Mental Health + Aging with Dr. Regina Koepp

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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, E...

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 ...

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 ...

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:

• What ageism is and how it manifests in mental health care.
• The impact of structural and individual ageism on mental and physical health.
• Research-backed insights, i...

If you’re committed to meeting the mental health needs of older adults, this episode is for you. In 2024, we saw some incredible advancements in mental health research for older adults—insights that can shape how you practice and care for this underserved population.

As a geropsychologist, I’m passionate about equipping you with the tools you need to make a difference. Let’s dive into 5 discoveries in mental health and ag...

Imagine being 85 or 95 years old, surviving a natural disaster like wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, and facing the immense challenge of grieving your losses while navigating emotional and psychological recovery. 

Older adults often show remarkable resilience, but unique challenges like chronic health conditions, isolation, and cognitive vulnerabilities can complicate the recovery process.

In this episode, I discuss h...

There was a misleading headline from The New York Times recently that claimed ADHD diagnoses are surging among "older Americans." In this episode, I set the record straight by clarifying who qualifies as an "older adult" (65+), highlighting why mental health needs for older adults are so often overlooked, and explaining how systemic issues like ageism, stigma, and misdiagnosis perpetuate these gaps.

What You’ll L...

Medicare now includes LPCs and LMFTs! Discover the new opportunities this presents for mental health professionals working with older adults.

In this Psychology of Aging episode, we dive deep into the recent changes in Medicare policies that now allow Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) to enroll as Medicare providers.

This landmark policy update, effective...

Have you ever felt rejuvenated after a day spent outdoors, perhaps gardening or simply enjoying a walk in the woods? Recently, nature has been my much needed therapy,  and it’s transformed my approach to health and aging.

In today’s episode, I’ll share how my own journey into the world of gardening and nature began at a time when I needed it most—right as I turned 48 and was worn out from constant traveling and presenting. This per...

Today we're diving deep into a topic that affects many older adults but is often misunderstood: depression and anxiety.

While these mental health conditions are prevalent among older adults, they are not a normal part of aging and deserve our attention and care.

Episode Highlights:

1. Understanding Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults:
   • Depression and anxiety are prevalent but not normal aspects of aging.
   • These conditions nee...

Did you know that 65% of adults over 65 report high-risk drinking? Understanding the unique impacts of alcohol on aging bodies is crucial for all of us.

In this episode, I'll walk you through three key considerations: increased sensitivity to alcohol, health complications, and harmful interactions with medications. We'll also discuss common triggers for increased alcohol use and practical tips for caregivers and healthcare...

Are you noticing signs of depression or anxiety in your older loved ones or clients and wondering how to approach the topic? This video is your essential guide to navigating these sensitive conversations with compassion and effectiveness. Learn from Dr. Regina Koepp, a geropsychologist, as she shares expert tips on:

Starting the Conversation: Discover how to empathize and validate their feelings to create a supportive dial...

In this touching episode, I share invaluable wisdom garnered from two decades of working intimately with older adults. 

Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, I share five transformative life lessons that challenge and inspire. 

You'll embark on a journey exploring: 

•  the fleeting nature of life and the importance of embracing every moment, 
• the profound impact of human connection, 
• the rel...

Ever wondered if older people get anxious just like young folks do?  Turns out, older adults can get anxious too, but it might look a bit different than what younger people experience. In this episode, we explore the questions:

1. How does anxiety manifest differently in older adults compared to younger individuals?
2. What biological, psychological, and social factors contribute to anxiety in seniors?
3. What is t...

Dive into '3 Myths About Aging and Intimacy', inspired by lessons from the Golden Bachelor. We'll debunk common myths surrounding love and relationships in our later years using research, not stereotypes. The Golden Bachelor, with his own love stories, teaches us that age doesn't stop true connections. Plus, if medical conditions have you worried about intimacy, we've got you covered. This episode includes ...