Cancer Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Suzan Bollich - Suzan Bollich, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Suzan Bollich, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My psychotherapy practice is specialized in working with Adults, Older Adults, Couples, and Families who are seeking psychological help with Old/New trauma, Grief/Bereavement/Loss, living with Cancer, living with a Movement disorder (e.g., Parkinson disease), living with a Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), Aging, and Confronting End-of-Life. If you seek to confront the myriad concerns related to living with any of the above challenging situations, I will do that with you by exploring your particular situation and its inherent concerns. Concerns might include fear, anxiety, difficult decision-making, depression and despair.
My psychotherapy practice is specialized in working with Adults, Older Adults, Couples, and Families who are seeking psychological help with Old/New trauma, Grief/Bereavement/Loss, living with Cancer, living with a Movement disorder (e.g., Parkinson disease), living with a Dementia (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), Aging, and Confronting End-of-Life. If you seek to confront the myriad concerns related to living with any of the above challenging situations, I will do that with you by exploring your particular situation and its inherent concerns. Concerns might include fear, anxiety, difficult decision-making, depression and despair.
(510) 459-3985 View (510) 459-3985
Photo of Jessica Muzio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Muzio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I am also passionate about supporting clients through the emotions and life changes that accompany cancer diagnosis, treatment and healing.
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you're having a hard time or want to make changes in your life. That's where I can help. I provide a supportive environment for you to work through the thoughts, emotions and beliefs that may not be serving you. We will develop a plan that fits your lifestyle and puts you on a path toward the fulfillment, ease and well-being you deserve. I will accept you as you are, and help you become who you want to be.
I am also passionate about supporting clients through the emotions and life changes that accompany cancer diagnosis, treatment and healing.
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you're having a hard time or want to make changes in your life. That's where I can help. I provide a supportive environment for you to work through the thoughts, emotions and beliefs that may not be serving you. We will develop a plan that fits your lifestyle and puts you on a path toward the fulfillment, ease and well-being you deserve. I will accept you as you are, and help you become who you want to be.
(510) 944-0541 View (510) 944-0541
Photo of Judy Blumenfeld, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Blumenfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
This has included working with women who have cancer, HIV and Holocaust survivors.
An exploration of your childhood, relationships and deepest self can be a beautiful and powerful journey.Together we can develop a curiosity and exploration of vulnerabilities and resilience in the face of challenges and hardship. I work with you in a collaborative way to understand together the obstacles to having healthy and meaningful relationships. If you feel stuck and unable to understand some of your own behaviors and choices we can talk together and begin to find words to understand your experience. I have a warm style of relating and can at times bring humor to our work.
This has included working with women who have cancer, HIV and Holocaust survivors.
An exploration of your childhood, relationships and deepest self can be a beautiful and powerful journey.Together we can develop a curiosity and exploration of vulnerabilities and resilience in the face of challenges and hardship. I work with you in a collaborative way to understand together the obstacles to having healthy and meaningful relationships. If you feel stuck and unable to understand some of your own behaviors and choices we can talk together and begin to find words to understand your experience. I have a warm style of relating and can at times bring humor to our work.
(510) 575-9984 View (510) 575-9984
Photo of Susan Diamond Moore, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Diamond Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am former faculty at Stanford University where I led numerous groups for people with cancer and HIV; I've received postgraduate psychoanalytic training which has allowed me to more fully appreciate your mind's complexities and the unique potential for healing that exists within the therapeutic relationship that we build.
I consider it a privilege to work with you to explore aspects of your life experience which have diminished your satisfaction with life or otherwise left you feeling lost or alone. Challenges around loss, aging, illness, trauma or relationships can feel too frightening to tackle alone. As a seasoned and compassionate psychotherapist, I can help you bear and work with what may feel unbearable. Together, we will create a protected space that fosters the trust, aliveness and self-expression that are essential to growth and success in love and work, where you can ultimately reclaim your life and joie-de-vivre.
