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Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp

Science Podcasts

Welcome to The Mental Health and Aging Podcast—your go-to resource for evidence-based strategies, mental health tools, and expert insights to support the psychological, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of older adults. Hosted by clinical geropsychologist and founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging, Dr. Regina Koepp, this podcast is designed for therapists, psychologists, social workers, aging life care professionals, geriatric care managers, and healthcare providers who want to confidently address the mental health needs of older adults. Most mental health and healthcare professionals were trained to focus on the physical changes of aging—but that’s only part of the picture. This podcast explores the not-so-physical aspects of aging: 🎙️ Each episode delivers: ✔️ Practical tools and mindset shifts you can use right away ✔️ Real-life stories of healing, growth, and transformation ✔️ Behind-the-scenes lessons from building a national movement for mental health and aging ✔️ Guidance from leaders in geropsychology, health psychology, palliative care, and beyond Whether you're seeking continuing education, clinical confidence, or a deeper understanding of how to help older adults thrive, this podcast is for you. Because aging is more than decline. It’s development. And there’s no expiration date on healing, transformation, or growth Subscribe/Follow now and become the clinician older adults deserve.

Location:

United States

Description:

Welcome to The Mental Health and Aging Podcast—your go-to resource for evidence-based strategies, mental health tools, and expert insights to support the psychological, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of older adults. Hosted by clinical geropsychologist and founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging, Dr. Regina Koepp, this podcast is designed for therapists, psychologists, social workers, aging life care professionals, geriatric care managers, and healthcare providers who want to confidently address the mental health needs of older adults. Most mental health and healthcare professionals were trained to focus on the physical changes of aging—but that’s only part of the picture. This podcast explores the not-so-physical aspects of aging: 🎙️ Each episode delivers: ✔️ Practical tools and mindset shifts you can use right away ✔️ Real-life stories of healing, growth, and transformation ✔️ Behind-the-scenes lessons from building a national movement for mental health and aging ✔️ Guidance from leaders in geropsychology, health psychology, palliative care, and beyond Whether you're seeking continuing education, clinical confidence, or a deeper understanding of how to help older adults thrive, this podcast is for you. Because aging is more than decline. It’s development. And there’s no expiration date on healing, transformation, or growth Subscribe/Follow now and become the clinician older adults deserve.

Language:

English


Episodes
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#132 - Stop Projecting: What Midlife Gets Wrong About Older Adulthood

1/13/2026
A few days ago, I was interviewed for NPR’s Here & Now, and the host asked me about my “aging journey.” I felt a little flustered—not because it was a bad question, but because I’m 50. And when people ask me about aging, my mind goes straight to older adulthood: 65, 75, 85, 95 and beyond. So my answer didn’t land the way I wanted it to. I left the interview thinking, I wish I’d said that differently. What I wish I’d said in the moment is this: when I talk about aging, I’m usually talking about older adulthood—the stretch of life that can span decades, roughly from 65 to 122. It’s not a single moment or an identity you suddenly “become.” It’s a long, dynamic developmental chapter, with real change, real challenge, and real growth over time. And honestly, at 50, I don’t feel like I’ve lived enough of older adulthood to speak from deep personal experience about what it’s like. What I do know—because for the past 25 years I’ve been a geropsychologist to more than 1,000 older adults and their families—is this: when we’re in midlife and we imagine our older selves, we have to watch for the way fear can sneak in and write the story for us—because that fear can sell our future selves short, and it can miss the resilience, adaptability, and grace that so often grow with age. The biggest thing I see middle-aged people get wrong In midlife, we often project our fear and dread about aging onto older adulthood. We imagine later life through the lens of what scares us now—physical vulnerability, chronic illness, loss, dependence, mortality. But what we often miss is this: many older adults become remarkably skilled at adapting. They grow in resilience, self-compassion, and wisdom about what matters. That doesn’t erase real challenges, but it does change how we navigate those challenges. Here's an example: AARP did a large aging survey of more than 2000 people and found that fear of death generally decreases with age. In other words, what feels terrifying in midlife may not feel the same once you actually arrive in later life. Key Takeaways My invitation for you this week If you’re in midlife, notice when you’re imagining older adulthood through your current fears. And if you’re a clinician, caregiver, or family member, practice holding this wider frame: Yes, aging can bring physical vulnerability. And it can also bring increased adaptability, clarity, and grace. Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 — The NPR question that threw me off 01:00 — Two meanings of “aging” (lifespan vs. older adulthood) 02:10 — The midlife projection trap 02:30 – A research example: fear of death tends to decrease with age 03:10 – What we miss: adaptation, resilience, self-compassion 04:10 – Why Regina cringes at the midlife “aging journey” question 04:45 – This week’s tip: don’t project your stage onto theirs 05:05 – Closing and what’s coming next Click here for all Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:05:31

