Cancer Counselling in Kennington, London
![Photo of Beth Anfilogoff, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/744ccf52-2035-4909-8d1a-f693cc12d919/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Anfilogoff
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE17 (Online Only)
Life can bring many challenges, and therapy is a space to learn to cope with emotional setbacks in a creative and positive way. I view my role as supporting people to understand themselves better and make changes in their lives. I have a specialist interest in high-functioning, high-achieving individuals who find themselves unhappy and burnt out. I also work at the Nightingale Hospital, Marylebone and I have previously worked at Maggie’s, a not-for-profit provider to the NHS for people with cancer and their loved ones. I really enjoy helping people to improve their well-being and create lives that are meaningful to them.
Life can bring many challenges, and therapy is a space to learn to cope with emotional setbacks in a creative and positive way. I view my role as supporting people to understand themselves better and make changes in their lives. I have a specialist interest in high-functioning, high-achieving individuals who find themselves unhappy and burnt out. I also work at the Nightingale Hospital, Marylebone and I have previously worked at Maggie’s, a not-for-profit provider to the NHS for people with cancer and their loved ones. I really enjoy helping people to improve their well-being and create lives that are meaningful to them.
![Photo of Gemma Autumn, MBABCP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51a3c9df-219c-4f67-bce2-0dc5694279c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gemma Autumn
Counsellor, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE11
Are you feeling anxious? Depressed? Low self-esteem? I offer therapeutic counselling using talking and creative therapy so you can plant the seeds of awareness and grow change in your life. I (she/her) am a trained integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor, ecopsychotherapist and practising artist. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, low self-esteem, relationships, life direction, stress, burnout, trauma, attachment, creative blocks, divorce, intimacy, abuse, sexuality, OCD, religion, family problems, money stories, spiritual disconnection, psychedelic integration and living abroad.
Are you feeling anxious? Depressed? Low self-esteem? I offer therapeutic counselling using talking and creative therapy so you can plant the seeds of awareness and grow change in your life. I (she/her) am a trained integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor, ecopsychotherapist and practising artist. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, low self-esteem, relationships, life direction, stress, burnout, trauma, attachment, creative blocks, divorce, intimacy, abuse, sexuality, OCD, religion, family problems, money stories, spiritual disconnection, psychedelic integration and living abroad.
![Photo of Mark Ryan, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de058af7-ff50-43ea-a557-fbf73bc8c4bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Ryan
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SW8
My name is Mark and I've been working as a psychotherapist for some years now. Throughout my life people (strangers and friends alike) have always told me I'm 'easy to talk to'. I think the reason is that I find it very easy to make space for the full spectrum of a person's experience and actions without judgment. I believe we're all human and all have a story to tell. I've come to realize the healing power of creating a safe space in which clients can share their inner worlds and talk about things they may never have spoken about before. I believe I'm a companion for part of your journey.
My name is Mark and I've been working as a psychotherapist for some years now. Throughout my life people (strangers and friends alike) have always told me I'm 'easy to talk to'. I think the reason is that I find it very easy to make space for the full spectrum of a person's experience and actions without judgment. I believe we're all human and all have a story to tell. I've come to realize the healing power of creating a safe space in which clients can share their inner worlds and talk about things they may never have spoken about before. I believe I'm a companion for part of your journey.
![Photo of Michelle Halabi, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee78c17f-aed3-4db8-b4c0-0229ea53bfb8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Halabi
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE1
Hello, my name’s Michelle and I am a Chartered Psychologist and Integrative Psychotherapist. My experience ranges from various issues such as bereavement/grief, trauma, domestic abuse, postnatal depression, homelessness, personality disorders, mental/physical health problems, issues with alcohol, substances as work difficulties. Together, we can make meaning of personal loss, help you to better cope with the difficulties you are facing, address any work challenges you are experiencing, or have healthier relationships.
Hello, my name’s Michelle and I am a Chartered Psychologist and Integrative Psychotherapist. My experience ranges from various issues such as bereavement/grief, trauma, domestic abuse, postnatal depression, homelessness, personality disorders, mental/physical health problems, issues with alcohol, substances as work difficulties. Together, we can make meaning of personal loss, help you to better cope with the difficulties you are facing, address any work challenges you are experiencing, or have healthier relationships.
![Photo of Caroline Newell, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ea679aa-61df-41c0-8f91-7bea35a1f0fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Newell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SW9
Do you feel that you’re constantly reinventing yourself in order to feel accepted? Do you put others’ needs and wants before your own? Maybe you’re going through a major transition in your life, which is causing you to question who you are or where you fit in. Whether the transition is expected, chosen or imposed, it can be difficult to adjust whilst enduring intense feelings of fear and uncertainty. If this sounds familiar and you would like to start making positive changes then give me a call or email me. I will help you to heal the disconnection and build resilience, so you can develop strength from the challenges you’re facing.
