Cancer Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Shannon J Schiefer, MA, LPC, EMDR, Counselor
Shannon J Schiefer
Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Waitlist for new clients
I have dealt with fertility issues and am a cancer survivor which allows for deep understanding and sensitivity, while respecting each individual's journey and process.
Are you your own worst enemy? Does your inner voice say, "What's wrong with me" "Why did I do that" "I should(n't)..." "I'm not good enough" Together, we can find a different way to relate to yourself. I invite you to consider, when you learn to offer yourself love and compassion, you deepen intimacy, connection and respect within your relationships, increase confidence, achieve goals, and attract your dreams. Once we choose love for ourselves, everything changes! "Our wounds are often openings into the best and most beautiful part of us" ~ Richo
I have dealt with fertility issues and am a cancer survivor which allows for deep understanding and sensitivity, while respecting each individual's journey and process.
Are you your own worst enemy? Does your inner voice say, "What's wrong with me" "Why did I do that" "I should(n't)..." "I'm not good enough" Together, we can find a different way to relate to yourself. I invite you to consider, when you learn to offer yourself love and compassion, you deepen intimacy, connection and respect within your relationships, increase confidence, achieve goals, and attract your dreams. Once we choose love for ourselves, everything changes! "Our wounds are often openings into the best and most beautiful part of us" ~ Richo
(480) 420-7524 View (480) 420-7524
Photo of Beth Sikora, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Sikora
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Do you feel alone? Or shame more than serenity and self-esteem? This can be due to being depressed, loss of someone dear to you, experiencing trauma, an accident, or recovering from cancer. Perhaps your hope and purpose in life is gone or in question. Or your sense of meaning in life uncertain. I will walk along with you as you walk a path to healing and hope as you process this and grow to feel more confident, less depressed or anxious, and life makes sense again. Life can present many difficulties. Together we can find the answer for you.
Do you feel alone? Or shame more than serenity and self-esteem? This can be due to being depressed, loss of someone dear to you, experiencing trauma, an accident, or recovering from cancer. Perhaps your hope and purpose in life is gone or in question. Or your sense of meaning in life uncertain. I will walk along with you as you walk a path to healing and hope as you process this and grow to feel more confident, less depressed or anxious, and life makes sense again. Life can present many difficulties. Together we can find the answer for you.
(480) 568-6567 View (480) 568-6567
Photo of Jillian Caldwell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
hidradenitis suppurativa, diabetes, cancer, and chronic pain).
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
hidradenitis suppurativa, diabetes, cancer, and chronic pain).
Reaching out for help is the first step to living a better life. I am proud of you for making that step because it is often the hardest one to make. I work from a strengths-based approach to empower you to make whatever changes you would like to make or cope with any problems you are having. Together, we can develop new skills and insights to gain more control over your behaviors and mindset. All this will help you become empowered to explore new possibilities in all areas of your life.
(623) 745-8641 View (623) 745-8641
Photo of Bernadette Roumbos, MA, LPC, RD, EMDR, CCHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bernadette Roumbos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RD, EMDR, CCHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710
I also specialize in working with various health issues, such as cancer recovery, diabetes control, autoimmune, body image, and weight management.
My passion is to provide hope and healing from life's challenges in a nonjudgemental, serene environment. I provide a holistic, person-centered approach, and together, I can help you find relief from the shame, burdens, and struggles. I have worked in the healthcare industry for over 20 years, both inpatient and outpatient, in a variety of roles and provide several specialties to help individuals,couples, and groups recover from anxiety, eating disorders, depression, life transitions, phobias, relationship challenges, stress, and trauma. Experience the freedom and discover new ways to enjoy living your life to the fullest.
I also specialize in working with various health issues, such as cancer recovery, diabetes control, autoimmune, body image, and weight management.
My passion is to provide hope and healing from life's challenges in a nonjudgemental, serene environment. I provide a holistic, person-centered approach, and together, I can help you find relief from the shame, burdens, and struggles. I have worked in the healthcare industry for over 20 years, both inpatient and outpatient, in a variety of roles and provide several specialties to help individuals,couples, and groups recover from anxiety, eating disorders, depression, life transitions, phobias, relationship challenges, stress, and trauma. Experience the freedom and discover new ways to enjoy living your life to the fullest.
(602) 833-7216 View (602) 833-7216
Photo of Claudia Ward, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
Struggling with a chronic illness? Feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or a cardiac event? Experiencing anxiety from life changes? Fear, sadness, uncertainty and a mix of other challenging emotions are natural but they can make getting through the day or even the next moment seem impossible. Priorities may shift. Life as you knew it no longer exists. You may feel alone. For some, the relationship with your body may change and that can decrease body confidence. While you may sometimes feel powerless, regardless of your life situation, you can chose to get support to cope.
