Cancer Therapists in Boston, MA

Shannah Zinkievich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Has a medical diagnosis for you or a loved one turned your life upside down? Do you feel hopeless and frustrated by all the treatments? I specialize in helping individuals adjust to cancer, chronic illness, chronic pain, and dementia.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the challenges of cancer, chronic conditions, chronic pain, and other medical issues. These life experiences can lead to a sense of powerlessness. Together, we will create a personalized toolbox of coping skills to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and grief that often accompany these events.
Has a medical diagnosis for you or a loved one turned your life upside down? Do you feel hopeless and frustrated by all the treatments? I specialize in helping individuals adjust to cancer, chronic illness, chronic pain, and dementia.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the challenges of cancer, chronic conditions, chronic pain, and other medical issues. These life experiences can lead to a sense of powerlessness. Together, we will create a personalized toolbox of coping skills to help you overcome the anxiety, depression, and grief that often accompany these events.

I work with individuals, couples & families, and I have over 6 years of experience working with patients & families impacted by cancer.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision. Connecting with someone new, and having a safe place free of judgment is important, and I strive to offer that. I am the sole practitioner at Open Perspectives LLC, and will offer you a secure, supportive environment to help you focus on the goals that are specific to your needs. I offer a client-centered, eclectic combination of therapeutic approaches, in an authentic, relatable way. If you are feeling uncertain about whether to move forward, know that you are not alone, and we can take those steps together.
I work with individuals, couples & families, and I have over 6 years of experience working with patients & families impacted by cancer.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision. Connecting with someone new, and having a safe place free of judgment is important, and I strive to offer that. I am the sole practitioner at Open Perspectives LLC, and will offer you a secure, supportive environment to help you focus on the goals that are specific to your needs. I offer a client-centered, eclectic combination of therapeutic approaches, in an authentic, relatable way. If you are feeling uncertain about whether to move forward, know that you are not alone, and we can take those steps together.

My areas of expertise are grief and loss, chronic, serious, and terminal illnesses, chronic pain, cancer and cancer survivorship, and caregiver fatigue.
I see therapy as guidance for healing, self-development, and an opportunity to feel understood. Through a collaborative, therapeutic approach, I utilize empathy, patience, and a sense of humor, to help clients through unexpected challenges and transitional life phases. I bring a combination of my clinical background and empathy through the use of a strengths based and person centered approach. I strive to provide individualized, compassionate psychotherapy in a safe, welcoming environment.
I look forward to working together with you.
My areas of expertise are grief and loss, chronic, serious, and terminal illnesses, chronic pain, cancer and cancer survivorship, and caregiver fatigue.
I see therapy as guidance for healing, self-development, and an opportunity to feel understood. Through a collaborative, therapeutic approach, I utilize empathy, patience, and a sense of humor, to help clients through unexpected challenges and transitional life phases. I bring a combination of my clinical background and empathy through the use of a strengths based and person centered approach. I strive to provide individualized, compassionate psychotherapy in a safe, welcoming environment.
I look forward to working together with you.

If you are seeking counseling related to a cancer diagnosis, cancer survivorship, caregiving, end of life or grief following loss, I may be the right fit.
My approach is supportive, non-judgemental and practical. I work from a strengths perspective. You are the expert of your story. I can provide guidance and perspective, facilitate learning and help problem-solve challenges. But it starts with listening.
If you are seeking counseling related to a cancer diagnosis, cancer survivorship, caregiving, end of life or grief following loss, I may be the right fit.
My approach is supportive, non-judgemental and practical. I work from a strengths perspective. You are the expert of your story. I can provide guidance and perspective, facilitate learning and help problem-solve challenges. But it starts with listening.

