Cancer Therapists in Oakville, ON

Photo of Dr. Jessica Campoli, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Jessica Campoli
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J  (Online Only)
Hi there, and welcome! I'm a registered Clinical and Health Psychologist who is passionate about providing research-informed therapy that is infused with compassion and care. I provide virtual therapy for adults across Ontario. I work with a variety of clinical issues spanning both mental and physical health. My areas of practice include anxiety (general worry, social anxiety, perfectionism, panic attacks, phobias), depression, insomnia, trauma or PTSD, and coping with disease or illness (e.g., cancer, chronic pain). Additionally, I work in the areas of stress management and burnout, assertiveness training, and self-esteem.
Hi there, and welcome! I'm a registered Clinical and Health Psychologist who is passionate about providing research-informed therapy that is infused with compassion and care. I provide virtual therapy for adults across Ontario. I work with a variety of clinical issues spanning both mental and physical health. My areas of practice include anxiety (general worry, social anxiety, perfectionism, panic attacks, phobias), depression, insomnia, trauma or PTSD, and coping with disease or illness (e.g., cancer, chronic pain). Additionally, I work in the areas of stress management and burnout, assertiveness training, and self-esteem.
(289) 210-7431 View (289) 210-7431
Photo of Marina Machado, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Marina Machado
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
We can't pour water from an empty cup. As a new Mom or a caregiver, you might be burning the candle at both ends, putting everyone else's needs ahead of your own. Over time, you might find yourself imploding with rage, guilt or resentment. Wondering, who am I? What are these scary thoughts I’m having? Is it this hard for everyone else? I know what it’s like and I am here for you. I love working with caregivers, and am passionate about perinatal mental health for Moms and Dads. I am also experienced in supporting clients affected by dementia, cancer, anxiety, depression, ambiguous loss, grief, and credit card debt.
We can't pour water from an empty cup. As a new Mom or a caregiver, you might be burning the candle at both ends, putting everyone else's needs ahead of your own. Over time, you might find yourself imploding with rage, guilt or resentment. Wondering, who am I? What are these scary thoughts I’m having? Is it this hard for everyone else? I know what it’s like and I am here for you. I love working with caregivers, and am passionate about perinatal mental health for Moms and Dads. I am also experienced in supporting clients affected by dementia, cancer, anxiety, depression, ambiguous loss, grief, and credit card debt.
(289) 778-3327 View (289) 778-3327
Photo of Dr. Sheila Tervit, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Sheila Tervit
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
worry/panic/PTSD) as well helping people cope with illness (such as cancer or diabetes, chronic or acute pain), and grief or loss.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
worry/panic/PTSD) as well helping people cope with illness (such as cancer or diabetes, chronic or acute pain), and grief or loss.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
(289) 271-1967 View (289) 271-1967
Photo of Dr. Michael James Coons, PhD, CPsych, CBSM, Psychologist
Dr. Michael James Coons
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, CBSM
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6K
I am a Clinical, Health, and Rehabilitation Psychologist. I have a warm, and compassionate style, to help people succeed in making healthy changes and realize their potential. I offer evidence-based assessment and treatment services to help people struggling with sleep disorders, obesity/weight management, chronic pain, and related mental health issues. I also help people adjust to new, or ongoing health or medical problems (e.g., diabetes; heart disease; cancer). These problems impact the quality of peoples' lives. I work collaboratively with my clients, and their supportive family members, to help them to maximize their health and well-being.
I am a Clinical, Health, and Rehabilitation Psychologist. I have a warm, and compassionate style, to help people succeed in making healthy changes and realize their potential. I offer evidence-based assessment and treatment services to help people struggling with sleep disorders, obesity/weight management, chronic pain, and related mental health issues. I also help people adjust to new, or ongoing health or medical problems (e.g., diabetes; heart disease; cancer). These problems impact the quality of peoples' lives. I work collaboratively with my clients, and their supportive family members, to help them to maximize their health and well-being.
(855) 728-4050 View (855) 728-4050
Photo of Alan Chan, MSc, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Alan Chan
Psychologist, MSc, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
From 2007-2009, he completed a fellowship at the Cognitive & Behavioural Health Program at Baycrest Centre and, in 2006, his residency in Calgary including the Tom Baker Cancer Centre.
Dr. Chan is a registered Clinical Psychologist and is the Co-founder and Director of Sageview Health (formerly B&C Health). Dr. Chan works with adults and seniors and uses Cognitive-Behavioural approaches and related techniques to treat a variety of difficulties from depression and anxiety to the stress and strain of work and everyday life. He performs independent comprehensive psychological disability assessments and delivers clinical health psychology services to help patients cope with medical difficulties such as chronic pain, insomnia, cancer, cardiac, and other lifestyle diseases.
From 2007-2009, he completed a fellowship at the Cognitive & Behavioural Health Program at Baycrest Centre and, in 2006, his residency in Calgary including the Tom Baker Cancer Centre.
Dr. Chan is a registered Clinical Psychologist and is the Co-founder and Director of Sageview Health (formerly B&C Health). Dr. Chan works with adults and seniors and uses Cognitive-Behavioural approaches and related techniques to treat a variety of difficulties from depression and anxiety to the stress and strain of work and everyday life. He performs independent comprehensive psychological disability assessments and delivers clinical health psychology services to help patients cope with medical difficulties such as chronic pain, insomnia, cancer, cardiac, and other lifestyle diseases.