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#131- How to Support Someone with Dementia and PTSD

9/2/2025
When someone is living with both dementia and PTSD, their needs are complex—but support is still possible, and it can make a world of difference. In this episode, I share what I’ve learned as a geropsychologist working with veterans and older adults navigating both cognitive impairment and trauma. You’ll discover: You’ll also hear real stories from my clinical work and gain trauma-informed approaches you can start using right away to improve quality of life for people living with dementia and PTSD. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance mental health care with dementia care, this conversation will give you the clarity, compassion, and tools you need. Click here to link to show notes and resources Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:09:59

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#130 - Link Between Trauma and Dementia: Can Unresolved Trauma Increase Dementia Risk?

8/26/2025
Can Unresolved Trauma Increase Dementia Risk? Trauma doesn’t just leave emotional scars—it can change the brain. And when post-traumatic stress goes untreated, the risk for dementia later in life rises. In this episode of my mental health and dementia series, I explore how trauma and PTSD intersect with brain health. Drawing from decades of research and my years working with older veterans, I break down why unresolved trauma increases vulnerability to dementia disorders and what clinicians can do to help. This conversation isn’t just about understanding risk—it’s about hope. Trauma treatment works at any age, and healing now doesn’t only restore quality of life today, it also protects the brain for tomorrow. 3 Key Takeaways from This Episode 1⃣ Trauma raises dementia risk. Landmark studies show veterans with PTSD have double the risk of dementia, and depression or anxiety tied to trauma can increase dementia risk even decades later. 2⃣ The body keeps the score. Trauma heightens cortisol and inflammation, which damage the heart and brain. What’s bad for the heart is bad for the brain. 3⃣ Treatment protects the brain. Trauma therapy in older adulthood restores quality of life now and strengthens brain health and autonomy for the future. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Click here to see the show notes and get all resources mentioned in this episode. Download your free Trauma Informed Care Guide here Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:25:59

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#129 - Sleep Problems & Dementia Risk: What Every Provider Must Know

8/19/2025
Last week, a therapist told me about her client, an 82-year-old woman who hadn’t had more than 6 hours of sleep in years. “It’s just part of getting older,” the woman sighed. But here’s the truth—fatigue isn’t a normal part of aging, and chronic sleep problems may be quietly raising her risk for dementia. As professionals, we can no longer shrug off insomnia in older adults. The stakes are simply too high. In this episode, I reveal the powerful connection between chronic sleep problems and dementia risk—and why ignoring insomnia symptoms can have lasting consequences for brain health. Here's What You'll Learn In This Episode: As professionals, we hold the keys to better brain health in aging—often starting with something as simple, yet essential, as quality sleep. Click here to go to show notes and get resources on sleep and aging. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:16:43

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#128- Alcohol + Dementia: Does moderate drinking increase dementia risk?

8/11/2025
If you’ve ever been told that “a little wine is good for you,” you might want to hear what the latest science says—especially when it comes to the aging brain. In this episode, I share compelling new research showing that even moderate alcohol use in midlife and later life may significantly increase the risk of dementia. I’ll walk you through why alcohol use in older adults often goes undetected, how it impacts brain health, and the exact screening tools and questions I use—and that you can use too—to spot red flags early. This isn’t about scare tactics. It’s about equipping you with the facts, the tools, and the confidence to support safer, healthier aging. Whether you’re a therapist, care manager, or simply someone who wants to protect your own brain health, you’ll come away knowing why there may be no safe level of alcohol when it comes to dementia prevention. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1⃣ The brain changes alcohol accelerates—from memory loss to neurotransmitter disruption. 2⃣ Why “invisible” alcohol misuse often goes undetected in later life—and how to spot it. 3⃣ Three screening tools every clinician should know: SMAST-G, AUDIT-C, and CAGE Questionnaire. 4⃣The good news: Older adults can recover—and often have better treatment outcomes than younger adults when care is tailored to them. Click here to get all of the resources mentioned in this episode here If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we’re building a movement for mental health and aging—because there is no expiration date on healing, transformation, and growth. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:19:26

