Geriatric and Seniors Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Martine Saul (Sheherhers), MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Martine Saul (Sheherhers)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Martine is interested in working with people of all ages, including older adults with a range of mental and physical disabilities, as she worked with an adult day program, planning and executing daily activities that engaged all participants.
Martine Saul is a licensed professional counselor with a B.A. in Psychology from Point Park University and a M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Her graduate field placements all took place within hospice and palliative care facilities, and she therefore, has experience and interest working with hospice patients as well doing bereavement, grief and loss counseling with those patients and their loved ones. Martine currently works full-time as a therapist in Private Practice. She has earned her certificate in Gerontology from the University of Pittsburgh. She is also trained in EMDR for trauma-informed care.
Martine is interested in working with people of all ages, including older adults with a range of mental and physical disabilities, as she worked with an adult day program, planning and executing daily activities that engaged all participants.
Martine Saul is a licensed professional counselor with a B.A. in Psychology from Point Park University and a M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Her graduate field placements all took place within hospice and palliative care facilities, and she therefore, has experience and interest working with hospice patients as well doing bereavement, grief and loss counseling with those patients and their loved ones. Martine currently works full-time as a therapist in Private Practice. She has earned her certificate in Gerontology from the University of Pittsburgh. She is also trained in EMDR for trauma-informed care.
(412) 532-4602 View (412) 532-4602
Photo of Sara Keary, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Keary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213  (Online Only)
Please note: I am licensed to practice in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. If you are caring for an older adult with whom you have a relationship, you may find that it can be quite complicated, regardless of how good the quality of the relationship is or has been. The emotional and physical demands of caring for older adults are often overlooked and underestimated and I am here to help support you during the ups and downs of this journey. By providing therapy for caregivers who are working through the complexity of their caregiving role, I can help them maintain their sense of self-worth, integrity, and identity.
Please note: I am licensed to practice in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. If you are caring for an older adult with whom you have a relationship, you may find that it can be quite complicated, regardless of how good the quality of the relationship is or has been. The emotional and physical demands of caring for older adults are often overlooked and underestimated and I am here to help support you during the ups and downs of this journey. By providing therapy for caregivers who are working through the complexity of their caregiving role, I can help them maintain their sense of self-worth, integrity, and identity.
(617) 362-4636 View (617) 362-4636
Photo of Mara Krotec Baginski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mara Krotec Baginski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Not accepting new clients
I have specialized training and experience working with older adults and caregivers.
NOTE: I am not accepting patients currently. Reaching out for help to work through life’s challenges can certainly be scary. I am here to help you feel more comfortable while facing these challenges. I have been a therapist for 15+ years and bring many years of clinical and personal life experience to my practice. I personally have been affected by grief/loss and the challenges of caregiving which led me to help others. I use a practical and empathetic approach to therapy while helping people reach their goals.
I have specialized training and experience working with older adults and caregivers.
NOTE: I am not accepting patients currently. Reaching out for help to work through life’s challenges can certainly be scary. I am here to help you feel more comfortable while facing these challenges. I have been a therapist for 15+ years and bring many years of clinical and personal life experience to my practice. I personally have been affected by grief/loss and the challenges of caregiving which led me to help others. I use a practical and empathetic approach to therapy while helping people reach their goals.
(412) 214-7251 View (412) 214-7251
Photo of Tina Adkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Adkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Life is a journey and we are constantly learning about ourselves, others, and our surroundings. At times, we all need help and my goal is to support you when you are ready to seek help. I believe in meeting and starting where YOU are at in your journey. With over 9 years of experience in mental health and medical social work, my areas of expertise include: reproductive health, trauma, complex medical, grief, depression, and anxiety, amongst other areas. I am LGTBQIA+ affirming. I have worked with a variety of populations, and specializing in working with individuals 18 years and older.
Life is a journey and we are constantly learning about ourselves, others, and our surroundings. At times, we all need help and my goal is to support you when you are ready to seek help. I believe in meeting and starting where YOU are at in your journey. With over 9 years of experience in mental health and medical social work, my areas of expertise include: reproductive health, trauma, complex medical, grief, depression, and anxiety, amongst other areas. I am LGTBQIA+ affirming. I have worked with a variety of populations, and specializing in working with individuals 18 years and older.
(724) 302-5801 View (724) 302-5801
Photo of Marguerite Bryce, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marguerite Bryce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
I have years of experience working with adults, children, couples and seniors. Clients with symptoms of anxiety and depression are a large part of my practice. From prior hospital work, I have knowledge regarding the impact of physical illness on mental health. I see clients both in person and virtually.
