Marin CAMFT On-Demand Training

The mainstream conception of dementia – and often aging itself – is understood principally as a dreadful disease with little, if any, redeeming value. This understanding goes against the experiences many caregivers make in working with those showing signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s. In contrast to those speaking about a dreadful disease, they tell a different story reporting that people with dementia – given a loving environment and care – can be content and happy individuals who are spontaneous, funny and wise. It is a matter of perspective. From disease we shift to being taught another way of being in the world.

The Existential-Humanistic framework thus starts with an openness and curiosity about the person we are chartered to 'treat'. When we, as clinicians, meet with a client, this perspective provides an opportunity for humility given we learn from clients themselves. We are following the client and, in this way, are truly client-centered. The goal is to join clients and experience their world. Especially, if clients are forgetful, clinicians are more unfamiliar with the way they 'see' reality. This means that clinicians learn about the other as much as about themselves. In such a 'real' encounter, a certain 'healing' can take place, not just for the elder, but also the clinician or care provider.