Cancer Therapists in Maryland
That might look like:
Losing a relationship, role, or career
Facing a cancer diagnosis or caregiving for someone who is
Struggling with body image and internalized shame
Feeling burned out, lost, or emotionally flat.
I use a blend of evidence-based approaches (CBT, ACT, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness) with a warm, honest, and real-world approach. Therapy with me is a space to exhale, feel, and reset.
That might look like:
Losing a relationship, role, or career
Facing a cancer diagnosis or caregiving for someone who is
Struggling with body image and internalized shame
Feeling burned out, lost, or emotionally flat.
I use a blend of evidence-based approaches (CBT, ACT, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness) with a warm, honest, and real-world approach. Therapy with me is a space to exhale, feel, and reset.
I've worked with people who have experienced breast cancer, those who are processing the present-day consequences of invalidating childhood environments, individuals who’ve experienced intimate partner violence, people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, as well as those managing day-to-day anxieties and periods of depression.
I am a licensed social worker with fourteen years of clinical experience. While I draw upon various modalities, my approach is primarily insight-oriented psychodynamic psychotherapy, through a trauma-informed and strengths-based lens, and with emphases on attachment theory, mindfulness and polyvagal theory.
I've worked with people who have experienced breast cancer, those who are processing the present-day consequences of invalidating childhood environments, individuals who’ve experienced intimate partner violence, people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, as well as those managing day-to-day anxieties and periods of depression.
I am a licensed social worker with fourteen years of clinical experience. While I draw upon various modalities, my approach is primarily insight-oriented psychodynamic psychotherapy, through a trauma-informed and strengths-based lens, and with emphases on attachment theory, mindfulness and polyvagal theory.
From my early days in a psychiatric unit to over six years in hospice care and more recently, supporting young adults with cancer, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the emotional challenges people face during difficult times.
As a certified oncology social worker and oncology patient navigator, I specialize in helping individuals navigate not only the emotional aspects of cancer but also the intersection of mental health and chronic illness. Whether you're coping with grief, illness, or life transitions, I’m here to meet you where you are with empathy, respect, and expertise.
From my early days in a psychiatric unit to over six years in hospice care and more recently, supporting young adults with cancer, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the emotional challenges people face during difficult times.
As a certified oncology social worker and oncology patient navigator, I specialize in helping individuals navigate not only the emotional aspects of cancer but also the intersection of mental health and chronic illness. Whether you're coping with grief, illness, or life transitions, I’m here to meet you where you are with empathy, respect, and expertise.
As someone undergoing cancer treatment, you feel vulnerable, scared, anxious, and uncertain about your life.
The question now is what to do next? I will support you as you face the uncertainty and chaos that is rapidly unfolding. Together, we will journey into the unknown by sitting with emergent feelings, sensations, and needs. By honoring whatever is experienced, you will discover the trust, awareness, and acceptance to live as you are today.
As someone undergoing cancer treatment, you feel vulnerable, scared, anxious, and uncertain about your life.
The question now is what to do next? I will support you as you face the uncertainty and chaos that is rapidly unfolding. Together, we will journey into the unknown by sitting with emergent feelings, sensations, and needs. By honoring whatever is experienced, you will discover the trust, awareness, and acceptance to live as you are today.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through medical crises, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I am bilingual and bicultural. I strive to create a safe, open, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and understood.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through medical crises, trauma, grief, and life transitions. I am bilingual and bicultural. I strive to create a safe, open, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and understood.
My name is Michelle. As both a therapist and a person, I understand how people can quietly carry overwhelming experiences while still trying to function normally day to day. Illness, grief, caregiving, anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life changes can leave people feeling emotionally exhausted and alone.
I offer a grounded, and compassionate space for adults navigating these experiences. Before starting Compass Counseling I spent over a decade working in oncology and palliative care at Johns Hopkins. That work deeply shaped my understanding of grief, resilience and the emotional weight people often carry quietly.
My name is Michelle. As both a therapist and a person, I understand how people can quietly carry overwhelming experiences while still trying to function normally day to day. Illness, grief, caregiving, anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life changes can leave people feeling emotionally exhausted and alone.
