Cancer Therapists in Maryland

Photo of Yitzy Katz, Counselor, LCPC
Yitzy Katz
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I specialize in psychotherapy for chronic medical conditions, providing vital support for those dealing with the emotional impact of serious medical conditions like brain injuries, cancer, and chronic illness.
When faced with a medical challenge, whether for oneself or a loved one, life seems to stand still. In that moment, nothing matters more than getting a diagnosis. Yet even after the diagnosis, life shifts into a new normal filled with medical jargon, appointments, and constant health concerns. These thoughts occupy every conversation and waking moment. The emotional toll, compounded by the fear and anxiety of the illness, feels overwhelming, making the struggles seem insurmountable.
I specialize in psychotherapy for chronic medical conditions, providing vital support for those dealing with the emotional impact of serious medical conditions like brain injuries, cancer, and chronic illness.
When faced with a medical challenge, whether for oneself or a loved one, life seems to stand still. In that moment, nothing matters more than getting a diagnosis. Yet even after the diagnosis, life shifts into a new normal filled with medical jargon, appointments, and constant health concerns. These thoughts occupy every conversation and waking moment. The emotional toll, compounded by the fear and anxiety of the illness, feels overwhelming, making the struggles seem insurmountable.
(443) 342-3626 View (443) 342-3626
Photo of Megan Cannone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -
Megan Cannone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(667) 382-9037 View (667) 382-9037
Photo of Dr. Amanda Rhodes, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Amanda Rhodes
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Waitlist for new clients
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.
(301) 918-5645 View (301) 918-5645
Photo of Mary Anne Tamula, Psychological Associate, MA
Mary Anne Tamula
Psychological Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals and caregivers cope with serious medical conditions like cancer, HIV, sickle cell disease, and neurofibromatosis type 1.
I lean on evidenced-based therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Brief-Solution Focused Therapy. I believe that people are inherently capable. My aim is to help individuals thrive despite their circumstances by supporting them as they work through barriers and tap into their resilience to create a purposeful life.
I specialize in helping individuals and caregivers cope with serious medical conditions like cancer, HIV, sickle cell disease, and neurofibromatosis type 1.
I lean on evidenced-based therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Brief-Solution Focused Therapy. I believe that people are inherently capable. My aim is to help individuals thrive despite their circumstances by supporting them as they work through barriers and tap into their resilience to create a purposeful life.
(240) 266-3321 View (240) 266-3321
Photo of Candice Tummillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, OSW-C
Candice Tummillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, OSW-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As someone undergoing cancer treatment, you feel vulnerable, scared, anxious, and uncertain about your life.
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.
As someone undergoing cancer treatment, you feel vulnerable, scared, anxious, and uncertain about your life.
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.
(443) 596-6998 View (443) 596-6998
Photo of Donna Shin, Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Donna Shin
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
This book is an inspirational memoir with ways to overcome cancer, emotional abuse and divorce.
Find the freedom and confidence to discover your inner truth, your emotions, and your voice. Healing and becoming aligned with your true self is a life giving energetic and sacred experience that takes place within the safety and trust of the counseling relationship or in a confidential group of kindred spirits — often both. We must go deep to connect with the vital energy and core vitality that we were born with after life has brought pain, losses and various forms of trauma or abuse. Integrating my specialities of grief, trauma, and emotional recovery, I help survivors of narcissistic abuse heal and make meaning of it all.
This book is an inspirational memoir with ways to overcome cancer, emotional abuse and divorce.
Find the freedom and confidence to discover your inner truth, your emotions, and your voice. Healing and becoming aligned with your true self is a life giving energetic and sacred experience that takes place within the safety and trust of the counseling relationship or in a confidential group of kindred spirits — often both. We must go deep to connect with the vital energy and core vitality that we were born with after life has brought pain, losses and various forms of trauma or abuse. Integrating my specialities of grief, trauma, and emotional recovery, I help survivors of narcissistic abuse heal and make meaning of it all.
