Cancer Therapists in San Francisco, CA
I work with cancer patients and their partners.
I work with sensitivity and compassion to create a safe environment in which issues can be explored. I de-mystify the therapeutic process in order to help you maximize your efforts to create the life you wish to have. I help you to discover the unique person you are, whether you are a professional, an artist, a parent, or a couple. Whether your challenge is situational, chronic, or acute, my goal is to help you learn how to create a more fulfilled life and enrich your relationships. I work deeply and pragmatically, so that you gain both insight, development, growth and practical knowledge.
I work with cancer patients and their partners.
I work with sensitivity and compassion to create a safe environment in which issues can be explored. I de-mystify the therapeutic process in order to help you maximize your efforts to create the life you wish to have. I help you to discover the unique person you are, whether you are a professional, an artist, a parent, or a couple. Whether your challenge is situational, chronic, or acute, my goal is to help you learn how to create a more fulfilled life and enrich your relationships. I work deeply and pragmatically, so that you gain both insight, development, growth and practical knowledge.
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.
For the times you feel you have thoughts and feelings you cannot share with anyone, meeting with a therapist offers a contained space to reveal these parts of yourself. In my office, there is no right way to be in therapy. You are not the only person who might feel like a fraud in your own life.The unending thoughts about yourself or your life that are not so kind can stop. I welcome the full expression of the complexity of your emotions and experience.
For the times you feel you have thoughts and feelings you cannot share with anyone, meeting with a therapist offers a contained space to reveal these parts of yourself. In my office, there is no right way to be in therapy. You are not the only person who might feel like a fraud in your own life.The unending thoughts about yourself or your life that are not so kind can stop. I welcome the full expression of the complexity of your emotions and experience.
Life can feel overwhelming; we can feel stuck and unsure how to move forward. Working together, I will help you slow down and pay attention to what is happening inside with gentleness and curiosity to help you find answers from your inner wisdom. Doing so will help you access your most profound sense of empowerment and make choices to have a more meaningful, spacious, and joyful life.
Life can feel overwhelming; we can feel stuck and unsure how to move forward. Working together, I will help you slow down and pay attention to what is happening inside with gentleness and curiosity to help you find answers from your inner wisdom. Doing so will help you access your most profound sense of empowerment and make choices to have a more meaningful, spacious, and joyful life.
I offer evidence-based psychotherapies and interventions for adults navigating chronic health issues, including cancer.
As a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychologist, I value serving all those in need of support in coping through their health challenges. I know that life feels different and overwhelming and it can feel daunting to find something to look forward to when you don't feel 100%. This is all a valid and a normal part of our human experience, which can be sad and painful. I believe that even in the midst of these changes, you can still grow and connect with your inner purpose and meaning. My goal is to walk alongside and provide supportive tools to add to your quality of life.
I offer evidence-based psychotherapies and interventions for adults navigating chronic health issues, including cancer.
As a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychologist, I value serving all those in need of support in coping through their health challenges. I know that life feels different and overwhelming and it can feel daunting to find something to look forward to when you don't feel 100%. This is all a valid and a normal part of our human experience, which can be sad and painful. I believe that even in the midst of these changes, you can still grow and connect with your inner purpose and meaning. My goal is to walk alongside and provide supportive tools to add to your quality of life.
I know life can feel overwhelming, and it's okay to seek help. You may be navigating intense emotions like anxiety or depression, or experiencing strain in your relationships. Perhaps you're adjusting to significant life changes or healing from past hurts. Whatever you're going through, I'm here for you, offering a compassionate, judgment-free space where your voice matters. Together, we can work through these challenges, creating a personalized plan to find balance, build coping strategies, and strengthen your relationships. Let's work together to nurture the resilience and positive change you deserve in your life.
I know life can feel overwhelming, and it's okay to seek help. You may be navigating intense emotions like anxiety or depression, or experiencing strain in your relationships. Perhaps you're adjusting to significant life changes or healing from past hurts. Whatever you're going through, I'm here for you, offering a compassionate, judgment-free space where your voice matters. Together, we can work through these challenges, creating a personalized plan to find balance, build coping strategies, and strengthen your relationships. Let's work together to nurture the resilience and positive change you deserve in your life.
Maryellen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MT-BC
San Francisco, CA 94134
Waitlist for new clients
I also have specialized training in helping individuals dealing with cancer, chronic illness, and terminal illness.
I practice with an integrative treatment approach to therapy, tailoring my approach to each individual. My core focus combines person-centered, psychodynamic, and strengths-based frameworks. Additionally, I incorporate modalities such as mindfulness, guided meditation, breathing exercises, and music therapy interventions when appropriate.
I also have specialized training in helping individuals dealing with cancer, chronic illness, and terminal illness.
