What is Geropsychology? Specialized Mental Health Care for Older Adults
Mental health challenges don’t stop at midlife. In fact, for many people, the later years of life bring new emotional and psychological concerns—changes in health, loss, caregiving stress, or shifts in identity. Geropsychology is a specialty within psychology that focuses on understanding and supporting the mental health of older adults. Whether you're an older adult yourself, a concerned family member, or a professional seeking the right referral, this article will help you understand what geropsychologists do—and how they can help.
What Is a Geropsychologist?
A geropsychologist is a licensed psychologist with specialized training in the emotional, cognitive, and health-related needs of adults 65 and older. They understand how later life experiences—like grief, illness, memory changes, or role shifts—can impact mental health.
Unlike general psychologists, geropsychologists are trained to:
Recognize how medical conditions (like stroke, dementia, or chronic pain) interact with mental health
Support adjustment to retirement, loss of independence, or changes in living situations
Address the emotional impact of caregiving responsibilities or family role shifts
Communicate effectively with clients who may have cognitive, sensory, or mobility challenges
Geropsychologists are also familiar with community resources, aging services, and care coordination with other healthcare providers.
Why Specialized Care Matters
Mental health in later life looks different than in younger years. For example:
Depression in older adults may appear as irritability, fatigue, or physical complaints—not just sadness
Anxiety might be linked to medical conditions, fall fears, or caregiving stress
Grief can occur not only after losing loved ones, but also after losing health, independence, or roles that gave life meaning
Geropsychologists are trained to spot these patterns and provide support that’s age-informed, respectful, and practical.
They also understand how ageism and stigma can prevent older adults from seeking help—and they work actively to create safe, affirming spaces for people to share openly.
What Issues Can Geropsychologists Help With?
Common concerns addressed in geropsychology include:
Depression or mood changes
Anxiety or excessive worry
Grief and loss
Chronic illness and pain
Caregiver stress and family conflict
Cognitive concerns, including memory loss or dementia
Social isolation and loneliness
Life transitions (retirement, moving, identity shifts)
Some clients come to therapy after a major event—like a health diagnosis or the loss of a spouse. Others come simply to talk, process life changes, and maintain emotional well-being in a supportive space.
Therapy That Respects Your Experience
Older adults have rich life stories, deep strengths, and valuable insight. Therapy with a geropsychologist isn’t about starting over—it’s about building on what you already know, finding tools that work now, and making room for the full range of your emotional experience.
You don’t need a diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek support simply to process what they’re going through, explore new coping strategies, or get help navigating difficult conversations with family or doctors.
Who Else Can Benefit? Family Members and Professionals
Family members often notice changes before the older adult does—or they may be juggling caregiving responsibilities themselves. Geropsychologists can help families:
Understand mental health changes in aging parents or spouses
Cope with caregiver burnout
Navigate tough decisions about housing, healthcare, or support
Medical professionals, clergy, social workers, and home health staff also turn to geropsychologists when they need mental health consultation or referrals for older patients.
Why I Do This Work
As a licensed geropsychologist based in Alexandria, VA, I specialize in helping older adults, their families, and caregivers navigate emotional and behavioral health challenges related to aging. I bring both clinical training and a deep respect for the lived experiences of the people I serve. I named my practice, Bell Wellness & Mental Health, in honor of my grandmother, whose resilience, warmth, and wisdom shaped the values that guide my work.
Whether you’re facing a life transition, caring for a loved one, or simply want to protect your emotional well-being as you age, you don’t have to go through it alone. Therapy can help you reconnect with your strengths, clarify your goals, and feel more supported in the process.
Reach Out
If you’re considering mental health support for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help. Contact Bell Wellness & Mental Health to schedule a consultation or learn more about our geropsychology services.
