Cancer Therapists in Atlanta, GA

Photo of Patria Baugh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patria Baugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a breast cancer survivor and a parent with a daughter on the Spectrum, I have some understanding of finding the right support and being able to create an attainable schedule can be a challenge.
It is not always a possibility for people to ‘understand’ what you are going through, especially when struggling with life changes and therapy is not a ‘one glove fits all’. Therapy is a process that works when you and the therapist can work side by side to help create a healthier emotional health. During therapy, it is important to work on identifying how your emotions affect your behavior/decision, using the right tools to problem solve, process, or using radical acceptance when faced with overwhelming situations (grief, trauma, divorce), and being able to effectively process new or ongoing diagnosis.
As a breast cancer survivor and a parent with a daughter on the Spectrum, I have some understanding of finding the right support and being able to create an attainable schedule can be a challenge.
It is not always a possibility for people to ‘understand’ what you are going through, especially when struggling with life changes and therapy is not a ‘one glove fits all’. Therapy is a process that works when you and the therapist can work side by side to help create a healthier emotional health. During therapy, it is important to work on identifying how your emotions affect your behavior/decision, using the right tools to problem solve, process, or using radical acceptance when faced with overwhelming situations (grief, trauma, divorce), and being able to effectively process new or ongoing diagnosis.
(404) 531-7252 View (404) 531-7252
Photo of Erica Bacher, PhD, Psychologist
Erica Bacher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
In addition to my general practice, I have a sub-specialty working with individuals with medical problems and chronic health conditions, including chronic pain, diabetes, hypetension, IBS, and cancer.
I have extensive experience working with a broad array of clinical issues and enjoy working with all different kinds of people. My approach to treatment is holistic, in that I draw on the intimate connection between mind and body to foster emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. My approach to therapy is collaborative, as I guide individuals through a process of self-awareness, healing, and change so that their goals become realities. I respect and honor each client's ethnicity, religion and cultural background, and strive to be authentic and honest while providing a safe and compassionate environment for change.
In addition to my general practice, I have a sub-specialty working with individuals with medical problems and chronic health conditions, including chronic pain, diabetes, hypetension, IBS, and cancer.
I have extensive experience working with a broad array of clinical issues and enjoy working with all different kinds of people. My approach to treatment is holistic, in that I draw on the intimate connection between mind and body to foster emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. My approach to therapy is collaborative, as I guide individuals through a process of self-awareness, healing, and change so that their goals become realities. I respect and honor each client's ethnicity, religion and cultural background, and strive to be authentic and honest while providing a safe and compassionate environment for change.
(404) 586-4839 View (404) 586-4839
Photo of Tori Clear Thompson, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tori Clear Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
It's important to find a therapist you connect with. My clients find that my warm and compassionate approach to therapy makes it easy to connect with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia and Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT, I counsel couples looking to improve their relationship, find ways to re-connect and build a healthier, more satisfying relationship. I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing sexual difficulties such as low/high sexual desire, painful sex (i.e. vaginismus, vulvodynia, etc.), orgasm difficulties, and intimacy issues after cancer.
It's important to find a therapist you connect with. My clients find that my warm and compassionate approach to therapy makes it easy to connect with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia and Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT, I counsel couples looking to improve their relationship, find ways to re-connect and build a healthier, more satisfying relationship. I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing sexual difficulties such as low/high sexual desire, painful sex (i.e. vaginismus, vulvodynia, etc.), orgasm difficulties, and intimacy issues after cancer.
(678) 929-5211 View (678) 929-5211
Photo of Tania Punjabi Suarez - Tania Punjabi Suarez Psychotherapy, MSEd, LPC, PMH-C, NCC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tania Punjabi Suarez Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, PMH-C, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I am certified to treat Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders and have received extensive training in the field of cancer wellness.
At each stage, we face different challenges that can be tough to move throughout. I specialize in treating adults during transitions and adjustments through life. Being an adolescent is tough, but what about that decade or a few after? Emerging adults at the crossroads of life, love, and career. Women transforming into mothers, that perinatal and postpartum rollercoaster right into parenting. A difficult health diagnosis where you have to explore what your new life is. At all these crossroads, we can get anxiety and depression, or feel paralyzed with fear or loss, and at anytime, any of these feelings can bubble up and over.
