curiosity about himself or herself, expertise on his or her own experience, and a desire/need to change.
(415) 873-8045 View (415) 873-8045
Photo of Cate Corcoran, PsyD, Psychologist
Cate Corcoran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults (18 to elderly) to address issues including transitions, grief, health challenges, relationship struggles, difficulty connecting with others, low self-image, and dissatisfaction with life, work and love.
PLEASE NOTE MY PRACTICE IS FULL AS OF 7/1/2024 As a fully licensed Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, I bring years of experience to the private practice of psychotherapy. Together with you, I help discover patterns, assumptions, conflicts, and internal limitations that are holding you back from a greater sense of happiness, confidence, connection, self-understanding and future direction. My approach is tailored to your specific needs, and I treat root causes, not just symptoms. I work with couples to help move past stuck patterns, while deepening communication and connection.
I work with adults (18 to elderly) to address issues including transitions, grief, health challenges, relationship struggles, difficulty connecting with others, low self-image, and dissatisfaction with life, work and love.
PLEASE NOTE MY PRACTICE IS FULL AS OF 7/1/2024 As a fully licensed Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, I bring years of experience to the private practice of psychotherapy. Together with you, I help discover patterns, assumptions, conflicts, and internal limitations that are holding you back from a greater sense of happiness, confidence, connection, self-understanding and future direction. My approach is tailored to your specific needs, and I treat root causes, not just symptoms. I work with couples to help move past stuck patterns, while deepening communication and connection.
(415) 237-4366 View (415) 237-4366
Photo of Lily Rich, PsyD, Psychologist
Lily Rich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Not accepting new clients
Through my business Healing at Home I specialize in in-home therapy for seniors, elders and their families. My practice is unique in that I see my clients in the comfort of their own home. My ideal client is someone who is having trouble adjusting to the transitions in their life. Many of my clients have lost a loved one or are adjusting to a chronic illness, loss of independence or a recent move. Through Medicare I am also able to provide support to my clients families, who are often also struggling with their loved ones challenges.
Through my business Healing at Home I specialize in in-home therapy for seniors, elders and their families. My practice is unique in that I see my clients in the comfort of their own home. My ideal client is someone who is having trouble adjusting to the transitions in their life. Many of my clients have lost a loved one or are adjusting to a chronic illness, loss of independence or a recent move. Through Medicare I am also able to provide support to my clients families, who are often also struggling with their loved ones challenges.
(831) 346-1132 View (831) 346-1132
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth S Sutherland - Geropsychologist, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth S Sutherland - Geropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
I am a Geropsychologist which means I specialize with older adults. I provide forensic neuropsychological evaluations to assist with decision making capacity for the following domains: medical/financial consent, sexual consent, testamentary consent, driving, independent living. Evaluations/therapy also assist with diagnoses for dementia, depression, anxiety, and/or grief/loss. I work with family members/caregivers caring for those with dementia and perhaps behavioral challenges associated with the dementia. I currently work at the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) for the Department of Geropsychiatry since 2007.
I am a Geropsychologist which means I specialize with older adults. I provide forensic neuropsychological evaluations to assist with decision making capacity for the following domains: medical/financial consent, sexual consent, testamentary consent, driving, independent living. Evaluations/therapy also assist with diagnoses for dementia, depression, anxiety, and/or grief/loss. I work with family members/caregivers caring for those with dementia and perhaps behavioral challenges associated with the dementia. I currently work at the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) for the Department of Geropsychiatry since 2007.
(415) 813-1411 View (415) 813-1411
Photo of Caitlin Moore - California Brain Health Center, PhD, Psychologist
California Brain Health Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am trained to diagnosis a wide range of conditions, including (but not limited to) ADHD/ learning disability, concussion/brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia.
I see adult patients (18+) for neuropsychological assessment. Individuals can experience changes in thinking for many reasons, and the goal of the evaluation is to assist in accurate diagnosis and provide recommendations for daily life to help you function your best.
I am trained to diagnosis a wide range of conditions, including (but not limited to) ADHD/ learning disability, concussion/brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia.
I see adult patients (18+) for neuropsychological assessment. Individuals can experience changes in thinking for many reasons, and the goal of the evaluation is to assist in accurate diagnosis and provide recommendations for daily life to help you function your best.
