Individual psychodynamic psychotherapy with older adults: perspectives from a nurse psychotherapist

This report reviews both historical and current literature pertaining to individual psychodynamic psychotherapy with older adults. Demographic projections for significant increases in the geriatric population are presented and linked with implications for mental health. Barriers to geriatric psychotherapy are examined, and themes common among older persons are identified. Benefits of psychotherapy to patients and psychotherapists are summarized. Literature on adult developmental theory is explored. Unique aspects of gender issues, transference, countertransference, and termination as described in the literature are presented. Implications for nursing practice include a recommendation for increased nursing efforts in the areas of practice, research, and theory building.