Do you feel that you’re constantly reinventing yourself in order to feel accepted? Do you put others’ needs and wants before your own? Maybe you’re going through a major transition in your life, which is causing you to question who you are or where you fit in. Whether the transition is expected, chosen or imposed, it can be difficult to adjust whilst enduring intense feelings of fear and uncertainty. If this sounds familiar and you would like to start making positive changes then give me a call or email me. I will help you to heal the disconnection and build resilience, so you can develop strength from the challenges you’re facing.
![Photo of Ian Martin, MSc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22d12eff-27b8-4ccb-af47-577ea7c9bc2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Martin
MSc
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE11
My name is Ian Martin and I'm an accredited (AREBT) Psychotherapist with practices in Central, South and South-West London. I'm also a Senior Lecturer with The College of Cognitive Behavioural Therapies in Central London (www.ccbttherapies.org.uk). I see clients at the Priory Hospital in Roehampton, and in private practise in Central London. www.selfacceptance.co
My name is Ian Martin and I'm an accredited (AREBT) Psychotherapist with practices in Central, South and South-West London. I'm also a Senior Lecturer with The College of Cognitive Behavioural Therapies in Central London (www.ccbttherapies.org.uk). I see clients at the Priory Hospital in Roehampton, and in private practise in Central London. www.selfacceptance.co
![Photo of undefined - M J counselling, MA, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f197cb53-461b-4f1f-bfe7-fd74d6d56ffb/2/320x400.jpeg)
M J counselling
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE17
I'm an experienced integrative counsellor specialised in all addictions, depression, anxiety relationships and bereavement with 30 years' experience in alcohol and drug addiction. I work with clients with a variety of different issues including psychosexual anxiety,domestic abuse, relationships loss and bereavements. I'm honoured to share the journey with my client. You choose your own goals and then we collaborate to achieve them. This journey starts with a desire to change. It is an opportunity to build healthy relationships and focuses on bringing change,hope,direction as well as purpose and fulfilment into your life.
I'm an experienced integrative counsellor specialised in all addictions, depression, anxiety relationships and bereavement with 30 years' experience in alcohol and drug addiction. I work with clients with a variety of different issues including psychosexual anxiety,domestic abuse, relationships loss and bereavements. I'm honoured to share the journey with my client. You choose your own goals and then we collaborate to achieve them. This journey starts with a desire to change. It is an opportunity to build healthy relationships and focuses on bringing change,hope,direction as well as purpose and fulfilment into your life.
![Photo of Niomi Wilkinson, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/864538c0-8c5b-4391-a7d4-c7814467e879/2/320x400.jpeg)
Niomi Wilkinson
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SW8
Hi, I'm Niomi. Recognising that you have a challenge, problem or issue that you wish to address can take courage. We can discuss how I can help you, or your child, to work towards achieving your goals for change. Seeing a therapist can be incredibly beneficial and effective, whether it is for a short period of focused work or a longer course of psychotherapy. I create a safe, comfortable non-judgmental space where we can work together on your needs. This can be face to face, or outdoor therapy through walk and talk, or online.
Hi, I'm Niomi. Recognising that you have a challenge, problem or issue that you wish to address can take courage. We can discuss how I can help you, or your child, to work towards achieving your goals for change. Seeing a therapist can be incredibly beneficial and effective, whether it is for a short period of focused work or a longer course of psychotherapy. I create a safe, comfortable non-judgmental space where we can work together on your needs. This can be face to face, or outdoor therapy through walk and talk, or online.
![Photo of Ildiko Victoria Szatmari, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8060d99-965c-4443-9423-a400e1547cdf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ildiko Victoria Szatmari
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE11
Welcome to a safe place to talk. There are many reasons why people reach out for help. It may be connected with relationship difficulties, feeling lonely, suffering a bereavement, experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, struggling with depression, trauma, anger, low self-esteem, or work issues. Sometimes there is nothing specific to name. I am a qualified, registered and experienced therapist, holding a degree in psychology and I have been professionally trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy. I am a member of the professional bodies UKCP and FPC.
Welcome to a safe place to talk. There are many reasons why people reach out for help. It may be connected with relationship difficulties, feeling lonely, suffering a bereavement, experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, struggling with depression, trauma, anger, low self-esteem, or work issues. Sometimes there is nothing specific to name. I am a qualified, registered and experienced therapist, holding a degree in psychology and I have been professionally trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy. I am a member of the professional bodies UKCP and FPC.
![Photo of Dr John Pollard, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50bee4b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr John Pollard
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennington, London SE11
I offer one-to-one psychotherapy in London Bridge/Borough. I work in a way that emphasises collaborating with clients to develop a pathway towards making meaningful and lasting positive change and growth. Your aims may be specific: for instance that you wish to work on a specific situation or setting in which you feel you are struggling; you may have a general sense that something in your life does not feel right, or you may feel you are somewhere in between these two examples. The main purpose of therapy is to help you move towards living the life you want to live and feel most at home in.
