Cancer Therapists in Washington, DC
I have also presented numerous workshops on coping with cancer , the impact of cancer on the family and the challenge of the transition after cancer treatment.
With over 50 years of psychotherapy experience, I specialize in anxiety management, relationship issues, depression, medical illness-related concerns and chronic insomnia.
I have also presented numerous workshops on coping with cancer , the impact of cancer on the family and the challenge of the transition after cancer treatment.
With over 50 years of psychotherapy experience, I specialize in anxiety management, relationship issues, depression, medical illness-related concerns and chronic insomnia.
Drawing on my training as a medical social worker, I work with clients with cancer, chronic illness, medically complex children, high risk pregnancies, or new diagnoses.
New Openings! I am a supportive & directive therapist who works with adults experiencing life stressors. I specialize in clients with medical needs, parenting, early adulthood, & those wanting additional support services as well as therapy. We will process your emotions & learn actionable skills to make day to day life easier. I pride myself on being an unconditional support and strong advocate for my clients. As a former medical social worker and parenting coach, I am dedicated to being by your side through the really tough stuff. My favorite part of my job is the privilege of being there for it all, good, bad, & everything else
Drawing on my training as a medical social worker, I work with clients with cancer, chronic illness, medically complex children, high risk pregnancies, or new diagnoses.
New Openings! I am a supportive & directive therapist who works with adults experiencing life stressors. I specialize in clients with medical needs, parenting, early adulthood, & those wanting additional support services as well as therapy. We will process your emotions & learn actionable skills to make day to day life easier. I pride myself on being an unconditional support and strong advocate for my clients. As a former medical social worker and parenting coach, I am dedicated to being by your side through the really tough stuff. My favorite part of my job is the privilege of being there for it all, good, bad, & everything else
Bridging the gap between mental and physical health is my passion. I founded Health Psychology Partners to meet the needs of people, like you, who are dealing with chronic health struggles, like diabetes, obesity, cancer and more. Along with two decades of clinical experience, I have also been featured on NBC, the Wall Street Journal, Healthline and Weight Watchers and speak internationally about mental health and its relationship to physical wellbeing. Based in DC, but with availability in nearly every state, we use science, compassion and expertise to guide you as you navigate trauma, behavior change, and everything in between.
Bridging the gap between mental and physical health is my passion. I founded Health Psychology Partners to meet the needs of people, like you, who are dealing with chronic health struggles, like diabetes, obesity, cancer and more. Along with two decades of clinical experience, I have also been featured on NBC, the Wall Street Journal, Healthline and Weight Watchers and speak internationally about mental health and its relationship to physical wellbeing. Based in DC, but with availability in nearly every state, we use science, compassion and expertise to guide you as you navigate trauma, behavior change, and everything in between.
My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, self-care/stress management, work/life balance, infertility, eating issues, cancer and racial trauma.
Are you almost always functional, but rarely joyful? Do you go to work, show up for people, take care of your family and friends, but feel exhausted and depleted? Perhaps you overwork, over perform or give too much and don’t know how to stop? Do you go back and forth between getting tons done and procrastinating, and feel wiped out and unmotivated in between. Do you worry about what people think of you or that what you do isn’t enough? Maybe you secretly wish you could disappear for a while. Maybe you dream of being motivated, rested and content and having supportive, mutually beneficial relationships. If this is you, I hear you.
My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, self-care/stress management, work/life balance, infertility, eating issues, cancer and racial trauma.
Are you almost always functional, but rarely joyful? Do you go to work, show up for people, take care of your family and friends, but feel exhausted and depleted? Perhaps you overwork, over perform or give too much and don’t know how to stop? Do you go back and forth between getting tons done and procrastinating, and feel wiped out and unmotivated in between. Do you worry about what people think of you or that what you do isn’t enough? Maybe you secretly wish you could disappear for a while. Maybe you dream of being motivated, rested and content and having supportive, mutually beneficial relationships. If this is you, I hear you.
I see individuals from two special groups: alcoholics and their family members and cancer patients and their caregivers.
Most of us are stuck in our heads, struggling with competing ideologies, worldviews, and internalized (usually critical) voices from our past. Using empathetic active listening and body-focused inquiry, I will work with you to create safe space within which to explore who you are and replace confusion with clarity---a body-based "felt sense" of what's true that becomes an increasingly reliable guide for authentic action.
I see individuals from two special groups: alcoholics and their family members and cancer patients and their caregivers.
Most of us are stuck in our heads, struggling with competing ideologies, worldviews, and internalized (usually critical) voices from our past. Using empathetic active listening and body-focused inquiry, I will work with you to create safe space within which to explore who you are and replace confusion with clarity---a body-based "felt sense" of what's true that becomes an increasingly reliable guide for authentic action.