Struggling with a chronic illness? Feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or a cardiac event? Experiencing anxiety from life changes? Fear, sadness, uncertainty and a mix of other challenging emotions are natural but they can make getting through the day or even the next moment seem impossible. Priorities may shift. Life as you knew it no longer exists. You may feel alone. For some, the relationship with your body may change and that can decrease body confidence. While you may sometimes feel powerless, regardless of your life situation, you can chose to get support to cope.
(623) 244-7423 View (623) 244-7423
Photo of Amy Rehm, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Rehm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I am a cancer survivor and navigating life with Lyme Disease.
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am a cancer survivor and navigating life with Lyme Disease.
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(480) 462-7718 View (480) 462-7718
Photo of Lynda Griffin Bull, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynda Griffin Bull
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
In addition, I specialize in women's loss issues such as miscarriages, still born baby, postpartum depression, infertility, cancer, menopause, relationship and parenting problems; and I love working with couples, families, individuals or caregivers who need help coping with medical issues, such as cancer, surgeries, auto-immune disorders, or chronic fatigue.
If life and all it brings leaves you feeling trapped, fearful, depressed, or overwhelmed, I can help. I offer a safe, collaborative, therapeutic experience, uniquely tailored to meet your needs. Together we will move toward success in managing stress, satisfaction in relationships, enjoyment of life, & well-being. I work with issues related to Depression; Grief/Loss; Women's Issues; Adjustment to Change or Loss; Issues associated with Cancer, Chronic illness and/or Pain; Life Transition Issues & Relational problems. Faith based counseling available. Currently I exclusively offer tele-counseling for clients in Arizona and Virginia.
In addition, I specialize in women's loss issues such as miscarriages, still born baby, postpartum depression, infertility, cancer, menopause, relationship and parenting problems; and I love working with couples, families, individuals or caregivers who need help coping with medical issues, such as cancer, surgeries, auto-immune disorders, or chronic fatigue.
If life and all it brings leaves you feeling trapped, fearful, depressed, or overwhelmed, I can help. I offer a safe, collaborative, therapeutic experience, uniquely tailored to meet your needs. Together we will move toward success in managing stress, satisfaction in relationships, enjoyment of life, & well-being. I work with issues related to Depression; Grief/Loss; Women's Issues; Adjustment to Change or Loss; Issues associated with Cancer, Chronic illness and/or Pain; Life Transition Issues & Relational problems. Faith based counseling available. Currently I exclusively offer tele-counseling for clients in Arizona and Virginia.
(480) 428-0869 View (480) 428-0869
Photo of Stephanie Munro, MAPC, LAC, Counselor
Stephanie Munro
Counselor, MAPC, LAC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Hello! I am honored you are considering working together to help you meet your goals of health, healing and peace. I specialize in working with adults 18+ although I can see adolescents for specialty needs. With unique life and work experiences, I have personal familiarity with the following (but not limited to): endometriosis, infertility, foster care and adoption, type one diabetes and I am married to a 2x cancer survivor so chronic illness is a big part of my life. I also have extensive experience in the field of education and executive-level business leadership.
Hello! I am honored you are considering working together to help you meet your goals of health, healing and peace. I specialize in working with adults 18+ although I can see adolescents for specialty needs. With unique life and work experiences, I have personal familiarity with the following (but not limited to): endometriosis, infertility, foster care and adoption, type one diabetes and I am married to a 2x cancer survivor so chronic illness is a big part of my life. I also have extensive experience in the field of education and executive-level business leadership.
(480) 331-5651 View (480) 331-5651
Photo of Jennifer Averyt, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Averyt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Not accepting new clients
I offer treatment for anxiety and depression and also specialize in helping individuals with health concerns related to chronic illness, diabetes, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pain, eating disorders, and cancer.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety? Experiencing difficulties with sleep, pain, or adjusting to a new medical diagnosis? Binge eating or using food to cope with emotions? Looking to improve your quality of life by making positive changes for your health? As a clinical health psychologist, I offer treatments that have been proven effective in each of these areas.
I offer treatment for anxiety and depression and also specialize in helping individuals with health concerns related to chronic illness, diabetes, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pain, eating disorders, and cancer.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety? Experiencing difficulties with sleep, pain, or adjusting to a new medical diagnosis? Binge eating or using food to cope with emotions? Looking to improve your quality of life by making positive changes for your health? As a clinical health psychologist, I offer treatments that have been proven effective in each of these areas.
