Older Adult Services

Mental Health Care That Honors a Lifetime of Experience

Growing older comes with its own set of profound changes – retirement, the loss of loved ones, shifting family roles, declining health, increased isolation, and the quiet but very real challenge of finding meaning and purpose in a new chapter of life. For many older adults, these transitions can trigger or worsen depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions that deserve just as much attention and care as any physical health concern.

At the Behavioral Medical Center – Troy in Michigan, we provide sensitive, age-informed mental health care for older adults – combining expert psychiatric medication management with evidence-based psychotherapy to support emotional wellbeing, cognitive health, and quality of life.

Mental Health Challenges Common in Older Adults

Many older adults experience mental health struggles that go unrecognized or are mistakenly attributed to “just getting older.” Our providers are experienced in identifying and treating a range of conditions that commonly affect this population, including:

  • Depression and persistent sadness or withdrawal
  • Anxiety and excessive worry
  • Grief and bereavement
  • Loneliness and social isolation
  • Adjustment to chronic illness or physical limitations
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Caregiver stress and burnout
  • Cognitive changes and memory concerns
  • Trauma – both longstanding and recent
  • Mood disorders and emotional dysregulation

Psychotherapy for Older Adults

Talk therapy is highly effective for older adults and remains one of the most powerful tools available for improving emotional wellbeing at any age. Our therapists work with older adult patients using approaches that are thoughtful, flexible, and adapted to each individual’s communication style, cognitive capacity, and life experience.

Therapeutic approaches we utilize include:

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Identifying and reshaping thought patterns that contribute to depression, anxiety, or negative self-perception
  • Interpersonal Therapy – Addressing grief, role transitions, and relationship dynamics that affect mood
  • Psychodynamic Therapy – Exploring longstanding emotional patterns and finding new ways to relate to past experiences
  • Solution-Focused Therapy – Building on existing strengths to navigate current challenges with confidence
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques – Practical tools for managing stress, worry, and physical tension

Medication Management for Older Adults

When medication is part of the treatment plan, older adults require an especially careful and informed approach. Age-related changes in metabolism, increased sensitivity to side effects, and the complexity of managing multiple medications for physical health conditions all require a provider who understands the nuances of prescribing for this population.

Our psychiatric providers approach medication management for older adults with:

  • A thorough review of all current medications to assess for interactions
  • Conservative prescribing – starting at lower doses and adjusting gradually
  • Close monitoring for side effects and cognitive effects
  • Regular follow-up appointments to evaluate response and make adjustments
  • Coordination with primary care and specialist physicians when appropriate

Involving Family When It Helps

With the patient’s consent, we welcome the involvement of family members or caregivers in the care process. Navigating a loved one’s mental health needs can be overwhelming, and our team is here to support not just the patient, but the people around them as well.

Convenient Options for Every Situation

We offer both in-person visits at our Troy, MI office and telehealth virtual appointments – making it easier for older adults with mobility challenges, transportation limitations, or health concerns to access consistent, high-quality care from the comfort of home.

You’ve earned the right to feel well. Visit bmctroy.com and go to the Electronic Forms tab to complete the New Patient Intake Form – we will call you back within 1–2 business days to schedule a confidential assessment. If you have any questions, call us at 248.528.9000.