Griffiths, Alys Wyn, Stokes, Louis, Charura, Divine ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3509-9392, Gates, Cara, Mikhaylova-O’Connell, Yelena, Jeffery, Sophie, Whittlesea Reed, Esther, Donnellan, Warren, Shoesmith, Emily, O’Donnell, Jennifer, Webster, Elliot and Wilkinson, Heather (2026) How do people with dementia and their families reflect on their experiences of psychotherapeutic interventions? Aging & Mental Health. pp. 1-12.

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Abstract

Background
People living with dementia may experience low quality of life; some also experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. Psychotherapeutic interventions, which involve conversations with a trained therapist, allow people with dementia and their families/caregivers to receive emotional support. However, little is known about how people with dementia and their families understand, receive and respond to psychotherapeutic interventions.

Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people with dementia (n = 14) and family members (n = 9), either individually or in dyads. Data were analysed using framework analysis.

Results
Three themes were identified: navigating therapy with dementia, finding a place for the person with dementia in the therapeutic space, and creating and maintaining a therapeutic relationship.

Discussion
Therapists having specialist knowledge of dementia supported a meaningful therapeutic experience for people with dementia and their families. Assumptions about people with dementia being unable to develop and maintain a meaningful therapeutic relationship seem unfounded, and ensuring this is acknowledged within services is key to equitable access to interventions for families affected by dementia. Core competences are required for therapists to ensure that they are appropriately skilled to do so and feel confident in delivering this care.

Item Type:	Article
Status:	Published
DOI:	10.1080/13607863.2026.2729257
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology > BF637 Counselling
School/Department:	School of Education, Language and Psychology
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/15831

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