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.
Psychotherapists are professionals trained in one or more models of psychotherapy (psychodynamic, systemic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioural…). The protected title and requirements vary by country; profiles show each professional’s training and registration.
Getting mental health care in South Africa
Public health system · Public health system
Mental health care is available through public clinics and hospitals, usually starting at a primary health care clinic.
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Psychologists, registered counsellors and psychometrists must be registered with the HPCSA; check the category and status on the HPCSA register. Search the official register
- Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Psychiatrists are medical practitioners registered with the HPCSA in the psychiatry specialty. Search the official register
Urgent help in South Africa
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 10177 · Ambulance and fire
- 0800 567 567 · SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline
- 0861 322 322 · LifeLine South Africa – Trauma & Crisis Line
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: hpcsa.co.za
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 psychotherapist do?
A psychotherapist helps people understand and change emotional, relational and behavioural patterns through a structured therapeutic relationship. Their work is shaped by one or more models, such as cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic, systemic, humanistic or integrative therapy. They meet individuals, couples, families or groups, usually in regular sessions, and spend time outside sessions on notes, preparation and their own supervision.
When to see a psychotherapist
Psychotherapy suits people who want to work in depth on recurring difficulties: anxiety, low mood, relationship patterns, self-esteem, the effects of past experiences or major life transitions. It can also help when you feel stuck without a clear diagnosis. If you need a formal diagnosis, a specific psychological assessment or medication, a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist may need to be involved.
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 South Africa cover psychological care?
Mental health care is available through public clinics and hospitals, usually starting at a primary health care clinic.
How do I check that a psychotherapist is licensed in South Africa?
Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA): Psychologists, registered counsellors and psychometrists must be registered with the HPCSA; check the category and status on the HPCSA register.