Cancer Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Lisa Thyer, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Lisa Thyer
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
As a cancer survivor, I understand the challenges and feelings of fear and anxiety that begin the moment you are diagnosed.
The modern world is a stressful place with a mountain of expectations and fewer paths available to fulfill them than ever before. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, left out, anxious or depressed. Often they have a sense of being stuck and not knowing how to move forward. Ultimately what my clients want is to be “happy”. What I find on a more practical level is that this often means they want to be more engaged and content with their life and feel like they are making progress.
As a cancer survivor, I understand the challenges and feelings of fear and anxiety that begin the moment you are diagnosed.
The modern world is a stressful place with a mountain of expectations and fewer paths available to fulfill them than ever before. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, left out, anxious or depressed. Often they have a sense of being stuck and not knowing how to move forward. Ultimately what my clients want is to be “happy”. What I find on a more practical level is that this often means they want to be more engaged and content with their life and feel like they are making progress.
(704) 236-0879 View (704) 236-0879
Photo of LeKeesha M. Jackson - Living My Journey Counseling & Coaching Services, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Living My Journey Counseling & Coaching Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28217
I am a transformation-focused therapist practicing clinical social work. The primary focus of my practice is to help women and girls discover their true identity by breaking down the walls of shame, guilt, fear, anger, and sadness. I have a passion for serving high school, college and professional women seeking to activate their purpose and live an emotionally balanced life. I am also trained to provide specialized psycho-oncology counseling to individuals living with cancer. I address the psychological, social and emotional challenges women and families face when diagnosed with cancer.
I am a transformation-focused therapist practicing clinical social work. The primary focus of my practice is to help women and girls discover their true identity by breaking down the walls of shame, guilt, fear, anger, and sadness. I have a passion for serving high school, college and professional women seeking to activate their purpose and live an emotionally balanced life. I am also trained to provide specialized psycho-oncology counseling to individuals living with cancer. I address the psychological, social and emotional challenges women and families face when diagnosed with cancer.
(980) 267-3034 View (980) 267-3034
Photo of Tara Jubanowsky, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Jubanowsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
My passion has always been working with children and families impacted by life changing health issues. An ideal patient is an individual who is recently diagnosed with a condition such as cancer or major health issues including life threatening conditions and chronic pain. I specialize in treating medical trauma, anxiety, depression as well as grief, loss, and bereavement.
(984) 265-8755 View (984) 265-8755
Photo of Tammy Sophia Weitzman - Center for Loss and Grief Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Center for Loss and Grief Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
I have worked in the field of clinical social work for 20 years. I have provided therapeutic services to individuals/couples/families and young adults who present with various challenges including mood/anxiety, grief/bereavement and traumatic loss. Extensive training and experience as a grief therapist and dedicated my clinical career to working in serious/life threatening illnesses such as cancer and various chronic illnesses. I also provide clinical supervision for licensure and licensed clinicians. Founder of Center for Loss and Grief Counseling in Charlotte, NC. Our Winter Grief support group is now open for enrollment
I have worked in the field of clinical social work for 20 years. I have provided therapeutic services to individuals/couples/families and young adults who present with various challenges including mood/anxiety, grief/bereavement and traumatic loss. Extensive training and experience as a grief therapist and dedicated my clinical career to working in serious/life threatening illnesses such as cancer and various chronic illnesses. I also provide clinical supervision for licensure and licensed clinicians. Founder of Center for Loss and Grief Counseling in Charlotte, NC. Our Winter Grief support group is now open for enrollment
(704) 327-0720 View (704) 327-0720
Photo of Erin K. Taylor, PhD, Psychologist
Erin K. Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I hold a doctorate in clinical health psychology and specialize in working with people with health concerns including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Sapphire Health Psychology is for people who are experiencing chronic pain (including medically unexplained pain), serious illness, or weight management challenges and have exhausted traditional avenues for healing with little or no success. We explore these challenges from an angle that challenges the status quo, see symptoms as signals for change, recognize patterns that are hindering healing, and believe that true healing is possible. I am authorized to provide telepsychology services via the Psychology Interstate Compact (PsyPact) to the states and territories identified in this map www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
I hold a doctorate in clinical health psychology and specialize in working with people with health concerns including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Sapphire Health Psychology is for people who are experiencing chronic pain (including medically unexplained pain), serious illness, or weight management challenges and have exhausted traditional avenues for healing with little or no success. We explore these challenges from an angle that challenges the status quo, see symptoms as signals for change, recognize patterns that are hindering healing, and believe that true healing is possible. I am authorized to provide telepsychology services via the Psychology Interstate Compact (PsyPact) to the states and territories identified in this map www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
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Photo of Morgan Enright, PhD, LPC-S, AAMFT-S, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Morgan Enright
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, AAMFT-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
at Regent University, focusing on helping patients with cancer in the hospital system develop coping techniques, resiliency, and hope.