(602) 362-8417 View (602) 362-8417
Photo of Karen E Peterson, PhD, Psychologist
Karen E Peterson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carefree, AZ 85377  (Online Only)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in treating the whole person, and I work closely with other professionals as needed in order to help clients with difficulties in both mind (motivation, depression, stress management, anxiety, learning disabilities) and body (autoimmune disorders, chronic/complex pain, cancer). I am particularly interested in helping clients who are coping with multiple stressors (e.g., relationship problems, career issues, health concerns, trauma). I believe it is essential that each client's treatment strategy is tailored specifically to his or her needs, style of interaction, and ability to work toward specific goals.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in treating the whole person, and I work closely with other professionals as needed in order to help clients with difficulties in both mind (motivation, depression, stress management, anxiety, learning disabilities) and body (autoimmune disorders, chronic/complex pain, cancer). I am particularly interested in helping clients who are coping with multiple stressors (e.g., relationship problems, career issues, health concerns, trauma). I believe it is essential that each client's treatment strategy is tailored specifically to his or her needs, style of interaction, and ability to work toward specific goals.
(623) 239-4672 View (623) 239-4672
Photo of Laurie Beth Morales - Laurie Beth Morales Inc., MSW, LCSW, CADAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Beth Morales Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have unusual insight into loss and have experienced my own recovery with the death of my children, cancer and infertility.
Many people look for happiness outside of themselves, but true happiness must come from within...I specialize in helping individuals and families with grief, trauma and loss especially loss of children, victims of crime, sudden death, infertility and major life changes. I also have an expertise in palliative counseling with those who are living with or have family members living with chronic, terminal illnesses. My approach is to support you in preventing and relieving suffering. I am certified in addictions and provide telemedicine as clinically indicated.
I have unusual insight into loss and have experienced my own recovery with the death of my children, cancer and infertility.
Many people look for happiness outside of themselves, but true happiness must come from within...I specialize in helping individuals and families with grief, trauma and loss especially loss of children, victims of crime, sudden death, infertility and major life changes. I also have an expertise in palliative counseling with those who are living with or have family members living with chronic, terminal illnesses. My approach is to support you in preventing and relieving suffering. I am certified in addictions and provide telemedicine as clinically indicated.
(480) 448-1240 View (480) 448-1240
Photo of Suzanne Berndt, MC, LPC, MHSA, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne Berndt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, MHSA, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I am a cancer survivor and a parent who lost a child to suicide.
Humans are by nature social animals and yet many of us have lost connection within ourselves and our community. I believe this is due, in part, to a frantic world that has led to relational trauma, a poor sense of self, health challenges, addiction, loss and isolation. Feeling relevant, finding meaning, having a mission, knowing joy and learning emotional regulation/tolerance/resiliency are ways in which we can heal ourselves and the world at large. I work with individuals (adults only) and couples.
I am a cancer survivor and a parent who lost a child to suicide.
Humans are by nature social animals and yet many of us have lost connection within ourselves and our community. I believe this is due, in part, to a frantic world that has led to relational trauma, a poor sense of self, health challenges, addiction, loss and isolation. Feeling relevant, finding meaning, having a mission, knowing joy and learning emotional regulation/tolerance/resiliency are ways in which we can heal ourselves and the world at large. I work with individuals (adults only) and couples.
(480) 442-9918 View (480) 442-9918
Photo of Susan Gonzalez, MAC, LAC, Counselor
Susan Gonzalez
Counselor, MAC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I welcome English or Spanish speaking women and couples. Women with depression, anxiety, grief, a cancer diagnosis, those needing to process trauma, abuse. Parents of addicted loved ones find acceptance and can begin the path to a meaningful future; be encouraged and given hope. Couples who struggle with conflict, communication, or infidelity learn new skills for a future of experiencing love and understanding in a trusting relationship. I am a pastor's wife and can offer Biblical support and guidance if desired.
I welcome English or Spanish speaking women and couples. Women with depression, anxiety, grief, a cancer diagnosis, those needing to process trauma, abuse. Parents of addicted loved ones find acceptance and can begin the path to a meaningful future; be encouraged and given hope. Couples who struggle with conflict, communication, or infidelity learn new skills for a future of experiencing love and understanding in a trusting relationship. I am a pastor's wife and can offer Biblical support and guidance if desired.
(623) 280-2394 View (623) 280-2394
Photo of Spenser Hughes, PhD, Psychologist
Spenser Hughes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85741  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I focus on helping individuals and couples with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and stressful situations such as relationship problems, work issues, and life transitions like retirement, marriage, and divorce. I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, coping with chronic pain, quitting smoking, using a CPAP machine, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or COPD. If you are looking for help with any of those situations, I want you to know there are effective, scientifically supported treatments that may bring you relief and greatly improve your quality of life.
Hello! I focus on helping individuals and couples with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and stressful situations such as relationship problems, work issues, and life transitions like retirement, marriage, and divorce. I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, coping with chronic pain, quitting smoking, using a CPAP machine, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or COPD. If you are looking for help with any of those situations, I want you to know there are effective, scientifically supported treatments that may bring you relief and greatly improve your quality of life.