(410) 877-6217 View (410) 877-6217
Photo of Alisa Hoffman, Psychologist, PhD
Alisa Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Rockville, MD 20852
I've worked with addictions, cancer patients and their families, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
I am an interactive therapist, interested in helping clients reduce symptoms of distress, usually anxiety or depression and explore with them the roots of their distress. I find whether it is addiction, eating disorders, chronic pain, or straight forward relationship issues, understanding the "why" as well as the "how" to fix it, helps the problem and symptoms subside. Clients that work with me finish therapy with a greater awareness of themselves which helps them avoid difficulties in the future as well as a host of healthy coping strategies to help get through the rough times ahead.
I've worked with addictions, cancer patients and their families, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
I am an interactive therapist, interested in helping clients reduce symptoms of distress, usually anxiety or depression and explore with them the roots of their distress. I find whether it is addiction, eating disorders, chronic pain, or straight forward relationship issues, understanding the "why" as well as the "how" to fix it, helps the problem and symptoms subside. Clients that work with me finish therapy with a greater awareness of themselves which helps them avoid difficulties in the future as well as a host of healthy coping strategies to help get through the rough times ahead.
(310) 879-5020 View (310) 879-5020
Photo of Christa Sonnier, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, PMH-C
Christa Sonnier
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, PMH-C
Online Only
I work with those moving through significant transitions including relationship endings, loss of a loved one, job changes, pregnancy/postpartum, menopause, and cancer or chronic illness diagnosis.
My sessions draw on practices from somatic psychotherapy, neuroscience, attachment theory, Brainspotting, and other body-based approaches to trauma. I am also passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum clients and I have over 20 years of experience as a birth doula and somatic coach.
I work with those moving through significant transitions including relationship endings, loss of a loved one, job changes, pregnancy/postpartum, menopause, and cancer or chronic illness diagnosis.
My sessions draw on practices from somatic psychotherapy, neuroscience, attachment theory, Brainspotting, and other body-based approaches to trauma. I am also passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum clients and I have over 20 years of experience as a birth doula and somatic coach.
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Photo of Sarah Diehl, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, LCPC
Sarah Diehl
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, LCPC
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
My professional interests include trauma (sexual and political violence, cancer, complex loss), recovery from substance use, and palliative and hospice care.
People who meet with me want relief from anxiety and depression, complex grief, trauma, and difficulties not yet named or understood. Their relationships and work life feel more confusing or less sure than they seem like they should be - or were. Day to day life may feel out of control, overwhelming, or at times, like it's quite fragile. Pleasure, happiness, energy, fun, or fulfillment may seem like something fleeting or only for other people. All too often, these feelings stick around like an unwelcome guest who just never seems to get it: time to go, yesterday. People contact me because they want a way out of this kind of life.
My professional interests include trauma (sexual and political violence, cancer, complex loss), recovery from substance use, and palliative and hospice care.
People who meet with me want relief from anxiety and depression, complex grief, trauma, and difficulties not yet named or understood. Their relationships and work life feel more confusing or less sure than they seem like they should be - or were. Day to day life may feel out of control, overwhelming, or at times, like it's quite fragile. Pleasure, happiness, energy, fun, or fulfillment may seem like something fleeting or only for other people. All too often, these feelings stick around like an unwelcome guest who just never seems to get it: time to go, yesterday. People contact me because they want a way out of this kind of life.
(410) 639-3474 View (410) 639-3474
Photo of Jenny Miller, Pastoral Counselor, MAPC
Jenny Miller
Pastoral Counselor, MAPC
2 Endorsed
Elkton, MD 21921
As a complex trauma and cancer survivor, I bring a deep empathy and understanding to my practice.
Will it always have to be this way? I don't know how much more I can take. This is a statement I hear often from clients when they first come to me. Holding hope for clients until they are able to hold it for themselves is a calling I feel honored to provide. I am Jenny Miller, a Master's level pastoral counselor who graduated in 2017 from Liberty University with a Masters in Pastoral Counseling with an emphasis on Crisis & Trauma counseling.
As a complex trauma and cancer survivor, I bring a deep empathy and understanding to my practice.
Will it always have to be this way? I don't know how much more I can take. This is a statement I hear often from clients when they first come to me. Holding hope for clients until they are able to hold it for themselves is a calling I feel honored to provide. I am Jenny Miller, a Master's level pastoral counselor who graduated in 2017 from Liberty University with a Masters in Pastoral Counseling with an emphasis on Crisis & Trauma counseling.