I offer a grounded, and compassionate space for adults navigating these experiences. Before starting Compass Counseling I spent over a decade working in oncology and palliative care at Johns Hopkins. That work deeply shaped my understanding of grief, resilience and the emotional weight people often carry quietly.
I also support cancer patients and caregivers through the uncertainties of medical treatment, and I provide treatment for blood and needle phobias.
I completed my undergraduate and master’s degrees in psychology in Brazil, where I worked as a psychotherapist in private practice for over seven years, and received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from Fordham University in New York. I offer both online and in-person scheduling options.
I also support cancer patients and caregivers through the uncertainties of medical treatment, and I provide treatment for blood and needle phobias.
I completed my undergraduate and master’s degrees in psychology in Brazil, where I worked as a psychotherapist in private practice for over seven years, and received my PhD in Clinical Psychology from Fordham University in New York. I offer both online and in-person scheduling options.
I specialize in supporting people living with cancer, sickle cell disease, HIV, and neurofibromatosis type 1, as well as caregivers, especially parents of children with RASopathies.
Medical journeys often bring pain, anxiety, and difficult decisions. My role is to walk alongside you, helping you manage stress, navigate treatment, and restore balance in your life. I use evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy, to help clients move forward with clarity and purpose.
I specialize in supporting people living with cancer, sickle cell disease, HIV, and neurofibromatosis type 1, as well as caregivers, especially parents of children with RASopathies.
Medical journeys often bring pain, anxiety, and difficult decisions. My role is to walk alongside you, helping you manage stress, navigate treatment, and restore balance in your life. I use evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy, to help clients move forward with clarity and purpose.
With extensive experience working both in hospital and community settings, I specialize in supporting individuals facing chronic and acute illnesses. I provide compassionate care to patients and families coping with the emotional and psychological impacts of health challenges. I have worked closely with medical professionals to support them in managing the emotional toll of their taxing roles as well. Additionally, I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety and adjustment to life transitions.
With extensive experience working both in hospital and community settings, I specialize in supporting individuals facing chronic and acute illnesses. I provide compassionate care to patients and families coping with the emotional and psychological impacts of health challenges. I have worked closely with medical professionals to support them in managing the emotional toll of their taxing roles as well. Additionally, I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety and adjustment to life transitions.
I am a pediatric psychologist who works with children, teens, young adults, and families facing complex challenges, including medical illness, grief, trauma, developmental concerns, and school-related needs.
Some children and families are dealing with more than one thing at a time. It may be a medical diagnosis alongside school struggles. Grief layered on top of anxiety. Developmental concerns in the middle of a family transition. Or a child who is trying to manage something hard while the adults around them are doing the same. Families usually find their way to me when something feels more layered than expected.
I am a pediatric psychologist who works with children, teens, young adults, and families facing complex challenges, including medical illness, grief, trauma, developmental concerns, and school-related needs.
Some children and families are dealing with more than one thing at a time. It may be a medical diagnosis alongside school struggles. Grief layered on top of anxiety. Developmental concerns in the middle of a family transition. Or a child who is trying to manage something hard while the adults around them are doing the same. Families usually find their way to me when something feels more layered than expected.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and families navigating somatic symptoms, sleep issues, medical stress, and emotional or behavioral concerns. My clients are looking for support that’s collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based care. They want to better understand what’s going on, learn practical tools to manage symptoms, and feel more empowered. Together, we focus on building resilience, improving functioning, and supporting the whole person in context.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and families navigating somatic symptoms, sleep issues, medical stress, and emotional or behavioral concerns. My clients are looking for support that’s collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based care. They want to better understand what’s going on, learn practical tools to manage symptoms, and feel more empowered. Together, we focus on building resilience, improving functioning, and supporting the whole person in context.
I am the Supervising Psychologist and Director at the National Center for Health Psychology and for the last 10 years, I have worked exclusively with individuals (and caregivers/spouses) across all stages of cancer, diseases & illnesses (such as MS, ALS, POTS, Crohn's, EDS, Dysautonomia), and chronic pain syndromes.
