Cancer Therapists in Lincolnton, NC

Photo of Dr. Steve R Benson, DEd Min, MAC, MDiv, LCMHC-S, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Steve R Benson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DEd Min, MAC, MDiv, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Everyone has a story. . . of joy and sorrow, love and sadness, wounds and healing. Everyone's story is sacred and waiting to be discovered. But often we struggle to read our story because of depression, anxiety, past pains, or relational difficulties. My vision is to enable people to experience God's powerful grace in order to live in true freedom, transformation and discovery. I provide a pathway for people struggling on the journey to find hope for their broken hearts, healing for their wounds, and a hiding place to wrestle with the grace of God.
Everyone has a story. . . of joy and sorrow, love and sadness, wounds and healing. Everyone's story is sacred and waiting to be discovered. But often we struggle to read our story because of depression, anxiety, past pains, or relational difficulties. My vision is to enable people to experience God's powerful grace in order to live in true freedom, transformation and discovery. I provide a pathway for people struggling on the journey to find hope for their broken hearts, healing for their wounds, and a hiding place to wrestle with the grace of God.
(704) 550-4792 View (704) 550-4792
Photo of Adrian B. Thornburg, MA, NCC, RPTS, LCMHCS
Adrian B. Thornburg
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, NCC, RPTS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Life changing events bring emotional struggles such as grief, loss and other challenges. Adults may find themselves questioning and asking "Who am I now?" and "Where do I go from here?". Children, preteens and teens may find themselves navigating through new emotions and experiences as they grow and change. The need to explore and understand these new landscapes is critical to making positive and sometimes difficult decisions regarding self expression and life choices. Overall goals often included finding relief of inner conflict, developing confidence and experiencing growth.
Life changing events bring emotional struggles such as grief, loss and other challenges. Adults may find themselves questioning and asking "Who am I now?" and "Where do I go from here?". Children, preteens and teens may find themselves navigating through new emotions and experiences as they grow and change. The need to explore and understand these new landscapes is critical to making positive and sometimes difficult decisions regarding self expression and life choices. Overall goals often included finding relief of inner conflict, developing confidence and experiencing growth.
(704) 741-9240 View (704) 741-9240
Photo of Amy Mann Coone, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Mann Coone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Amy brings a patient and calming spirit to therapy, along with her good spirited humor, creating a safe environment for her clients to address their needs. "Therapy can be hard work. It is important to feel accepted in the therapy space and have faith that your therapist "gets you" and is ready to bear witness to whatever need you bring to each session. I am truly grateful to get to witness this with my client and join them in their growth process." Amy enjoys working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents.
Amy brings a patient and calming spirit to therapy, along with her good spirited humor, creating a safe environment for her clients to address their needs. "Therapy can be hard work. It is important to feel accepted in the therapy space and have faith that your therapist "gets you" and is ready to bear witness to whatever need you bring to each session. I am truly grateful to get to witness this with my client and join them in their growth process." Amy enjoys working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents.
(828) 415-5146 View (828) 415-5146
Photo of Insights In Recovery, LCAS, CCS, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Insights In Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CCS, SAP
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Hello there, I know that therapy can be scary, but you are not alone. Addiction affects many lives, directly or indirectly. Over the last decade, I have supported individuals suffering from addiction and their families on their journey to healing and recovery. My goal is to help you identify triggers for use and teach you positive coping strategies. I offer DWI assessments, DOT evals, substance abuse assessments, ADETS, drug education, and outpatient therapy for addiction and co-occurring disorders.
Hello there, I know that therapy can be scary, but you are not alone. Addiction affects many lives, directly or indirectly. Over the last decade, I have supported individuals suffering from addiction and their families on their journey to healing and recovery. My goal is to help you identify triggers for use and teach you positive coping strategies. I offer DWI assessments, DOT evals, substance abuse assessments, ADETS, drug education, and outpatient therapy for addiction and co-occurring disorders.
