Therapists in Perth, ON
Veronica Felizardo
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW, DCP, (Cand)
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Veronica Felizardo M.S.W., R.S.W. Doctor in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Cand.) is a Psychotherapist with experience in assessment, individual counselling and couples counselling for those who have a desire to change their current circumstances to lead a fulfilled life. She's a firm believer in the innate ability to overcome challenges by working with clients at the current place they find themselves in. Using a strengths-based approach, she inspires each person to realize their full potential. She is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. She provides in-between session support via text and email.
Veronica Felizardo M.S.W., R.S.W. Doctor in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Cand.) is a Psychotherapist with experience in assessment, individual counselling and couples counselling for those who have a desire to change their current circumstances to lead a fulfilled life. She's a firm believer in the innate ability to overcome challenges by working with clients at the current place they find themselves in. Using a strengths-based approach, she inspires each person to realize their full potential. She is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. She provides in-between session support via text and email.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
Beverley Gail Rice
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CTIRF , CLSRF
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Are you feeling stressed or sad? Have you experienced a trauma, a difficult event, loss of a loved one, or some one on the job, or are you having difficulties with a relationship? Would you like to have relief from your emotional pain? Resolve past traumas? Discharge life stress issues? Would you like to have stronger self esteem, more self confidence, and increased productivity and satisfaction in life? Richer more satisfying relationships?
Are you feeling stressed or sad? Have you experienced a trauma, a difficult event, loss of a loved one, or some one on the job, or are you having difficulties with a relationship? Would you like to have relief from your emotional pain? Resolve past traumas? Discharge life stress issues? Would you like to have stronger self esteem, more self confidence, and increased productivity and satisfaction in life? Richer more satisfying relationships?
Online Therapists
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
Myra Meier @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G (Online Only)
My practice is concentrated around a client-centred approach, always bearing in mind the philosophy of ‘unconditional positive regard’ that should be afforded every person. Working together with my clients we will identify challenges, make goals and work towards recognizing and removing obstacles. My aspiration as a therapist is to create a safe environment in which work can be collaborative, address the impacts of trauma, stress, anxiety, depression and/or grief and make the changes necessary to live the healthy and fulfilling life that my clients want. Some of my specialized training and experience includes CBT, Narrative Therapy
My practice is concentrated around a client-centred approach, always bearing in mind the philosophy of ‘unconditional positive regard’ that should be afforded every person. Working together with my clients we will identify challenges, make goals and work towards recognizing and removing obstacles. My aspiration as a therapist is to create a safe environment in which work can be collaborative, address the impacts of trauma, stress, anxiety, depression and/or grief and make the changes necessary to live the healthy and fulfilling life that my clients want. Some of my specialized training and experience includes CBT, Narrative Therapy
Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1P (Online Only)
Everyone needs some extra support sometimes. With Aroha Counselling, our mental health professionals support people who are coping with a range of experiences. Our practices are framed within an anti-oppressive, queer affirming, anti-racist, sex positive, trauma informed, and harm reduction lens. Clients can expect a welcoming and stigma free counselling environment. We provide services to anyone in need of support from all walks of life and have additional specialization in providing informed services to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
Everyone needs some extra support sometimes. With Aroha Counselling, our mental health professionals support people who are coping with a range of experiences. Our practices are framed within an anti-oppressive, queer affirming, anti-racist, sex positive, trauma informed, and harm reduction lens. Clients can expect a welcoming and stigma free counselling environment. We provide services to anyone in need of support from all walks of life and have additional specialization in providing informed services to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
Tracy Thomson Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Kanata, ON K2L
I see my role as a facilitator. I facilitate hope, growth, and strength in my clients as I encourage their development towards a clearer understanding of self. With a clearer self understanding, one can move in the direction of greater well-being and a happier, more fulfilled and content life. I walk with you in your discovery of finding your inner-resources and inner-peace. Additionally, I provide online sessions with clients who live within Ontario.
I see my role as a facilitator. I facilitate hope, growth, and strength in my clients as I encourage their development towards a clearer understanding of self. With a clearer self understanding, one can move in the direction of greater well-being and a happier, more fulfilled and content life. I walk with you in your discovery of finding your inner-resources and inner-peace. Additionally, I provide online sessions with clients who live within Ontario.
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling is a specialized mental health clinic that provides evidence-based, compassionate, and affordable mental health services across Ontario. Our highly skilled psychotherapists have been extensively trained to treat a variety of mental illnesses with interventions that are personalized to each client’s needs, including psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Interventions to individuals, couples, and families.