Collaborative and experiential, my approach blends ancient Eastern mindfulness practices with modern, evidence-based treatments like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy, and MBSR. Most importantly, I use humor and playfulness to help my clients break free from the grip of pain and rediscover meaning and vitality.
I am the Supervising Psychologist and Director at the National Center for Health Psychology and for the last 10 years, I have worked exclusively with individuals (and caregivers/spouses) across all stages of cancer, diseases & illnesses (such as MS, ALS, POTS, Crohn's, EDS, Dysautonomia), and chronic pain syndromes.
Collaborative and experiential, my approach blends ancient Eastern mindfulness practices with modern, evidence-based treatments like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy, and MBSR. Most importantly, I use humor and playfulness to help my clients break free from the grip of pain and rediscover meaning and vitality.
As a clinical health psychologist, I work with adults (18+) to support the connection between mental and physical health. I specialize in areas like perinatal mood, anxiety, trauma and adjustment challenges, infertility; recovery from physical injury or hospitalization; insomnia; chronic pain; oncology; digestive health; illness-related changes; weight management; and preparing for or adjusting to surgeries like bariatrics or transplants. I take an evidence-based, compassionate approach to care, tailoring strategies to your unique needs to help you feel supported and empowered on your journey.
As a clinical health psychologist, I work with adults (18+) to support the connection between mental and physical health. I specialize in areas like perinatal mood, anxiety, trauma and adjustment challenges, infertility; recovery from physical injury or hospitalization; insomnia; chronic pain; oncology; digestive health; illness-related changes; weight management; and preparing for or adjusting to surgeries like bariatrics or transplants. I take an evidence-based, compassionate approach to care, tailoring strategies to your unique needs to help you feel supported and empowered on your journey.
I have nearly 20 years of experience working with cancer patients and their families.
It has long been my view that the first step in healing and working through your issues is feeling understood. Although, there are a number of techniques that we can employ together for growth and change, my first goal is to understand you, your issues, and where you're coming from. Once understanding has progressed, we can adopt a plan that takes you as a whole person into consideration. I believe that different approaches work for different people and don't believe "in a one size fits all" or a "cookie-cutter" approach to therapy. If this works for you, I look forward to hearing from you.
I have nearly 20 years of experience working with cancer patients and their families.
It has long been my view that the first step in healing and working through your issues is feeling understood. Although, there are a number of techniques that we can employ together for growth and change, my first goal is to understand you, your issues, and where you're coming from. Once understanding has progressed, we can adopt a plan that takes you as a whole person into consideration. I believe that different approaches work for different people and don't believe "in a one size fits all" or a "cookie-cutter" approach to therapy. If this works for you, I look forward to hearing from you.
Maybe depression or grief has drained the color from things, or a cancer diagnosis — yours or a loved one's — has turned life upside down.
My approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and grounded in both emotional depth and spiritual respect. I blend practical, evidence-based tools like cognitive reframing with body-based practices and mindfulness for nervous-system regulation so change happens in both mind and body, and lasts.
Maybe depression or grief has drained the color from things, or a cancer diagnosis — yours or a loved one's — has turned life upside down.
My approach is holistic, trauma-informed, and grounded in both emotional depth and spiritual respect. I blend practical, evidence-based tools like cognitive reframing with body-based practices and mindfulness for nervous-system regulation so change happens in both mind and body, and lasts.
I have a special interest in working with professional Black women who are balancing the demands of work, relationships, parenthood, and personal expectations. Whether you're struggling with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, burnout, or the emotional weight of succeeding in spaces where you don't always feel seen or understood, therapy can be a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we'll explore the patterns that once helped you cope while creating healthier ways of responding that are grounded in self-awareness, self-compassion, and your values. I also enjoy supporting young adults!
I have a special interest in working with professional Black women who are balancing the demands of work, relationships, parenthood, and personal expectations. Whether you're struggling with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, burnout, or the emotional weight of succeeding in spaces where you don't always feel seen or understood, therapy can be a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we'll explore the patterns that once helped you cope while creating healthier ways of responding that are grounded in self-awareness, self-compassion, and your values. I also enjoy supporting young adults!
