Cancer Therapists in Chicago, IL
I enjoy working with individuals navigating their anxiety, feelings of walking between two cultural worlds, complex grief & loss, depression, family dynamics, forced displacement, gender identity, intergenerational trauma, all life stage transitions, spirituality, & relationship with a breast cancer diagnosis.
In partnering with me to build a mutually safe, respectful and trusting therapeutic relationship, I strive to collaboratively create a supportive, empowering and culturally humble space with you. Here, you can freely express all your emotions, experiences and even laugh at the mundane, knowing that I am with you through both bumpy and smooth rides.
I enjoy working with individuals navigating their anxiety, feelings of walking between two cultural worlds, complex grief & loss, depression, family dynamics, forced displacement, gender identity, intergenerational trauma, all life stage transitions, spirituality, & relationship with a breast cancer diagnosis.
In partnering with me to build a mutually safe, respectful and trusting therapeutic relationship, I strive to collaboratively create a supportive, empowering and culturally humble space with you. Here, you can freely express all your emotions, experiences and even laugh at the mundane, knowing that I am with you through both bumpy and smooth rides.
I’m Samantha, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in cancer support, chronic illness, and terminal illness.
With a Master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy from Northwestern University, my work blends evidence-based practice with a relational, conversational approach. I specialize in supporting those affected by cancer, chronic and terminal illness, caregiver burnout, grief, and fertility challenges with empathy and clinical expertise.
I’m Samantha, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in cancer support, chronic illness, and terminal illness.
With a Master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy from Northwestern University, my work blends evidence-based practice with a relational, conversational approach. I specialize in supporting those affected by cancer, chronic and terminal illness, caregiver burnout, grief, and fertility challenges with empathy and clinical expertise.
Hello and thank you for taking this courageous step in your journey towards cultivating your most authentic, genuine, and meaningful life! As a clinical psychologist at Arcus Behavioral Health & Wellness, a group private practice located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, we take pride in working with a diverse clientele where treatment is uniquely tailored to each client. It is our core belief that relationships and accessing meaningful values are the core of our emotional well-being, and our practice is focused on guiding you towards accessing your inner essence and fulfillment.
Hello and thank you for taking this courageous step in your journey towards cultivating your most authentic, genuine, and meaningful life! As a clinical psychologist at Arcus Behavioral Health & Wellness, a group private practice located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, we take pride in working with a diverse clientele where treatment is uniquely tailored to each client. It is our core belief that relationships and accessing meaningful values are the core of our emotional well-being, and our practice is focused on guiding you towards accessing your inner essence and fulfillment.
My specialties include OCD and anxiety, cancer, chronic illness, political anxiety, religious trauma, relationship concerns, and grief.
You already know the areas of your life that are holding you back, but you don't know where to start - which has led you here. Maybe anxiety is causing you to avoid the people, places, and activities you used to enjoy. Maybe intrusive thoughts about causing harm, contamination, your identity, or about other scary topics take up your whole day. Maybe past life events are still causing you distress and you'd like to "turn down the volume" on your reactions. You worry that things will never feel "normal" again. You'd like to be able to work through the anxiety and frustration these things cause, and start living your life again.
My specialties include OCD and anxiety, cancer, chronic illness, political anxiety, religious trauma, relationship concerns, and grief.
You already know the areas of your life that are holding you back, but you don't know where to start - which has led you here. Maybe anxiety is causing you to avoid the people, places, and activities you used to enjoy. Maybe intrusive thoughts about causing harm, contamination, your identity, or about other scary topics take up your whole day. Maybe past life events are still causing you distress and you'd like to "turn down the volume" on your reactions. You worry that things will never feel "normal" again. You'd like to be able to work through the anxiety and frustration these things cause, and start living your life again.
I have a very supportive practice to explore and collaborate with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, end of life concerns and living with a cancer diagnosis.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work with 40 years of clinical experience in healthcare and provide clinical interventions for individuals who are interested in a journey of personal growth through therapy.
I have a very supportive practice to explore and collaborate with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, end of life concerns and living with a cancer diagnosis.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work with 40 years of clinical experience in healthcare and provide clinical interventions for individuals who are interested in a journey of personal growth through therapy.
Many of my clients are navigating a challenging cancer trajectory, whether newly adjusting to diagnosis, living with advanced cancer, facing end-of-life concerns, or managing the complexities of survivorship.
With over 15 years of experience in mental health and medical settings including Memorial Sloan Kettering (NYC) and Northwestern’s Lurie Cancer Center (Chicago), I bring clinical depth, warmth, and attuned presence to this work. I have direct therapy experience supporting individuals and couples impacted by cancer.
Many of my clients are navigating a challenging cancer trajectory, whether newly adjusting to diagnosis, living with advanced cancer, facing end-of-life concerns, or managing the complexities of survivorship.