Also, after enduring a cancer "journey" of my own, I find joy in helping cancer patients through theirs.
My work begins with a very person-centered approach, recognizing my role as one to listen and empower a client as they create the life they want to live. I often incorporate techniques from solution-focused, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral approaches. After 10 years in the fitness/wellness industry, I’ve worked with those struggling with unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies. Working with these clients often utilizes elements of mindfulness and self-compassion toward a life of more self-love.
Also, after enduring a cancer "journey" of my own, I find joy in helping cancer patients through theirs.
My work begins with a very person-centered approach, recognizing my role as one to listen and empower a client as they create the life they want to live. I often incorporate techniques from solution-focused, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral approaches. After 10 years in the fitness/wellness industry, I’ve worked with those struggling with unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies. Working with these clients often utilizes elements of mindfulness and self-compassion toward a life of more self-love.
“Warm and compassionate with a no-nonsense approach” is how my clients describe me. I have been working with children and adolescents for over 25 years and as a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation. I have the unique experience of guiding families through grief and issues related to chronic illness such as HIV and cancer. Often, I engage the whole family to address communication barriers.
“Warm and compassionate with a no-nonsense approach” is how my clients describe me. I have been working with children and adolescents for over 25 years and as a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation. I have the unique experience of guiding families through grief and issues related to chronic illness such as HIV and cancer. Often, I engage the whole family to address communication barriers.
Sara Moore Kerai
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20017
My specialties are counseling individuals who have cancer, fertility concerns, and/or medical issues, grief therapy, supporting family caregivers taking care of ill loved ones, & counseling healthcare workers.
If you are in the midst of a daunting medical diagnosis or grieving a painful loss, I am glad you found my page. Perhaps you are caring for a loved one, and find yourself mentally & physically exhausted, or you're a healthcare professional and you're feeling overwhelmed. Or maybe you are about to embark on treatment for cancer or fertility and are struggling with a tangled ball of emotions. In my work with clients, I create a safe, compassionate space to unpack and explore these issues, and to be a companion on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. Whatever brought you here today: I am here to listen.
My specialties are counseling individuals who have cancer, fertility concerns, and/or medical issues, grief therapy, supporting family caregivers taking care of ill loved ones, & counseling healthcare workers.
If you are in the midst of a daunting medical diagnosis or grieving a painful loss, I am glad you found my page. Perhaps you are caring for a loved one, and find yourself mentally & physically exhausted, or you're a healthcare professional and you're feeling overwhelmed. Or maybe you are about to embark on treatment for cancer or fertility and are struggling with a tangled ball of emotions. In my work with clients, I create a safe, compassionate space to unpack and explore these issues, and to be a companion on your journey toward healing, growth, and transformation. Whatever brought you here today: I am here to listen.
Joanne Assarsson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in helping adults (and their caregivers) who are challenged by acute and chronic medical illness including cancer, transplant recipients and those with functional GI disorders. Within this area of expertise, it is common for a variety of concerns to arise including anxiety, depression, medical trauma, loss, grief, work/life balance and life transitions. My approach is consistently compassionate, flexible, interactive and supportive. You can expect to leave our sessions with strategies and tools that can be used immediately focused on your unique concerns.
I specialize in helping adults (and their caregivers) who are challenged by acute and chronic medical illness including cancer, transplant recipients and those with functional GI disorders. Within this area of expertise, it is common for a variety of concerns to arise including anxiety, depression, medical trauma, loss, grief, work/life balance and life transitions. My approach is consistently compassionate, flexible, interactive and supportive. You can expect to leave our sessions with strategies and tools that can be used immediately focused on your unique concerns.
Teresa E. Doniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Some of my clients have had a loved one die and others are witnessing ongoing losses of a loved that come with terminal or debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, mental illness, and HIV/AIDS.
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/loss and living with loss.
Some of my clients have had a loved one die and others are witnessing ongoing losses of a loved that come with terminal or debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, mental illness, and HIV/AIDS.
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/loss and living with loss.
I provide compassionate, goal-oriented therapy to individuals dealing with chronic illness, cancer, or end-of-life issues, as well as to caregivers.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a serious illness or caring for a loved one? In a time of life that can come with feelings of anxiety, depression, and grief, I’m here to provide support. Together, we’ll work through complicated emotions, learn about coping with stress, and navigate relationship issues. While I don’t have a “magic wand” to solve all the challenges of living with a serious illness, together, we can work towards what is most important to you.