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#127 - Anxiety & Dementia: Anxiety Treatment is Essential to Reducing Dementia Risk

8/5/2025
Anxiety increases dementia risk by 24% (about the same rate as diabetes) —but treatment for anxiety corrects this. Learn why early detection and treatment in older adults is critical to brain health. In this episode, I unpack the groundbreaking connection between anxiety and dementia. You’ll learn why anxiety is not a normal part of aging—and why your role as a therapist, social worker, psychologist, or aging life care expert is critical in reducing long-term cognitive decline. You’ll walk away with four actionable steps you can take to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older clients—and possibly prevent dementia in the process. This isn't just about reducing symptoms. It's about restoring dignity, peace of mind, and protecting brain health—now and for years to come. Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ How anxiety affects the aging brain and increases dementia risk ✅ Why anxiety is often missed or misdiagnosed in older adults ✅ How to screen, normalize, and treat anxiety in therapy ✅ The importance of collaborative care and early detection ✅ How you can adapt your practice to better serve older clients 👉 Get the full list of research and clinical tools I mention here: https://www.mentalhealthandaging.com/podcast/anxiety-dementia-what-therapists-must-know/ Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:12:14

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#126- Depression + Dementia: How Depression Treatment Prevents Dementia- According to Science

7/30/2025
The Hidden Link Between Depression and Dementia Every time I sit with a client and help them move through depression, I know I’m not just helping them feel better in the moment—I may also be protecting their brain years down the road. That’s not just a hope—it’s science. In this episode, I’m diving into the powerful link between mental health treatment and dementia prevention. So many therapists don’t realize that untreated depression in midlife and later life increases the risk of dementia. But here’s the hopeful truth: when we treat depression, we don’t just reduce suffering—we may delay or even prevent cognitive decline. If you’re a therapist, this episode is a call to action. You have more power than you think to shape not just your client’s emotional well-being, but their cognitive future. I’ll walk you through the research, the biology, and—most importantly—what you can do right now to support your older clients in living full, vibrant, and connected lives. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Visit the show notes here Have a topic idea? Send us a text. 👉 Want to Become an Aging Informed Therapist? Join us for our live CE course on 8/21/25 from 12-1:30pm EST. Click here to learn more. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:17:26

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125 - Therapy That Works for 30-Year-Olds Doesn’t Always Work at 75 | Why Therapy Needs to Change With Age

7/19/2025
If your 75-year-old client stops coming to therapy, it might not be them. It might be your approach. In this episode, I explore why therapy must evolve, just like people, with age. I share five powerful ways to evolve your practice to better serve older adults. While many therapists are trained to work with adults in general, most graduate and continuing education programs focus on midlife or younger adulthood, often excluding older adulthood entirely. The result is a significant gap in care. Therapy that resonates with younger adults can fall flat or even feel dismissive for older clients. When therapists don't adapt their approach, clients may feel unseen, misunderstood, or disengaged—not because they’re resistant, but because the therapy model doesn’t reflect their stage of life. This episode will help you recognize what shifts with age, why it matters in clinical practice, and how to modify your work for more effective and compassionate outcomes. What You’ll Learn Want to learn more? Enroll in my upcoming 90min CE course on "Becoming an Aging-Informed Therapist" - Live July 22, 2025 Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:22:22

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#124- Chronic Pain and Depression: Breaking the Cycle with Mental Health Care

6/17/2025
Chronic pain increases the risk for depression and suicide. The connection between chronic pain and depression is stronger—and more dangerous—than most professionals realize. In this powerful episode, Dr. Regina Koepp sits down with pain psychology expert, Dr. Jennifer Steiner, to uncover the complex and bidirectional relationship between chronic pain, depression, and suicide risk. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: twice as likely Whether you’re a therapist, psychologist, social worker, or aging life care expert—this episode will transform the way you think about pain. Because treating chronic pain isn’t just about reducing discomfort… it’s about restoring dignity, function, and hope. Click here to see show notes AttentionTherapists: Download your free guide on the Depression-Pain Cycle Pain Psychology Certificate Course (14.5 CE Credits)Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:14:29