If you have you been upset about your life or relationship, you just may feel better sooner than you ever thought you would. I can help you reduce the emotional pain while increasing your confidence at the same time. I have been referred to as a "no-holds-barred life changer." I use Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy and EFT as tools to speed up your growth process. When you walk in my office you are a person not just one of my clients. We will find out what your specific needs are and then match the best treatment for you. I am licensed in both Maryland and California. www.drdeborahcooper.com
If you have you been upset about your life or relationship, you just may feel better sooner than you ever thought you would. I can help you reduce the emotional pain while increasing your confidence at the same time. I have been referred to as a "no-holds-barred life changer." I use Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy and EFT as tools to speed up your growth process. When you walk in my office you are a person not just one of my clients. We will find out what your specific needs are and then match the best treatment for you. I am licensed in both Maryland and California. www.drdeborahcooper.com
Life travels at a very fast pace and at times it can be easy to lose one’s sense of self. Symptoms of depression and anxiety; among other irregularities caused by life stressors are responses all have experienced. Greif and loss are another huge component today, with so many tragedies and adversities, one may feel an inability to move forward or a disconnect from people and or purpose. Such encounters often create emotions, that provoke symptoms that can become unmanageable causing levels of apathy, loneliness and or hopeless. Participating in therapeutic strategies could relieve inhibitions and promote positive growth.
Life travels at a very fast pace and at times it can be easy to lose one’s sense of self. Symptoms of depression and anxiety; among other irregularities caused by life stressors are responses all have experienced. Greif and loss are another huge component today, with so many tragedies and adversities, one may feel an inability to move forward or a disconnect from people and or purpose. Such encounters often create emotions, that provoke symptoms that can become unmanageable causing levels of apathy, loneliness and or hopeless. Participating in therapeutic strategies could relieve inhibitions and promote positive growth.
As one dear and admired patient shared, “You have given me a life jacket.” If you are reading this, you may be hoping to change something meaningful in your life. What are you looking for? Relief from the overwhelm of anxiety and depression | Escape from the prison of perfectionism | Recovery from loss, grief support | More satisfying relationships (intimate/ family/professional/friendship) | Clarity and guidance in parenting or career | Freedom from self-sabotaging, risky behaviors, destructive thinking? I am a licensed psychologist in independent private practice since 1987 providing adult individual, family & couples therapy.
As one dear and admired patient shared, “You have given me a life jacket.” If you are reading this, you may be hoping to change something meaningful in your life. What are you looking for? Relief from the overwhelm of anxiety and depression | Escape from the prison of perfectionism | Recovery from loss, grief support | More satisfying relationships (intimate/ family/professional/friendship) | Clarity and guidance in parenting or career | Freedom from self-sabotaging, risky behaviors, destructive thinking? I am a licensed psychologist in independent private practice since 1987 providing adult individual, family & couples therapy.
In addition to multiple years in private practice, my social work experience includes internships in crisis management as well as within the Social Work department in conjunction with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Lymphoma, NCI Thoracic MOB and NCI Thoracic Surgery teams, and NCI Head and Trach team.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with a clinical background practicing under the supervision of Martin Schnuit, LCSW-C. I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages to overcome a variety of issues including behavioral problems, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and anxiety. I strive to build a strong relationship with my clients based on trust and openness to help increase client comfort with expressing their struggles. I take time to understand who you are with an understanding that each person’s therapeutic experience is individualized and unique.
In addition to multiple years in private practice, my social work experience includes internships in crisis management as well as within the Social Work department in conjunction with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Lymphoma, NCI Thoracic MOB and NCI Thoracic Surgery teams, and NCI Head and Trach team.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with a clinical background practicing under the supervision of Martin Schnuit, LCSW-C. I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages to overcome a variety of issues including behavioral problems, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and anxiety. I strive to build a strong relationship with my clients based on trust and openness to help increase client comfort with expressing their struggles. I take time to understand who you are with an understanding that each person’s therapeutic experience is individualized and unique.
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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.