Dr. Morgan Enright has been helping individuals, couples, and families over the last decade find health and wholeness. As co-founder of One:12 Counseling, he is passionate about helping people become emotionally and spiritually healthy as individuals as well as in their relationships, working with: couples to develop healthy communication, process anger and disappointment, heal from past hurt, and deal with sexual intimacy difficulties; families in turmoil to be able to heal and reconnect; adolescents and young adults to develop healthy life skills, positive goals, and foster their identity in Christ; men who struggle with pornography and sexual addiction to find freedom and wholeness.
at Regent University, focusing on helping patients with cancer in the hospital system develop coping techniques, resiliency, and hope.
Dr. Morgan Enright has been helping individuals, couples, and families over the last decade find health and wholeness. As co-founder of One:12 Counseling, he is passionate about helping people become emotionally and spiritually healthy as individuals as well as in their relationships, working with: couples to develop healthy communication, process anger and disappointment, heal from past hurt, and deal with sexual intimacy difficulties; families in turmoil to be able to heal and reconnect; adolescents and young adults to develop healthy life skills, positive goals, and foster their identity in Christ; men who struggle with pornography and sexual addiction to find freedom and wholeness.
(704) 706-9451 View (704) 706-9451
Photo of Loula Kontoulas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Loula Kontoulas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
In my experience working with oncology patients, I learned how cancer can impact your life and how illness and physical vulnerability can affect your emotional wellbeing and sense of safety.
I believe we all have the potential to grow through challenges. Rather than living in distress, we can find ways to ease through the difficulties of life. Through my work with cancer patients, I developed a therapeutic framework based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients with various issues move from distress toward peace. In addition, I understand that one size does not fit all, so I use an integrative approach that draws from several disciplines.
In my experience working with oncology patients, I learned how cancer can impact your life and how illness and physical vulnerability can affect your emotional wellbeing and sense of safety.
I believe we all have the potential to grow through challenges. Rather than living in distress, we can find ways to ease through the difficulties of life. Through my work with cancer patients, I developed a therapeutic framework based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients with various issues move from distress toward peace. In addition, I understand that one size does not fit all, so I use an integrative approach that draws from several disciplines.
(980) 366-4358 View (980) 366-4358
Photo of Susan Funk, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Funk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
As a psychologist, I work collaboratively with individuals ages 18+ to help them explore what has led to current life difficulties and to work toward the changes they desire. I am a generalist in that I work with many different presenting issues from relationship difficulties to anxiety and depression. However, I have developed particular interest in working with trauma, adult survivors of childhood abuse, cancer issues, spiritual concerns, and with people with intuitive and empathic gifts. I take an integrative approach to my work drawing heavily on interpersonal, psychodynamic, and mindfulness -based cognitive therapy models.
As a psychologist, I work collaboratively with individuals ages 18+ to help them explore what has led to current life difficulties and to work toward the changes they desire. I am a generalist in that I work with many different presenting issues from relationship difficulties to anxiety and depression. However, I have developed particular interest in working with trauma, adult survivors of childhood abuse, cancer issues, spiritual concerns, and with people with intuitive and empathic gifts. I take an integrative approach to my work drawing heavily on interpersonal, psychodynamic, and mindfulness -based cognitive therapy models.
(704) 859-5633 View (704) 859-5633
Photo of Azalia Pettway - Inner Love Counseling, PLLC, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Love Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who are battling issues with depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, grief and loss, substance use, relationships, medical issues and difficulty coping with chronic health (kidney disease, cancer, etc), effects of trauma, feelings of worthlessness, being lost in life, self esteem, self love, goal setting, finding solutions, loneliness, and employment. I also help people who just need to vent and get it out (talk therapy). I also specialize in helping people use assertive communication to help better communication with others for the betterment of themselves for the present and the future.
I specialize in working with clients who are battling issues with depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, grief and loss, substance use, relationships, medical issues and difficulty coping with chronic health (kidney disease, cancer, etc), effects of trauma, feelings of worthlessness, being lost in life, self esteem, self love, goal setting, finding solutions, loneliness, and employment. I also help people who just need to vent and get it out (talk therapy). I also specialize in helping people use assertive communication to help better communication with others for the betterment of themselves for the present and the future.
(336) 739-5980 View (336) 739-5980
Photo of Lauren Morales, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specifically chronic illness, cancer, military life, & young adulthood.