Natalia Alas Durán
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
For the past 9 years, I have worked with diverse clients who are experiencing autoimmune disease, traumatic injury, TBIs, cancer, IBS/stomach problems, caregiver stress and who have a trauma history.
Have you ever been told that you are "too young" to experience chronic pain or illness? Are you feeling overwhelmed after constantly juggling medical appointments along with school, work, or family responsibilities? You deserve to have someone see you and hear you. I am a Latina therapist who is passionate about working with young adults who are navigating cultural expectations, trauma, caregiver stress, and chronic pain/illness. I work with individuals who feel stuck in survival mode and with those who are looking for a therapist who affirms and validates their experience in a compassionate, warm, and authentic way.
For the past 9 years, I have worked with diverse clients who are experiencing autoimmune disease, traumatic injury, TBIs, cancer, IBS/stomach problems, caregiver stress and who have a trauma history.
Have you ever been told that you are "too young" to experience chronic pain or illness? Are you feeling overwhelmed after constantly juggling medical appointments along with school, work, or family responsibilities? You deserve to have someone see you and hear you. I am a Latina therapist who is passionate about working with young adults who are navigating cultural expectations, trauma, caregiver stress, and chronic pain/illness. I work with individuals who feel stuck in survival mode and with those who are looking for a therapist who affirms and validates their experience in a compassionate, warm, and authentic way.

Dr. Yessenia Guglielmi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, DLitt, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
Perimenopause Specialist-Grief- Cancer- Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy .
My unique approach integrates somatic dialogue, psychodynamic techniques to help you end patterns of self defeating and self sabotage behaviors in your life and become an inner ally to yourself. Reach your goals of inner wellness, health, happiness, and better relational life. CBT/DBT, transpersonal, humanistic, somatic, intuition, creativity.
Perimenopause Specialist-Grief- Cancer- Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy .
My unique approach integrates somatic dialogue, psychodynamic techniques to help you end patterns of self defeating and self sabotage behaviors in your life and become an inner ally to yourself. Reach your goals of inner wellness, health, happiness, and better relational life. CBT/DBT, transpersonal, humanistic, somatic, intuition, creativity.

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.

I work with adults, college students, and teens affected by grief and loss, complex trauma (abuse and neglect) and PTSD, serious and chronic health conditions (like cancer, ALS, MS, MD), disability, and other big life changes and challenges resulting in depression and anxiety.
Through our work together we can unravel difficult issues and bring about lasting and meaningful change to improve your well-being. No two people are the same, and so I work creatively using trauma-informed therapeutic approaches from psychodynamic, EMDR, attachment, mindfulness, IFS, and cognitive-behavioral therapies uniquely tailored to you.
I work with adults, college students, and teens affected by grief and loss, complex trauma (abuse and neglect) and PTSD, serious and chronic health conditions (like cancer, ALS, MS, MD), disability, and other big life changes and challenges resulting in depression and anxiety.
Through our work together we can unravel difficult issues and bring about lasting and meaningful change to improve your well-being. No two people are the same, and so I work creatively using trauma-informed therapeutic approaches from psychodynamic, EMDR, attachment, mindfulness, IFS, and cognitive-behavioral therapies uniquely tailored to you.

While working in the trauma ICU at Brigham & Women's Hospital & supporting patients w/ cancer diagnoses at Dana Farber I learned the impact of not making assumptions, being curious, and truly hearing people's stories.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults of all ages. The clients I see tend to be coping with anxiety, life transitions (such as divorce, grief, infertility, job changes) and challenges within interpersonal relationships. We'll work together to identify your goals and better understand what brought you to therapy. My approach is conversational, integrates several therapeutic models (including Internal Family Systems IFS & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT), and provides concrete strategies. I believe you are the expert in you while it is my role and privilege to walk alongside you.
While working in the trauma ICU at Brigham & Women's Hospital & supporting patients w/ cancer diagnoses at Dana Farber I learned the impact of not making assumptions, being curious, and truly hearing people's stories.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults of all ages. The clients I see tend to be coping with anxiety, life transitions (such as divorce, grief, infertility, job changes) and challenges within interpersonal relationships. We'll work together to identify your goals and better understand what brought you to therapy. My approach is conversational, integrates several therapeutic models (including Internal Family Systems IFS & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT), and provides concrete strategies. I believe you are the expert in you while it is my role and privilege to walk alongside you.

