Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Jim Yelinek, LMHC, Counselor
Jim Yelinek
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
We will work together to come up with attainable goals, and to focus on making changes that strengthen your overall well-being. I work with individuals over the age of 18, with a special interest in the older adult population. I also have experience working with couples, individuals in law enforcement and individuals with ongoing medical issues.
We will work together to come up with attainable goals, and to focus on making changes that strengthen your overall well-being. I work with individuals over the age of 18, with a special interest in the older adult population. I also have experience working with couples, individuals in law enforcement and individuals with ongoing medical issues.
(857) 382-5959 View (857) 382-5959
Photo of Carolyn Sandel -  Seniors, Adults, Caregivers Illness, Grief, LGBTQ, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seniors, Adults, Caregivers Illness, Grief, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02103
You don't have to go it alone. Are you an older adult or the caregiver for a parent or spouse? Struggling to keep your balance while dealing with chronic illness or pain? Have you lost a loved one or had a major life change? All of these challenges bring fatigue, isolation, loneliness, and feelings of loss. With help, you can better understand your feelings and better meet your challenge. If you are stressed and feeling burnt out, depressed, or weighed down by anxiety, reach out for help. In therapy, you can get the support that you need to build on your strengths and thrive. Serving adults of all ages and the LGBTQ+ community
You don't have to go it alone. Are you an older adult or the caregiver for a parent or spouse? Struggling to keep your balance while dealing with chronic illness or pain? Have you lost a loved one or had a major life change? All of these challenges bring fatigue, isolation, loneliness, and feelings of loss. With help, you can better understand your feelings and better meet your challenge. If you are stressed and feeling burnt out, depressed, or weighed down by anxiety, reach out for help. In therapy, you can get the support that you need to build on your strengths and thrive. Serving adults of all ages and the LGBTQ+ community
(413) 722-5553 View (413) 722-5553
Photo of Farrah Colon, Pre-Licensed Professional
Farrah Colon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
My specialization encompasses college-age individuals, professionals, mature adults, those with disabilities, and elderly individuals.
Hi, my name is Farrah Colon! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities Whether you aim to achieve a new personal goal or heal from past traumas, rest assured that I offer a non-judgmental and encouraging environment. My goal is to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself!
My specialization encompasses college-age individuals, professionals, mature adults, those with disabilities, and elderly individuals.
Hi, my name is Farrah Colon! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities Whether you aim to achieve a new personal goal or heal from past traumas, rest assured that I offer a non-judgmental and encouraging environment. My goal is to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself!
(888) 454-2439 View (888) 454-2439
Photo of Paola Scardino, LMHC, CRC
Paola Scardino
LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
My clients range in ages from adolescents to seniors and from all walks of life.
I believe that we all have the innate ability to thrive and be well in mind, given the right guidance, support and tools. To that goal, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, couples, adolescents and families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of my specialty areas include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, relational issues, family conflict, adjusting to life transitions, trauma, multicultural issues and LGBTQ clients.
My clients range in ages from adolescents to seniors and from all walks of life.
I believe that we all have the innate ability to thrive and be well in mind, given the right guidance, support and tools. To that goal, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, couples, adolescents and families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of my specialty areas include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, relational issues, family conflict, adjusting to life transitions, trauma, multicultural issues and LGBTQ clients.
(617) 336-8840 View (617) 336-8840
Photo of Ryan Mace, PhD, Psychologist
Ryan Mace
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in Boston, MA providing individual therapy for adults and older adults. I am also a clinician and researcher at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School (HMS). I started this private practice to bring the latest advances in clinical psychology to people like you. My mission is to equip you with evidence-based skills to improve your cognitive (how we think), behavioral (what we do), and emotional (how we feel) functioning.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist located in Boston, MA providing individual therapy for adults and older adults. I am also a clinician and researcher at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School (HMS). I started this private practice to bring the latest advances in clinical psychology to people like you. My mission is to equip you with evidence-based skills to improve your cognitive (how we think), behavioral (what we do), and emotional (how we feel) functioning.
(857) 392-2637 View (857) 392-2637
Photo of Garima L Menon, PhD, Psychologist
Garima L Menon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
With over two decades of experience, I have worked with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, cross cultural concerns, & transitions in older age.