I practice with an integrative treatment approach to therapy, tailoring my approach to each individual. My core focus combines person-centered, psychodynamic, and strengths-based frameworks. Additionally, I incorporate modalities such as mindfulness, guided meditation, breathing exercises, and music therapy interventions when appropriate.
Brooke Mullineaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you find yourself facing the anxiety of a personal or family health challenge, managing the pressure of working as a healthcare professional, or dealing with the turmoil and pain of grief - you’re not alone. Therapy can be a dedicated space where you feel safe to nurture yourself, heal at your own pace, and discover more about who you truly are.
With over a decade of professional experience in both the medical and mental health fields, I bring compassionate support to those navigating some of life’s most challenging moments - helping you find strength and healing when you need it most.
Whether you find yourself facing the anxiety of a personal or family health challenge, managing the pressure of working as a healthcare professional, or dealing with the turmoil and pain of grief - you’re not alone. Therapy can be a dedicated space where you feel safe to nurture yourself, heal at your own pace, and discover more about who you truly are.
With over a decade of professional experience in both the medical and mental health fields, I bring compassionate support to those navigating some of life’s most challenging moments - helping you find strength and healing when you need it most.
My specialty areas are pregnancy loss, fertility challenges, and cancer support.
I integrate somatic work to help you reconnect with your body and ease physical manifestations of grief, while narrative therapy offers a space for you to reexamine your story in a way that supports healing. With DBT, we work on building mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance so you can regain a sense of balance.
My specialty areas are pregnancy loss, fertility challenges, and cancer support.
I integrate somatic work to help you reconnect with your body and ease physical manifestations of grief, while narrative therapy offers a space for you to reexamine your story in a way that supports healing. With DBT, we work on building mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance so you can regain a sense of balance.
I also specialize in working with women experiencing the cancer journey, trauma, and survivorship after treatment, including practical and emotional support.
I draw from techniques in CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused, trauma-informed and insight-oriented therapies, but always adapt my approach to fit your unique needs and goals. I specialize in evidenced based techniques to help address and manage stress, burnout, sleep issues, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem.
I also specialize in working with women experiencing the cancer journey, trauma, and survivorship after treatment, including practical and emotional support.
I draw from techniques in CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused, trauma-informed and insight-oriented therapies, but always adapt my approach to fit your unique needs and goals. I specialize in evidenced based techniques to help address and manage stress, burnout, sleep issues, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem.
I have ample experience working with anxiety, life adjustments, cancer, and grief/loss.
I look at the whole person when approaching care. Drawing on trauma-informed principles and evidence-based techniques, I am always mindful of the impact of your past on present day struggles. Doing so allows us to resolve underlying issues that impact your well being. Your mental health is a collective experience and together we will approach it as such.
I have ample experience working with anxiety, life adjustments, cancer, and grief/loss.
I look at the whole person when approaching care. Drawing on trauma-informed principles and evidence-based techniques, I am always mindful of the impact of your past on present day struggles. Doing so allows us to resolve underlying issues that impact your well being. Your mental health is a collective experience and together we will approach it as such.
As an Oncology Social Worker, I’ve gained a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by cancer.
I am a bilingual Latinx therapist who weaves holistic approaches with evidence-based therapeutic practices including: cognitive reframing, emotional regulation, strength-based interventions, and mindfulness. The modalities used in session are thoughtfully tailored to your individual needs and goals to support your healing journey.
As an Oncology Social Worker, I’ve gained a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by cancer.
I am a bilingual Latinx therapist who weaves holistic approaches with evidence-based therapeutic practices including: cognitive reframing, emotional regulation, strength-based interventions, and mindfulness. The modalities used in session are thoughtfully tailored to your individual needs and goals to support your healing journey.
I am nationally board certified in palliative care and work with people experiencing many different types of health concerns (e.g. 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.
I am nationally board certified in palliative care and work with people experiencing many different types of health concerns (e.g. 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.
My areas of clinical expertise include breast and gynecological cancers, lung cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, and organ transplant.
Is a chronic or serious illness impacting your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, adjustment to illness, uncertainty, role changes, loss, or depression? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your experience? I can help you. I help clients navigate the impact that illness has on all areas of their lives. Please note that I am part of the Compassionate Integrative Counseling Group. Our group consists of three seasoned therapists who specialize in working with patients, caregivers, and loved ones around the complexities of serious illness.
My areas of clinical expertise include breast and gynecological cancers, lung cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, and organ transplant.
Is a chronic or serious illness impacting your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, adjustment to illness, uncertainty, role changes, loss, or depression? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your experience? I can help you. I help clients navigate the impact that illness has on all areas of their lives. Please note that I am part of the Compassionate Integrative Counseling Group. Our group consists of three seasoned therapists who specialize in working with patients, caregivers, and loved ones around the complexities of serious illness.
I also have a passion for helping individuals cope with cancer.