(415) 917-1206 View (415) 917-1206
Photo of Annie Brashem, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Brashem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94143
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
Coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma is one of life’s most difficult challenges. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
Coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma is one of life’s most difficult challenges. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
(510) 330-1142 View (510) 330-1142
Photo of Jenny Vladimirov, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Vladimirov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
After earning my Master’s degree in geriatric social work, I have provided individual and group therapy to older adults from various economic and ethnic backgrounds in community and hospital settings.
As we age, our well-being is impacted by various life transitions such as retirement, physical health issues, relocation, and loss of loved ones. I provide assistance in navigating this new territory with a focus on building resilience, supporting personal agency, developing coping skills, and increasing mindfulness. During psychotherapy sessions and care consultations, I offer guidance in the following areas: mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, grief and loss, living with illness, disability, and chronic pain, planning for retirement and aging, caregiving and care-receiving.
After earning my Master’s degree in geriatric social work, I have provided individual and group therapy to older adults from various economic and ethnic backgrounds in community and hospital settings.
As we age, our well-being is impacted by various life transitions such as retirement, physical health issues, relocation, and loss of loved ones. I provide assistance in navigating this new territory with a focus on building resilience, supporting personal agency, developing coping skills, and increasing mindfulness. During psychotherapy sessions and care consultations, I offer guidance in the following areas: mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, grief and loss, living with illness, disability, and chronic pain, planning for retirement and aging, caregiving and care-receiving.
(650) 610-1842 View (650) 610-1842
Photo of Jerna Reyes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jerna Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking to overcome challenging life situations? Would you like to experience relief from stressors, improve your quality of life, and achieve your therapeutic goals? I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, anger management, marital issues, issues related to aging, chemical abuse and dependency, gambling and other addictions, and personality issues. I have been a psychotherapist for over 14 years treating adults and older adults 18 years of age and above. Psychotherapy is individual and personal, and there are multiple approaches to treatment. I also believe that the development of communication skills and coping skills are very important in achieving wellness.
Are you looking to overcome challenging life situations? Would you like to experience relief from stressors, improve your quality of life, and achieve your therapeutic goals? I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, anger management, marital issues, issues related to aging, chemical abuse and dependency, gambling and other addictions, and personality issues. I have been a psychotherapist for over 14 years treating adults and older adults 18 years of age and above. Psychotherapy is individual and personal, and there are multiple approaches to treatment. I also believe that the development of communication skills and coping skills are very important in achieving wellness.
(415) 741-0654 View (415) 741-0654
Photo of Mia Ritzenberg-Crary, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mia Ritzenberg-Crary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
My practice is focused on helping people struggling with a variety of concerns. You may be dealing with a specific issue (anxiety, divorce, loss, stress, depression), or just living with a strong sense that your life is not in order, and that you want things to be different. I have specific expertise and interest in working with seniors to assess and treat the challenges that impact mental health later in life. I support adults of all ages in pursuit of emotional relief, psychological understanding, and the development of coping skills to alleviate distress and enhance functioning.
My practice is focused on helping people struggling with a variety of concerns. You may be dealing with a specific issue (anxiety, divorce, loss, stress, depression), or just living with a strong sense that your life is not in order, and that you want things to be different. I have specific expertise and interest in working with seniors to assess and treat the challenges that impact mental health later in life. I support adults of all ages in pursuit of emotional relief, psychological understanding, and the development of coping skills to alleviate distress and enhance functioning.
(628) 265-8031 View (628) 265-8031
Photo of Jeffrey Hall Psy. D, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeffrey Hall Psy. D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
Welcome. I offer an initial 30 minute phone or video consultation at no charge. It's essential to determine comfort level and fit before proceeding. I have have expertise with adult ADHD, marital/relational therapy, trauma (PTSD), geriatric populations, bipolar spectrum disorders, and the more common disorders (major depression/anxiety). My approach aims to provide some immediate symptom relief while also focusing on deeper, longer term resolution. Many clinical situations cannot be quickly resolved in a way that sustains. Therefore, I am also attentive to unconscious processes, relational patterns and family-of-origin influences.