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling is a specialized mental health clinic that provides evidence-based, compassionate, and affordable mental health services across Ontario. Our highly skilled psychotherapists have been extensively trained to treat a variety of mental illnesses with interventions that are personalized to each client’s needs, including psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Interventions to individuals, couples, and families.
IN-PERSON and ONLINE sessions are now available in Ontario and Western Quebec. Your decision to start therapy is essential for personal understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, addictions, sexual abuse (current or past), or are overwhelmed by events, I can help. My first objective is to provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment for your therapeutic experience. My second objective is to provide you with the most up-to-date, evidence-based therapeutic approaches that get actual results in the least amount of time.
IN-PERSON and ONLINE sessions are now available in Ontario and Western Quebec. Your decision to start therapy is essential for personal understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, addictions, sexual abuse (current or past), or are overwhelmed by events, I can help. My first objective is to provide a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment for your therapeutic experience. My second objective is to provide you with the most up-to-date, evidence-based therapeutic approaches that get actual results in the least amount of time.
Sarah Bolton
Registered Psychotherapist, NP, MACP, MScN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kemptville, ON K0G
Waitlist for new clients. Is a workplace trauma/critical incident impacting your well-being? Are you a Novice nurse looking for support as you navigate this challenging career? Are you feeling burned out and looking for change? Are you feeling isolated in your pain and loss? Are you looking for relief, support, and personal growth. Sarah works together with clients towards their goals in a caring and confidential environment. Sarah’s career as a nurse and life experience equips her well to provide support and counselling for a variety of client concerns.
Waitlist for new clients. Is a workplace trauma/critical incident impacting your well-being? Are you a Novice nurse looking for support as you navigate this challenging career? Are you feeling burned out and looking for change? Are you feeling isolated in your pain and loss? Are you looking for relief, support, and personal growth. Sarah works together with clients towards their goals in a caring and confidential environment. Sarah’s career as a nurse and life experience equips her well to provide support and counselling for a variety of client concerns.
Accepting New Clients. There are many reasons why individuals might seek therapy. No matter your reason whether anxiety, trauma, depression, life transition, parenting issues, stress, difficult life circumstances, communication issues, difficult relationships, you are taking an important step by reaching out. At Maps to Healing, our role is to use training and experience to assist you in reaching your goals. Together, we will tap into your strengths to find new perspectives on your experiences and gain more control and acceptance for your life. Send me an email to set up a consultation!
Accepting New Clients. There are many reasons why individuals might seek therapy. No matter your reason whether anxiety, trauma, depression, life transition, parenting issues, stress, difficult life circumstances, communication issues, difficult relationships, you are taking an important step by reaching out. At Maps to Healing, our role is to use training and experience to assist you in reaching your goals. Together, we will tap into your strengths to find new perspectives on your experiences and gain more control and acceptance for your life. Send me an email to set up a consultation!
We are an experienced team of mental health providers who are committed to pursuing excellence in the field of psychotherapy. Our therapists work under consultation and engage in ongoing professional development training in order to offer the best available care to our clients.
We are an experienced team of mental health providers who are committed to pursuing excellence in the field of psychotherapy. Our therapists work under consultation and engage in ongoing professional development training in order to offer the best available care to our clients.
I am accepting new clients. Services are available in Ontario via video, or by telephone. I specialize in relationships and communication skills within couples, and families with children/teens; PTSD/CPTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, borderline personality, and OCD. I also work with Canadian Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces members, RCMP, and First Responders. I am LGBTQ friendly, accepting, and an ally. I also have experience with ethical non-monogamy (ENM), poly/ open/ swinging relationship dynamics.
I am accepting new clients. Services are available in Ontario via video, or by telephone. I specialize in relationships and communication skills within couples, and families with children/teens; PTSD/CPTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, borderline personality, and OCD. I also work with Canadian Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces members, RCMP, and First Responders. I am LGBTQ friendly, accepting, and an ally. I also have experience with ethical non-monogamy (ENM), poly/ open/ swinging relationship dynamics.
Family/Individual Therapist & Relationship Coach
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, PgDip, MBA, OACCPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nepean, ON K2J
Ade is a Clinical Counsellor, Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Relationship coach at the Mental Health Unit of Precision Medical Centre located in Barrhaven, Nepean. She holds a Master Degree in Counselling Psychology and Certified Clinician in REBT, CBT and Emotion Focus Therapy. She also a Faculty member of Centre for Rational and Cognitive Therapies, teaches, mentors and supervises graduating Masters degree students for College registration and completion of degree. She has years of experience working with all age group in mental health and relationship issues.
