Geriatric Services at CDCW

Supporting Adults Ages 65 and Older

At CDCW, we understand that the later stages of life bring unique joys as well as distinct challenges. Many older adults experience transitions such as retirement, changes in physical health, loss of loved ones, shifting family roles, and concerns about independence or memory. These experiences can deeply affect emotional well-being, self-identity, and overall quality of life.
Our Geriatric Services are designed to provide comprehensive support for older adults and their families. We offer therapy, assessments, specialized evaluations, and medication management that address both the emotional and cognitive aspects of aging. Our clinicians bring warmth, respect, and expertise to every interaction, honoring the life experiences of our clients while helping them navigate new challenges with dignity and resilience.

Whether you or your loved one is facing issues related to mood, memory, adjustment, or family relationships, our goal is to help older adults feel supported, connected, and empowered to live with purpose and fulfillment.

Initial Intake & Assessment

The first step in working with older adults at CDCW is a comprehensive intake assessment. This initial session focuses on understanding your concerns, medical history, current life circumstances, and cognitive and emotional functioning. During the session, your clinician may use standardized tools and structured interviews to help clarify symptoms and provide context for your concerns. This process allows us to identify the nature and scope of challenges and develop an individualized plan for treatment. When appropriate, and with your written consent, our clinicians collaborate with physicians, psychiatrists, family members, or caregivers to ensure a coordinated approach. In some cases, a formal psychological or neuropsychological evaluation may be recommended to address memory, cognitive functioning, or mood-related concerns.

Individual Therapy for Older Adults

One-on-one therapy provides a supportive and confidential space for older adults to process emotions, adjust to life changes, and strengthen coping skills. Therapy can help with:

  • Managing depression, anxiety, and grief
  • Adjusting to health changes or physical limitations
  • Strengthening resilience during retirement or major transitions
  • Reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation
  • Enhancing overall quality of life Our clinicians tailor therapy to each person’s needs and preferences, using evidence-based approaches that support emotional well-being while respecting the individual’s life experiences

Family Therapy

Family relationships play an important role in the lives of older adults. Family therapy can help address challenges related to caregiving, communication, decision-making, and intergenerational dynamics. These sessions may involve adult children, spouses, or other family members. Therapy focuses on fostering empathy, understanding, and effective problem-solving while reducing conflict and stress.

Group Therapy

Group therapy provides a safe and supportive space for older adults to connect with peers who may be facing similar challenges. Whether managing grief, chronic illness, anxiety, or adjustment to retirement, group settings offer valuable support, skill-building, and shared encouragement. CDCW offers a variety of groups for older adults, typically in 8-week cycles. Please visit our Group Therapy page or contact our office for current offerings.

Psychological & Neuropsychological Evaluations

Accurately assessing mental health and cognitive functioning in older adults requires a careful, developmentally informed approach. Aging can bring changes in mood, memory, and daily functioning that may overlap with medical conditions or side effects of medication. CDCW provides comprehensive evaluations to clarify concerns, guide treatment planning, and support medical or caregiving decisions. Evaluations may include clinical interviews, cognitive testing, behavioral observations, and collateral input from caregivers or medical providers (with consent). Formal evaluations can provide valuable insight into:

  • Memory Concerns and Cognitive Changes
  • Dementia and Alzheimer’s Screening
  • Attention and Executive Functioning
  • Depression and Anxiety Disorders
  • Bipolar Disorder and Mood Regulation
  • Grief and Adjustment Concerns
  • Adaptive and Daily Living Functioning

Medication Management

For many older adults, medication can be a key part of treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline. Our geriatric providers offer specialized psychiatric medication management services that are tailored to the needs of aging individuals. We carefully consider medical history, current medications, age-related changes in metabolism, and co-occurring health conditions to ensure safe and effective treatment. Ongoing collaboration with primary care providers and specialists allows us to take a holistic, integrated approach to care.

Medication management appointments may include:

  • Psychiatric evaluations to determine whether medication is appropriate
  • Ongoing monitoring of effectiveness and side effects
  • Education about medications and treatment options
  • Support in making informed decisions about care
  • Our goal is to use medication judiciously, in combination with therapy and other supports, to improve quality of life and help clients maintain independence and emotional well-being

At CDCW, our mission is to support older adults in living meaningful, connected, and fulfilling lives. We are committed to providing compassionate, individualized care that honors each person’s experiences while promoting emotional and cognitive well-being. If you or a loved one are navigating the challenges of aging, our Geriatric Services team is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way.