I have years of experience working with adults, children, couples and seniors. Clients with symptoms of anxiety and depression are a large part of my practice. From prior hospital work, I have knowledge regarding the impact of physical illness on mental health. I see clients both in person and virtually.
(412) 844-2317 View (412) 844-2317
Photo of Charles Esposito - Wisdom Within Counseling, LLC, MDiv, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wisdom Within Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have years of experience working with clients struggling with grief, trauma, and depression. I am a member of ASERVIC, with many years of experience and extensive graduate study in religion and spirituality and can integrate values connected with a client's preferred religions and spiritual emphases into all therapeutic approaches. Clients facing life-transitions have greatly benefited from this focussed approach to wellness at every stage of life. I work well with adults of all ages. Older adults have often especially appreciated my counseling orientation. I am also fluent in Spanish and Italian.
I have years of experience working with clients struggling with grief, trauma, and depression. I am a member of ASERVIC, with many years of experience and extensive graduate study in religion and spirituality and can integrate values connected with a client's preferred religions and spiritual emphases into all therapeutic approaches. Clients facing life-transitions have greatly benefited from this focussed approach to wellness at every stage of life. I work well with adults of all ages. Older adults have often especially appreciated my counseling orientation. I am also fluent in Spanish and Italian.
(412) 357-4197 View (412) 357-4197
Photo of Melva Hartzog, M, Div, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melva Hartzog
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, Div, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15214
"The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your power." OpenMind Wellness Counseling Services, LLC provides individual and group counseling to adolescents, adults, and older adults. I believe in incorporating an integrative, holistic approach to wellness, acknowledging the role mind-body-spirit play in the healing process. Healing is also promoted through the development of psychosocial areas of life: career, emotional, social, and interpersonal. My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), including Christian- and spiritually-integrated CBT. I am a multicultural competent counselor. I am located in the Oakland area of Pittsburgh, and offer day, evening, and weekend hours.
"The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your power." OpenMind Wellness Counseling Services, LLC provides individual and group counseling to adolescents, adults, and older adults. I believe in incorporating an integrative, holistic approach to wellness, acknowledging the role mind-body-spirit play in the healing process. Healing is also promoted through the development of psychosocial areas of life: career, emotional, social, and interpersonal. My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), including Christian- and spiritually-integrated CBT. I am a multicultural competent counselor. I am located in the Oakland area of Pittsburgh, and offer day, evening, and weekend hours.
(412) 312-4380 View (412) 312-4380
Photo of Dr. Spiegel Freedman - Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates, Psychologist
Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
In our collective expertise and collaborative efforts, we provide psychological care for those who are struggling with: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Marital Issues, Family Conflict, Sleep Disturbance, Grief and Loss, Abuse Issues, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Gender Identity Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues.
The clinicians of Spiegel Freedman Psychological Associates provide outpatient psychotherapeutic care to the people of the greater Pittsburgh area. We are committed to excellence and strive to provide our community with the highest quality of psychological services. We combine professional expertise with personal compassion in our therapeutic care. Our diverse staff and associates offer psychological evaluation and care for children, adolescents, adults, elders, couples and families.
(412) 307-5806 x1 View (412) 307-5806 x1
Photo of Stephanie Marasti-Georg, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephanie Marasti-Georg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults of all ages across the lifespan, and have specific expertise in working with college students/young adults and older adults.
My approach to therapy is through a relational lens, examining patterns in life that might contribute to "feeling stuck". My goal is to help you overcome such barriers and live your best life while fostering healthy relationships. I am a licensed psychologist, and have also worked as a licensed professional counselor previously before completing my current degree and licensure. My background includes diverse roles working with adult populations, and also teaching as an adjunct instructor. My research interests have included studying music and emotion.
I work with adults of all ages across the lifespan, and have specific expertise in working with college students/young adults and older adults.
My approach to therapy is through a relational lens, examining patterns in life that might contribute to "feeling stuck". My goal is to help you overcome such barriers and live your best life while fostering healthy relationships. I am a licensed psychologist, and have also worked as a licensed professional counselor previously before completing my current degree and licensure. My background includes diverse roles working with adult populations, and also teaching as an adjunct instructor. My research interests have included studying music and emotion.
(412) 776-0549 View (412) 776-0549
Photo of Elyse Milliron, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elyse Milliron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Not accepting new clients
I am also a geriatric mental health specialist and welcome working with adults ages 18+ (and their families!).