I am former faculty at Stanford University where I led numerous groups for people with cancer and HIV; I've received postgraduate psychoanalytic training which has allowed me to more fully appreciate your mind's complexities and the unique potential for healing that exists within the therapeutic relationship that we build.
I consider it a privilege to work with you to explore aspects of your life experience which have diminished your satisfaction with life or otherwise left you feeling lost or alone. Challenges around loss, aging, illness, trauma or relationships can feel too frightening to tackle alone. As a seasoned and compassionate psychotherapist, I can help you bear and work with what may feel unbearable. Together, we will create a protected space that fosters the trust, aliveness and self-expression that are essential to growth and success in love and work, where you can ultimately reclaim your life and joie-de-vivre.
(510) 985-4589 View (510) 985-4589
Photo of Jackie Fine Dahan, PsyD, Psychologist
Jackie Fine Dahan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I have special interest in working with individuals and families living with Medical Conditions, including Infertility, Cancer, Diabetes and Heart Disease.
I work with Individuals and Couples who are interested in healing and growth. My practice is influenced by a variety of treatment modalities that I have trained in extensively. My style is warm and interactive with a big dose of common sense. I am deeply commited to helping people live values driven lives and to getting out of their own way to live more fully and joyfully.
I have special interest in working with individuals and families living with Medical Conditions, including Infertility, Cancer, Diabetes and Heart Disease.
I work with Individuals and Couples who are interested in healing and growth. My practice is influenced by a variety of treatment modalities that I have trained in extensively. My style is warm and interactive with a big dose of common sense. I am deeply commited to helping people live values driven lives and to getting out of their own way to live more fully and joyfully.
(917) 809-6954 View (917) 809-6954
Photo of Barbara Moura, PsyD, Psychologist
Barbara Moura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes the coping strategies that we use no longer work for us. And the usual support systems we turn to, are at times just not enough. Therapy can be an added support to help us figure out new strategies to cope with the challenges and times of transition in our lives. I provide a calm and reflective space, where together we will reach a deeper understanding of what holds you back and what changes you need to make to live your life more fully. Some areas of specialization include women's issues, perinatal and postnatal disorders, early parenting and cancer.
Sometimes the coping strategies that we use no longer work for us. And the usual support systems we turn to, are at times just not enough. Therapy can be an added support to help us figure out new strategies to cope with the challenges and times of transition in our lives. I provide a calm and reflective space, where together we will reach a deeper understanding of what holds you back and what changes you need to make to live your life more fully. Some areas of specialization include women's issues, perinatal and postnatal disorders, early parenting and cancer.
(510) 257-9374 View (510) 257-9374
Photo of Cassandra Falby, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra Falby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I appreciate the opportunity to work with BIPOC, LGBTQIA folks, adult children of immigrants, those living with a chronic illness ( cancer, HIV, lupus, MS, fibromyalgia), and neurodivergent people.
Therapy is a time that's about YOU! It's a non-judgmental space where you can explore issues that you may have identified or you're not quite sure why you feel stuck. You might be dealing with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, ancestral trauma, or other things you just can't seem to resolve. You might have difficulty with personal boundaries or be experiencing repeated relationship conflicts. If you could have a regular place to address the things that burden you, imagine how different life could be?
I appreciate the opportunity to work with BIPOC, LGBTQIA folks, adult children of immigrants, those living with a chronic illness ( cancer, HIV, lupus, MS, fibromyalgia), and neurodivergent people.
Therapy is a time that's about YOU! It's a non-judgmental space where you can explore issues that you may have identified or you're not quite sure why you feel stuck. You might be dealing with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, ancestral trauma, or other things you just can't seem to resolve. You might have difficulty with personal boundaries or be experiencing repeated relationship conflicts. If you could have a regular place to address the things that burden you, imagine how different life could be?