With over 15 years of experience in mental health and medical settings including Memorial Sloan Kettering (NYC) and Northwestern’s Lurie Cancer Center (Chicago), I bring clinical depth, warmth, and attuned presence to this work. I have direct therapy experience supporting individuals and couples impacted by cancer.
The decision to seek assistance from someone outside of your family, social, and work circles takes courage regardless of the reason. This step may seem like a giant leap when you typically consider yourself a self-sufficient, problem-solving, working professional! I strive to create a healthy therapeutic relationship in which you feel safe enough to identify strengths and areas for growth to overcome the barriers to your goals. I have particular interest in assisting working professionals who are struggling with grief, loss, and men's issues.
The decision to seek assistance from someone outside of your family, social, and work circles takes courage regardless of the reason. This step may seem like a giant leap when you typically consider yourself a self-sufficient, problem-solving, working professional! I strive to create a healthy therapeutic relationship in which you feel safe enough to identify strengths and areas for growth to overcome the barriers to your goals. I have particular interest in assisting working professionals who are struggling with grief, loss, and men's issues.
As a young adult cancer survivor, Claire is especially passionate about supporting those navigating significant healthcare experiences, whether that be as a patient, caretaker or as a friend.
Claire appreciates the unique experience of each client, and is continually adjusting her approach to best fit individual needs. She is curious and engaged with, and strives to respect each client's boundaries while simultaneously encouraging growth. Claire believes in a strengths based, collaborative approach, and utilizes a variety of therapeutic models.
As a young adult cancer survivor, Claire is especially passionate about supporting those navigating significant healthcare experiences, whether that be as a patient, caretaker or as a friend.
Claire appreciates the unique experience of each client, and is continually adjusting her approach to best fit individual needs. She is curious and engaged with, and strives to respect each client's boundaries while simultaneously encouraging growth. Claire believes in a strengths based, collaborative approach, and utilizes a variety of therapeutic models.
When illness becomes part of daily life, it can bring ongoing stress, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion. I support adults and caregivers in Chicago who are coping with chronic illness, medical complexity, and the often-unseen weight of caregiving. Together, we’ll create space to process uncertainty, medical trauma, grief, and the ongoing stress that can lead to burnout. My goal is to help you feel more grounded and supported—whether that means easing anxiety, reconnecting with meaning, or strengthening your sense of resilience and self-compassion.
When illness becomes part of daily life, it can bring ongoing stress, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion. I support adults and caregivers in Chicago who are coping with chronic illness, medical complexity, and the often-unseen weight of caregiving. Together, we’ll create space to process uncertainty, medical trauma, grief, and the ongoing stress that can lead to burnout. My goal is to help you feel more grounded and supported—whether that means easing anxiety, reconnecting with meaning, or strengthening your sense of resilience and self-compassion.
I believe, as a people, we have the ability to triumph adversity and conquer what life throws at us. My approach as a counselor is to become a Fellow Traveler, understanding the person as a free and responsible individual, helping them to determine their own development through acts of will.
I believe, as a people, we have the ability to triumph adversity and conquer what life throws at us. My approach as a counselor is to become a Fellow Traveler, understanding the person as a free and responsible individual, helping them to determine their own development through acts of will.
In my practice, I help people better understand and manage their feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression – especially those arising from acute and chronic illnesses (including cancer), grief and loss, and low self-esteem.
During our sessions, we will explore not only your current concerns but also the deeper emotional, intellectual, and relational patterns that contribute to them. One goal will be to help you discover the true source of your distress and make real, positive, and lasting changes in your life.
In my practice, I help people better understand and manage their feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression – especially those arising from acute and chronic illnesses (including cancer), grief and loss, and low self-esteem.
During our sessions, we will explore not only your current concerns but also the deeper emotional, intellectual, and relational patterns that contribute to them. One goal will be to help you discover the true source of your distress and make real, positive, and lasting changes in your life.
I especially enjoy working with millennials and young adults, creating a safe, supportive space to explore challenges, build confidence, and move toward lasting change.
I especially enjoy working with millennials and young adults, creating a safe, supportive space to explore challenges, build confidence, and move toward lasting change.
You thought your life was on track, but recently things have turned upside down. Now you're feeling burned out and worn out. I help people who have experienced a traumatic event, a loss, or watched a loved one struggle with mental health or addiction. With over 30 years working across many organizations and settings in behavioral health, I have a wide range of experiences to help figure out where you are and where you want to go.
You thought your life was on track, but recently things have turned upside down. Now you're feeling burned out and worn out. I help people who have experienced a traumatic event, a loss, or watched a loved one struggle with mental health or addiction. With over 30 years working across many organizations and settings in behavioral health, I have a wide range of experiences to help figure out where you are and where you want to go.