Clients who work best with me tend to yearn awakening and change. I welcome the challenge to help clients connect with higher versions of themselves. Trauma, difficult emotions, relationships and the stress of life often lead to feeling stuck, feeling out of control of yourself, your emotions and reactions. My goal is to show you that there is a better way. A way to live with intention and purpose, guided by the best version of you! (Please note I do not have evening or weekend availability and my office is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh- I will ask you to complete a brief phone consult to ensure I am a good fit)
I am also a geriatric mental health specialist and welcome working with adults ages 18+ (and their families!).
Clients who work best with me tend to yearn awakening and change. I welcome the challenge to help clients connect with higher versions of themselves. Trauma, difficult emotions, relationships and the stress of life often lead to feeling stuck, feeling out of control of yourself, your emotions and reactions. My goal is to show you that there is a better way. A way to live with intention and purpose, guided by the best version of you! (Please note I do not have evening or weekend availability and my office is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh- I will ask you to complete a brief phone consult to ensure I am a good fit)
(412) 838-3534 View (412) 838-3534
Photo of Brynne Simmons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brynne Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a history of working with children, adolescents and adults. I have worked with children who have had significant trauma histories (significant losses, abuse, witness to domestic violence), dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and ODD, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disorders, children in foster care, children coping with adoption, and children with adjustment issues. I have a history of working with adults and the elderly population who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar d/o, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective d/o and many other diagnoses
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a history of working with children, adolescents and adults. I have worked with children who have had significant trauma histories (significant losses, abuse, witness to domestic violence), dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD and ODD, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disorders, children in foster care, children coping with adoption, and children with adjustment issues. I have a history of working with adults and the elderly population who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar d/o, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective d/o and many other diagnoses
(412) 790-2242 View (412) 790-2242
Photo of Peter C Zubritzky - Dr. Peter C. Zubritzky, Licensed Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Peter C. Zubritzky, Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
I am a licensed psychologist with decades of experience and extensive education/experience-not a professional counselor (LPC) with less education. My approach to therapy is goals-orientated approach and mindfulness using cognitive-behavioral therapy developing client empowerment. Counseling is for adults, age 18 and older and couples. I also provide testing for ACT 235 (Lethal Weapons certification) and ACT120 testing (the MMPI-2 exam and the Nelson-Denny Reading test) for applicants to Pennsylvania police academies, and testing for employment as police officers. I offer quick appointments and service.
I am a licensed psychologist with decades of experience and extensive education/experience-not a professional counselor (LPC) with less education. My approach to therapy is goals-orientated approach and mindfulness using cognitive-behavioral therapy developing client empowerment. Counseling is for adults, age 18 and older and couples. I also provide testing for ACT 235 (Lethal Weapons certification) and ACT120 testing (the MMPI-2 exam and the Nelson-Denny Reading test) for applicants to Pennsylvania police academies, and testing for employment as police officers. I offer quick appointments and service.
(412) 397-7461 View (412) 397-7461
Photo of Jeffrey Leoni, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeffrey Leoni
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
I enjoy working with older adults on their unique issues.
My goal as your therapist is to be a guide on your journey to a lasting state of well-being and also to be your support anchor as you work to resolve the difficult, hurtful, and disruptive experiences of your life. You will be able to resolve relationship conflicts, develop new and more effective ways of thinking and feeling about yourself and others, and resolve issues that are keeping you from experiencing high levels of joy and fulfillment in life. It would be my honor to be your mentor in this work and together we will create a safe space to process all of these experiences via this powerful process of healing.
I enjoy working with older adults on their unique issues.
My goal as your therapist is to be a guide on your journey to a lasting state of well-being and also to be your support anchor as you work to resolve the difficult, hurtful, and disruptive experiences of your life. You will be able to resolve relationship conflicts, develop new and more effective ways of thinking and feeling about yourself and others, and resolve issues that are keeping you from experiencing high levels of joy and fulfillment in life. It would be my honor to be your mentor in this work and together we will create a safe space to process all of these experiences via this powerful process of healing.
(484) 509-9961 View (484) 509-9961
Photo of Amy Noel Rhoades-Byrne, PhDc, MSW, LCSW, BSN, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Noel Rhoades-Byrne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhDc, MSW, LCSW, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
My ideal client? It's you! Whether you are 8 or 88, I want to work with you. Have childhood trauma? That is one of my specialities. People say you are hard to work with? I got you. Geriatric concerns? I can help you navigate the senior moments. Whatever you are experiencing, right here, right now, I will walk beside you in it. I am also seeing people in New Jersey via telehealth. I can be found on Grow Therapy and Uplift as well! Let's connect!