Welcome. I offer an initial 30 minute phone or video consultation at no charge. It's essential to determine comfort level and fit before proceeding. I have have expertise with adult ADHD, marital/relational therapy, trauma (PTSD), geriatric populations, bipolar spectrum disorders, and the more common disorders (major depression/anxiety). My approach aims to provide some immediate symptom relief while also focusing on deeper, longer term resolution. Many clinical situations cannot be quickly resolved in a way that sustains. Therefore, I am also attentive to unconscious processes, relational patterns and family-of-origin influences.
(415) 818-0982 View (415) 818-0982
Photo of Elaine Shelub, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Shelub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94127
I work with adults, seniors and families struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, and loneliness.
Having a safe and supportive space where one can talk openly, is so very important. Feeling understood and listened to promotes growth and change. I am warm and understanding as well as insightful and objective, bringing experience and honesty to my work. Together we will talk about what’s going on now, past events and relationships, and how they might be affecting you. I will work to develop a trusting, supportive relationship to more clearly understand what is troubling you. My clients have enjoyed success in overcoming anxiety and depression, connecting with others, defining and attaining goals, and increasing self-esteem.
I work with adults, seniors and families struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, and loneliness.
Having a safe and supportive space where one can talk openly, is so very important. Feeling understood and listened to promotes growth and change. I am warm and understanding as well as insightful and objective, bringing experience and honesty to my work. Together we will talk about what’s going on now, past events and relationships, and how they might be affecting you. I will work to develop a trusting, supportive relationship to more clearly understand what is troubling you. My clients have enjoyed success in overcoming anxiety and depression, connecting with others, defining and attaining goals, and increasing self-esteem.
(415) 682-6708 View (415) 682-6708
Rose F Sneed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Not accepting new clients
My services are best suited for adults and older adolescents.
Going into psychotherapy or coaching should be like putting the finishing touches on your life. My goal in working with clients is to assist them in discovering their strengths so they can use them to create the life they most desire. I believe clients move towards growth when time is right. Most clients enter therapy or coaching when they have reached a critical life transition. In our work, we will explore how your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are all connected. As a result of our meetings, you will gain tools to feel better, more confident, and satisfied with your life.
My services are best suited for adults and older adolescents.
Going into psychotherapy or coaching should be like putting the finishing touches on your life. My goal in working with clients is to assist them in discovering their strengths so they can use them to create the life they most desire. I believe clients move towards growth when time is right. Most clients enter therapy or coaching when they have reached a critical life transition. In our work, we will explore how your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are all connected. As a result of our meetings, you will gain tools to feel better, more confident, and satisfied with your life.
(510) 953-5726 View (510) 953-5726
Photo of Bart Magee, PhD
Bart Magee
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I work with individual adults, couples, adolescents and seniors.
Therapy doesn't have to be a mysterious and confusing process. I believe that it should be linked directly to one's personal goals and desire for change. I'll work with you to enhance your self-knowledge, expand your emotional awareness and thinking to provide you new ways of solving problems and enhancing well-being. My style is direct and collaborative and aims to identify patterns of thinking, feeling, acting and relating that reinforce fears and negative attitudes, thereby limiting your ability to pursue your goals. Exploring the underlying forces and dynamics driving those patterns opens up new avenues for growth and change.
I work with individual adults, couples, adolescents and seniors.
Therapy doesn't have to be a mysterious and confusing process. I believe that it should be linked directly to one's personal goals and desire for change. I'll work with you to enhance your self-knowledge, expand your emotional awareness and thinking to provide you new ways of solving problems and enhancing well-being. My style is direct and collaborative and aims to identify patterns of thinking, feeling, acting and relating that reinforce fears and negative attitudes, thereby limiting your ability to pursue your goals. Exploring the underlying forces and dynamics driving those patterns opens up new avenues for growth and change.
(650) 603-0523 View (650) 603-0523
Photo of Roxanne Shooshani, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roxanne Shooshani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to cope with getting through the day? Feeling burnt out, anxious, depressed, and isolated? If you are experiencing emotional difficulties, you do not have to go through it alone. I can support you through life's many challenges - Whether it's the mental health impacts from chronic pain, medical illnesses, social isolation, questioning your gender and/or sexuality, trauma, difficulties in relationships, existential issues, grief, or the hardships that come along with being in different stages of life - from teenagehood to older age.