Ade is a Clinical Counsellor, Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Relationship coach at the Mental Health Unit of Precision Medical Centre located in Barrhaven, Nepean. She holds a Master Degree in Counselling Psychology and Certified Clinician in REBT, CBT and Emotion Focus Therapy. She also a Faculty member of Centre for Rational and Cognitive Therapies, teaches, mentors and supervises graduating Masters degree students for College registration and completion of degree. She has years of experience working with all age group in mental health and relationship issues.
Telephone Counselling for Women: I am a cross-cultural feminist therapist, weaving together ancient wisdom such as mindfulness, modern scientific discoveries, & a grassroots feminist approach. We both bring something special to the counselling relationship; you bring wisdom about yourself, I offer expertise on healing. Together we build a compassionate connection, & as a team we focus bringing balance into your life. As a telephone counsellor, I work with women across the globe. Research shows that telephone counselling is as effective as in-person support; it is convenient for women with time constraints, mobility issues, & those with limited access to quality therapy.
Telephone Counselling for Women: I am a cross-cultural feminist therapist, weaving together ancient wisdom such as mindfulness, modern scientific discoveries, & a grassroots feminist approach. We both bring something special to the counselling relationship; you bring wisdom about yourself, I offer expertise on healing. Together we build a compassionate connection, & as a team we focus bringing balance into your life. As a telephone counsellor, I work with women across the globe. Research shows that telephone counselling is as effective as in-person support; it is convenient for women with time constraints, mobility issues, & those with limited access to quality therapy.
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Cornwall, ON K6H (Online Only)
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
Existential Therapy - David Taller
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA Hons
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
Accepting New Clients. Whether you’re hoping to get unstuck, manage conflicts, prioritize your needs, or just need a safe space to talk, I am here to listen. My promise to you is to provide a safe and non-judgemental space where you can express yourself freely and explore your inner world with confidence. More than ever, individuals, couples, and families are all experiencing anxiety, depression, and feeling overwhelmed. If you're here, you are ready for change, and seeking a life with purpose. Together we can find lasting relief from loneliness, frustration, self-doubt and create more meaningful relationships.
Accepting New Clients. Whether you’re hoping to get unstuck, manage conflicts, prioritize your needs, or just need a safe space to talk, I am here to listen. My promise to you is to provide a safe and non-judgemental space where you can express yourself freely and explore your inner world with confidence. More than ever, individuals, couples, and families are all experiencing anxiety, depression, and feeling overwhelmed. If you're here, you are ready for change, and seeking a life with purpose. Together we can find lasting relief from loneliness, frustration, self-doubt and create more meaningful relationships.
Jason Lavery @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kanata, ON K2K (Online Only)
I am happy to work with an extensive range of clients and organize my practice around providing Client-Centred Therapy grounded in empirically-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Additionally, I have lived experience as a first responder and am passionate about addressing the unique challenges associated with fulfilling such roles. In my experience working with people over the last 10 years, I've found that often their challenges are best addressed first and foremost by being heard; this act of listening is a gift that unlocks the resources hidden within.
I am happy to work with an extensive range of clients and organize my practice around providing Client-Centred Therapy grounded in empirically-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Additionally, I have lived experience as a first responder and am passionate about addressing the unique challenges associated with fulfilling such roles. In my experience working with people over the last 10 years, I've found that often their challenges are best addressed first and foremost by being heard; this act of listening is a gift that unlocks the resources hidden within.
My approach is person-centered, wholistic and supportive. It is based on the belief that every person has a unique potential to discover and develop their own inner resources and strengths. Our time together will provide you with a safe and collaborative space within which you may explore your life challenges, the changes you may wish to make that can lead towards greater personal insight, growth and wholeness.
My approach is person-centered, wholistic and supportive. It is based on the belief that every person has a unique potential to discover and develop their own inner resources and strengths. Our time together will provide you with a safe and collaborative space within which you may explore your life challenges, the changes you may wish to make that can lead towards greater personal insight, growth and wholeness.
I am accepting new clients. I am a CAP John C Service 2021 award recipient and a registered WCB/WSIB provider. I am a seasoned psychologist with over 20 years experience. I offer virtual individual counselling to adults for the treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, return to work/fitness for work, career counselling, psychological assessments; life, transition relationship & executive coaching. I am committed to helping you to understand yourself better; identify your strengths; improve your resiliency; learn coping strategies- with the goal of self- growth, overcoming challenges & living a meaningful & fulfilling life.