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123- Chronic Pain & Aging: 4 Themes Therapists Must Know

6/10/2025
Chronic pain isn’t just physical—it's personal, emotional, and deeply misunderstood. And when it comes to older adults, the pain often hides in plain sight. In this episode, I sit down with pain psychology expert, Dr. Jennifer Steiner, to explore the invisible impact of chronic pain and what every therapist must understand to truly help older adults living with it. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective—and four critical psychological themes—that can transform the way you support older adults in your practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The real size of the chronic pain epidemic—and why it’s often underestimated in older adults Common pain conditions affecting people 65+ Dr. Steiner’s personal journey from growing up with chronic pain to becoming a national leader in pain psychology How chronic pain influences mental health, identity, relationships, and work The 4 psychological themes every therapist must recognize when treating chronic pain: The Body as an ObstaclePain is Invisible—and RealDisrupted Sense of SelfUnpredictability of the Condition AttentionTherapists: Download your free guide on the Depression-Pain Cycle Pain Psychology Certificate Course (14.5 CE Credits) Click here to go to Show Notes Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:13:41

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#122 - My Aging Parent Won't Stop Giving Money to A Scammer. What Can I Do?

6/3/2025
What do you do when your aging parent is being scammed—and keeps sending money even after you’ve begged them to stop? It’s heartbreaking. It’s infuriating. And it can leave you feeling powerless. If this is happening in your family, you’re not alone—and there is hope. In this episode, I unpack what’s really going on when an older adult falls victim to financial exploitation, why they often can’t stop—even when they know it’s a scam—and how to intervene without shaming or severing the relationship. You'll learn: ✅ Why people get trapped in scams—even when the truth is obvious ✅ What “dignity of risk” and “duty of care” mean for families ✅ How to lead with compassion instead of control ✅ What to do when cognitive decline might be involved ✅ Concrete steps to prevent revictimization ✅ Where to turn for professional support Whether you're a family member or a professional working with older adults, this episode is packed with tools to help you respond with clarity, compassion, and courage. Professionals: Click here to get your free "Support for Older Adults After Financial Scams" Guide Resources Mentioned: Older Adult Nest EggAARP Fraud Watch NetworkGive an HourCenter for Mental Health & AgingAdult Protective Services Click here to see the show notes Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:10:57

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#121 - Is Late Life Depression Treatable?

5/27/2025
Depression is not a normal part of aging—yet it's silently stealing joy, independence, and even life from millions of older adults. Most go undiagnosed and untreated. Why? Because we mistake their suffering for “just getting older.” But here’s the truth: late-life depression is serious—and it’s highly treatable. In today’s episode, you’ll learn how to spot the signs, challenge the myths, and take action that truly changes lives. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Here’s the Truth: When older adults don’t receive mental health care: ✔️ Medical issues worsen ✔️ Medication use increases ✔️ Hospital visits spike ✔️ Caregiver and family stress grows ✔️ Quality of life plummets ✔️ Suicide risk rises But when they do get care? Healing happens. Purpose returns. And lives transform. Click here to get resources mentioned in this episode. Remember... it’s only with your help that we can meet the mental health needs of older adults. So thank you for being here—and thank you for doing your part. Subscribe and Leave a Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we're building a movement for mental health and aging. Because there is no expiration date on healing, transformation, and growth. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:07:53

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#120 - How I Built the Center for Mental Health & Aging

5/20/2025
Ever wonder what it really takes to build a national movement for mental health and aging? In this inspiring behind-the-scenes episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the heart, hustle, and healing that built the Center for Mental Health & Aging. You’ll hear where it all started—from working late nights with two small children at home to battling systemic bias in healthcare settings. I’ll walk you through the moments I nearly gave up, the surprising victories, and the “why” that keeps me going. If you’re a mental health professional, aging services provider, or change-maker with a mission-driven heart, this episode is for you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: GO TO SHOW NOTES HERE Resources Mentioned: Free Download: Clinician's Guide to Mental Health & AgingMental Health & Aging Certificate ProgramCulturally Inclusive, Trauma-Informed Care with Older Adults Certificate ProgramEnd of Life Ethics & Psychotherapy CourseSee all CEU Courses National Provider Directory Remember... it’s only with your help that we can meet the mental health needs of older adults. So thank you for being here—and thank you for doing your part. Subscribe and Leave a Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we're building a movement for mental health and aging. Because there is no expiration date on healing, transformation, and growth. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:27:07