Are you struggling to cope with getting through the day? Feeling burnt out, anxious, depressed, and isolated? If you are experiencing emotional difficulties, you do not have to go through it alone. I can support you through life's many challenges - Whether it's the mental health impacts from chronic pain, medical illnesses, social isolation, questioning your gender and/or sexuality, trauma, difficulties in relationships, existential issues, grief, or the hardships that come along with being in different stages of life - from teenagehood to older age.
(415) 895-9571 View (415) 895-9571
Photo of Vanessa Vertin, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Vertin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Vanessa's passion for relational work weaves its way through her other specializations, which include: * Developmental life transitions *Psychological/emotional/spiritual aspects of dealing with physiological illness (holistic health) * Parent/child and family issues *Work with the elderly * Mood disorders * Aging and loss/grief *EMDR *Trauma/stress.
Dr. Vertin specializes in modern-day relationships with self and others. Her work helps people thrive by revolutionizing how people think about health and relationship and thus, how they function. Vanessa's specializations are integral health, coupling relationships, and life transitions/stress. Other areas in which she has extensive training and therapeutic experience include: freedom and intimacy dynamics, marriage and other relationship forms, survivors of abuse, mood disorders, issues of elders and their families, menopause, aging & death, PTSD, and women’s issues. She is certified in Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR
Vanessa's passion for relational work weaves its way through her other specializations, which include: * Developmental life transitions *Psychological/emotional/spiritual aspects of dealing with physiological illness (holistic health) * Parent/child and family issues *Work with the elderly * Mood disorders * Aging and loss/grief *EMDR *Trauma/stress.
Dr. Vertin specializes in modern-day relationships with self and others. Her work helps people thrive by revolutionizing how people think about health and relationship and thus, how they function. Vanessa's specializations are integral health, coupling relationships, and life transitions/stress. Other areas in which she has extensive training and therapeutic experience include: freedom and intimacy dynamics, marriage and other relationship forms, survivors of abuse, mood disorders, issues of elders and their families, menopause, aging & death, PTSD, and women’s issues. She is certified in Internal Family Systems therapy and EMDR
(650) 262-3687 View (650) 262-3687
Photo of Arielle Piastunovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Piastunovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
(650) 206-9870 View (650) 206-9870
Photo of Beth Myler, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Myler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I received a Grace Fellowship at the University of Texas which allowed me to gain additional training in the needs of older adults.
Currently accepting new clients in California and Texas. In addition to psychotherapy for anxiety and depression, I also provide counseling and coaching to clients managing various kinds of change in their lives. I help clients navigate challenges presented by relationships, career, and changes in their health status due to aging, illness or injury. I trained as a psychotherapist after a long career as a lawyer and enjoy helping clients focus on pragmatic goals as well as developing insight and personal growth.
I received a Grace Fellowship at the University of Texas which allowed me to gain additional training in the needs of older adults.
Currently accepting new clients in California and Texas. In addition to psychotherapy for anxiety and depression, I also provide counseling and coaching to clients managing various kinds of change in their lives. I help clients navigate challenges presented by relationships, career, and changes in their health status due to aging, illness or injury. I trained as a psychotherapist after a long career as a lawyer and enjoy helping clients focus on pragmatic goals as well as developing insight and personal growth.
(415) 200-3465 View (415) 200-3465
Photo of Barbara Ochsner-Walsh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Ochsner-Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94116
With more than 20 yrs as a life coach and now a clinical psychologist as well, I work with the elderly and their family members who are experiencing gerontological issues. This can be either within the family or in a residential setting. I work with couples in primary relationships with external issues that can include unemployment, substance abuse, parenting, as well as those specific to the relationship such as communication difficulties and maintaining a healthy sexual/intimate life. For individuals who are stuck in any area, together we'll identify the issues and how to resolve them.
With more than 20 yrs as a life coach and now a clinical psychologist as well, I work with the elderly and their family members who are experiencing gerontological issues. This can be either within the family or in a residential setting. I work with couples in primary relationships with external issues that can include unemployment, substance abuse, parenting, as well as those specific to the relationship such as communication difficulties and maintaining a healthy sexual/intimate life. For individuals who are stuck in any area, together we'll identify the issues and how to resolve them.
(415) 980-5232 View (415) 980-5232
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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.