(844) 402-2406 View (844) 402-2406
Photo of Cassandra Umbriaco - CU Therapy - Cassandra Umbriaco, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
CU Therapy - Cassandra Umbriaco
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
My health history and experience with cancer provides me with a unique, intimate perspective into the trauma associated with health challenges, which provides the opportunity to connect in meaningful ways.
Are you navigating the complex world of cancer? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and looking for support, you’re in the right place. I’m passionate about creating a safe space and helping clients (patients and caregivers) navigate cancer and its lifelong challenges. I’m dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you navigate through your toughest moments - surviving, thriving and everything in-between. While my niche is oncology, I also specialize in working with other issues, including anxiety, body image, burnout, chronic illness, depression, grief/loss, life transitions and relationships.
My health history and experience with cancer provides me with a unique, intimate perspective into the trauma associated with health challenges, which provides the opportunity to connect in meaningful ways.
Are you navigating the complex world of cancer? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and looking for support, you’re in the right place. I’m passionate about creating a safe space and helping clients (patients and caregivers) navigate cancer and its lifelong challenges. I’m dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you navigate through your toughest moments - surviving, thriving and everything in-between. While my niche is oncology, I also specialize in working with other issues, including anxiety, body image, burnout, chronic illness, depression, grief/loss, life transitions and relationships.
(289) 278-9929 View (289) 278-9929
Photo of M. Christine Brown Clearview Wellness Counselling, BA, BEd, MEd, equiv, Gestalt, Counsellor
M. Christine Brown Clearview Wellness Counselling
Counsellor, BA, BEd, MEd, equiv, Gestalt
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
My clientele has included people of all ages dealing with: Depression, Anxiety, Loss and Grief, Relationship/Marital issues, Childhood Trauma, Addiction, Work related issues, Gender identity issues, ADHD, Communication issues, Self esteem issues, Health crises, Cancer, Physical and Mental Disabilities, Narcissistic Abuse, Teen issues, .
Seeking professional counselling is a sign of mental health. It indicates that through awareness you have realized that you want more functionality and integration in your life. If you're ready to learn and grow in a new direction, please contact me. I will assist you in connecting to your self as a means to helping you discover the healthiest choices ahead.
My clientele has included people of all ages dealing with: Depression, Anxiety, Loss and Grief, Relationship/Marital issues, Childhood Trauma, Addiction, Work related issues, Gender identity issues, ADHD, Communication issues, Self esteem issues, Health crises, Cancer, Physical and Mental Disabilities, Narcissistic Abuse, Teen issues, .
Seeking professional counselling is a sign of mental health. It indicates that through awareness you have realized that you want more functionality and integration in your life. If you're ready to learn and grow in a new direction, please contact me. I will assist you in connecting to your self as a means to helping you discover the healthiest choices ahead.
(289) 272-9267 View (289) 272-9267
Photo of Kathryn Weiser, MHSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kathryn Weiser
Registered Social Worker, MHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
At some point in most relationships, couples experience conflict and sexual disconnection. I help individuals/couples struggling with verbal & sexual communication so they can develop healthier relationships and/or increased sexual connectedness. Are you struggling with communication issues? Conflict? Differences in desire? Illness? Trust issues? Arousal issues? Sexual trauma? I can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools to strengthen communication and improve sexual/ intimacy experiences. I help clients with medical issues such as cancer and chronic pain cope so you can have an increased quality of life.
At some point in most relationships, couples experience conflict and sexual disconnection. I help individuals/couples struggling with verbal & sexual communication so they can develop healthier relationships and/or increased sexual connectedness. Are you struggling with communication issues? Conflict? Differences in desire? Illness? Trust issues? Arousal issues? Sexual trauma? I can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools to strengthen communication and improve sexual/ intimacy experiences. I help clients with medical issues such as cancer and chronic pain cope so you can have an increased quality of life.
(647) 957-7821 View (647) 957-7821
Photo of Andrea Skitch, MSW, RSW, EMDR, Yogi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Skitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, EMDR, Yogi
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
I help adults with autoimmune & cancer overcome clinical anxiety, depression, and phobias so you can heal your body, and elevate your relationships with a combination of modern psychology and ancient yoga practices.
I help adults with autoimmune & cancer overcome clinical anxiety, depression, and phobias so you can heal your body, and elevate your relationships with a combination of modern psychology and ancient yoga practices.
(647) 490-6452 View (647) 490-6452
Photo of Jane van de Ven, RN, MScN, CNP/CPN
Jane van de Ven
RN, MScN, CNP/CPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare? Is your goal to mentally heal and bring health and wellness into your life?
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare? Is your goal to mentally heal and bring health and wellness into your life?
(343) 801-1367 View (343) 801-1367
Photo of Maria Antoniou - The Therapy Centre, PhD, Psychologist