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#119- Loneliness in Older People: Must Have Tools to Address Loneliness & Isolation

4/16/2025
Loneliness is as harmful as smoking—and 43% of older adults experience loneliness. Social Isolation increases the risk of dementia 31%. The cure? Connection and Belonging. Are older adults really lonelier than young people? You might be surprised by the answer. In this episode of The Psychology of Aging, we uncover the complex truth about loneliness and isolation in older adults—and why their impact is far more dangerous than many realize. You'll learn the critical difference between loneliness and social isolation, how they each affect caregivers and people living with dementia, and why the consequences can be as severe as smoking, drinking, or living with obesity. But we won’t stop there. You'll also discover the revolutionary power of “social prescribing”—a compassionate, connection-first approach to well-being that’s gaining momentum in healthcare. You'll hear about a small-town doctor writing prescriptions for coffee and community… and how you can do the same in your own clinical practice. Whether you're a psychologist, therapist, social worker, or aging services professional, this episode will inspire you to screen, connect, and prescribe belonging. What You'll Learn: less lonelydifference between loneliness and isolationdementia, heart disease, stroke, and depressionquality of social tiesbook clubs, walking groups, and even coffee shopsscreening tools Click here for all of the resources mentioned in this episode Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:13:15

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#118-How Does Financial Exploitation Affect Older Adults' Mental Health?

4/9/2025
Have you ever wondered what really happens after someone is scammed out of $25,000? Not only the steps to take after you've been scammed, but the psychological toll? A couple weeks ago, I received an email from a listener asking for help—resources for older adults who’ve been financially exploited. That email sparked this episode, and I’m so glad it did. Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of what it’s really like for older adults after financial exploitation. I’ll share two powerful stories—one of an 84-year-old and another of a 46-year-old—and walk you through the unconscious age biases that shape how we react to fraud victims. We’ll also talk about the common scams, the emotional fallout, and most importantly—what you can do to support healing and prevent re-traumatization. This episode is especially close to my heart. I was invited by the Vermont Financial Elder Abuse Specialist Team to lead a workshop on this very topic, and I’ve been wanting to share it with you ever since. If you care about protecting and uplifting older adults—this is a must-listen. What You'll Learn in This Episode: emotional timelineClick here to get all the resources mentioned in this episode A Guide for Mental Health and Aging Services Professionals to Supporting Older Adults Recovering from Financial Exploitation. Click here to download the guide Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:21:31

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#117- My Personal Experience With Vicarious Trauma: Recognizing and Healing Secondary Traumatic Stress

2/25/2025
The first sign I was experiencing vicarious trauma hit me like a ton of bricks. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and heal from the emotional impact of therapy. I am so glad that you're here and joining me for part two of Trauma-Informed Care with Older Adults. Today’s episode focuses on you—the professional in your role of providing care and services to older adults. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, mental health provider, aging services professional, or home health aide, your health and wellness matter just as much as the people you serve. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with older adults in various settings, many of whom were recovering from significant trauma. I have always been diligent about self-care and sought support through my own therapy. But my experience with vicarious trauma still caught me off guard—and it hit me hard. In this episode, I share my own journey of recognizing vicarious trauma, the signs to look for, and how to navigate healing so you can continue doing the work you love without sacrificing your well-being. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Click here to Get your free Trauma-Informed Care Guide Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters in Aging Services A trauma-informed approach: ✔️ Improves trust and engagement between older adults and providers ✔️ Leads to better health outcomes and reduces health inequities ✔️ Helps providers avoid burnout and fosters resilience within care teams Click here to go to the show notes for this episode Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:23:53

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#116- PTSD and Trauma Informed Care Among Older Adults

