Wellness-Based Counseling for Caregivers of Persons with Dementia

Abstract

The prevalence of dementia diagnoses has rapidly increased over the past several decades. Family caregivers of persons with dementia face numerous daily challenges that can negatively impact their well-being. The wellness of caregivers is affected by a range of emotional, social, existential, and self-care factors; hence a mental health counseling approach that addresses these elements is needed. The Indivisible Self (IS-WEL) model is an evidence-based framework for conceptualizing the wellness construct and includes multiple factors that are associated with caregiver well-being. Wellness counseling utilizing the IS-WEL model offers a structure for providing counseling services that support the whole caregiver by mobilizing strengths, improving coping, and enhancing overall well-being. A case vignette demonstrating the application of the IS-WEL model for treatment planning and wellness counseling with a caregiver is presented.