I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.
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Dementia and Your Loved One
4 Things To Tell Your Counselor Before Behavioral Therapy
Vickie Armstrong
Your first therapy session for a behavioral issue can be somewhat nerve wracking, especially if you aren't sure what to expect or how to get the greatest benefit from the experience. While you don't need to go into this session with all the answers, it is a good idea to sit down and put together a small list for the mental health counselor so they can better help you. The following list can help you with this.
#1: What do you hope to accomplish?
Chances are you have a very vague idea of the behavior you want to accomplish. For example, it could be overcoming an addiction or mastering a habit of poor impulse control. Yet, the reasons probably go much deeper than this. Do you want to accomplish the overall goal for your children, to improve your work performance, or to achieve a goal that is currently out of reach due to your behavior? You don't need to know all the deeper things you want to accomplish at the outset of your counseling, but it is a helpful to have a general idea.
#2: What was the tipping point?
Your counselor will need to know what was the tipping point that led you to finally seek treatment, since this can affect your treatment plan. Someone that is in therapy because of coercion, such as a court order, requires different treatment than someone that is there because they have decided themselves that it is the best option going forward. Knowing your motivation for attending can be key to successful sessions.
#3: Do you practice any personal coping methods?
Many people develop methods of coping with a behavior issue, and these methods can range from harmful to helpful. Be honest with the counselor and let them know of any coping methods you have been using, including things like self medicating with legal or illegal drugs and alcohol. Share even things that may seem silly, such as watching funny internet videos as an escape, since your counselor may be able to find healthy ways to work your personal coping methods into your treatment plan.
#4: Will bringing others to a session help?
Sometimes group therapy is helpful, especially if your behavior is affecting others that you love or if they are affecting your behavior. Let your therapist know if you are open to session with a spouse, your children, or your parents. Knowing this at the outset will help your counselor come up with an integrated treatment plan that can really help you best in the long run.
For more help, talk with a mental health counselor in your area, such as Lincoln Psychiatric Group.
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