Therapy Available For Montclair Seniors Experiencing Depression, Anxiety

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of Montclair. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The Township of Montclair, Division of Senior Services (Lifelong Montclair), and the Mental Health Association are collaborating to bring short-term psychotherapy and counseling services for Montclair’s senior residents through a program called Aging Well Behavioral Health.

If you or someone you know is 65 or older, lives in Montclair, and is experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by daily life, support is available.

Please call the Township of Montclair Social Worker Lisy Espindola, MA, MSW, LCSW at 973-509-4979, or by email at lespindola@montclairnjusa.org. Lisy will arrange an intake appointment with a clinician at the Mental Health Association within 10 days.

Services are covered by insurance, Medicare or by sliding scale fees. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. All services are strictly confidential.

Why Aging Well Behavioral Health Matters?

Depression is the most common mental health issue in older adults, yet it often goes unrecognized, sometimes showing as aches, fatigue or confusion. Anxiety affects 10-20% of seniors, often tied to health, finances, social life, or falling. Social isolation and loneliness, heightened by widowhood, retirement, or limited mobility, are major risks for both mental and physical health.

Major life changes like retirement, loss, reduced independence, and chronic illness can also cause psychological distress.

Recognizing these challenges is the first step in supporting mental well-being in later life. Open conversations and accessible resources make a profound difference. Community programs, peer support groups, and accessible counseling services are vital in helping older adults build resilience and find meaningful connections. Family members and caregivers also play a crucial role by noticing changes in mood or behavior, offering empathy, and guiding loved ones to seek professional support. By fostering a compassionate, stigma-free environment, we can help seniors thrive emotionally as they age.

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