October is National Depression Awareness Month
October 1st-10th is Older Adult Mental Health Awareness Week
This month is a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health—especially for older adults. Yet far too many seniors face barriers that prevent them from getting the support they deserve.
At Roseville Elder Services, I am working hard to close these gaps.
Three Major Barriers Older Adults Face in Accessing Mental Health Care
Barrier 1: Shortage of Trained Specialists
Did you know that only 3–5% of social workers nationwide specialize in geriatrics?
This means older adults often struggle to find professionals who truly understand the unique emotional challenges of aging, caregiving, and end-of-life transitions.
Closing the Gap:
I am proud to be one of the few licensed clinical social workers specializing in gerontology, bringing expertise, compassion, and tailored strategies to support seniors and their families.
Barrier 2: Stigma Around Mental Health
Many older adults were raised in a time when mental health struggles weren’t openly discussed. Asking for help can feel uncomfortable or even shameful.
Closing the Gap:
Through workshops, community education, and one-on-one counseling, I normalize conversations about emotional well-being and create safe spaces for seniors to share their experiences without judgment.
Barrier 3: Accessibility Challenges
Transportation, mobility limitations, and technology barriers often prevent older adults from seeking or maintaining consistent care.
Closing the Gap:
I provide in-home therapy and virtual sessions, meeting seniors and caregivers where they are—literally. This flexibility helps remove one of the biggest obstacles to receiving care.
At Roseville Elder Services, my mission is simple: to make quality mental health care accessible, compassionate, and effective for older adults and caregivers in our communities.
If you or someone you know could benefit from support, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to answer questions and explore whether therapy may be a good fit.
Together, we can break the barriers and bring hope, healing, and resilience to older adults in California.