Please visit my website to sign up for my waitlist. Do you feel like you are just going through the motions of your life? You probably can't relax, you feel distant from the people around you, & you struggle with feeling numbed out or feeling everything all at once. You may self identify as a people-pleaser, control freak, or struggle with your self-esteem. Chances are you've got chronic illness, pain, or your body just feels like your worst enemy. If this resonates, I'd bet you are recovering from a significant trauma or loss. I know first hand how hard it can be to reach out and find help, I am SO glad you are here.
Specifically chronic illness, cancer, military life, & young adulthood.
Please visit my website to sign up for my waitlist. Do you feel like you are just going through the motions of your life? You probably can't relax, you feel distant from the people around you, & you struggle with feeling numbed out or feeling everything all at once. You may self identify as a people-pleaser, control freak, or struggle with your self-esteem. Chances are you've got chronic illness, pain, or your body just feels like your worst enemy. If this resonates, I'd bet you are recovering from a significant trauma or loss. I know first hand how hard it can be to reach out and find help, I am SO glad you are here.
(910) 519-8262 View (910) 519-8262
Photo of Dr. Sherri Newpol, PsyD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Sherri Newpol
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
Areas I focus on are ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ (and QIAAP), head injury, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic illness, cancer, "chemo brain," tics, seizures, trichotillomania, & couples counseling.
Hello! I'm a seasoned psychologist who welcomes people with complex issues. If you have multiple diagnoses, facing a life transition such as divorce or new career, or planning for surgery or retirement...I want to work with you. I enjoy working with medical practices helping people navigate bariatric or other surgeries. I have a passion helping people overcome trauma using Prolonged Exposure. I have specialized training in addictions and eating disorders. People return to my practice when facing new life challenges. Couples make fast positive changes under my care. Let's start your journey today. I respond to all inquiries.
Areas I focus on are ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ (and QIAAP), head injury, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic illness, cancer, "chemo brain," tics, seizures, trichotillomania, & couples counseling.
Hello! I'm a seasoned psychologist who welcomes people with complex issues. If you have multiple diagnoses, facing a life transition such as divorce or new career, or planning for surgery or retirement...I want to work with you. I enjoy working with medical practices helping people navigate bariatric or other surgeries. I have a passion helping people overcome trauma using Prolonged Exposure. I have specialized training in addictions and eating disorders. People return to my practice when facing new life challenges. Couples make fast positive changes under my care. Let's start your journey today. I respond to all inquiries.
(984) 689-9269 View (984) 689-9269
Photo of Ashlea Staunch-Humphries - Ashlea Staunch-Humphries, LCSW (Remote NC only), LCSW, NC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlea Staunch-Humphries, LCSW (Remote NC only)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Ashlea utilizes dynamic, client-centered therapeutic methods to uncover the root causes of distress and transform negative patterns that arise from personal trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, court and medical issues, and relationship conflicts. As a court-certified, abuse and trauma expert, her clinical experience and certifications include: EMDR Levels 1 & 2, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman, Forensic Interviewing, Nia Blue Belt, mindfulness, and Transcendental Meditation (TM). She is a cancer survivor who connects from the heart.
Ashlea utilizes dynamic, client-centered therapeutic methods to uncover the root causes of distress and transform negative patterns that arise from personal trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, court and medical issues, and relationship conflicts. As a court-certified, abuse and trauma expert, her clinical experience and certifications include: EMDR Levels 1 & 2, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman, Forensic Interviewing, Nia Blue Belt, mindfulness, and Transcendental Meditation (TM). She is a cancer survivor who connects from the heart.
(252) 512-4061 View (252) 512-4061
Photo of Morgan Rudd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cancer and other terminal diagnosis, grief/loss and major life changes, including growing older and adjusting to new normals.
My counseling style is warm, empathetic, integrative, and person-centered. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a collaborative one in which you and I work together to discover creative strategies, solutions and, even humorous insights to help you reach your goals. My role is to be there to guide you, encourage you, maybe even challenge you if I feel you are unknowingly allowing obstacles to stand in your way. I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cancer and other terminal diagnosis, grief/loss and major life changes, including growing older and adjusting to new normals.
My counseling style is warm, empathetic, integrative, and person-centered. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a collaborative one in which you and I work together to discover creative strategies, solutions and, even humorous insights to help you reach your goals. My role is to be there to guide you, encourage you, maybe even challenge you if I feel you are unknowingly allowing obstacles to stand in your way. I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals.