(443) 729-0050 View (443) 729-0050
Photo of Jacob Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Jacob Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Hyattsville, MD 20781
Hi, I’m Jacob, a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have over 6 years of combined experience working with diverse populations including homeless and low-income families and individuals, older adults with terminal illnesses, cancer patients and their caregivers, LGBTQIA+ teens and adults, amongst many others. I have experience working with individuals and families that are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors, grief, loss, struggles with identity, career, and anger. I like to approach therapy by providing a safe, and free space for you to share your experiences.
Hi, I’m Jacob, a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have over 6 years of combined experience working with diverse populations including homeless and low-income families and individuals, older adults with terminal illnesses, cancer patients and their caregivers, LGBTQIA+ teens and adults, amongst many others. I have experience working with individuals and families that are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors, grief, loss, struggles with identity, career, and anger. I like to approach therapy by providing a safe, and free space for you to share your experiences.
(240) 451-8980 View (240) 451-8980
Photo of Joy Hart - DJLS Therapy Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
DJLS Therapy Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
I have an extensive background in medical social work specializing in HIV and Cancer.
Individual therapy is like a personal journey of emotional well-being. You can explore your thoughts feelings, gain insights, and build resilience for a more delightful and fulfilling life.
I have an extensive background in medical social work specializing in HIV and Cancer.
Individual therapy is like a personal journey of emotional well-being. You can explore your thoughts feelings, gain insights, and build resilience for a more delightful and fulfilling life.
(240) 875-6530 View (240) 875-6530
Photo of Caroline Batchelor Moore, Psychologist, PsyD, MS, BBA
Caroline Batchelor Moore
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, BBA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a working mother with two kids including a disabled child, and I am also a cancer survivor.
Teletherapy has been around for 20+ years & is highly successful. Advantages include: 1. Anytime, Anywhere. 2. No driving or childcare needed. 3. No waiting rooms. 4. Less stress because you pick the place most comfortable room for you to talk. 5. No running into others at the office. 6. You avoid bad weather, traffic/car accidents, & exposure to illness.
I am a working mother with two kids including a disabled child, and I am also a cancer survivor.
Teletherapy has been around for 20+ years & is highly successful. Advantages include: 1. Anytime, Anywhere. 2. No driving or childcare needed. 3. No waiting rooms. 4. Less stress because you pick the place most comfortable room for you to talk. 5. No running into others at the office. 6. You avoid bad weather, traffic/car accidents, & exposure to illness.
(301) 678-1405 View (301) 678-1405
Photo of Robin Ann Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Robin Ann Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Columbia, MD 21045
Waitlist for new clients
Having worked with diverse populations in various modalities, such as, traumatized children, sexually diverse or autistic; adults who have experienced domestic abuse, cancer, trauma, PTSD and depression, I have learned the art of deep listening.
Robin Brown, LCSW-C, received her BS in psychology from Towson University and her Master's in Social Work from University of MD, Baltimore in 1995. Robin specializes in using a mindfulness framework to assist clients in finding their strength to flourish while dealing with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, domestic abuse or neurodevelopmental related issues. Drawing from various modalities ranging from cognitive behavioral, to guided imagery and art therapy, Robin works with children and adults to help them find their path to healing in a safe space.
Having worked with diverse populations in various modalities, such as, traumatized children, sexually diverse or autistic; adults who have experienced domestic abuse, cancer, trauma, PTSD and depression, I have learned the art of deep listening.
Robin Brown, LCSW-C, received her BS in psychology from Towson University and her Master's in Social Work from University of MD, Baltimore in 1995. Robin specializes in using a mindfulness framework to assist clients in finding their strength to flourish while dealing with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, domestic abuse or neurodevelopmental related issues. Drawing from various modalities ranging from cognitive behavioral, to guided imagery and art therapy, Robin works with children and adults to help them find their path to healing in a safe space.
(410) 648-2882 View (410) 648-2882
Photo of Mary M Dowling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Mary M Dowling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Columbia, MD 21045
I also have a specialty working with cancer patients and their families, and facilitate a cancer support group for patients and caregivers.