I am certified to treat Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders and have received extensive training in the field of cancer wellness.
At each stage, we face different challenges that can be tough to move throughout. I specialize in treating adults during transitions and adjustments through life. Being an adolescent is tough, but what about that decade or a few after? Emerging adults at the crossroads of life, love, and career. Women transforming into mothers, that perinatal and postpartum rollercoaster right into parenting. A difficult health diagnosis where you have to explore what your new life is. At all these crossroads, we can get anxiety and depression, or feel paralyzed with fear or loss, and at anytime, any of these feelings can bubble up and over.
(470) 516-2469 View (470) 516-2469
Photo of Jeanne Montgomery, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanne Montgomery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30345
As an adoptive mother, cancer survivor, and a parent of an adult child who had difficulty leaving home I will approach your struggles with empathy, care and respect.
I have been practicing as a Family Therapist for 40+ years. My clients are families, couples, divorced parents with parenting issues, blended families. I also see individuals who have issues related to depression, anxiety and family of origin struggles. I specialize in working with adoptive families, people who are interested in adoption and adoptees. I am an adoptive parent. I work with families dealing with adult children who have a hard time separating and multi-generational families with issues in the larger family system. Lastly, I am a cancer survivor and work with families struggling with health issues.
As an adoptive mother, cancer survivor, and a parent of an adult child who had difficulty leaving home I will approach your struggles with empathy, care and respect.
I have been practicing as a Family Therapist for 40+ years. My clients are families, couples, divorced parents with parenting issues, blended families. I also see individuals who have issues related to depression, anxiety and family of origin struggles. I specialize in working with adoptive families, people who are interested in adoption and adoptees. I am an adoptive parent. I work with families dealing with adult children who have a hard time separating and multi-generational families with issues in the larger family system. Lastly, I am a cancer survivor and work with families struggling with health issues.
(404) 633-3347 View (404) 633-3347
Photo of Dennis P Buttimer, MEd, CEAP, RYT, CHC
Dennis P Buttimer
MEd, CEAP, RYT, CHC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
If you are struggling with stress, worry/anxiety/fear, health and wellness issues, cancer, trauma, grief, life changes, workplace challenges, relationship issues, or personal growth, I am here to support and guide you in feeling, performing, and performing at your best. My Master's degree is in Counseling Psychology. As a Psychotherapist and Coach of for over three decades, I have learned strategies that tend to create lasting changes. My commitment to you is to listen non-judgmentally and guide you with ideas and practices that I have seen work successfully over many years. You deserve to feel and live better now!
If you are struggling with stress, worry/anxiety/fear, health and wellness issues, cancer, trauma, grief, life changes, workplace challenges, relationship issues, or personal growth, I am here to support and guide you in feeling, performing, and performing at your best. My Master's degree is in Counseling Psychology. As a Psychotherapist and Coach of for over three decades, I have learned strategies that tend to create lasting changes. My commitment to you is to listen non-judgmentally and guide you with ideas and practices that I have seen work successfully over many years. You deserve to feel and live better now!
(404) 476-7933 View (404) 476-7933
Photo of Andrea Alvarez, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Welcome to therapy! You may be asking yourself what is it that I’m feeling and who can I trust to process these feelings with? If you’ve found this page, that also means you’re looking for change in your life and I might just be the therapist to help you find it! I'm a LMSW with my Master's degree in Social Work. Personally, I've been in Atlanta long enough to identify as a native and hold other important titles such as daughter, mom, and post- cancer thriver. I’ve developed a niche for working with clients who may be struggling with significant medical diagnoses while also working heavily in case managing military veterans/families.
Welcome to therapy! You may be asking yourself what is it that I’m feeling and who can I trust to process these feelings with? If you’ve found this page, that also means you’re looking for change in your life and I might just be the therapist to help you find it! I'm a LMSW with my Master's degree in Social Work. Personally, I've been in Atlanta long enough to identify as a native and hold other important titles such as daughter, mom, and post- cancer thriver. I’ve developed a niche for working with clients who may be struggling with significant medical diagnoses while also working heavily in case managing military veterans/families.