The Therapy Centre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise and tailors treatment to target therapeutic goals.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise and tailors treatment to target therapeutic goals.
(289) 312-0104 View (289) 312-0104
Photo of Yousif Farag, MDiv, DC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Yousif Farag
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, DC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6K  (Online Only)
My clients describe me as attentive, conscientious, determined. I have a very practical and solution focused approach to counselling. I won’t just sit and listen. I help my clients integrate mind, body, and spirit using a variety of modalities. I am trained in family systems therapy, which looks at the rules, roles, and relationships of the family and their interactions with the world around them. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a proven approach to changing thinking patterns and behaviors. Together, we will develop new ways to react to life’s challenges.
My clients describe me as attentive, conscientious, determined. I have a very practical and solution focused approach to counselling. I won’t just sit and listen. I help my clients integrate mind, body, and spirit using a variety of modalities. I am trained in family systems therapy, which looks at the rules, roles, and relationships of the family and their interactions with the world around them. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a proven approach to changing thinking patterns and behaviors. Together, we will develop new ways to react to life’s challenges.
(289) 274-7372 View (289) 274-7372
Photo of Kim Thompson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kim Thompson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J  (Online Only)
Feeling alone, overwhelmed and lost while navigating grief, loss, infertility, PMDD, perimenopause and menopause can increase the intensity of these experiences and emotions. You are not alone and I am here to support you. I have a deep understanding of the impact that these challenges, struggles, changes and transitions can have on a couple and on an individual’s mental health, sense of self, relationships and well-being. I work to empower my clients with skills and strategies to generate internal strength, calm, confidence and reduce stress, anxiety, fear and depression.
Feeling alone, overwhelmed and lost while navigating grief, loss, infertility, PMDD, perimenopause and menopause can increase the intensity of these experiences and emotions. You are not alone and I am here to support you. I have a deep understanding of the impact that these challenges, struggles, changes and transitions can have on a couple and on an individual’s mental health, sense of self, relationships and well-being. I work to empower my clients with skills and strategies to generate internal strength, calm, confidence and reduce stress, anxiety, fear and depression.
(365) 298-0263 View (365) 298-0263
Photo of Andrea O'Reilly - Therapy Bee Inc. Grief & Trauma Therapy , MSW, RSW, CCTP, Registered Social Worker
Therapy Bee Inc. Grief & Trauma Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
Welcome to Therapy Bee Inc., where your journey toward healing and wellness begins. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional therapy services to individuals coping with grief and trauma. Our experienced therapists are here to be your companions on this path, offering support, understanding, and guidance every step of the way. Our mission is to foster a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their feelings, heal from their past, and reclaim their lives. We believe in the power of therapeutic relationships and personalized care to help you navigate your unique healing journey.
Welcome to Therapy Bee Inc., where your journey toward healing and wellness begins. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional therapy services to individuals coping with grief and trauma. Our experienced therapists are here to be your companions on this path, offering support, understanding, and guidance every step of the way. Our mission is to foster a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their feelings, heal from their past, and reclaim their lives. We believe in the power of therapeutic relationships and personalized care to help you navigate your unique healing journey.
(289) 273-2587 View (289) 273-2587
Photo of Paula Servin, MSc, MSW, RSW, CTIC, Registered Social Worker
Paula Servin
Registered Social Worker, MSc, MSW, RSW, CTIC
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, sad or disconnected? Are you struggling with relationships, past difficulties or trauma, or with coping with something new? With individuals and couples, I offer support when it becomes too difficult to manage alone. Take this opportunity to explore/share emotions, heal traumas, find compassion for yourself and others, as well as develop new coping strategies. For couples, I will guide you in heartfelt conversations to build and reconnect. Discover how you can experience a life and relationships based on your own strengths, choices and values.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, sad or disconnected? Are you struggling with relationships, past difficulties or trauma, or with coping with something new? With individuals and couples, I offer support when it becomes too difficult to manage alone. Take this opportunity to explore/share emotions, heal traumas, find compassion for yourself and others, as well as develop new coping strategies. For couples, I will guide you in heartfelt conversations to build and reconnect. Discover how you can experience a life and relationships based on your own strengths, choices and values.
(844) 402-2492 View (844) 402-2492
Photo of Anmol Chandla, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Anmol Chandla
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L
I provide in-person and virtual individual therapy for teens, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, stressors around life transitions, and self-esteem issues. I aim to foster a warm and non-judgemental space where you feel safe to explore and connect with yourself. I am here to meet you where you are at and support you as you embark on your healing journey.