I offer one-to-one psychotherapy in London Bridge/Borough. I work in a way that emphasises collaborating with clients to develop a pathway towards making meaningful and lasting positive change and growth. Your aims may be specific: for instance that you wish to work on a specific situation or setting in which you feel you are struggling; you may have a general sense that something in your life does not feel right, or you may feel you are somewhere in between these two examples. The main purpose of therapy is to help you move towards living the life you want to live and feel most at home in.
![Photo of London Bridge Counselling Claudine van de Vyver, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/508752d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
London Bridge Counselling Claudine van de Vyver
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE11
I offer non-judgemental, open space to help you understand and move past difficulties in your life. I have a warm, down to earth approach, enabling me to help you build a sense of self and the resilience to grow within yourself . We work together to identify healthier ways of managing your emotions and stress and what is behind them. I specialise in anxiety, childhood trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and have a particular passion for working with those enable them to promote personal growth and a more balanced life. I offer a FREE first session, 5 min walk from Lambeth North/Waterloo- South Kensington Tube.
I offer non-judgemental, open space to help you understand and move past difficulties in your life. I have a warm, down to earth approach, enabling me to help you build a sense of self and the resilience to grow within yourself . We work together to identify healthier ways of managing your emotions and stress and what is behind them. I specialise in anxiety, childhood trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and have a particular passion for working with those enable them to promote personal growth and a more balanced life. I offer a FREE first session, 5 min walk from Lambeth North/Waterloo- South Kensington Tube.
![Photo of Sarah Rees, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52083315-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Rees
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE11
I believe we can all benefit from therapy by giving ourselves time to focus. Psychotherapy has helped me know myself better. As a counsellor and psychotherapist I will listen to you carefully to discern the key areas of concern, and work with you to enable understanding and consider with you ways to bring about change.
I believe we can all benefit from therapy by giving ourselves time to focus. Psychotherapy has helped me know myself better. As a counsellor and psychotherapist I will listen to you carefully to discern the key areas of concern, and work with you to enable understanding and consider with you ways to bring about change.
![Photo of undefined - Dr Joyline Gozho, PsychD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b2f6877-6034-4fcd-b8dd-ad57b91eb298/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Joyline Gozho
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Kennington, London SE11
Troubling thoughts, feelings, emotions, & repetitive behaviors can be safely explored & understood with the help of an experienced therapist. I work with individuals, couples and run groups. I help people who are experiencing a broad range of issues such as low mood, anxiety, low self esteem, anger, loneliness, rejection, infidelity, dependency, stuckness, eating disorders, abusive relationships, & seeking meaning in life. I use the psychodynamic model & CBT when necessary. Apart from being a therapist, I am a Lecturer at Birkbeck Uni on the MSc in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy course. Please visit www.citysanctuarytherapy.com
Troubling thoughts, feelings, emotions, & repetitive behaviors can be safely explored & understood with the help of an experienced therapist. I work with individuals, couples and run groups. I help people who are experiencing a broad range of issues such as low mood, anxiety, low self esteem, anger, loneliness, rejection, infidelity, dependency, stuckness, eating disorders, abusive relationships, & seeking meaning in life. I use the psychodynamic model & CBT when necessary. Apart from being a therapist, I am a Lecturer at Birkbeck Uni on the MSc in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy course. Please visit www.citysanctuarytherapy.com
Online Therapists
![Photo of Kirstine Hunter, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35cba211-5c2d-4e4f-abde-5cf2d68d6449/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kirstine Hunter
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW9
Having worked in a health setting & a cancer setting, I understand the impact of how disease & treatments can affect the body physically & emotionally.
I am a humanistic counsellor with an interest in people and what makes us individually unique. I work with what you want to explore, looking at what is happening now and how the past may be impacting this.
Having worked in a health setting & a cancer setting, I understand the impact of how disease & treatments can affect the body physically & emotionally.
I am a humanistic counsellor with an interest in people and what makes us individually unique. I work with what you want to explore, looking at what is happening now and how the past may be impacting this.
![Photo of Dr Jinnie Ooi, CPsychol, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37844b89-7d7c-4b73-b4c6-abbd0e6f3ce1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Jinnie Ooi
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London N2
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
![Photo of Lucy Kralj, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5219915c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucy Kralj
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London SW17
I am a UKCP accredited integrative psychotherapist. I have a particular interest in trauma and the mind-body relationship, including the psychological impact of health problems and the physical manifestations of emotional distress. Many of us have times in our lives when things feel broken and painful. In those times we may seek support. I have over fifteen years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma and also in palliative care. I am a clinical associate at Domestic Violence Training Ltd and a member of Cancer Counselling London. I am also a certified Iyengar yoga teacher and a registered nurse.
