Do You Feel Isolated Managing the impact of Parkinson’s on you or your loved one?

  • Are you or your partner struggling with a recent diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and the impact that it might have on your family?
  • Has the increased stress and emotional toll of dealing with Parkinson’s led to depression or chronic anxiety?
  • Are feelings of frustration, anger or self-doubt over your situation contributing to conflict, distance, or problems in your relationships?
  • Do you feel disconnected from loved ones as you struggle to set new expectations for yourself and your life with Parkinson’s?

Individual or relationship counseling, support groups, and the Empower Parkinson family can help you feel confident and connected.

We at Alkira Marriage & Family Therapy know and understand the vast array of relational and individual changes that can come along with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Our collaboration with Empower Parkinson, Inc, allows our trained therapists to offer support for those dealing with a Parkinson’s diagnosis through 1.) monthly support meetings, 2.) individual therapy, and 3.) couples or family therapy.

What will I experience at a monthly support meeting?

  • Monthly support meetings provide an opportunity for individuals with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, and their loved ones, to come together in search of information, emotional support, and community. Our monthly meetings typically involve informational sessions on different topics related to Parkinson’s Disease, such as mental health, medication management, and the benefits of therapies such as occupational therapy and art therapy. We bring in other service providers from the community to share with you different resources and options for dealing with Parkinson’s. Our skilled therapists facilitate open discussion groups following the informational presentations to provide space for both loved ones, as well as those diagnosed with Parkinson’s, to share their experiences.

What can I gain from individual therapy?

Our therapists at Alkira undergo additional training and education surrounding the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease to be better equipped to assist you on your Parkinson’s journey. Whether it is an adjustment to shifting expectations for one’s ability to do certain things, or commonly associated mental health symptoms, like anxiety or depression, our therapists are here for you so that you do not need to face these challenges alone. Life doesn’t stop with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, but it might bring forth new circumstances. Allow us to remind you of your strengths as we work to tackle these challenges together.

Couple or Family therapy? But I’m the only one with Parkinson’s.

While you might be the only one medically diagnosed with Parkinson’s, we as therapists know that Parkinson’s can affect more than just you. Adjusting to life with PD can be a family affair, and couple or family therapy is a great way for all those involved to sit down together and take a look at the best way to support and encourage each other. Relationships change as individuals change, so taking the time to address and understand the shifts within your relationships is important in achieving overall health and wellness.

With a supportive therapist who is aware of the challenges that individuals and families with PD face, counseling can be an effective way to address the uncertainty and/or isolation you are feeling. The empathic counselors at Alkira Therapy each have extensive experience navigating a challenging world, and we respect, value and accept you for who you are.

We create a safe environment where you can feel supported as you explore your diagnosis, relationships and other areas where you may be struggling. Rather than telling you what changes you need to make, we tailor our approach to build on your strengths and help you accept and appreciate who you are at this moment in your life. When you understand the problems you are facing, you can develop the skills and strengths you need to address specific issues and transform challenges into opportunities. With compassionate guidance and support, it is possible to expand your own story and community to include greater happiness, health and connection.

If you are going through challenges with your partner, we can help you both feel safe and comfortable as you work toward creating a healthier, happier relationship. You each bring a part of your personal stresses and hardships to your relationship, and you can both take actions to heal and strengthen the connection you share. To help you better understand conflict and how you can improve communication with your partner, we provide a variety of resources and exercises you can use at home, including date night and assigned talk time. When you are committed to resolving conflict with your partner, you can develop meaningful solutions to feel healthier and more satisfied in your relationship.

The therapists at Alkira Therapy have been committed to serving couples and families for over 25 years, and we are passionate about helping you feel valued and loved for who you are, and no matter what you are struggling with. With our experienced and compassionate guidance and support, you can feel happy and confident in relationships and other important aspects of your life.

You may still have questions or concerns about counseling for health and/or aging issues…

I’m afraid I’ll ask for help and still feel embarrassed and rejected.

At Alkira Therapy we accept you for who you are from the very beginning. Every person you interact with at Alkira Therapy is safe, respectful, and welcoming.

I know there are people I can talk to, but how do I actually take that step?

You want to find a therapist who you feel comfortable with and who understands your situation. The therapists at Alkira have extensive training and experience with Parkinson’s Disease and we are committed to compassionate, accessible counseling. If you are interested in learning more about counseling at Alkira or to schedule an appointment, we are available at 315 492-1390 or alkiratherapy@gmail.com. The hardest step is making that first call/sending that first email. Once you reach out, it gets easier.

How do I pay for these services?

Our support group meetings are part of your membership with Empower Parkinsons. Individual/couple/family therapy services are billed to your insurance. Full and partial scholarships are also available.

I’m worried people will find out I’m seeking counseling related to a recent Parkinson’s diagnosis before I’m ready for them to know. (I’m worried about people finding out)

At Alkira, we are committed to making sure your participation and story are completely confidential. Additionally, our office is located in a larger, occupied office building, providing you anonymity from even chance run-ins with friends, family members or colleagues.

Under certain circumstances we can also offer online support. Please inquire!

You Can Feel Better, Connected And Accepted.

If you’d like to become a client, please click the “Request an Appointment” button at the top of this page.