(681) 207-9538 View (681) 207-9538
Photo of Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
(331) 210-9134 View (331) 210-9134
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Rita McDonough, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Rita McDonough
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Most of us can relate to the fact that life can be unpredictable, sometimes sending us in a direction we could never truly prepare for. When met with uncertainty, struggle, or suffering it can be difficult to know what path to take forward. I take an authentic, collaborative and compassion-focused stance so you can feel comfortable and confident in your ability to navigate challenges. My specialized training in clinical health psychology allows me to consider how complex biological, social and psychological factors intersect, providing a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
Most of us can relate to the fact that life can be unpredictable, sometimes sending us in a direction we could never truly prepare for. When met with uncertainty, struggle, or suffering it can be difficult to know what path to take forward. I take an authentic, collaborative and compassion-focused stance so you can feel comfortable and confident in your ability to navigate challenges. My specialized training in clinical health psychology allows me to consider how complex biological, social and psychological factors intersect, providing a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
(704) 910-8381 View (704) 910-8381
Photo of Amanda Herbin - Atrium Family Services, MA, LPC, Counselor
Atrium Family Services
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202
***********Now Accepting New Clients************** Feelings of sadness, hoplessness, constant worrying and guilt are commonly felt emotions that affect most if not all of us at some point. It often feels like there is no answer to resolving these emotions. With Atrium Family Services, you are not alone as we walk with you on this journey to clarity and a healthier you. Our area of specialty is working with individuals, families and couples. At Atrium Family Services we take honor in being able to share this experience with you.
***********Now Accepting New Clients************** Feelings of sadness, hoplessness, constant worrying and guilt are commonly felt emotions that affect most if not all of us at some point. It often feels like there is no answer to resolving these emotions. With Atrium Family Services, you are not alone as we walk with you on this journey to clarity and a healthier you. Our area of specialty is working with individuals, families and couples. At Atrium Family Services we take honor in being able to share this experience with you.
(704) 286-9705 View (704) 286-9705
Photo of Nadia Antoszyk, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadia Antoszyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
For the past twenty one years, I have worked as a LCSW with children, adolescents adults and couples using a variety of treatment modalities. This experience comes from woring in hospitals, mental health agencies and partial hospitalizations programs. I specialize in Mood Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Trauma/abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Bereavement/Grief and Mental Health Conditions(HIV/AIDS, Diabetes, and etc.) More recently, I was certified as a Parent Coordinator for the Mecklenburg Court system.
For the past twenty one years, I have worked as a LCSW with children, adolescents adults and couples using a variety of treatment modalities. This experience comes from woring in hospitals, mental health agencies and partial hospitalizations programs. I specialize in Mood Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Trauma/abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Bereavement/Grief and Mental Health Conditions(HIV/AIDS, Diabetes, and etc.) More recently, I was certified as a Parent Coordinator for the Mecklenburg Court system.
(704) 594-3131 View (704) 594-3131
Photo of Julie Minneci, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Minneci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Not currently accepting new clients.......Life can be overwhelming, but we seldom take the time to ask for help. Whether you’re dealing with grief at the loss of a loved one, or looking for ways to adapt to new life changes, such a becoming a new parent, seeking counseling opens new opportunities to foster resiliency. Through the safe and open space therapy can create our goal will always be to process, reflect, and grow.
Not currently accepting new clients.......Life can be overwhelming, but we seldom take the time to ask for help. Whether you’re dealing with grief at the loss of a loved one, or looking for ways to adapt to new life changes, such a becoming a new parent, seeking counseling opens new opportunities to foster resiliency. Through the safe and open space therapy can create our goal will always be to process, reflect, and grow.
(704) 318-4283 View (704) 318-4283
Photo of Breta M. Collins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Breta M. Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
Life and love can be messy. Our 24/7 world can make otherwise successful people get out of balance in their lives and in their relationships. The good news is: quality, research-based counseling works for couples and individuals. Together, we can help you and/or your relationship feel better.
Life and love can be messy. Our 24/7 world can make otherwise successful people get out of balance in their lives and in their relationships. The good news is: quality, research-based counseling works for couples and individuals. Together, we can help you and/or your relationship feel better.
(704) 276-6626 View (704) 276-6626
Photo of Amit Patel, MS, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amit Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Are you kinda skeptical? Have other therapists not been able to help? I am proven, non-conventional therapist and excel in working with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, abuse of any kind, or dealing with relationship issues to name a few. I take a radical healing approach through targeted therapies helping you to overcome issues and capitalize on the opportunity provided by the universe to get back to the joy of living. Practicing with care, compassion and empathy are my hallmarks. I welcome all who wish to catalyze positive change in their lives.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Are you kinda skeptical? Have other therapists not been able to help? I am proven, non-conventional therapist and excel in working with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, abuse of any kind, or dealing with relationship issues to name a few. I take a radical healing approach through targeted therapies helping you to overcome issues and capitalize on the opportunity provided by the universe to get back to the joy of living. Practicing with care, compassion and empathy are my hallmarks. I welcome all who wish to catalyze positive change in their lives.
(704) 459-6687 View (704) 459-6687
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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.