Tuning In: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy in Older Adults - Softcover

Edited By Erin L. Cassidy-Eagle, Ph.D.; Laura B. Dunn, M.D.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 161537499X ISBN 13: 9781615374991

Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing, 2025

Synopsis

Drawing on the experience of authors who conduct work in psychiatric and medical clinics for geriatric patients, in both inpatient and outpatient and private practice settings, Tuning In: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy in Older Adults is an expert guide on addressing common real-world scenarios that present themselves for treatment in this population. Without discounting the value of evidence-based treatments for specific pathologies, it emphasizes the importance of advanced clinical interviewing skills for truly understanding patients' backgrounds, concerns, and goals for treatment. Filled with case vignettes, the book opens with an overview of numerous therapeutic modalities—including cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, and group therapies—and their use with older adults. It goes on to consider • Factors that impact clinical presentation and care, including cognitive functioning, socioeconomic status, structural racism, and social determinants of health • Adopting a transdiagnostic and integrative psychotherapy approach when working with older patients • Common life challenges encountered by clinicians, including new-onset alcohol and substance use, grief and bereavement, and cognitive dysfunction • Current therapeutic approaches, including the use of telehealth and digital tools, interventions in primary care, and psychological wellness groups Accessible, wide-ranging, and rooted in real-world experience, this volume provides readers with the guidance they need to effectively communicate with patients in a way that is understandable and motivating. The information included in this guide will help clinicians as they make patients and their families feel understood, respected, and hopeful about the goals of treatment.

About this title

About the Author

Erin Cassidy-Eagle, Ph.D., DBSM, is Clinical Professor and Section Co-Chief of Geriatric Psychiatry in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine in Palo Alto, California.

Laura B. Dunn, M.D., is Marie Wilson Howells Professor and Chair in the Department of Psychiatry and Director of the Psychiatric Research Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas.

From the Back Cover

Tuning In: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy in Older Adults is a comprehensive guide for addressing common real-world scenarios in geriatric mental health care. Emphasizing advanced clinical interviewing skills, the book explores therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing that impact care, such as cognitive functioning and socioeconomic status, as well as social determinants of health.

It provides valuable insights into transdiagnostic approaches and includes case vignettes that illuminate common life challenges such as grief, new-onset substance use, and cognitive decline. Highlighting innovative practices, the book delves into telehealth applications, digital tools, primary care interventions, and wellness groups.

With its accessible approach, this resource equips clinicians to communicate effectively, fostering understanding, respect, and hope among patients and their families. Rooted in real-world experience, it offers actionable guidance for creating cohesive treatment plans and establishing meaningful connections in therapeutic relationships.

Edition details

• Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
• Publication date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 161537499X
• ISBN 13: 9781615374991
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 330