I believe that people benefit from an intergrated, holistic approach, and view my role as shining a light to help them find their way and remember their own light. Whether a person, couple or family come in for issues such as depression, anxiety, gief, chronic illness, ADHD, parenting skills or life prupose, Spirit, Mind, Body Psychotherapy can increase one's self awareness, sense of self empowerment, use of effective tools to assist focus, goal setting and completion, and an overall sense of well being and joy. I am honored to accompany people on their healing and self discovery journey.
I also have a specialty working with cancer patients and their families, and facilitate a cancer support group for patients and caregivers.
I believe that people benefit from an intergrated, holistic approach, and view my role as shining a light to help them find their way and remember their own light. Whether a person, couple or family come in for issues such as depression, anxiety, gief, chronic illness, ADHD, parenting skills or life prupose, Spirit, Mind, Body Psychotherapy can increase one's self awareness, sense of self empowerment, use of effective tools to assist focus, goal setting and completion, and an overall sense of well being and joy. I am honored to accompany people on their healing and self discovery journey.
(410) 657-8217 x5 View (410) 657-8217 x5
Photo of Leonard Ellentuck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APHSW-C, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, OSW-C
Leonard Ellentuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APHSW-C, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, OSW-C
Online Only
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.
(301) 769-7416 View (301) 769-7416
Photo of Brian DeLaurentis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Brian DeLaurentis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
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.
(410) 873-1907 View (410) 873-1907
Photo of Erica Greenspan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Erica Greenspan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Hyattsville, MD 20781
I've worked with oncology teams, as well as neurology clinics supporting patients and loved ones through acute illnesses like cancer, as well as chronic illnesses like dementia and MS.
Hi, I'm Erica and I am so glad that you made it here. My clients describe me as warm and approachable. As is such, my therapeutic style is person-centered, and rooted in relational psychotherapy. My specialty is working with those in their 30s and 40s, a time many find themselves sandwiched between raising their own families and caring for aging parents. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship or job stress, we will dive in to explore the root of your pain in order to bring you relief.
I've worked with oncology teams, as well as neurology clinics supporting patients and loved ones through acute illnesses like cancer, as well as chronic illnesses like dementia and MS.
Hi, I'm Erica and I am so glad that you made it here. My clients describe me as warm and approachable. As is such, my therapeutic style is person-centered, and rooted in relational psychotherapy. My specialty is working with those in their 30s and 40s, a time many find themselves sandwiched between raising their own families and caring for aging parents. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship or job stress, we will dive in to explore the root of your pain in order to bring you relief.
(240) 221-6667 View (240) 221-6667
Photo of Trinita Dr Tee R. Lattimore, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DD(hc), LCPC-S, MSc, MEd
Trinita Dr Tee R. Lattimore
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DD(hc), LCPC-S, MSc, MEd
Online Only
a confidential, compliant, clinical counselor and breast cancer survivor, with a successful private practice, in the DMV ( District of Columbia and Maryland).
I Am Listening Wellness Center is here...to help and respectfully help and empower the whole YOU! Specializing in adult/young adult counseling for individuals, couples, families and groups, with domestic violence/women's issues, breast cancer survivors and personalized faith-based counseling.
a confidential, compliant, clinical counselor and breast cancer survivor, with a successful private practice, in the DMV ( District of Columbia and Maryland).
I Am Listening Wellness Center is here...to help and respectfully help and empower the whole YOU! Specializing in adult/young adult counseling for individuals, couples, families and groups, with domestic violence/women's issues, breast cancer survivors and personalized faith-based counseling.
(301) 691-2398 View (301) 691-2398
Photo of Vanessa Pikler, Psychologist, PhD
Vanessa Pikler
Psychologist, PhD
Baltimore, MD 21209
I also work with people with medical illnesses and have special expertise in Health Psychology, such as coping with cancer diagnoses/treatments, caregiver stress, stress management and other mind/body issues.
Ask yourself if your medical condition is getting in the way of things you used to love to do. Does your medical illness create anxiety depression, fear or anger? If this is the case for you, please contact me.
I also work with people with medical illnesses and have special expertise in Health Psychology, such as coping with cancer diagnoses/treatments, caregiver stress, stress management and other mind/body issues.
Ask yourself if your medical condition is getting in the way of things you used to love to do. Does your medical illness create anxiety depression, fear or anger? If this is the case for you, please contact me.
(410) 970-6500 View (410) 970-6500

See more therapy options for Maryland

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.