I am accepting new clients. I am a CAP John C Service 2021 award recipient and a registered WCB/WSIB provider. I am a seasoned psychologist with over 20 years experience. I offer virtual individual counselling to adults for the treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, return to work/fitness for work, career counselling, psychological assessments; life, transition relationship & executive coaching. I am committed to helping you to understand yourself better; identify your strengths; improve your resiliency; learn coping strategies- with the goal of self- growth, overcoming challenges & living a meaningful & fulfilling life.
Intersections Therapy Collective
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
Amarylis Serrano Juárez
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S (Online Only)
Life's challenges can leave us feeling anxious and disconnected from the fulfilling life we desire. Has your life become too overwhelming and stressful to manage alone? Whether it's navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, therapy can be a transformative journey toward reclaiming your sense of self. As a trauma-informed therapist and Cuban immigrant, I specialize in working with diverse populations, including newcomers to Canada and BIPOC individuals. Let's create a treatment plan together that honours your unique goals, in a space where your preferred language is respected and cultural humility is paramount.
Life's challenges can leave us feeling anxious and disconnected from the fulfilling life we desire. Has your life become too overwhelming and stressful to manage alone? Whether it's navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, therapy can be a transformative journey toward reclaiming your sense of self. As a trauma-informed therapist and Cuban immigrant, I specialize in working with diverse populations, including newcomers to Canada and BIPOC individuals. Let's create a treatment plan together that honours your unique goals, in a space where your preferred language is respected and cultural humility is paramount.
A Couples Relationship Marriage Date | MSW + RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CAMFT, Gottman, SFBT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B
Help that FEELS-LIKE A "DATE" - We get it - You don't only need to know 'relationship skills' you need your partner to know & use them too! ...when they are triggered & angry. (Dang, that's a tall order). We can help, even if you come alone. You or your partner have probably been afraid that asking for help could make things feel worse, or feel "real". The truth is, UNLESS you both learn to support each other in conflict, things do get worse, but you don't need to suffer for 6 YEARS like the average couple does. Choose to get unstuck today, just message Kat(at)Loved-Well.com curious about first steps. We really want to help.
Help that FEELS-LIKE A "DATE" - We get it - You don't only need to know 'relationship skills' you need your partner to know & use them too! ...when they are triggered & angry. (Dang, that's a tall order). We can help, even if you come alone. You or your partner have probably been afraid that asking for help could make things feel worse, or feel "real". The truth is, UNLESS you both learn to support each other in conflict, things do get worse, but you don't need to suffer for 6 YEARS like the average couple does. Choose to get unstuck today, just message Kat(at)Loved-Well.com curious about first steps. We really want to help.
Acsana Fernando @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting clients in their efforts to change and grow by uncovering their abilities and strengths to overcome challenges. I have been privileged to work with diverse populations, including youth, adults, students, parents, families, and caregivers, as they cope with anxiety, depression, autism spectrum, interpersonal conflict, grief, life transitions, stress challenges navigating cultural identities and more. Therapy is a safe place to grow, learn and achieve goals for anyone. . I use a holistic approach combining evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs.
I am passionate about supporting clients in their efforts to change and grow by uncovering their abilities and strengths to overcome challenges. I have been privileged to work with diverse populations, including youth, adults, students, parents, families, and caregivers, as they cope with anxiety, depression, autism spectrum, interpersonal conflict, grief, life transitions, stress challenges navigating cultural identities and more. Therapy is a safe place to grow, learn and achieve goals for anyone. . I use a holistic approach combining evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs.
I am a professional psychotherapist that specializes in blending mind and body therapies to help remove barriers to our sense of calm and joy. In a trusting and non-judgmental environment, the brain’s natural healing is encouraged. I have been working in the non-profit mental health field for 10 years in a variety of areas including: Addictions and Family Treatment, Medical Clinics with a focus on anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia and chronic pain, and in Community Health Centres with older adults managing life transitions and grief. If you are interested, the best option is to click the "My Website" button to book a consult.
I am a professional psychotherapist that specializes in blending mind and body therapies to help remove barriers to our sense of calm and joy. In a trusting and non-judgmental environment, the brain’s natural healing is encouraged. I have been working in the non-profit mental health field for 10 years in a variety of areas including: Addictions and Family Treatment, Medical Clinics with a focus on anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia and chronic pain, and in Community Health Centres with older adults managing life transitions and grief. If you are interested, the best option is to click the "My Website" button to book a consult.
See more therapy options for Perth
Nearby Cancer Counsellors Searches for Perth
- Arnprior
- Brockville
- Carleton Place
- Gananoque
- Kanata
- Kemptville
- Manotick
- Merrickville
- Nepean
- Ottawa
- Smiths Falls
- Stittsville
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.