Most of us do the best we can with the resources we have. Sometimes we think no one understands our worries & fears. If open to it, we want to work with a therapist when our usual ways of relating aren't helping & we feel stuck, anxious, angry or depressed. Therapy often helps provide insight into our strengths & internal resources we already have to help navigate challenging times. In sessions, I focus on working with clients to unlock this strength to steer their lives in the direction they want. I bring curiosity, warmth, respect, & empathy to my sessions.
With over two decades of experience, I have worked with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, cross cultural concerns, & transitions in older age.
Most of us do the best we can with the resources we have. Sometimes we think no one understands our worries & fears. If open to it, we want to work with a therapist when our usual ways of relating aren't helping & we feel stuck, anxious, angry or depressed. Therapy often helps provide insight into our strengths & internal resources we already have to help navigate challenging times. In sessions, I focus on working with clients to unlock this strength to steer their lives in the direction they want. I bring curiosity, warmth, respect, & empathy to my sessions.
(617) 917-2337 View (617) 917-2337
Photo of Anabela Dos Ramos, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Anabela Dos Ramos
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02124  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing individual counseling to adults 18 or older, and the geriatric population. My belief is that clients should be supported through validation, being given the space to freely express themselves without judgment, and by assisting them with their challenges through a holistic lens. I encourage clients to navigate their own therapy sessions so that they are in control and able to embrace the safe space provided to them. I am very passionate about providing clients with a space to grow, create newer and better versions of themselves, and healing.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing individual counseling to adults 18 or older, and the geriatric population. My belief is that clients should be supported through validation, being given the space to freely express themselves without judgment, and by assisting them with their challenges through a holistic lens. I encourage clients to navigate their own therapy sessions so that they are in control and able to embrace the safe space provided to them. I am very passionate about providing clients with a space to grow, create newer and better versions of themselves, and healing.
(508) 413-6948 View (508) 413-6948
Photo of Wileisha Gonzalez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Wileisha Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Mental Health Counselor. I work with adults who may be feeling emotional pain, sadness, demotivation, uncertainty, difficulty making decisions, desires to be more assertive, tensions in relationships, and other challenges. I work with children, adolescents, adults, elderly individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, mood disorder, self-esteem, stress, Women's issues, burnout, grief, PTSD, anxiety, anger management, career counseling, particularly with Spanish-speaking families.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Mental Health Counselor. I work with adults who may be feeling emotional pain, sadness, demotivation, uncertainty, difficulty making decisions, desires to be more assertive, tensions in relationships, and other challenges. I work with children, adolescents, adults, elderly individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, mood disorder, self-esteem, stress, Women's issues, burnout, grief, PTSD, anxiety, anger management, career counseling, particularly with Spanish-speaking families.
(888) 454-2439 View (888) 454-2439
Photo of Wendy Gladu Landry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Gladu Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
(617) 622-5674 View (617) 622-5674
Photo of Maureen Walsh, MA, PsyaCns, LMHC, Counselor
Maureen Walsh
Counselor, MA, PsyaCns, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
Candidate at BGSP, Certificate in Geriatric Studies from BU School of Social Work.
Worry, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief, Overwhelming Feelings, Relationship Disasters... these are but a few of the issues that may lead someone to consider a professional who can support and assist you with your core concerns. I specialize in treating the human condition from a holistic perspective, always honoring the uniqueness of each individual and respecting their way of "being" in the world. Our aim together will be to explore and find revelations, resolutions,and solutions. Using a psychoanalytic approach, we will bring to light the driving forces behind the repetitive behaviors that tend to keep us attached to repeated outcomes.
Candidate at BGSP, Certificate in Geriatric Studies from BU School of Social Work.
Worry, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief, Overwhelming Feelings, Relationship Disasters... these are but a few of the issues that may lead someone to consider a professional who can support and assist you with your core concerns. I specialize in treating the human condition from a holistic perspective, always honoring the uniqueness of each individual and respecting their way of "being" in the world. Our aim together will be to explore and find revelations, resolutions,and solutions. Using a psychoanalytic approach, we will bring to light the driving forces behind the repetitive behaviors that tend to keep us attached to repeated outcomes.