I am a UKCP accredited integrative psychotherapist. I have a particular interest in trauma and the mind-body relationship, including the psychological impact of health problems and the physical manifestations of emotional distress. Many of us have times in our lives when things feel broken and painful. In those times we may seek support. I have over fifteen years of experience working with victims of abuse and trauma and also in palliative care. I am a clinical associate at Domestic Violence Training Ltd and a member of Cancer Counselling London. I am also a certified Iyengar yoga teacher and a registered nurse.
![Photo of Dr Leng Song, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b91781fa-67ff-4b69-a33f-6350a87e00da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Leng Song
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW19
Waitlist for new clients
The type of clients I tend to work with are those who are looking for help around anxiety disorders (including OCD/BDD), psychosexual (such as vaginismus, erectile dysfunction etc), work-related anxiety, health anxiety (such as cancer, major trauma), work-related anxiety. I also work with clients who have some difficulties with interpersonal relationships and bereavement. My clients' goals are often centred around their values, and this is something we discuss in the first couple of sessions. Often, people come to me because they would like to build a life worth living in line with what is important to them.
The type of clients I tend to work with are those who are looking for help around anxiety disorders (including OCD/BDD), psychosexual (such as vaginismus, erectile dysfunction etc), work-related anxiety, health anxiety (such as cancer, major trauma), work-related anxiety. I also work with clients who have some difficulties with interpersonal relationships and bereavement. My clients' goals are often centred around their values, and this is something we discuss in the first couple of sessions. Often, people come to me because they would like to build a life worth living in line with what is important to them.
![Photo of Helene Klein, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e587cd0-0173-4066-a82d-8c92a4dcfb5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helene Klein
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London NW1
I am a Counselling Psychologist and trained EMDR therapist, accredited by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), and registered with the British Psychological Society (BPS). I split my time working in private practice in northwest London and the NHS providing therapy to employees affected by traumatic experiences and patients living with persistent physical health conditions, e.g. cancer. cardiac disease, and persistent pain.
I am a Counselling Psychologist and trained EMDR therapist, accredited by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), and registered with the British Psychological Society (BPS). I split my time working in private practice in northwest London and the NHS providing therapy to employees affected by traumatic experiences and patients living with persistent physical health conditions, e.g. cancer. cardiac disease, and persistent pain.
![Photo of Daniel Glazer, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a76c85c7-3e14-4cb8-bc91-3bcc0e42597e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Glazer
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and for the last 10+ years I have worked at University College London Hospital specialising in working with young people, parents and families affected by a range of psychological difficulties within the context of medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes & functional difficulties. I am trained in EMDR and have worked extensively with people impacted by trauma and PTSD. Find out more on springpsychology.co.uk
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and for the last 10+ years I have worked at University College London Hospital specialising in working with young people, parents and families affected by a range of psychological difficulties within the context of medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes & functional difficulties. I am trained in EMDR and have worked extensively with people impacted by trauma and PTSD. Find out more on springpsychology.co.uk
![Photo of Bisan Wehbi, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8e04e7d-a55b-406e-947a-fd3231f82c87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bisan Wehbi
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
London E17
I have extensive experience of working with children and young people in the education and charity sector, although my professional projects include work with refugees, people with SEN, cancer patients, single parents, people who suffer with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and many other areas.
I am a HCPC and BAAT registered Art Psychotherapist. Art Psychotherapy integrates speaking psychotherapy with expression through the art materials. This allows to communicate unconscious information and gives space for whatever might feel difficult to be communicated verbally, to resurface. I use a psychodynamic approach, which focuses on building a trusting client-therapist relationship to process difficult experiences. I facilitate a safe space, where we seek the root of unexplained behaviours and patterns.
I have extensive experience of working with children and young people in the education and charity sector, although my professional projects include work with refugees, people with SEN, cancer patients, single parents, people who suffer with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and many other areas.
I am a HCPC and BAAT registered Art Psychotherapist. Art Psychotherapy integrates speaking psychotherapy with expression through the art materials. This allows to communicate unconscious information and gives space for whatever might feel difficult to be communicated verbally, to resurface. I use a psychodynamic approach, which focuses on building a trusting client-therapist relationship to process difficult experiences. I facilitate a safe space, where we seek the root of unexplained behaviours and patterns.
See more therapy options for Kennington, London
Nearby Cancer Counsellors Searches for Kennington, London
- Brixton
- Camberwell
- Charing Cross
- Lambeth
- Nine Elms
- Pimlico
- South Bank
- Southwark
- Temple
- Vauxhall
- Walworth
- Westminster
Cancer Counsellors
How does cancer affect mental health?
A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.
What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?
The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?
Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counselling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.
How long does cancer therapy typically last?
The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.