Counseling
Geriatric Counseling
Geriatric Counseling can assist individuals and families with issues that relate to the aging process. The aging process is not always easy and there are times when a trained geriatric counselor is needed. The types of issues could include one or more of the following: the retirement years; interpersonal discord; money concerns; memory loss; and illness. One of the major concerns among the elderly is losing so many friends and family. The issues of illness and death become much more common as individuals enter their older years.
The loss of personal relationships through the aging process can cause depression and other mental health conditions that respond to counseling. Aging adults face an onslaught of changes that are beyond their control, and gerontological counselors can help them accept change as a part of life.
Many seniors lose the ability to drive a car or to manage a checkbook, often at the request of children, and accepting the loss of control over personal issues is problematic. Associating diminished ability to perform basic activities with diminishing self respect is often a condition that confronts a gerontological counselor. With intensive training, counselors are able to help clients talk about topics related to the end of life for themselves and bereavement over the loss of old friends.
Group Bereavement Counseling
Few events in life are as painful as the death of a loved one. At times, you may be uncertain whether you have the energy or desire to heal. Our bereavement groups offer a safe, confidential place to gain support with loss, coping, and life transition.
Our mission is to help older adults maintain their independence to the greatest extent possible and age in place by providing quality emotional support. Research has indicated that one of the greatest issues for older adults is loneliness. The issue of social isolation, coupled with depression, is an important factor that contributes to the high risk for suicide among this population. Even though depression is the single most significant risk factor for suicide for older adults, older persons with depression rarely seek treatment for the illness and often don’t recognize it for what it is.
Older adults often suffer losses that include friends, loved ones, health, income, and independence. The aim of our Older Adult Therapy Programs is to provide a safe and supportive environment where participants can address issues of concern and maintain their independence. Many older adults use their time with us to share thoughts about their day-to-day lives, to reminisce about the past, or to speculate about the future. All of these are good topics for discussion during group counseling sessions.