(980) 414-8698 View (980) 414-8698

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Mosteller, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Mosteller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
I provide counseling and life enrichment services for teens, adults, families, couples, and groups. My office is a safe atmosphere welcoming diversity in culture, in sexual orientation, religion, and other factors of difference. Our lives can be wonderful, tragic, amazing, challenging and we go on many journeys and walk on many paths along the way. Sometimes we just need someone to talk to, bounce ideas off of, find peace and healing with or just explore what makes us tick. Allow me to be with you on these journeys of life.
I provide counseling and life enrichment services for teens, adults, families, couples, and groups. My office is a safe atmosphere welcoming diversity in culture, in sexual orientation, religion, and other factors of difference. Our lives can be wonderful, tragic, amazing, challenging and we go on many journeys and walk on many paths along the way. Sometimes we just need someone to talk to, bounce ideas off of, find peace and healing with or just explore what makes us tick. Allow me to be with you on these journeys of life.
(828) 743-8787 View (828) 743-8787
Photo of Stacie Camp Bennett, PhD, LCMHCS, Counselor
Stacie Camp Bennett
Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Cherryville, NC 28021
I am a sole practitioner who provides a safe, comfortable space for all individuals. I utilize a personalized approach to work with individuals, couples and families in finding their path to healthier mind, body and family dynamics. I work with individuals, couples and families suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, postpartum depression, substance use disorders, career counseling, fertility issues, grief and loss, chronic pain and/or chronic illness like autoimmune disorders. My goal is to help all clients find their path and their voice in their lives. I can also utilize video appointments.
I am a sole practitioner who provides a safe, comfortable space for all individuals. I utilize a personalized approach to work with individuals, couples and families in finding their path to healthier mind, body and family dynamics. I work with individuals, couples and families suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, postpartum depression, substance use disorders, career counseling, fertility issues, grief and loss, chronic pain and/or chronic illness like autoimmune disorders. My goal is to help all clients find their path and their voice in their lives. I can also utilize video appointments.
(980) 409-4360 View (980) 409-4360

Online Therapists

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
Matthews, NC 28105  (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 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 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
With over 20 years of professional experience serving diverse populations at institutions such as Yale University School of Medicine (Psychiatry) and Levine Cancer Institute, my broad knowledge of issues affecting women living with mental, social and emotional distress allows me to effectively assess their needs; using evidence-based Interventions.
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.
With over 20 years of professional experience serving diverse populations at institutions such as Yale University School of Medicine (Psychiatry) and Levine Cancer Institute, my broad knowledge of issues affecting women living with mental, social and emotional distress allows me to effectively assess their needs; using evidence-based Interventions.
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 Nicole Feeling, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Feeling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455
I have experience working with adults of diverse backgrounds in inpatient, outpatient, community and VA health settings. I have specific interest and expertise in rehabilitation psychology and completed focused training working with patients and families of individuals with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, cancer and other health conditions. I also work with individuals with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, postpartum anxiety and depression, and individuals facing life-stressors/transitions.
I have experience working with adults of diverse backgrounds in inpatient, outpatient, community and VA health settings. I have specific interest and expertise in rehabilitation psychology and completed focused training working with patients and families of individuals with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, cancer and other health conditions. I also work with individuals with anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, postpartum anxiety and depression, and individuals facing life-stressors/transitions.
(336) 872-9970 View (336) 872-9970
Photo of Lisa Trahan, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Trahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Hello, and welcome. I'm glad you're here. You may be wondering what therapy is like and whether I would be a good fit for your specific needs. Broadly, my specialties include the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults. My clients also seek guidance on coping well with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic health condition, including cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes. Grief and loss may also be a focus of treatment. You can expect an initial evaluation and feedback. We will collaborate on goals for treatment and discuss approaches we can take to meet your goals.
Hello, and welcome. I'm glad you're here. You may be wondering what therapy is like and whether I would be a good fit for your specific needs. Broadly, my specialties include the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults. My clients also seek guidance on coping well with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic health condition, including cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes. Grief and loss may also be a focus of treatment. You can expect an initial evaluation and feedback. We will collaborate on goals for treatment and discuss approaches we can take to meet your goals.
(828) 330-9352 View (828) 330-9352
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)
Specifically chronic illness, cancer, military life, & young adulthood.