(623) 292-3201 View (623) 292-3201
Photo of Pit Kolodinsky, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pit Kolodinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Accepting new In-person or Telehealth adult clients for individual or group counseling formats who are currently struggling with anxiety, panic, mild/moderate depressive symptoms, life/role transitions, internal and interpersonal conflict themes, purpose-meaning-identity themes, and/or problematic relationship patterns. Over 20 years of clinical experience in FL, Germany and AZ. Most recent group work has involved Men's Cancer Support Group, and, Men's Issues Groups. Am also in my 23rd year as a Professor of Counselor Education at NAU. Many years experience with young and middle-aged adults, especially men's issues.
Accepting new In-person or Telehealth adult clients for individual or group counseling formats who are currently struggling with anxiety, panic, mild/moderate depressive symptoms, life/role transitions, internal and interpersonal conflict themes, purpose-meaning-identity themes, and/or problematic relationship patterns. Over 20 years of clinical experience in FL, Germany and AZ. Most recent group work has involved Men's Cancer Support Group, and, Men's Issues Groups. Am also in my 23rd year as a Professor of Counselor Education at NAU. Many years experience with young and middle-aged adults, especially men's issues.
(928) 599-7849 View (928) 599-7849
Photo of Colleen DiBella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen DiBella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping patients and their families facing a cancer diagnosis and treatments by providing individual and family counseling to reduce the stress of the cancer experience.
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in treating patients with cancer, new medical diagnosis, chronic illness, grief and loss. I can help navigate complicated health care systems and provide supportive intervention to patients and their families. A good therapeutic relationship, one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential, creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to resolve grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships.
I specialize in helping patients and their families facing a cancer diagnosis and treatments by providing individual and family counseling to reduce the stress of the cancer experience.
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in treating patients with cancer, new medical diagnosis, chronic illness, grief and loss. I can help navigate complicated health care systems and provide supportive intervention to patients and their families. A good therapeutic relationship, one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential, creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to resolve grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships.
(480) 418-9249 View (480) 418-9249
Photo of Katie Lespron, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Lespron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I have a special interest in working with those with chronic illness/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
I have a special interest in working with those with chronic illness/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
(480) 660-4779 View (480) 660-4779
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Wilson, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kimberly Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI
Verified Verified
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
lifestyle/wellness / chronic pain/illness/cancer/insomnia / OCD/tics/hairpulling/skin picking / infidelity/sex therapy/sexuality / addiction recovery / bipolar/anxiety/depression / serious mental illness kimberlywilsonnmd.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com
lifestyle/wellness / chronic pain/illness/cancer/insomnia / OCD/tics/hairpulling/skin picking / infidelity/sex therapy/sexuality / addiction recovery / bipolar/anxiety/depression / serious mental illness kimberlywilsonnmd.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com
(972) 848-5290 View (972) 848-5290
Photo of Dr. Ta-Taneisha R Thames - Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cave Creek, AZ 85331  (Online Only)
I am a cancer survivor and have suffered other illnesses.
I am very direct and will help make the changes you need to grow and heal. I work with individuals, couples and families with children ages 5 and up. I specialize in treating problems related to marriage and parenting; social, emotional, behavioral, intellectual and academic issues, self-esteem and confidence; life transitions, grief and loss; abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I’m passionate about helping children and their parents work together as a family, as a team. A team approach is the most effective approach, which is why I also collaborate with your child’s teachers and other providers as needed.
I am a cancer survivor and have suffered other illnesses.
I am very direct and will help make the changes you need to grow and heal. I work with individuals, couples and families with children ages 5 and up. I specialize in treating problems related to marriage and parenting; social, emotional, behavioral, intellectual and academic issues, self-esteem and confidence; life transitions, grief and loss; abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I’m passionate about helping children and their parents work together as a family, as a team. A team approach is the most effective approach, which is why I also collaborate with your child’s teachers and other providers as needed.
(213) 816-7175 View (213) 816-7175
Photo of Crystal McCormick - Making A Difference Support Services, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Making A Difference Support Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85380  (Online Only)
For over 30 years I have worked with a variety of patients and client groups, including: the military, the school district, hospitals, dialysis, hospice and cancer navigation. It has been a tremendous joy to see the growth in services and the focus on continuity of care - a true vision of mine. I believe we can best care for our patients and clients by empowering them to care for themselves.
For over 30 years I have worked with a variety of patients and client groups, including: the military, the school district, hospitals, dialysis, hospice and cancer navigation. It has been a tremendous joy to see the growth in services and the focus on continuity of care - a true vision of mine. I believe we can best care for our patients and clients by empowering them to care for themselves.
(907) 341-4869 View (907) 341-4869
Cancer Therapists

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 Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Cognitive Behavioral 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 counseling 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.