(404) 586-4215 View (404) 586-4215
Photo of Lauren Kelly Nichols, LPC, RPT, NCC, MS, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Kelly Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, NCC, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30312
Counseling takes courage and curiosity! I strive to create a warm, accepting, creative, and exploratory environment for all of my clients ( children, teens, and adults alike). Depending on my client's age, values, and presenting concerns I will utilize different approaches such as non-directive and directive play , Filial (empowering parents to be therapeutic agents of change for child), person-centered, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy. I work with a wide range of issues including: anxiety, life transitions, trauma, grief, anger, low self-esteem, identity, acting out behaviors, and navigating cancer or other medical journeys.
Counseling takes courage and curiosity! I strive to create a warm, accepting, creative, and exploratory environment for all of my clients ( children, teens, and adults alike). Depending on my client's age, values, and presenting concerns I will utilize different approaches such as non-directive and directive play , Filial (empowering parents to be therapeutic agents of change for child), person-centered, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy. I work with a wide range of issues including: anxiety, life transitions, trauma, grief, anger, low self-esteem, identity, acting out behaviors, and navigating cancer or other medical journeys.
(404) 724-5650 View (404) 724-5650
Photo of Linda Starling Lewis, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Starling Lewis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Psychologist with more than 29 years of experience, as well as being a two time breast cancer survivor, I can help you to navigate health issues and other challenges more effectively.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed by your health, your day-to-day life, or your relationships? Life can be difficult for each of us at some point in time, in ways unique to our own circumstance. My goal is to help adults through the tough chapters, moving into better chapters with additional tools to handle challenges and stresses. I don't view people as being broken or needing fixing. We all need someone with whom to sort things through who isn't part of our day-to-day mix. Leave (FMLA) or disability forms cannot be completed for new clients. For more information, go to the website via the link.
As a Psychologist with more than 29 years of experience, as well as being a two time breast cancer survivor, I can help you to navigate health issues and other challenges more effectively.
Are you stressed and overwhelmed by your health, your day-to-day life, or your relationships? Life can be difficult for each of us at some point in time, in ways unique to our own circumstance. My goal is to help adults through the tough chapters, moving into better chapters with additional tools to handle challenges and stresses. I don't view people as being broken or needing fixing. We all need someone with whom to sort things through who isn't part of our day-to-day mix. Leave (FMLA) or disability forms cannot be completed for new clients. For more information, go to the website via the link.
(706) 584-2728 View (706) 584-2728
Photo of Hanna Rodgers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hanna Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals experiencing/concerned with: anxiety, grief/loss/bereavement, depression, relationship conflict, self-esteem/self-worth concerns, complex medical conditions, trauma survivorship(childhood/sexual & domestic violence/accidents) cancer, difficulty coping, divorce, infertility, LGBTQ, family planning, intimacy, & parenting concerns.
I am a Georgia licensed clinical social worker providing holistic therapy to adults, through individual therapy and group therapy. I practice within a proactive compassionate teamwork based model. If you are ready to jump in, I am right here to jump in with you. This may include homework between sessions and other ways to continue toward your goals in and out of the therapy office. Our connection and team-spiritedness is the foundation of our work together. I promise to always treat you with kindness, compassion, respect, cultural competency and unconditional positive regard.
I work with individuals experiencing/concerned with: anxiety, grief/loss/bereavement, depression, relationship conflict, self-esteem/self-worth concerns, complex medical conditions, trauma survivorship(childhood/sexual & domestic violence/accidents) cancer, difficulty coping, divorce, infertility, LGBTQ, family planning, intimacy, & parenting concerns.
I am a Georgia licensed clinical social worker providing holistic therapy to adults, through individual therapy and group therapy. I practice within a proactive compassionate teamwork based model. If you are ready to jump in, I am right here to jump in with you. This may include homework between sessions and other ways to continue toward your goals in and out of the therapy office. Our connection and team-spiritedness is the foundation of our work together. I promise to always treat you with kindness, compassion, respect, cultural competency and unconditional positive regard.