2/18/2025
Up to 90% of older adults have experienced trauma, yet their needs are often overlooked. Learn the essentials of trauma-informed care and how to foster healing and resilience. Trauma-informed care is essential for supporting older adults across healthcare, mental health, and social service settings. In this episode, we explore: ✅ The difference between trauma treatment and Trauma Informed Care ✅ The three E’s of trauma: Events, Experience, and Effects ✅ The impact of trauma across the lifespan, from adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to end of life. ✅ The connection between PTSD, aging, and medical trauma ✅ The four R’s of trauma-informed care ✅ How culturally inclusive trauma-informed care improves outcomes for older adults and healthcare teams Click here to Get your free Trauma-Informed Care Guide Click here to get access all of the resources and references mentioned in this episode Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:29:15

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#115- Must Know Barriers Keeping Older Adults from Mental Health Care

2/11/2025
Did you know that 20-22% of older adults have a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder—yet most go undetected and untreated? This isn’t because these conditions aren’t treatable, but because systemic barriers, misconceptions, and a lack of professional training make it harder for older adults to access the care they deserve. In today’s episode, we break down barriers preventing older adults from receiving the mental health support they need. You’ll learn how common myths about aging impact mental health care, why stigma plays a significant role, and what you can do to change the landscape of care for older adults. What You'll Learn in This Episode: major barriersmisconceptionsageism in health care and mental health professionsconnection between mental health, chronic illness, and dementia riskhelp bridge older adults to mental health care How You Can Help Older adults deserve access to quality mental health care. Whether you are a mental health professional or someone who works with older adults, you play a key role in bridging the gap. 📢 Want to improve your ability to recognize and address memory concerns in older adults? Download my free training This 10-minute expert training will help you gain clarity on detecting memory loss in therapy—a crucial skill for ensuring older adults receive the mental health support they need. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:17:39

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#114-Finding Joy in Life’s Hardest Moments with Steven Petrow

2/4/2025
What if joy isn’t something we find, but something we create—especially in life’s hardest moments? In this episode of The Psychology of Aging Podcast, award-winning journalist and bestselling author Steven Petrow returns to share insights from his newest book, The Joy You Make. After experiencing profound loss—losing both parents, the end of a marriage, and supporting his sister through terminal cancer—Steven embarked on a journey to understand how joy coexists with grief, resilience, and even imperfection. Through deeply personal stories, humor, and wisdom, he reveals how small, intentional acts can bring light even in life’s darkest seasons. Whether you’re struggling to reclaim joy or simply want to invite more of it into your daily life, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to cultivate joy in unexpected ways. Don’t miss this heartwarming and thought-provoking episode! Here's a Peek Inside the Episode: [01:54] Why a Book on Joy?[06:45] The Pecan Pie Competition & Joy of Storytelling[09:22] The Difference Between Happiness and Joy[12:50] Why We Struggle to Allow Ourselves Joy[17:22] Joy and Resilience[24:37] Embracing Imperfection[29:58] The Bond Between Siblings & Honoring Loss[32:00] Medical Aid in Dying: Julie’s Choice- [38:12] Joy Amidst Grief[39:23] A Simple Call to Action for Joy- Click here to get access to all of the resources mentioned in this episode. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:42:22

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#113-Types of Ageism in Mental Health Care: Hidden Biases Harm Clients

1/28/2025
Have you ever thought, “Older adults are just set in their ways” or “Therapy isn’t effective for older clients”? If so, this episode is for you. Today, we tackle the hidden biases that even seasoned mental health professionals may hold toward older adults. You’ll learn: We also explore the unique challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) older adults: 89%50% of Black AmericansThese statistics highlight the urgent need for culturally responsive, anti-ageist, and anti-racist mental health care practices. Let’s rewrite the narrative: Older adults are resilient, capable, and deserving of high-quality mental health care. Click here to visit the show notes page for all references and resources Resources Mentioned: 5 Expert Strategies for Addressing Memory Loss in TherapyContinuing education course on the impact of ageism Subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a colleague or friend. Together, we can ensure older adults are included in the mental health conversation. Follow Dr. Regina Koepp: Website: www.drreginakoepp.com & Center for Mental Health & Aging LinkedIn: Regina Koepp, Psy.D. Have a topic idea? Send us a text. PROFESSIONALS: Grab your free guide to working with older adults here Attention Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Psychologists, Aging Life Care Experts... Click here to get Continuing Education Credits

Duration:00:24:12