Americans over the age of 65 are a fast growing segment of the population. A significant percentage of elders have mental health or substance abuse concerns. This course is designed to better prepare mental health and substance abuse counselors and other related professionals for the treatment and support of elders. Students will gain knowledge of specific strategies for screening, assessment, and treatment of elders,including attention to: situational concerns such a loss, grief and social isolation;issues of trauma and elder care; differential diagnosis of new vs. existing conditions; symptoms related to dementia and Alzheimer's; mental health issues related to depression, mental illness and changes in executive function; substance use issues, including interactions with medications, and other related medical conditions. Students also will gain an understanding of the larger service systems and community resources available to elders.