Sandra J. Kearns, Ph.D.                                                                     
Licensed Psychologist                                                                                                                                                    20101 SW Birch St., 130-B
PSY 20202                                                                                                                                                                           Newport Beach, CA 92660
Psychology After 50
  (PsychAfter50.com)
Dr. Sandra Kearns offers
specialized psychological services
to individuals 50 years and older
who are concerned about life
transitions, cognitive health
(functioning of the mind), and/or
emotional health.
                     What Happens to Us After 50?
Life is a process, a natural evolution. Although our lives are constantly
changing and reforming, many middle-aged and older adults speak about
the accelerating rate of change, the need to make so many adaptations,
and the resulting confusion about their sense of self and purpose in life.
Some of the changes entail alterations in memory and/or functional
capacity, others may involve coping with medical problems, while still
others require adjusting to loss (e.g., of a loved one, of a career). These
issues can be addressed in the collaborative setting of Dr. Kearns'
psychology practice.
                   What is the Psychologist's Role?
When cognitive and emotional concerns are negatively affecting your life,
it is probably time to seek professional guidance. Psychologists are
trained to combine their clinical experience with research-based
knowledge to guide you in managing your personal difficulties.

Dr. Kearns is well qualified to provide you with such a melding of clinical
and research expertise, having begun her career as a research and
academic psychologist before becoming licensed in the area of clinical
psychology. In addition, her clinical training in geropsychology and
neuropsychology gives her a broad perspective from which to address
the cognitive and emotional difficulties faced by middle-aged and older
adults. (For more background information, go to Dr. Kearns.)
        Are There Actions I Can Take to Help Myself?
Yes, there are several things you can do.
  • Keep regular checkups with your primary physician. Sometimes
    depressed feelings and memory difficulties are related to reversible
    medical conditions.
  • Stay mentally and physically active; this is often an antidote for
    complaints such as low mood, muscle tension, and a sluggish mind.
  • Educate yourself. There are many resources; self-help books and
    websites (see below) are good starting points.
     Breathing in,        
 I calm my body.

Breathing out,
I smile.

Dwelling in the
present moment,

I know this is a
wonderful moment!


Thich Nhat Hanh
        What are the Elements of Psychological Services?

Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment to identify your
  • Quality of life
  • Problems and needs
  • Current efforts and strengths

Treatment Plan:
  • Based on the evaluation, we work together to determine your
    ultimate goals and specific targets.
  • Then, we select the most likely methods that could help you in
    reaching these goals and targets.

Interventions: Possible approaches include
  • Psychotherapy
  • Compensatory training
  • Consulting sessions for family/caregivers

To learn more, go to Services.