I provide in-person and virtual individual therapy for teens, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, stressors around life transitions, and self-esteem issues. I aim to foster a warm and non-judgemental space where you feel safe to explore and connect with yourself. I am here to meet you where you are at and support you as you embark on your healing journey.
(289) 275-7881 View (289) 275-7881
Photo of Trish Unruh, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Trish Unruh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
Thank you for visiting my profile! Have you always been a worrier? Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed? You are not enjoying life the way you should be. Sometimes your past comes back to haunt you, which adds to your stress. You are coping the best you can, but it feels like nothing is working. We will work together to create a comfortable, safe space for you to feel heard. This allows you to increase your awareness of thoughts, feelings, and body experiences to figure out what is working and what could use some help. Sometimes we focus on the here and now, while other times the focus is on deeper work related to the past.
Thank you for visiting my profile! Have you always been a worrier? Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed? You are not enjoying life the way you should be. Sometimes your past comes back to haunt you, which adds to your stress. You are coping the best you can, but it feels like nothing is working. We will work together to create a comfortable, safe space for you to feel heard. This allows you to increase your awareness of thoughts, feelings, and body experiences to figure out what is working and what could use some help. Sometimes we focus on the here and now, while other times the focus is on deeper work related to the past.
(289) 536-2840 View (289) 536-2840
Photo of Oksana Gravets, PsychD, CPsych, Psychologist
Oksana Gravets
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6K  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I am a member of OPA and CACBT. I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment models including Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as Prolonged Exposure. I work with a wide range of presenting difficulties, including depression, anxiety (social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, phobias), anger, insomnia, chronic pain, bereavement, relationship difficulties, addictions, chronic health problems and trauma.
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I am a member of OPA and CACBT. I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment models including Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as Prolonged Exposure. I work with a wide range of presenting difficulties, including depression, anxiety (social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, phobias), anger, insomnia, chronic pain, bereavement, relationship difficulties, addictions, chronic health problems and trauma.
(289) 813-8236 View (289) 813-8236
Photo of Leigh C Clarke, Registered Psychotherapist
Leigh C Clarke
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J
Hi, thank you for visiting my page. I believe the therapeutic relationship must be built on trust and connection in order to be effective. In my practice I offer a safe, inclusive, non judgemental environment. I encourage emotional exploration and expression and I am here for you, to listen and facilitate with compassion. My hope for our work together, is you will move forward in a meaningful way and find strength and new tools to take with you. The foundation of my practice has been built on spirituality, mindfulness and emotionally focused therapy-attachment science. I also work with somatic inquiry and energy therapies.
Hi, thank you for visiting my page. I believe the therapeutic relationship must be built on trust and connection in order to be effective. In my practice I offer a safe, inclusive, non judgemental environment. I encourage emotional exploration and expression and I am here for you, to listen and facilitate with compassion. My hope for our work together, is you will move forward in a meaningful way and find strength and new tools to take with you. The foundation of my practice has been built on spirituality, mindfulness and emotionally focused therapy-attachment science. I also work with somatic inquiry and energy therapies.
(289) 206-8408 View (289) 206-8408
Photo of Karen M Thornton, Hons, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Karen M Thornton
Registered Social Worker, Hons, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
I am a Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Ontario. I provide psychotherapy services from an anti-oppressive framework using a client-centered or family-centered approach to meet the various needs of my clientele. I specialize in trauma, relationship issues, domestic violence, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, attachment, grief and loss, and other mental health concerns. I utilize various treatment tools in individual or group settings, including, CBT, Narrative, EFT, Mindfulness, DBT, Strength and System approaches. We also do cognitive and behavioural assessment and testing at our centers through a Registered Psychologist.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Ontario. I provide psychotherapy services from an anti-oppressive framework using a client-centered or family-centered approach to meet the various needs of my clientele. I specialize in trauma, relationship issues, domestic violence, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, attachment, grief and loss, and other mental health concerns. I utilize various treatment tools in individual or group settings, including, CBT, Narrative, EFT, Mindfulness, DBT, Strength and System approaches. We also do cognitive and behavioural assessment and testing at our centers through a Registered Psychologist.
(855) 797-9670 View (855) 797-9670
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Cancer Counsellors

How does cancer affect mental health?

A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.

What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?

The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?

Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counselling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.

How long does cancer therapy typically last?

The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.