About older adults
Psychological support for older adults addresses loneliness, grief, adapting to retirement or illness, memory concerns and caring for a partner. Many professionals also offer sessions at home or online.
Clinical psychologists are psychologists with specialist training in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health problems, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. In some countries it is a regulated health specialty; Therapy247 checks the registration.
Getting mental health care in Brazil
Public health system · Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS)
Mental health care in the SUS is free and organised through primary care units (UBS) and Psychosocial Care Centres (CAPS), which can be reached directly or by referral.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Conselho Federal de Psicologia (CFP) and Regional Councils (CRP). Practising as a psychologist requires active registration with a CRP; check the CRP number in the national register. Search the official register
- Conselho Federal de Medicina (CFM) and Regional Councils (CRM). Psychiatrists are doctors registered with a CRM; the CFM search shows registration and any registered specialty (RQE). Search the official register
Insurance and coverage
Private health plans regulated by ANS must cover psychotherapy and psychiatric consultations within the plan network.
Online therapy in Brazil
Psychologists offering online services must have active CRP registration and be registered on the CFP's e-Psi platform (Resolution CFP 11/2018).
Urgent help in Brazil
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 193 · Corpo de Bombeiros
- 188 · CVV – Centro de Valorização da Vida
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: site.cfp.org.br, sites.usp.br
Signs to look out for
Ageing brings changes, but persistent sadness, loss of interest, anxiety, withdrawal or irritability are not an inevitable part of getting older. It may be worth seeking help after losses such as bereavement, retirement or loss of independence, when loneliness is weighing heavily, or when there are noticeable changes in memory, orientation or behaviour that worry the person or their family.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, problem-solving therapy and reminiscence or life-review therapy are effective for older adults with depression or anxiety. Neuropsychologists assess memory concerns and design cognitive stimulation. Psychologists, psychiatrists with experience in older people, occupational therapists and social workers often work together, and family carers can also receive support and guidance.
When to seek urgent help
Sudden confusion, drowsiness, difficulty speaking, weakness on one side or a fall with injury need immediate medical attention: contact your local emergency services. Seek urgent help too if an older person expresses thoughts of suicide, stops eating or drinking, or if you suspect abuse or neglect. Reviewing medication with a doctor is important when behaviour changes.
What you can do in the meantime
Staying connected matters: regular contact with family, friends, neighbours or community groups helps protect mood. Keep routines with daily activity, walks, meals and sleep, and continue hobbies or learn new ones. Check hearing and vision, since difficulties can increase isolation. Carers should also look after themselves and ask for help, as caring can be exhausting.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children, adults or older people. Day to day they conduct clinical interviews, use validated questionnaires and tests, formulate what keeps the problem going, and deliver evidence-based therapies. They often work in hospitals, community mental health teams or private practice, and coordinate with psychiatrists, family doctors and social services.
When to see a clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist is a good choice for moderate to severe or persistent difficulties: anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive problems, trauma, eating disorders, personality difficulties, or when a formal diagnosis or report is needed. If medication may be needed or there is a risk to safety, a psychiatrist should also be involved. For coaching or personal growth, other professionals may fit better.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Brazil cover psychological care?
Mental health care in the SUS is free and organised through primary care units (UBS) and Psychosocial Care Centres (CAPS), which can be reached directly or by referral.
How do I check that a clinical psychologist is licensed in Brazil?
Conselho Federal de Psicologia (CFP) and Regional Councils (CRP): Practising as a psychologist requires active registration with a CRP; check the CRP number in the national register.
Can I have online therapy in Brazil?
Psychologists offering online services must have active CRP registration and be registered on the CFP's e-Psi platform (Resolution CFP 11/2018).