(404) 975-1143 View (404) 975-1143
Photo of Laura Lee Dowling, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Laura Lee Dowling
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello and welcome! I have experience working with trauma, PTSD, domestic violence victims, health issues, depression, anxiety, grief, and many other issues. I like to begin by getting to know my client and their specific needs so that we can work together to identify their goals for therapy and devise a plan of action for treatment. I take an integrative person-centered approach to therapy. I am a compassionate, non-judgmental therapist. I work with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with couples, the LGBTQIA2S+ community, Women’s Safe Shelter, Cancer patients/survivors, Veterans, First Responders and more
Hello and welcome! I have experience working with trauma, PTSD, domestic violence victims, health issues, depression, anxiety, grief, and many other issues. I like to begin by getting to know my client and their specific needs so that we can work together to identify their goals for therapy and devise a plan of action for treatment. I take an integrative person-centered approach to therapy. I am a compassionate, non-judgmental therapist. I work with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with couples, the LGBTQIA2S+ community, Women’s Safe Shelter, Cancer patients/survivors, Veterans, First Responders and more
(912) 205-6539 View (912) 205-6539
Photo of Ken Sanders, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ken Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
, marriage, divorce, blended families, and career) as well as counseling people who have chronic illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, etc.
I know you want the best life possible, and at times, it may seem out of reach--but its only temporary. It is my professional and personal belief that in us, we have all that is needed, to live our best life. At times we get "stuck" and we need help--counseling is that help. As a counselor for over 20 years, I have had the opportunity to work with people from various backgrounds. I work along side you and will help you to "see" where you want to go and to develop a plan to get there.
, marriage, divorce, blended families, and career) as well as counseling people who have chronic illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, etc.
I know you want the best life possible, and at times, it may seem out of reach--but its only temporary. It is my professional and personal belief that in us, we have all that is needed, to live our best life. At times we get "stuck" and we need help--counseling is that help. As a counselor for over 20 years, I have had the opportunity to work with people from various backgrounds. I work along side you and will help you to "see" where you want to go and to develop a plan to get there.
(470) 243-8992 View (470) 243-8992
Photo of Shanice N. White, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanice N. White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you ever had something traumatic to happen that has had a significant impact on your life? Are you an athlete who experiences a lot of pressure to perform well? Having racing thoughts? Not enough time in the day? Feeling like you are losing your identity due to work, parenthood, or marriage? Overreacting or not feeling any emotion whatsoever? Are you a breast cancer patient/survivor under the age of 40? If any of this hits home, then I am the therapist for you!
Have you ever had something traumatic to happen that has had a significant impact on your life? Are you an athlete who experiences a lot of pressure to perform well? Having racing thoughts? Not enough time in the day? Feeling like you are losing your identity due to work, parenthood, or marriage? Overreacting or not feeling any emotion whatsoever? Are you a breast cancer patient/survivor under the age of 40? If any of this hits home, then I am the therapist for you!
(769) 206-5874 View (769) 206-5874
Photo of Mark William Flanagan, LCSW, MPH, MA, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark William Flanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH, MA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Can you remember the last time you didn’t feel stressed? Has unmanaged stress become normal? You feel anxious and depressed. You feel stuck and wish the world would just slow down. Your body is in a knot - stomach aches, muscle tension, stiff neck, tight jaw, restlessness. You might be struggling from a lifelong illness, like cancer, going through a life changing event like divorce or job loss, or grieving the loss of a loved one - or, don't know why you feel the way you do. You just know you don't like it - you want to feel better. Something has got to change.
Can you remember the last time you didn’t feel stressed? Has unmanaged stress become normal? You feel anxious and depressed. You feel stuck and wish the world would just slow down. Your body is in a knot - stomach aches, muscle tension, stiff neck, tight jaw, restlessness. You might be struggling from a lifelong illness, like cancer, going through a life changing event like divorce or job loss, or grieving the loss of a loved one - or, don't know why you feel the way you do. You just know you don't like it - you want to feel better. Something has got to change.
(404) 390-1017 View (404) 390-1017
Photo of Taylor Pastor, APC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Taylor Pastor
Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
The weight of past experiences can feel heavy, especially when they continue to mold our present life. I support clients and couples with trauma and complex PTSD, by first establishing trust then helping to rebuild a foundation of safety and relational belonging. I also walk alongside clients navigating chronic illness, chronic pain, and medical trauma. We focus on both the emotional and practical challenges of living with an ongoing, and sometimes invisible, condition. My approach helps to bridge the gap between "knowing" in the mind and feeling in the body.
