Health psychologists play a critical role in supporting caregivers of patients with dementia — yet many clinicians feel underprepared for the emotional complexity of this work.

In this episode, we interview Beverly E. Thorn, Ph.D., the author of Before I Lose My Own Mind, a powerful exploration of dementia caregiving and the psychological toll it takes on families. We discuss how health psychologists can support dementia caregivers, recognize caregiver burnout, and provide meaningful mental health strategies throughout the progression of the illness.

This conversation focuses on practical clinical skills for health psychologists in practice and training, including how to address anticipatory grief, emotional burden, role transitions, and resilience in caregivers of dementia patients. Whether you work in primary care, behavioral health, geriatrics, or integrated care, you’ll gain tools to better support caregivers navigating one of the most challenging experiences in healthcare.

Episode Citations:

https://drbeverlythorn.com/

Before I Lose My Own Mind: Navigating Life as a Dementia Caregiver by Beverly E. Thorn

Cognitive Therapy for Chronic Pain (Second Edition): A Step-by-Step Guide by Beverly E. Thorn

Global Deterioration Scale for Dementia

Episode Credits:

Hosts: Josh Eyer, PhD and Elena Silberman Scott, PhD,MA
Produced by Valeria Martinez-Kaigi, PhD, MS
Managing Editor: Mark Vogel, PhD. ABPP
Edited by Isaac Schutz

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