I greatly value the opportunity to listen to and learn from those with more life experience. There’s a unique depth of wisdom that comes from years of lived experience, and I believe there’s always something valuable to gain from their perspectives. The insights they share often offer a broader understanding of life, enriching our own personal growth and outlook.
Ana Genece
ASW
Modalities
Anxiety Cognitive Decline
Life Transitions Chronic Pain
Grief and Loss
Learn more about Ana
Online therapy can be particularly effective for seniors for several reasons. First, it offers a level of convenience and accessibility that traditional in-person therapy may not. Many seniors may face physical mobility challenges, limited transportation options, or live in remote areas where mental health services are scarce. Online therapy removes these barriers, making it easier for them to access professional support from the comfort of their own home. It also provides a safe and comfortable environment for seniors by having access from to therapy right from their home.
Throughout my career, I have had extensive experience working with seniors, providing essential social work and case management services in both healthcare and community settings. In my most recent role, I provided telephonic care guidance to beneficiaries and their families, ensuring that education, care coordination, and support measures were in place in line with the established care plan. I collaborated with physicians and healthcare providers to integrate care plans that addressed all of the seniors’ needs, while also identifying social determinants of health and connecting clients to relevant community resources.
My work with Hospice further honed my skills in supporting senior patients by conducting psychosocial assessments and offering emotional support during their illness, including counseling and goal setting. I also educated patients and their families on available community resources and eligibility criteria while working within interdisciplinary teams to develop and periodically update comprehensive care plans. I also coordinated services for seniors, including facilitating end-of-life planning, advance directives, and funeral arrangements. I advocated for patients’ rights and ensured they had access to the resources and support they needed, while managing safety hazards in their homes. My work involved close collaboration with healthcare professionals to address the emotional and social challenges of terminally ill seniors, and I played an integral role in promoting their overall well-being.
Earlier in my career, I completed internships at Kaiser Permanente, where I provided case management and psychosocial support in various settings, including the ICU, emergency room, and oncology departments. I conducted assessments and facilitated discharge planning for senior patients, connecting them with necessary resources and support. My internship at The Department of Aging and Adult Services further strengthened my ability to assess the needs of vulnerable seniors, where I conducted in-home evaluations to determine eligibility for services like In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) and advocated for their safety and well-being.
These roles have equipped me with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by older adults, from medical and emotional needs to navigating complex healthcare systems. My ability to collaborate with healthcare providers, community organizations, and families has been key in ensuring seniors receive the care, resources, and support they need to improve their quality of life.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, holistic, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences. I use a person-in-environment perspective, considering not only the client’s mental health but also their physical, social, and cultural context, which is especially important when working with seniors facing multiple life transitions. I incorporate strength-based interventions, focusing on clients’ inherent strengths and resources to help them navigate challenges. Techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help clients address negative thought patterns, while Motivational Interviewing is used to engage those ambivalent about change, especially in cases of chronic illness or life adjustments. I also emphasize solution-focused approaches, helping clients set practical, achievable goals, and I provide trauma-informed care to those who have experienced significant life trauma. Additionally, I recognize the importance of family and caregiver involvement, offering guidance and support to ensure a collaborative, comprehensive care approach. With my background in end-of-life and grief counseling, I provide compassionate support to individuals facing terminal illness or loss, ensuring their emotional and psychological needs are addressed in tandem with medical care. Overall, my therapy style is adaptable, integrating both therapeutic techniques and collaborative care to support clients’ mental, emotional, and overall well-being.
Therapists Who Understand Aging
Have Hope After Three Sessions
After three sessions a majority of clients have hope that their situation is improving.
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Reach out to us through our website or by phone. We’ll verify your Medicare coverage to see if you qualify for free therapy sessions.
After discussing your needs, we recommend one of our experienced therapists and schedule your first appointment.
Therapists Who Understand Aging
See Change After Six Sessions
After six sessions a majority of clients have reflected that actual change occured.