I have extensive training in ACT for anxiety and depression. Using ACT and other techniques, I guide clients in how to live a meaningful life, build self-awareness, and cope with stressful situations. I honed these skills during my postdoctoral residency at Kaiser Medical Center, where I specialized in working with cancer patients.
I also have a passion for helping individuals cope with cancer.
I have extensive training in ACT for anxiety and depression. Using ACT and other techniques, I guide clients in how to live a meaningful life, build self-awareness, and cope with stressful situations. I honed these skills during my postdoctoral residency at Kaiser Medical Center, where I specialized in working with cancer patients.
Additionally, as a survivor of breast cancer and meningitis, I also work with those who have chronic and terminal diagnoses, cancer, fear of death, and are facing end of life decisions.
My approach is centered in existential therapy to help people discover why they are here now; how to translate their pain, experiences, and symptoms into wisdom and skills; and pursue a life of meaning and purpose. I incorporate multiple therapy modalities to customize therapy to each unique individual, including elements of ACT, somatic, and trauma healing.
Additionally, as a survivor of breast cancer and meningitis, I also work with those who have chronic and terminal diagnoses, cancer, fear of death, and are facing end of life decisions.
My approach is centered in existential therapy to help people discover why they are here now; how to translate their pain, experiences, and symptoms into wisdom and skills; and pursue a life of meaning and purpose. I incorporate multiple therapy modalities to customize therapy to each unique individual, including elements of ACT, somatic, and trauma healing.
My areas of specialization include substance abuse, cancer, health-related issues, and trauma.
I am trained to utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR to help reduce overall symptoms of PTSD. I have personal experience with cancer and addiction myself. I understand how challenging acceptance and change can be.
My areas of specialization include substance abuse, cancer, health-related issues, and trauma.
I am trained to utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR to help reduce overall symptoms of PTSD. I have personal experience with cancer and addiction myself. I understand how challenging acceptance and change can be.
As a psychologist and former cancer patient, I offer an immediate connection of hope and understanding during diagnosis, active/post treatment phases.
Life is tough for all of us. Careers, families, relationships, health; what brings joy can also cause stress. Whether it feels like a crisis or a long standing issue that isn't getting better, therapy can help address your difficulties. These may include marriage/family conflicts, excess worry/stress, lack of motivation, career dissatisfaction, to name just a few. For young people it may be worries about the future, stress from parents, drug/alcohol/food challenges. Or perhaps you are managing a life threatening illness or are a loved one's caregiver. We will work together to help relieve your pain and get to a calmer, happier you.
As a psychologist and former cancer patient, I offer an immediate connection of hope and understanding during diagnosis, active/post treatment phases.
Life is tough for all of us. Careers, families, relationships, health; what brings joy can also cause stress. Whether it feels like a crisis or a long standing issue that isn't getting better, therapy can help address your difficulties. These may include marriage/family conflicts, excess worry/stress, lack of motivation, career dissatisfaction, to name just a few. For young people it may be worries about the future, stress from parents, drug/alcohol/food challenges. Or perhaps you are managing a life threatening illness or are a loved one's caregiver. We will work together to help relieve your pain and get to a calmer, happier you.
At San Francisco Family Practice, I specialize in psychotherapy with children, adolescents and their families, as well as with adults. I use evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to work with you and your family, and believe in a treatment-team approach, wherein families are highly encouraged to be a part of the therapy process. In order to best create your treatment plan, I tailor my approach to your unique concerns and goals.
At San Francisco Family Practice, I specialize in psychotherapy with children, adolescents and their families, as well as with adults. I use evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to work with you and your family, and believe in a treatment-team approach, wherein families are highly encouraged to be a part of the therapy process. In order to best create your treatment plan, I tailor my approach to your unique concerns and goals.
Life can feel like a constant balancing act, juggling responsibilities, relationships, and personal growth while quietly battling self-doubt, anxiety, or disconnection. You may have tried all the “right” things, such as self-help books, mindfulness, and pushing through, but something still feels missing. Maybe you’re questioning your path, comparing yourself to others, or weighed down by expectations that never seem to let up.
Therapy offers a space to escape the noise and reconnect with yourself. Together, we can untangle the patterns holding you back, challenge unhelpful narratives, and build a more authentic, fulfilling life.
Life can feel like a constant balancing act, juggling responsibilities, relationships, and personal growth while quietly battling self-doubt, anxiety, or disconnection. You may have tried all the “right” things, such as self-help books, mindfulness, and pushing through, but something still feels missing. Maybe you’re questioning your path, comparing yourself to others, or weighed down by expectations that never seem to let up.
Therapy offers a space to escape the noise and reconnect with yourself. Together, we can untangle the patterns holding you back, challenge unhelpful narratives, and build a more authentic, fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Cancer Therapists Searches for San Francisco
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- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
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.