I provide compassionate, goal-oriented therapy to individuals dealing with chronic illness, cancer, or end-of-life issues, as well as to caregivers.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a serious illness or caring for a loved one? In a time of life that can come with feelings of anxiety, depression, and grief, I’m here to provide support. Together, we’ll work through complicated emotions, learn about coping with stress, and navigate relationship issues. While I don’t have a “magic wand” to solve all the challenges of living with a serious illness, together, we can work towards what is most important to you.
15 Second Videos
Stellium Integrative Wellness is compassion-based & uses tools like positive psychology, meditation & hypnotherapy techniques to build confidence & resiliency. Clients include Millennials 20-45, Gen Xers 45-55, & Baby Boomers 56-74 dealing with relationships, career, concerns surrounding parenting, health issues/chronic illness ( cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, COVID-19), LGBTQIA, disability, & grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation). Areas of expertise include life coaching, hypnosis, love-relationships/dating, & confidence/self-esteem building.
Stellium Integrative Wellness is compassion-based & uses tools like positive psychology, meditation & hypnotherapy techniques to build confidence & resiliency. Clients include Millennials 20-45, Gen Xers 45-55, & Baby Boomers 56-74 dealing with relationships, career, concerns surrounding parenting, health issues/chronic illness ( cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, COVID-19), LGBTQIA, disability, & grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation). Areas of expertise include life coaching, hypnosis, love-relationships/dating, & confidence/self-esteem building.
Erica Greenspan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
I've worked with oncology teams, as well as neurology clinics supporting patients and loved ones through acute illnesses like cancer, as well as chronic illnesses like dementia and MS.
Hi, I'm Erica and I am so glad that you made it here. My clients describe me as warm and approachable. As is such, my therapeutic style is person-centered, and rooted in relational psychotherapy. My specialty is working with those in their 30s and 40s, a time many find themselves sandwiched between raising their own families and caring for aging parents. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship or job stress, we will dive in to explore the root of your pain in order to bring you relief.
I've worked with oncology teams, as well as neurology clinics supporting patients and loved ones through acute illnesses like cancer, as well as chronic illnesses like dementia and MS.
Hi, I'm Erica and I am so glad that you made it here. My clients describe me as warm and approachable. As is such, my therapeutic style is person-centered, and rooted in relational psychotherapy. My specialty is working with those in their 30s and 40s, a time many find themselves sandwiched between raising their own families and caring for aging parents. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship or job stress, we will dive in to explore the root of your pain in order to bring you relief.
Familiar with caring for special needs and nurturing relationships through the ups and downs, I'm also a cancer survivor and know that living wholeheartedly after transitions is possible.
Hello and welcome! All of us encounter times when our lives don't look like we expected they would. My passion for the last 19 years has been helping adults heal from past pain/trauma & live into their courage and freedom. I specialize in assisting people with re-discovering joy and wholeheartedness following life transitions. Your journey MATTERS and the way that you walk through this difficult season matters. I offer online psychotherapy to Clients in NY, TN, VA & FL, & DC.
Familiar with caring for special needs and nurturing relationships through the ups and downs, I'm also a cancer survivor and know that living wholeheartedly after transitions is possible.
Hello and welcome! All of us encounter times when our lives don't look like we expected they would. My passion for the last 19 years has been helping adults heal from past pain/trauma & live into their courage and freedom. I specialize in assisting people with re-discovering joy and wholeheartedness following life transitions. Your journey MATTERS and the way that you walk through this difficult season matters. I offer online psychotherapy to Clients in NY, TN, VA & FL, & DC.
Deborah G Meisel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
These include emotional and relationship concerns, addressing life transitions, cancer, other medical issues, and navigating life with ADHD, Anxiety, and/or Depression.
Accepting new patients- I am a seasoned clinician with extensive experience as a therapist for adolescents, adults, couples, parents, and families from various cultural backgrounds. My goal is to team with clients to reach a better emotional place. Working with your personal strengths and specific goals, we can help you gain new skills to cope with and overcome your challenges. My style is collaborative and we can find solutions together. Success requires honesty, understanding, strong communication skills, and a willingness to work through difficulties. Often people shy away from getting help.
These include emotional and relationship concerns, addressing life transitions, cancer, other medical issues, and navigating life with ADHD, Anxiety, and/or Depression.
Accepting new patients- I am a seasoned clinician with extensive experience as a therapist for adolescents, adults, couples, parents, and families from various cultural backgrounds. My goal is to team with clients to reach a better emotional place. Working with your personal strengths and specific goals, we can help you gain new skills to cope with and overcome your challenges. My style is collaborative and we can find solutions together. Success requires honesty, understanding, strong communication skills, and a willingness to work through difficulties. Often people shy away from getting help.