I have trained in a number of settings including psychosocial oncology ( cancer); college counseling centers; and parenting wellness centers where I have worked with women struggling with postpartum adjustment, anxiety, or depression.
I feel that I work best with motivated individuals who are curious about themselves, their relationships, and the kinds of struggles which interfere with their fully enjoying their lives.
I have trained in a number of settings including psychosocial oncology ( cancer); college counseling centers; and parenting wellness centers where I have worked with women struggling with postpartum adjustment, anxiety, or depression.
I feel that I work best with motivated individuals who are curious about themselves, their relationships, and the kinds of struggles which interfere with their fully enjoying their lives.

I also specialize in working with individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work. I provide therapy to individuals and families to help overcome life stressors. My goal in therapy is to help you gain new skills to navigate current challenges, past trauma, and develop more healthy relationship patterns moving forward.
I also specialize in working with individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work. I provide therapy to individuals and families to help overcome life stressors. My goal in therapy is to help you gain new skills to navigate current challenges, past trauma, and develop more healthy relationship patterns moving forward.
Meet Our Cancer Therapists

My additional subspecialties include: cancer, insomnia, and working with caregivers of those facing medical illness.
As a clinical health psychologist, I am committed to using compassionate, evidence-based counseling techniques including cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches, and to identifying the specific approaches that most resonate with you. My style is down-to-earth, warm, and collaborative, and I tend to use compassionate humor in my work.
My additional subspecialties include: cancer, insomnia, and working with caregivers of those facing medical illness.
As a clinical health psychologist, I am committed to using compassionate, evidence-based counseling techniques including cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches, and to identifying the specific approaches that most resonate with you. My style is down-to-earth, warm, and collaborative, and I tend to use compassionate humor in my work.

Our Harbor Counseling: Julie Kinnicutt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have also worked extensively in medical settings to support those fighting cancer and other chronic illnesses, including transplant and dialysis.
Welcome... I'm Julie, and I'm glad you're here. I provide talk therapy to adults who are facing stressful life transitions and want support around coping and adjustment. I work best with clients who are motivated to change and become "unstuck" in harmful thought and behavior patterns. Maybe you're navigating a fertility journey.... Maybe you or a loved one has a chronic health issue... Maybe you want to improve your negative self talk. I'm certain that I can help.
I have also worked extensively in medical settings to support those fighting cancer and other chronic illnesses, including transplant and dialysis.
Welcome... I'm Julie, and I'm glad you're here. I provide talk therapy to adults who are facing stressful life transitions and want support around coping and adjustment. I work best with clients who are motivated to change and become "unstuck" in harmful thought and behavior patterns. Maybe you're navigating a fertility journey.... Maybe you or a loved one has a chronic health issue... Maybe you want to improve your negative self talk. I'm certain that I can help.

infertility, cancer, chronic pain), grief and loss, and trouble with work and career.
I integrate different approaches to tailor the therapy to each client's needs. I draw from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, family systems, and mindfulness based therapies. I completed specialized training in behavioral medicine, psychoanalytic psychotherapy, couples therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Most PPO insurances reimburse patients for my services.
infertility, cancer, chronic pain), grief and loss, and trouble with work and career.
I integrate different approaches to tailor the therapy to each client's needs. I draw from psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, family systems, and mindfulness based therapies. I completed specialized training in behavioral medicine, psychoanalytic psychotherapy, couples therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Most PPO insurances reimburse patients for my services.

Park View Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness? I can help you cope with that & incorporate it into your day-to-day life.
I can help you to develop healthy tools that will help you manage life’s day to day stress.
Diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness? I can help you cope with that & incorporate it into your day-to-day life.
I can help you to develop healthy tools that will help you manage life’s day to day stress.