(617) 396-7614 View (617) 396-7614
Photo of Susan Taterka, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Taterka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I work with people struggling with stress or loss. I offer understanding and compassion. I help my clients recognize and understand their feelings, improve their coping and communication skills, increase their emotional intelligence, clarify their goals, implement their plans, raise their self-esteem, and heal. I work with adults of all ages and cultural backgrounds- single, married, widowed, divorced/separated, caregivers, single parents, parents struggling with their children's difficulties, and adult children of elderly parents who are declining.
I work with people struggling with stress or loss. I offer understanding and compassion. I help my clients recognize and understand their feelings, improve their coping and communication skills, increase their emotional intelligence, clarify their goals, implement their plans, raise their self-esteem, and heal. I work with adults of all ages and cultural backgrounds- single, married, widowed, divorced/separated, caregivers, single parents, parents struggling with their children's difficulties, and adult children of elderly parents who are declining.
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Photo of Juan Colon-Torres, Pre-Licensed Professional
Juan Colon-Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting college age, professionals, mature adults, persons with disabilities, and elderly individuals.
Hi, my name is Juan! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities My focus has been on enhancing their behavior and functioning in various life domains, be it at home, in school or their careers, or within their communities.
I specialize in supporting college age, professionals, mature adults, persons with disabilities, and elderly individuals.
Hi, my name is Juan! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities My focus has been on enhancing their behavior and functioning in various life domains, be it at home, in school or their careers, or within their communities.
(888) 454-2439 View (888) 454-2439
Photo of Tamar Kaplan - Tamar Kaplan Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Kaplan Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215  (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!
(602) 888-4918 View (602) 888-4918
Photo of Irene Piryatinsky, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Irene Piryatinsky
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
Is your child, teen or young adult falling behind at school or work? Are you worried they may fail, but want tools to help them succeed? Or, is an older family member struggling with aging, mood or cognitive changes, life transitions, or complications from a medical event like a stroke or procedure, that’s affected their thoughts, reactions, and ability to do daily tasks or work? If so, this must be taking its toll! Let me help. I understand how distressing and time-consuming these challenges can be. You need a specialist to assess the situation and give you a comprehensive plan and therapies that work.
Is your child, teen or young adult falling behind at school or work? Are you worried they may fail, but want tools to help them succeed? Or, is an older family member struggling with aging, mood or cognitive changes, life transitions, or complications from a medical event like a stroke or procedure, that’s affected their thoughts, reactions, and ability to do daily tasks or work? If so, this must be taking its toll! Let me help. I understand how distressing and time-consuming these challenges can be. You need a specialist to assess the situation and give you a comprehensive plan and therapies that work.
(617) 925-6608 View (617) 925-6608
Photo of Jeremy Clyman, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeremy Clyman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02133
I am a "generalist" and clinically serve individuals, couples and families across all phases of development (from pre-teens and adolescents through to older adults). Psychotherapy is a process designed to increase general mental health and well-being by clarifying goals and values, strengthening psychological weaknesses, and learning more effective and sophisticated strategies to better manage emotional, social and internal (e.g. thoughts) life. Through a gentle but focused conversational style, I utilize the latest clinical research and theory to construct a collaborative and personally-tailored treatment plan that aims for symptom relief and performance enhancement.
I am a "generalist" and clinically serve individuals, couples and families across all phases of development (from pre-teens and adolescents through to older adults). Psychotherapy is a process designed to increase general mental health and well-being by clarifying goals and values, strengthening psychological weaknesses, and learning more effective and sophisticated strategies to better manage emotional, social and internal (e.g. thoughts) life. Through a gentle but focused conversational style, I utilize the latest clinical research and theory to construct a collaborative and personally-tailored treatment plan that aims for symptom relief and performance enhancement.
(201) 207-4203 View (201) 207-4203
Photo of Laura Beth Pang, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Beth Pang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Not accepting new clients
I work with older adolescents, adults, seniors, and couples from all walks of life and orientations.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 25+ years experience. I consider helping people address their suffering a privilege. Learning about yourself within a therapeutic relationship can lead to a more meaningful and authentic life. I can help you with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, parenting, divorce, sexuality, shame, acute/chronic illness, body image, grief, and change/loss/growth. I work with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds. I am fluent in Spanish and speak some Mandarin. I will help you learn to make conscious choices that will result in your feeling empowered and more grounded.