My ideal client? It's you! Whether you are 8 or 88, I want to work with you. Have childhood trauma? That is one of my specialities. People say you are hard to work with? I got you. Geriatric concerns? I can help you navigate the senior moments. Whatever you are experiencing, right here, right now, I will walk beside you in it. I am also seeing people in New Jersey via telehealth. I can be found on Grow Therapy and Uplift as well! Let's connect!
(724) 200-8027 View (724) 200-8027
Photo of Douglas P Scisciani, LPCC-S, Counselor
Douglas P Scisciani
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I would like to welcome you to our office where you can feel comfortable and freely express your feelings, thoughts and problems and know it's confidential. With 49 years experience I am understanding, non-judgmental and a good listener. I am experienced in multiple treatment techniques that are available to help with anxiety, depression, PTSD or confusion about work related concerns, marital problems or situations that occurred in the past. that still have an impact on current feelings. I work with older children, teens and adults. Screening for ADHD, Dementia and achievement is available. My approach is person-centered.
I would like to welcome you to our office where you can feel comfortable and freely express your feelings, thoughts and problems and know it's confidential. With 49 years experience I am understanding, non-judgmental and a good listener. I am experienced in multiple treatment techniques that are available to help with anxiety, depression, PTSD or confusion about work related concerns, marital problems or situations that occurred in the past. that still have an impact on current feelings. I work with older children, teens and adults. Screening for ADHD, Dementia and achievement is available. My approach is person-centered.
(304) 501-5225 View (304) 501-5225
Photo of Erica McCauley, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica McCauley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Hi! I am currently accepting new clients. I am trained in treating adults with a wide variety of concerns. I work well with those suffering from depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, boundary concerns, self esteem issues, relationship difficulties and perfectionism/overachievement . I have special interest in treating women, young adults and the aging population.
Hi! I am currently accepting new clients. I am trained in treating adults with a wide variety of concerns. I work well with those suffering from depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, boundary concerns, self esteem issues, relationship difficulties and perfectionism/overachievement . I have special interest in treating women, young adults and the aging population.
(412) 753-7946 View (412) 753-7946
Photo of Abby Schell, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Schell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people who are feeling motivated to work on their goals. They might struggle with issues like depression, anxiety, social phobia or insomnia, but they have a strong desire to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their needs could include support, guidance, and coping strategies to manage their symptoms effectively. Their goals might involve achieving a better understanding of their emotions and behaviors, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and improving their quality of life. Ultimately, they want to feel happier, more fulfilled, and better equipped to navigate life's challenges.
I enjoy working with people who are feeling motivated to work on their goals. They might struggle with issues like depression, anxiety, social phobia or insomnia, but they have a strong desire to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their needs could include support, guidance, and coping strategies to manage their symptoms effectively. Their goals might involve achieving a better understanding of their emotions and behaviors, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and improving their quality of life. Ultimately, they want to feel happier, more fulfilled, and better equipped to navigate life's challenges.
(412) 618-0984 View (412) 618-0984
Photo of Jodi Lynn Buzzell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Lynn Buzzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
(724) 216-6773 View (724) 216-6773
Photo of Bonnie Lou Ricard, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Lou Ricard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Bonnie Ricard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and certified by the National Board of Counseling. Her undergraduate work was completed at Kent State University and she received her Masters in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She has more than two decades of experience in the counseling profession with a focus on relational issues, life transitions, emotional distress, grief, crises and trauma. She has also done significant work in the field of substance use and its far reaching implications on individuals and families.
Bonnie Ricard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and certified by the National Board of Counseling. Her undergraduate work was completed at Kent State University and she received her Masters in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She has more than two decades of experience in the counseling profession with a focus on relational issues, life transitions, emotional distress, grief, crises and trauma. She has also done significant work in the field of substance use and its far reaching implications on individuals and families.
(412) 564-4138 View (412) 564-4138
Photo of Sean T Burns - Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute, LCSW, LPC, MDiv, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, MDiv, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15233  (Online Only)
While every counseling experience is unique, the team at Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute (PPI) seeks to provide an empathetic relationship in which individuals and families can safely and freely discuss their challenges and concerns in a holistic context carefully considering the mind, body, and soul in therapy. This is also a "person-centered" process in which the client determines the areas of exploration and discovery.
While every counseling experience is unique, the team at Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute (PPI) seeks to provide an empathetic relationship in which individuals and families can safely and freely discuss their challenges and concerns in a holistic context carefully considering the mind, body, and soul in therapy. This is also a "person-centered" process in which the client determines the areas of exploration and discovery.
(412) 453-3279 x216 View (412) 453-3279 x216
1
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.