I provided 1 on 1 mental health counseling to patients and their families newly diagnosed with cancer and end-stage liver disease.
I've worked in many different settings and with a variety of populations. I am well equipped to handle emotionally heavy cases as well as those that need less intense interventions and follow ups. I believe that everyone deserves a safe space to talk about their feelings and experiences. Too many of us don't have consistent access to a place like that.
I provided 1 on 1 mental health counseling to patients and their families newly diagnosed with cancer and end-stage liver disease.
I've worked in many different settings and with a variety of populations. I am well equipped to handle emotionally heavy cases as well as those that need less intense interventions and follow ups. I believe that everyone deserves a safe space to talk about their feelings and experiences. Too many of us don't have consistent access to a place like that.

I have training and experience working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic, mood disorders, trauma, eating struggles, weight management, grief and chronic medical diagnoses including cancer, pre/post bariatric, sickle cell anemia and diabetes.
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
I have training and experience working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic, mood disorders, trauma, eating struggles, weight management, grief and chronic medical diagnoses including cancer, pre/post bariatric, sickle cell anemia and diabetes.
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.

My clients include the LGBTQ+ community, people learning to adult for the first time, people dealing with cancer (I'm a survivor myself) and folks hoping to get through the next 4 years.
Did you know you are never more than 1 thought away from a different life? I suspect if you are reading this you'd probably like to know how to do that. Whether it's problems with a partner, questioning your sexuality/gender, difficulty with colleagues or family, I can help you see a different way to tackle those problems. I offer a revolutionary way of doing CBT that allows you to see things and thus feel things differently...and quickly. Let's see if we can't make your life look more like what you want and need. Let's do it with insight and laughter, both of which I provide.
My clients include the LGBTQ+ community, people learning to adult for the first time, people dealing with cancer (I'm a survivor myself) and folks hoping to get through the next 4 years.
Did you know you are never more than 1 thought away from a different life? I suspect if you are reading this you'd probably like to know how to do that. Whether it's problems with a partner, questioning your sexuality/gender, difficulty with colleagues or family, I can help you see a different way to tackle those problems. I offer a revolutionary way of doing CBT that allows you to see things and thus feel things differently...and quickly. Let's see if we can't make your life look more like what you want and need. Let's do it with insight and laughter, both of which I provide.

Many of my clients have experienced chronic illness (including cancer, kidney disease), grief/loss, family conflict, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss of routine and/or job, trauma, loss of identity.
I am an advocate for those who struggle or were not fortunate enough to have certain life privileges, and believe in doing/saying what is right despite pushback from large corporations. Social justice issues are important to me. I have no tolerance for hate/discrimination of any kind, or my clients being taken advantage of. It starts with having a heart.
Many of my clients have experienced chronic illness (including cancer, kidney disease), grief/loss, family conflict, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss of routine and/or job, trauma, loss of identity.
I am an advocate for those who struggle or were not fortunate enough to have certain life privileges, and believe in doing/saying what is right despite pushback from large corporations. Social justice issues are important to me. I have no tolerance for hate/discrimination of any kind, or my clients being taken advantage of. It starts with having a heart.

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, and grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation).
I offer confidential, targeted telesessions that provide a safe space while simultaneously aiding people to improve the quality of their lives. Using current research combined with positive psychology and tools like hypnotherapy and meditation, I guide clients to their ultimate success.
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, and grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation).
I offer confidential, targeted telesessions that provide a safe space while simultaneously aiding people to improve the quality of their lives. Using current research combined with positive psychology and tools like hypnotherapy and meditation, I guide clients to their ultimate success.
See more therapy options for Boston
Nearby Cancer Therapists Searches for Boston
- Belmont
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Brookline Village
- Cambridge
- Chestnut Hill
- Jamaica Plain
- Malden
- Medford
- Roslindale
- Somerville
- Watertown
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.