The weight of past experiences can feel heavy, especially when they continue to mold our present life. I support clients and couples with trauma and complex PTSD, by first establishing trust then helping to rebuild a foundation of safety and relational belonging. I also walk alongside clients navigating chronic illness, chronic pain, and medical trauma. We focus on both the emotional and practical challenges of living with an ongoing, and sometimes invisible, condition. My approach helps to bridge the gap between "knowing" in the mind and feeling in the body.
View
Photo of Katie Karell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Karell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
I enjoy working with individuals, groups, and families seeking therapy to cope with grief/bereavement, life transitions (e.g. graduation, job loss, marriage, divorce, geographic relocation, etc.), medical concerns, employment burnout, anxiety, and depression.
I enjoy working with individuals, groups, and families seeking therapy to cope with grief/bereavement, life transitions (e.g. graduation, job loss, marriage, divorce, geographic relocation, etc.), medical concerns, employment burnout, anxiety, and depression.
(470) 594-6368 x32 View (470) 594-6368 x32
Photo of Jessica Singleton, LPC, Counselor
Jessica Singleton
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My goal is to ensure each client is able to successfully manage stressors with the utilization of appropriate coping strategies and life skills. My goal is to assist each client in being mentally healthy and able to appropriately handle life stressors as they come. I have over years 10 years of experience working with clients ranging for age 10 and older. I have worked in different types of settings to include inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities (adults and juveniles), and work collaboratively with schools.
My goal is to ensure each client is able to successfully manage stressors with the utilization of appropriate coping strategies and life skills. My goal is to assist each client in being mentally healthy and able to appropriately handle life stressors as they come. I have over years 10 years of experience working with clients ranging for age 10 and older. I have worked in different types of settings to include inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities (adults and juveniles), and work collaboratively with schools.
(877) 430-3828 View (877) 430-3828
Photo of Noushine Navabi Palatchi - Noushine Navabi Counseling , MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Noushine Navabi Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
I am a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming therapist and work closely with BIPOC. My goal is to provide a safe, direct, and compassionate environment that acknowledges the dignity and worth that is inherent in us all. My hope is that by partnering together we may move towards healing past wounds and work towards inner wellbeing even in the face of adversity. I believe the past is present, which is why I will invite you to target the root of the paint point. I am an egalitarian so I value working collaboratively with clients and am committed to meeting my clients exactly where they are on their journey.
I am a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming therapist and work closely with BIPOC. My goal is to provide a safe, direct, and compassionate environment that acknowledges the dignity and worth that is inherent in us all. My hope is that by partnering together we may move towards healing past wounds and work towards inner wellbeing even in the face of adversity. I believe the past is present, which is why I will invite you to target the root of the paint point. I am an egalitarian so I value working collaboratively with clients and am committed to meeting my clients exactly where they are on their journey.
(678) 498-6202 View (678) 498-6202
Photo of Rebekah Bardwell Doweyko - Bardwell Behavioral, LPC, LCMHC, CEDS-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bardwell Behavioral
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
(470) 287-7472 View (470) 287-7472
Photo of Stefanie Speanburg, PhD, LCSW, FABP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Speanburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, FABP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
Feeling down? Anxious? Exhausted? Doubting your self and your ability to make important changes in your life? Despite your best intentions, are you always getting in your own way? Maybe you take much better care of others than yourself. Perhaps "you have it all", but still feel empty or bored? Are your thoughts dominated by self criticisms, fear, and troublesome memories? Perhaps, you have read self help books and have tried trendy quick-fixes. Why continue to go at it alone? Therapy can help you recognize the patterns of relating to your self and others that contribute to your ongoing distress.
Feeling down? Anxious? Exhausted? Doubting your self and your ability to make important changes in your life? Despite your best intentions, are you always getting in your own way? Maybe you take much better care of others than yourself. Perhaps "you have it all", but still feel empty or bored? Are your thoughts dominated by self criticisms, fear, and troublesome memories? Perhaps, you have read self help books and have tried trendy quick-fixes. Why continue to go at it alone? Therapy can help you recognize the patterns of relating to your self and others that contribute to your ongoing distress.
(404) 994-4480 View (404) 994-4480
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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.