I work with older adolescents, adults, seniors, and couples from all walks of life and orientations.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 25+ years experience. I consider helping people address their suffering a privilege. Learning about yourself within a therapeutic relationship can lead to a more meaningful and authentic life. I can help you with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, parenting, divorce, sexuality, shame, acute/chronic illness, body image, grief, and change/loss/growth. I work with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds. I am fluent in Spanish and speak some Mandarin. I will help you learn to make conscious choices that will result in your feeling empowered and more grounded.
(617) 207-5382 View (617) 207-5382
Photo of Linda Fleger-Berman, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Fleger-Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
Together we can discover and develop your inherent strengths so that you can heal, recover, grow and live a fulfilling life. Offering a mature, warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, I take an eclectic approach: integrating Clinical Hypnosis, Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment based therapy (click above on website for details), Bioenergetics, and EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Understanding that healing has a spiritual dimension, I have practiced meditation for 14 yrs. Adolescents, Adults and Elderly. Individuals, Couples and Families. Resolve Relationship issues,Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Abuse,Addictions and Co-dependence, Loss and Grief. Realize creative potential and more. The first step is the hardest. Call (617)738-9480.
Together we can discover and develop your inherent strengths so that you can heal, recover, grow and live a fulfilling life. Offering a mature, warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, I take an eclectic approach: integrating Clinical Hypnosis, Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment based therapy (click above on website for details), Bioenergetics, and EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Understanding that healing has a spiritual dimension, I have practiced meditation for 14 yrs. Adolescents, Adults and Elderly. Individuals, Couples and Families. Resolve Relationship issues,Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Abuse,Addictions and Co-dependence, Loss and Grief. Realize creative potential and more. The first step is the hardest. Call (617)738-9480.
(617) 841-8478 View (617) 841-8478
Photo of Alison McGrath, PsyD, Psychologist
Alison McGrath
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with older adolescents, adults, and couples from varied professional, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
I believe psychotherapy is most effective when individuals feel genuinely connected to their therapist. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes in their lives. Whether seeking therapy for symptom alleviation, a desire for greater self-understanding, or to cope with a particular crisis, good psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives.
I enjoy working with older adolescents, adults, and couples from varied professional, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
I believe psychotherapy is most effective when individuals feel genuinely connected to their therapist. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes in their lives. Whether seeking therapy for symptom alleviation, a desire for greater self-understanding, or to cope with a particular crisis, good psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives.
(617) 934-5589 View (617) 934-5589
Photo of Stephen C Duclos, MEd, CST, CRC, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen C Duclos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, CST, CRC, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02131
The struggles of older couples and the difficulties of aging are a personal interest, as are aspects of disability.
I have been working with families and couples in various configurations and locations since 1972. In addition to being a Licensed Family Therapist, I am also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, and Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have taught courses in Ethics, Substance Abuse, Sexuality, and other subjects in the Graduate School Of Counseling at UMass/Boston. Primarily, my work is about family and couple relationships. In 2012, I was awarded the Schiller Prize for my work with fathers, daughters, and sexuality by AASECT. I am an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, and train therapists.
The struggles of older couples and the difficulties of aging are a personal interest, as are aspects of disability.
I have been working with families and couples in various configurations and locations since 1972. In addition to being a Licensed Family Therapist, I am also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, and Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have taught courses in Ethics, Substance Abuse, Sexuality, and other subjects in the Graduate School Of Counseling at UMass/Boston. Primarily, my work is about family and couple relationships. In 2012, I was awarded the Schiller Prize for my work with fathers, daughters, and sexuality by AASECT. I am an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, and train therapists.
(617) 431-6792 View (617) 431-6792
Photo of Malcolm Joseph - Malcolm Joseph, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malcolm Joseph, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131
Do you or your child feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Are you seeking to break down patterns that get in the way of your relationships? Are you trying to find ways to get yourself or your family through the rough patch? Struggles like these are common, and many seek the help of professionals, like myself, to get them through. By reaching out, you are already taking the first step towards healing and understanding. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and therapist, I have worked with children, youth, families, and young and older adults in these exact situations.
Do you or your child feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Are you seeking to break down patterns that get in the way of your relationships? Are you trying to find ways to get yourself or your family through the rough patch? Struggles like these are common, and many seek the help of professionals, like myself, to get them through. By reaching out, you are already taking the first step towards healing and understanding. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and therapist, I have worked with children, youth, families, and young and older adults in these exact situations.
(857) 240-9587 View (857) 240-9587
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.