In the latest episode of Mind My Age, Neelam Brar had the privilege of sitting down with Laura Costello, a licensed clinical social worker with a wealth of experience providing therapeutic services to older adults. Her journey at Total Life, where she serves as a clinical therapist, is profound and practical.
From Aspiration to Reality
Laura’s journey into therapy wasn’t traditional but instead ignited by a long-standing passion for psychology and voice. During our conversation, she recalled, “I’ve always had people tell me it was straightforward to talk with me, and I just made them feel better.” Her academic path may have had its turns, but her love for working with people and helping them navigate their mental health never wavered. Her experiences have been multifaceted, from working with court advocate programs to conducting mobile therapy. Each role gave her a profound insight into human behavior and the challenges people face, especially as they age. Laura shared, “The older people are, the more stories they have, and that’s fascinating.”
The Challenge of Transitions
As we age, life’s transitions can be turbulent. Retirement, for example, is a critical life stage that Laura often addresses with her clients using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She remarked, “What we work on is what the fears are, what the challenges are… turning negative thoughts, if we can, into positive thoughts.” People retiring might fear losing their identity tied to their careers, but Laura helps them explore what they can gain instead. “You have more time to do what maybe you’ve put aside for many years,” she guides.
Tools for Mental Well-being
Caring for older adults often intersects with the role of caregiving. This can be rewarding yet overwhelming. Laura emphasizes the silent burden many caregivers carry and the importance of recognizing and addressing their feelings. She notes, “Caregiving is a lonely business at many times… it’s okay to feel stress.” For those not involved in caregiving, maintaining a healthy routine is essential.
Engaging in Self-Care
To promote improvement in mental health and engagement, Laura suggests that physical engagement—like yoga or swimming—can significantly uplift an individual’s well-being. She underscores the importance of staying mentally active, advocating for social interactions, reading, and finding joy in small everyday experiences.
Laura encourages individuals to embrace self-care, explore activities that once brought them joy, and critically engage with their environment—whether it’s noticing flowers on a walk or soaking in the community atmosphere of a local farmer’s market.
For those witnessing changes in loved ones, Laura and Neelam caution that changes in routine or general disengagement could signal the need for supportive conversations around mental health. This could manifest as diminished routine adherence post-retirement or negative self-reflection.
Recognizing Signs and Taking Action
Changes in behavior can signal the need for support. Laura points out routine, personal care and interest shifts could indicate emotional distress. She advises remaining attentive and open to conversations around mental health. The sentiment, “Who cares, what does it matter?” can be a red flag that someone is experiencing sadness or depression. In her therapeutic practice, Laura uses creative ways to engage clients, such as turning a simple shower into a spa-like experience: “Put a sprig of eucalyptus up… you turn your shower into a mini little spa.”
The Power of Connection
Reflecting on her experience with Total Life, Laura appreciates the technology that enables strong connections with her clients. “We hear each other, and we connect,” she explains, emphasizing how vital this is in her therapeutic approach. For those contemplating therapy but feeling apprehensive, Laura assures them by saying, “Being a client is very brave. You’re working on you, and that is so important.” It’s a message that resonates deeply, encouraging self-care and personal growth.
A Final Thought
The engaging conversation with Laura Costello offers a glimpse into the life-altering impact of therapy for older adults navigating life’s transitions. If you want to learn more about therapy and how it might benefit you or someone you know, visit TotalLife.com. As Neelam Brar reminds us, “It’s never too late to start taking care of your mental health.” Let’s all stay mindful, stay healthy, and keep thriving.