(510) 924-0808 View (510) 924-0808
Photo of Annie Brashem, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Brashem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
As either a patient or caregiver, coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma can be quite the challenge. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
As either a patient or caregiver, coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma can be quite the challenge. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
(510) 330-1142 View (510) 330-1142
Photo of Dolores Moorehead, MS, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dolores Moorehead
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I'm experienced in working with women, solo mothers, elders, LGBTQ+ individuals, life transitions, as well as cancer.
Deciding to make changes in your life and grow isn't easy, but you don’t always have to do it by yourself. I'll walk by your side as a client-centered, empathic clinician as you explore a new path in life. I’m committed to meeting you where you are and to supporting your healing. I'll help you recognize your inherent strengths and resiliency as we work together to leverage them toward creating the change you seek.
I'm experienced in working with women, solo mothers, elders, LGBTQ+ individuals, life transitions, as well as cancer.
Deciding to make changes in your life and grow isn't easy, but you don’t always have to do it by yourself. I'll walk by your side as a client-centered, empathic clinician as you explore a new path in life. I’m committed to meeting you where you are and to supporting your healing. I'll help you recognize your inherent strengths and resiliency as we work together to leverage them toward creating the change you seek.
(916) 510-0699 View (916) 510-0699
Photo of Monique Anne Thompson, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Monique Anne Thompson
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have extensive experience working with adults with ADHD, individuals navigating major life transitions and chronic health problems (multiple sclerosis, lupus, cancer, chronic pain).
I am a clinical psychologist specializing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I treat adults with depression, anxiety (panic, worry, phobias), social anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and life stress. I am a partner at the San Francisco Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy and an Assistant Clinical Professor at UC Berkeley. I believe in a collaborative approach that emphasizes symptom relief, skill building and self-exploration. I have published two books on CBT, CBT for Depression, Essential Strategies to Manage Negative Thoughts and Start Living Your Life and The Insomnia Workbook for Teens.
I also have extensive experience working with adults with ADHD, individuals navigating major life transitions and chronic health problems (multiple sclerosis, lupus, cancer, chronic pain).
I am a clinical psychologist specializing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I treat adults with depression, anxiety (panic, worry, phobias), social anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and life stress. I am a partner at the San Francisco Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy and an Assistant Clinical Professor at UC Berkeley. I believe in a collaborative approach that emphasizes symptom relief, skill building and self-exploration. I have published two books on CBT, CBT for Depression, Essential Strategies to Manage Negative Thoughts and Start Living Your Life and The Insomnia Workbook for Teens.
(510) 876-9686 View (510) 876-9686
Photo of Jianne Gimian, PhD, Psychologist
Jianne Gimian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am interested in helping people who are dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
If you are having difficulty with relationships, at work, with parents or children, I can help you identify the issues causing discomfort and learn new strategies for coping, managing and getting more joy in life. If you need someone to talk openly with about your challenges in life, I can listen and help you gain insight so that you can choose the best ways to proceed. If you feel isolated and judged, I can help you build confidence. If you are stuck in grief, I can help you get through it. I can help you see pathways where you might be inclined to see barriers.
I am interested in helping people who are dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
If you are having difficulty with relationships, at work, with parents or children, I can help you identify the issues causing discomfort and learn new strategies for coping, managing and getting more joy in life. If you need someone to talk openly with about your challenges in life, I can listen and help you gain insight so that you can choose the best ways to proceed. If you feel isolated and judged, I can help you build confidence. If you are stuck in grief, I can help you get through it. I can help you see pathways where you might be inclined to see barriers.
(510) 974-7019 View (510) 974-7019
Photo of Shannon Knorr, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shannon Knorr
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
I enjoy in working with; self esteem & worth, trauma healing & recovery, body image & body positivity, disordered eating & relationship to body, belonging as our birthright, transforming deep shame into liberation, body & sex shame, relationships and boundaries, anxiety, stress & hyper-vigilance, nervous system imbalances, life transitions & identity, honoring grief, loss & death, life threatening illness, cancer, auto-immune disease, rites of passage, aging, adolescence, menopause, women's empowerment, highly sensitive people & empaths, people pleasers, intergenerational trauma & ancestral healing, mothering & the mother wound.