My areas of clinical strength include chronic illness, cancer, grief, life transitions, identity development, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
My areas of clinical strength include chronic illness, cancer, grief, life transitions, identity development, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
PEAR Health Psychology was founded to provide specialized psychotherapy for people with cancer and other medical diagnoses, as well as those seeking to improve management of chronic health conditions.
At PEAR Health Psychology, we listen with empathy, openness, and years of experience. We work collaboratively to set realistic goals based on your values, terms, and timelines. We prioritize self-compassion as a vehicle for building momentum when facing changing abilities due to your health status. People of all intersectional identities are welcome here.
PEAR Health Psychology was founded to provide specialized psychotherapy for people with cancer and other medical diagnoses, as well as those seeking to improve management of chronic health conditions.
At PEAR Health Psychology, we listen with empathy, openness, and years of experience. We work collaboratively to set realistic goals based on your values, terms, and timelines. We prioritize self-compassion as a vehicle for building momentum when facing changing abilities due to your health status. People of all intersectional identities are welcome here.
Many of my clients are high performing professionals who appear outwardly successful but feel internally overwhelmed, disconnected, or facing unexpected life challenges such as cancer and other illness.
My clinical style is different than most. I'm a change focused therapist. Rather than focusing on treatment modality, I use Feedback Informed Treatment, a way of tracking progress, to make sure that therapy is actually helping. With almost two decades of clinical experience in high-stakes settings, I've spent the last few years building diverse skills.
Many of my clients are high performing professionals who appear outwardly successful but feel internally overwhelmed, disconnected, or facing unexpected life challenges such as cancer and other illness.
My clinical style is different than most. I'm a change focused therapist. Rather than focusing on treatment modality, I use Feedback Informed Treatment, a way of tracking progress, to make sure that therapy is actually helping. With almost two decades of clinical experience in high-stakes settings, I've spent the last few years building diverse skills.
Are you feeling stuck and unsure why? Not moving forward professionally, socially or relationally? Feel like stress, anxiety or depression is ruling your life? I use a non- judgmental approach in therapy to help clients find healthy ways of coping with whatever struggles life has presented. I support clients to achieve goals that we collaboratively develop and empower my clients to change distorted thinking patterns to improve their quality of life. I also use a strength based approach to therapy to improve self-esteem, decision making and to support positive relationships in my clients' lives.
Are you feeling stuck and unsure why? Not moving forward professionally, socially or relationally? Feel like stress, anxiety or depression is ruling your life? I use a non- judgmental approach in therapy to help clients find healthy ways of coping with whatever struggles life has presented. I support clients to achieve goals that we collaboratively develop and empower my clients to change distorted thinking patterns to improve their quality of life. I also use a strength based approach to therapy to improve self-esteem, decision making and to support positive relationships in my clients' lives.
Curiosity drew me into the field of therapy and remains at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with clients as they explore self/identity and strive to make meaningful change, whether by building on existing skills, or exploring new ones. My style is warm, non-judgmental and collaborative, and I am keen on finding the most effective tools for for my clients as they seek empowerment and healing in their life. Everyone has the capacity for change and healing and I love that my job is to help people discover what this means to them.
Curiosity drew me into the field of therapy and remains at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with clients as they explore self/identity and strive to make meaningful change, whether by building on existing skills, or exploring new ones. My style is warm, non-judgmental and collaborative, and I am keen on finding the most effective tools for for my clients as they seek empowerment and healing in their life. Everyone has the capacity for change and healing and I love that my job is to help people discover what this means to them.
ADHD, Anxiety, depression, PTSD, cancer/chronic illness, and more.
Life can be hard. It can be even harder when you feel like people hear you, but are not truly listening with empathic ears. It is a basic human need to feel heard, understood and have a sense of belonging. Some of us have support systems that help us get by, but we may need a little more. My goal is to inspire self-discovery, challenge existing thoughts getting in your way, and teach you skills and strategies that will help you live your most fulfilling life.
As a Latine woman, I provide a safe space for people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent individuals, and those in underrepresented and marginalized groups. I
ADHD, Anxiety, depression, PTSD, cancer/chronic illness, and more.
Life can be hard. It can be even harder when you feel like people hear you, but are not truly listening with empathic ears. It is a basic human need to feel heard, understood and have a sense of belonging. Some of us have support systems that help us get by, but we may need a little more. My goal is to inspire self-discovery, challenge existing thoughts getting in your way, and teach you skills and strategies that will help you live your most fulfilling life.
As a Latine woman, I provide a safe space for people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent individuals, and those in underrepresented and marginalized groups. I
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Cancer Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Norridge
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
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.