Do you feel like you are just going through the motions of your life? Maybe you can't relax and your thoughts go a mile a minute....or you feel distant and cut off from the people around you. You may even struggle with feeling numbed out or feeling everything all at once. You may identify as a people-pleaser, "control freak", or really struggle with your self-esteem. Chances are you've got chronic illness, pain, or your body just feels like your own worst enemy. If this resonates, I'd bet you are navigating 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.
Do you feel like you are just going through the motions of your life? Maybe you can't relax and your thoughts go a mile a minute....or you feel distant and cut off from the people around you. You may even struggle with feeling numbed out or feeling everything all at once. You may identify as a people-pleaser, "control freak", or really struggle with your self-esteem. Chances are you've got chronic illness, pain, or your body just feels like your own worst enemy. If this resonates, I'd bet you are navigating 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 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 Aimee Tolbert, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, Psychological Associate
Aimee Tolbert
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
, cancer).
Daytime & Late Afternoon Availability-Anxiety and depression can be exhausting. Your mind races, your body rarely relaxes, and your stomach is frequently in knots. You may even find yourself experiencing panic attacks or feeling trapped by the same unwanted thoughts and routines. You know that you want your life to be different, but you’re not sure what to do. All you know is these feelings are impacting your relationships with others. You aren’t the person that you want to be; and, you find yourself longing for a more meaningful life. After years of struggling, you’re finally ready for a change.
, cancer).
Daytime & Late Afternoon Availability-Anxiety and depression can be exhausting. Your mind races, your body rarely relaxes, and your stomach is frequently in knots. You may even find yourself experiencing panic attacks or feeling trapped by the same unwanted thoughts and routines. You know that you want your life to be different, but you’re not sure what to do. All you know is these feelings are impacting your relationships with others. You aren’t the person that you want to be; and, you find yourself longing for a more meaningful life. After years of struggling, you’re finally ready for a change.
(336) 344-9282 View (336) 344-9282
Photo of Andrea Siegel, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Siegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm also a cancer survivor.
Are you wrestling with big questions? I will support you to cultivate hope and to act on what is in your power to change. If you have let yourself down, hurt others, or been hurt by others: I can help you to examine your wounded moral compass, to discern how it points you toward your true north. If you have cultural and spiritual traditions to include, we can lean into them –or not, according to your preference; I have trained in integrative health, chaplaincy, clinical social work, and the humanities. If you want a therapist who understands the stresses of university, healthcare, nonprofit, and religious institutions, I do!
I'm also a cancer survivor.
Are you wrestling with big questions? I will support you to cultivate hope and to act on what is in your power to change. If you have let yourself down, hurt others, or been hurt by others: I can help you to examine your wounded moral compass, to discern how it points you toward your true north. If you have cultural and spiritual traditions to include, we can lean into them –or not, according to your preference; I have trained in integrative health, chaplaincy, clinical social work, and the humanities. If you want a therapist who understands the stresses of university, healthcare, nonprofit, and religious institutions, I do!
(828) 520-2957 View (828) 520-2957
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 Laura S Rand - Laura S. Rand Therapy, MS, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura S. Rand Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I received a breast cancer diagnosis several years ago.
All of us have been wounded by life in different ways, personally and in and through our relationships. We need healing and find it painful to examine our wounds. The poet, Rumi, wrote: "Don't turn away. Keep your gaze on the bandaged place. That's where the light enters you." I went back to graduate school so that I could sit with others willing to do this courageous work. Maybe you are ready for such a journey. I work primarily with adults, but I have worked with children for over 30 years as well.
I received a breast cancer diagnosis several years ago.
All of us have been wounded by life in different ways, personally and in and through our relationships. We need healing and find it painful to examine our wounds. The poet, Rumi, wrote: "Don't turn away. Keep your gaze on the bandaged place. That's where the light enters you." I went back to graduate school so that I could sit with others willing to do this courageous work. Maybe you are ready for such a journey. I work primarily with adults, but I have worked with children for over 30 years as well.
(828) 528-4158 View (828) 528-4158
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
Whitsett, NC 27377  (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 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
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.