(510) 983-4457 View (510) 983-4457
Photo of Vanessa Watt - Vanessa Watt Therapy, MS, LMFT, 30986, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Watt Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, 30986
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
With compassionate guidance and therapeutic support, I have over the last 25 years helped tech employees, students, CEO's, parents, artists and many other individuals navigate personal challenges or life transitions. I use a blend of therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs to address a wide range of personal issues such as depression, anxiety, fear, past and present trauma, relationship issues, loss, cancer, family and personal illnesses. My style is collaborative so you can be an active participant in your healing and can better understand and resolve the challenges in your life.
With compassionate guidance and therapeutic support, I have over the last 25 years helped tech employees, students, CEO's, parents, artists and many other individuals navigate personal challenges or life transitions. I use a blend of therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs to address a wide range of personal issues such as depression, anxiety, fear, past and present trauma, relationship issues, loss, cancer, family and personal illnesses. My style is collaborative so you can be an active participant in your healing and can better understand and resolve the challenges in your life.
(415) 349-0893 View (415) 349-0893
Photo of Pamela Wrona, PsyD, Psychologist
Pamela Wrona
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with grief/loss, cancer support, gender/sexual identity development, eating disorders and disordered eating, trauma and attachment wounds, sport/competitions identity exploration and management, sport performance, depression, and anxiety.
I offer telemental health individual and couples psychotherapy to clients who reside in the state of California. I focus on providing this support through a humanistic and existential lens, an approach that emphasizes self-actualization, individuality, personal growth, and the search for meaning in the ups and downs of life. I emphasize empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a non-judgmental attitude to create a supportive environment for you to explore your emotions, beliefs, and concerns.
I specialize in working with grief/loss, cancer support, gender/sexual identity development, eating disorders and disordered eating, trauma and attachment wounds, sport/competitions identity exploration and management, sport performance, depression, and anxiety.
I offer telemental health individual and couples psychotherapy to clients who reside in the state of California. I focus on providing this support through a humanistic and existential lens, an approach that emphasizes self-actualization, individuality, personal growth, and the search for meaning in the ups and downs of life. I emphasize empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a non-judgmental attitude to create a supportive environment for you to explore your emotions, beliefs, and concerns.
(925) 369-4152 View (925) 369-4152
Photo of Van Metaxas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Van Metaxas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Cancer patients and their loved ones.
You may long to live wholeheartedly - and to feel loved and connected - but struggle with anger, depression, loneliness, or inexplicable sadness and anxiety. You may find the stress of work, life, running a household, or parenting has diminished your capacity to feel joy and be creative. Once a source of comfort and pleasure, your intimate relationship may now be disappointing, frustrating, or even deadening. Therapy can help relieve the symptoms of debilitating feelings by uncovering the underlying (and sometimes unconscious) causes, and empower individuals - and couples - to become the authors of the lives they want to live.
Cancer patients and their loved ones.
You may long to live wholeheartedly - and to feel loved and connected - but struggle with anger, depression, loneliness, or inexplicable sadness and anxiety. You may find the stress of work, life, running a household, or parenting has diminished your capacity to feel joy and be creative. Once a source of comfort and pleasure, your intimate relationship may now be disappointing, frustrating, or even deadening. Therapy can help relieve the symptoms of debilitating feelings by uncovering the underlying (and sometimes unconscious) causes, and empower individuals - and couples - to become the authors of the lives they want to live.
(415) 763-5931 View (415) 763-5931
Photo of Catherine Metzger, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Metzger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Some of the reasons people may reach out to me may include: Gender identity and expression; Emotional regulation; Loss or grief; Family and life transitions; Feelings of depression, anxiety, or irritation; Relationship or job dissatisfaction; School-related stress; Coping with trauma; Living with disability, cancer and/or chronic illness.
