My Approach to Helping
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Missouri. I use a person-centered, disease-management approach to help those with memory loss, and Parkinson's disease, and their care partners better understand their diagnosis, cope with challenging situations, and prepare for future needs. In addition, I offer individual and group cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) sessions for those with mild to moderate memory loss. CST has been shown through research to enhance mood and quality of life and support memory and communication. I see clients virtually and in my office in St. Louis County. Contact me at cheryl@cmkinney.com for a free 15-minute intake session to see if I am the right fit for you
More Info About My Practice
I have made it a personal mission to enhance the quality of life for those living with dementia and Parkinson's disease. I have a 37-year history of working with older adults and their caregivers. Twenty-four of those years were spent as the Client Services Director for the Alzheimer's Association in St. Louis. In 2020, I became a certified life coach, started a private counseling practice focused on supporting those living with memory loss and their caregivers, and co-founded Memory Keepers, a modified version of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy. In 2022, I began leading time-limited groups for those living with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers through the APDA. As a former adjunct instructor for several local Universities, I have developed and taught courses on aging, and on Alzheimer's and Dementia Care. In addition to my professional experience supporting those affected by dementia, I have also supported multiple family members with Alzheimer's disease.
My Role as a Therapist
I follow a disease management approach because research has shown that those with chronic health conditions have better outcomes when they understand their diagnosis, learn strategies for coping with symptoms, are linked to community resources, and prepare for future needs. Non-pharmacological interventions providing cognitively stimulating and socially engaging interactions, like those offered through Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, help those with mild to moderate dementia stay at home longer and have better quality of life. Contact me to learn more!