I have extensive experience working with individuals impacted by chronic illnesses, such as cancer and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as grief and loss.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker and therapist passionate about helping individuals uncover their unique strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful change. We all have a capacity for growth and healing. My commitment is to intentionally create a supportive space where clients can deeply explore their thoughts, feelings, and values in a non-judgmental way. Together, we will work to better understand your inner world, identify your core strengths, and develop strategies to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
I have extensive experience working with individuals impacted by chronic illnesses, such as cancer and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as grief and loss.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker and therapist passionate about helping individuals uncover their unique strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful change. We all have a capacity for growth and healing. My commitment is to intentionally create a supportive space where clients can deeply explore their thoughts, feelings, and values in a non-judgmental way. Together, we will work to better understand your inner world, identify your core strengths, and develop strategies to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
Hi, I’m Jacob, a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have over 6 years of combined experience working with diverse populations including homeless and low-income families and individuals, older adults with terminal illnesses, cancer patients and their caregivers, LGBTQIA+ teens and adults, amongst many others. I have experience working with individuals and families that are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors, grief, loss, struggles with identity, career, and anger. I like to approach therapy by providing a safe, and free space for you to share your experiences.
Hi, I’m Jacob, a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have over 6 years of combined experience working with diverse populations including homeless and low-income families and individuals, older adults with terminal illnesses, cancer patients and their caregivers, LGBTQIA+ teens and adults, amongst many others. I have experience working with individuals and families that are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors, grief, loss, struggles with identity, career, and anger. I like to approach therapy by providing a safe, and free space for you to share your experiences.
Choosing a mental health provider can feel daunting. I approach treatment with the philosophy that the foundation for positive change begins with a strong therapist-client relationship and that individuals can find meaning and thrive even amidst life’s most challenging chapters. I am experienced in treating adults with a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors such as relationship and work difficulties. I also specialize in helping clients and their loved ones cope with medical conditions such as pain, insomnia, and cancer, as well as other physical illnesses or disabilities.
Choosing a mental health provider can feel daunting. I approach treatment with the philosophy that the foundation for positive change begins with a strong therapist-client relationship and that individuals can find meaning and thrive even amidst life’s most challenging chapters. I am experienced in treating adults with a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors such as relationship and work difficulties. I also specialize in helping clients and their loved ones cope with medical conditions such as pain, insomnia, and cancer, as well as other physical illnesses or disabilities.
With more than thirty years of experience in psychiatric social work, medical, and family-focused social work, I now focus on my special interests in my private practice including family of origin issues, military families, cancer, young adults, aging issues (including caretaker support), and loss and bereavement.
My psychotherapy practice is dedicated to the health and well-being of individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, family of origin conflicts, and other mental health issues that can develop in the face of life stressors. It’s not uncommon to experience emotional distress during developmental transitions throughout our lives. Challenges can include struggles within our families of origin (including relationships with a sibling, parent, or other family member), beginning college/new career, the birth of a child, marital conflict, relocation, illness, and loss and bereavement. How we respond is unique to each of us.
With more than thirty years of experience in psychiatric social work, medical, and family-focused social work, I now focus on my special interests in my private practice including family of origin issues, military families, cancer, young adults, aging issues (including caretaker support), and loss and bereavement.
My psychotherapy practice is dedicated to the health and well-being of individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, family of origin conflicts, and other mental health issues that can develop in the face of life stressors. It’s not uncommon to experience emotional distress during developmental transitions throughout our lives. Challenges can include struggles within our families of origin (including relationships with a sibling, parent, or other family member), beginning college/new career, the birth of a child, marital conflict, relocation, illness, and loss and bereavement. How we respond is unique to each of us.
Victoria Tripp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20064
Individuals suffering from cancer and chronic illnesses are often overwhelmed with numerous challenges, including family system dynamics, the tumult of intense and fluctuating emotions of fear, anxiety, depression, anger and anticipatory grief. These challenges can bring up existential questions regarding the meaning of life and personal faith. My experience as a therapist has inspired my counseling style as one where there is space for clients to process these important questions without judgment.
Individuals suffering from cancer and chronic illnesses are often overwhelmed with numerous challenges, including family system dynamics, the tumult of intense and fluctuating emotions of fear, anxiety, depression, anger and anticipatory grief. These challenges can bring up existential questions regarding the meaning of life and personal faith. My experience as a therapist has inspired my counseling style as one where there is space for clients to process these important questions without judgment.
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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.