Alzheimer's

Dementia is a challenging diagnosis for the entire family, chosen or otherwise. It requires immense flexibility and caregiving skill, all while you and your person are grieving the changes happening outside of our control. I have three years experience supporting dementia clients and families from diagnosis to end of life, I can help you troubleshoot issues as they arise with practical interventions as well as holding space for the concurrent emotional process.

Through my experience working with the geriatric community, I came to specialize in issues related to Alzheimer's Disease and memory issues. Caregiver stress, sundowners syndrome, agitation and anxiety surrounding the illness are all issues I have become familiar with.

I have a long background of working with dementia patients. My specialty has become supporting the family and caregivers of dementia patients cope and understand the disease.

I prefer a relaxed setting in my sessions. You may have heard "humor is the best medicine" so I try where applicable to add humor to my sessions. I also strive to find strengths in everyone I meet.

Alzheimer's and other dementias have an immense impact on the individual and family. Efficient and thorough assessment of strengths and weakness and differential diagnosis can help guide you in the right direction for treatment and long-term care planning. Neuropsychological evaluations can help provide those essential insights and answer the many questions you may have.

In practice, I often use state of the art assessment instruments to help people determine what is typical age-related decline vs what may be a neurocognitive disorder, which may include Alzheimer's, Lewy Body dementia, vascular dementia, and others.

I have a background in working with individuals who have Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. I was previously a geriatric Care Manager and the majority of my clients had a diagnosis of dementia and struggled with significant loss of independence and functioning. One type of therapy that I provide to people with dementia is called Reminiscence Therapy. Clients with dementia may require a caregiver to assist with telehealth access.

An Alzheimer's Disease or related dementia diagnosis can be heartbreaking for both the Caregiver and the person living with dementia. There is a long road of uncertainty ahead. You are never prepared for this. It may appear like the perosn living with dementia is no longer there. They might not be speaking, moving or participating in things like they used to. There is still hope for them to connect. This is where art therapy can help someone express and process their life using art supplies.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia takes a village. Navigating the network of medical, financial, and support services can be a full-time job. The emotional challenges of day-to-day care can take you to the breaking point. I can be the part of your loved one’s support system that is there to focus on your wellness. I’ve been where you are and can provide authentic empathy and a guiding heart and hand through this time of need.