Sometimes life poses challenges or does not work out the way we hoped. At some point, everyone needs help during difficult times. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. I love working with people of all ages. I am deeply committed to meeting you and/or your child wherever you/they are so that over time you can find more ease and clarity in your daily and inner life.
Some of the reasons people may reach out to me may include: Gender identity and expression; Emotional regulation; Loss or grief; Family and life transitions; Feelings of depression, anxiety, or irritation; Relationship or job dissatisfaction; School-related stress; Coping with trauma; Living with disability, cancer and/or chronic illness.
Sometimes life poses challenges or does not work out the way we hoped. At some point, everyone needs help during difficult times. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. I love working with people of all ages. I am deeply committed to meeting you and/or your child wherever you/they are so that over time you can find more ease and clarity in your daily and inner life.
(341) 895-5774 View (341) 895-5774
Photo of Laura M Goodspeed, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura M Goodspeed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Online Only
The most significant predictor of a successful therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. Building a safe, nurturing relationship is where I excel. My style is warm and highly interactive, best suited for clients who prefer a therapist who feels very "human." I assist clients to explore their thought patterns and corresponding emotional responses, and to identify unconscious assumptions they hold about themselves and the world, which inform behavior patterns. I also provide practical tools for regulating anxiety, managing depression, and processing grief.
The most significant predictor of a successful therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. Building a safe, nurturing relationship is where I excel. My style is warm and highly interactive, best suited for clients who prefer a therapist who feels very "human." I assist clients to explore their thought patterns and corresponding emotional responses, and to identify unconscious assumptions they hold about themselves and the world, which inform behavior patterns. I also provide practical tools for regulating anxiety, managing depression, and processing grief.
(415) 801-0624 View (415) 801-0624
Photo of Julie Fishman, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Fishman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I work with individuals and couples, offering in person or video sessions and specializing in issues of depression, anxiety, and relationship. I believe that we all have the capacity to feel more alive, and achieve our creative potentials. An important part of fostering growth is building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, so I place a focus on this as a foundation for our work together. From there, I will support you in working toward goals that we co-create, and can help you to feel a sense of purpose, connection, and freedom in your life. For more information you can visit my website at: juliefishmantherapy.com
I work with individuals and couples, offering in person or video sessions and specializing in issues of depression, anxiety, and relationship. I believe that we all have the capacity to feel more alive, and achieve our creative potentials. An important part of fostering growth is building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, so I place a focus on this as a foundation for our work together. From there, I will support you in working toward goals that we co-create, and can help you to feel a sense of purpose, connection, and freedom in your life. For more information you can visit my website at: juliefishmantherapy.com
(510) 394-3698 View (510) 394-3698
Photo of Ellen P Davis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen P Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Waitlist for new clients
Each person is unique, therefore so are their concerns. I approach therapy based on the individuality of each adult, teen, and child, and their personal needs. Assisting you in working though thought patterns and feelings that are causing you distress is my goal. Being the parent of a tween/teen, you might find yourself looking for answers to questions that allude you. Often there are issues you would like to have a better understanding of, or a way to process them. I will assist you in finding the tools needed for you or your child to live a less stressful and more fulfilling life.
Each person is unique, therefore so are their concerns. I approach therapy based on the individuality of each adult, teen, and child, and their personal needs. Assisting you in working though thought patterns and feelings that are causing you distress is my goal. Being the parent of a tween/teen, you might find yourself looking for answers to questions that allude you. Often there are issues you would like to have a better understanding of, or a way to process them. I will assist you in finding the tools needed for you or your child to live a less stressful and more fulfilling life.
(510) 683-5269 View (510) 683-5269
Photo of Patricia Banchik Rothschild, LMFT, CMHIMP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Banchik Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Waitlist for new clients
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
(510) 403-8151 View (510) 403-8151
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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.