Cancer Therapists in Wilkes County, NC

Photo of Trey Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Trey Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
(704) 419-8509 View (704) 419-8509
Photo of Wanda Anthony Burger, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Wanda Anthony Burger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
(336) 344-7187 View (336) 344-7187
Photo of Mark Waddell, Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Mark Waddell
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in Ronda. Aspen is enabling individuals, from all walks of life, to accomplish mental health, wellness, educational, spiritual and career goals. We specialize in helping individuals and families during the tough times. We have extensive training in the treatment of PTSD and trauma associated disorders for adults, adolescents, and children (including pre-school age). In addition to trauma, we specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and chronic childhood behaviors. VISIT ASPENMENTALHEALTH.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS in Ronda. Aspen is enabling individuals, from all walks of life, to accomplish mental health, wellness, educational, spiritual and career goals. We specialize in helping individuals and families during the tough times. We have extensive training in the treatment of PTSD and trauma associated disorders for adults, adolescents, and children (including pre-school age). In addition to trauma, we specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and chronic childhood behaviors. VISIT ASPENMENTALHEALTH.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION

Online Therapists

Photo of Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
(331) 210-9134 View (331) 210-9134
Photo of Dr. Sabrina Schell, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, Coach
Dr. Sabrina Schell
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, Coach
Verified Verified
Online Only
My own cancer diagnosis helped me to relate and motivates me to learn more and more about holistic health.
Integrative Health Coaching - personalized, science-backed, and effective. True wellness isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about understanding your body, mind, and habits. My approach to health coaching is designed to fit your life, helping you make small, effective changes that lead to lasting improvements in your energy, mindset, and well-being. We’ll work together to create balanced routines that work in real life (not just on paper), break free from limiting thought pattern, and address root causes of stress.
My own cancer diagnosis helped me to relate and motivates me to learn more and more about holistic health.
Integrative Health Coaching - personalized, science-backed, and effective. True wellness isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about understanding your body, mind, and habits. My approach to health coaching is designed to fit your life, helping you make small, effective changes that lead to lasting improvements in your energy, mindset, and well-being. We’ll work together to create balanced routines that work in real life (not just on paper), break free from limiting thought pattern, and address root causes of stress.
(646) 248-7708 View (646) 248-7708
Photo of Loula Kontoulas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Loula Kontoulas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Through my work with cancer patients, I developed a therapeutic framework based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients with various issues move from distress toward peace.
In my experience working with oncology patients, I learned how cancer can impact your life and how illness and physical vulnerability can affect your emotional wellbeing and sense of safety. I specialize in helping individuals and families cope with the difficulties and unique circumstances of dealing with life-altering illness and medical challenges.
Through my work with cancer patients, I developed a therapeutic framework based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients with various issues move from distress toward peace.
In my experience working with oncology patients, I learned how cancer can impact your life and how illness and physical vulnerability can affect your emotional wellbeing and sense of safety. I specialize in helping individuals and families cope with the difficulties and unique circumstances of dealing with life-altering illness and medical challenges.
(980) 366-4358 View (980) 366-4358
Photo of Erin K. Taylor, Psychologist, PhD
Erin K. Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I hold a doctorate in clinical health psychology and specialize in working with people with health concerns including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Sapphire Health Psychology specializes in helping people experiencing chronic pain, medically unexplained physical symptoms, serious illness, and weight management challenges who have not found relief through traditional methods. We take an innovative approach that views symptoms as signals for change, identifies patterns that hinder healing, and firmly believes that true healing is possible.
I hold a doctorate in clinical health psychology and specialize in working with people with health concerns including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Sapphire Health Psychology specializes in helping people experiencing chronic pain, medically unexplained physical symptoms, serious illness, and weight management challenges who have not found relief through traditional methods. We take an innovative approach that views symptoms as signals for change, identifies patterns that hinder healing, and firmly believes that true healing is possible.
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Photo of Lisa Thyer, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Lisa Thyer
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
As a cancer survivor, I understand the challenges and feelings of fear and anxiety that begin the moment you are diagnosed.
“Why do I feel this way?” Client’s often ask me this question and it can be difficult to know exactly why an experience or event affects them so strongly. I offer both traditional talk therapy and EMDR in sessions to support my clients as they seek to understand their lived experience. For most clients, their strong emotional responses to current events is mysterious. My approach is structured and methodical in order to root out underlying causes of emotional distress that might be unknown. In this way, I help the client resolve them so similar experiences in the future can be met with more clarity and resilience.
As a cancer survivor, I understand the challenges and feelings of fear and anxiety that begin the moment you are diagnosed.
“Why do I feel this way?” Client’s often ask me this question and it can be difficult to know exactly why an experience or event affects them so strongly. I offer both traditional talk therapy and EMDR in sessions to support my clients as they seek to understand their lived experience. For most clients, their strong emotional responses to current events is mysterious. My approach is structured and methodical in order to root out underlying causes of emotional distress that might be unknown. In this way, I help the client resolve them so similar experiences in the future can be met with more clarity and resilience.
(704) 236-0879 View (704) 236-0879
Photo of Andrea Siegel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Andrea Siegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm also a cancer survivor.
Are you wrestling with big questions? I will support you to cultivate hope and to act on what is in your power to change. If you have let yourself down, hurt others, or been hurt by others: I can help you to examine your wounded moral compass, to discern how it points you toward your true north. If you have cultural and spiritual traditions to include, we can lean into them –or not, according to your preference; I have trained in integrative health, chaplaincy, clinical social work, and the humanities. If you want a therapist who understands the stresses of university, healthcare, nonprofit, and religious institutions, I do!
I'm also a cancer survivor.
Are you wrestling with big questions? I will support you to cultivate hope and to act on what is in your power to change. If you have let yourself down, hurt others, or been hurt by others: I can help you to examine your wounded moral compass, to discern how it points you toward your true north. If you have cultural and spiritual traditions to include, we can lean into them –or not, according to your preference; I have trained in integrative health, chaplaincy, clinical social work, and the humanities. If you want a therapist who understands the stresses of university, healthcare, nonprofit, and religious institutions, I do!
(828) 520-2957 View (828) 520-2957
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Rita McDonough, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Stephanie Rita McDonough
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
I have expertise in working with individuals with cancer and other medical problems.
Most of us can relate to the fact that life can be unpredictable, sometimes sending us in a direction we could never truly prepare for. When met with uncertainty, struggle, or suffering it can be difficult to know what path to take forward. I take an authentic, collaborative and compassion-focused stance so you can feel comfortable and confident in your ability to navigate challenges. My specialized training in clinical health psychology allows me to consider how complex biological, social and psychological factors intersect, providing a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
I have expertise in working with individuals with cancer and other medical problems.
Most of us can relate to the fact that life can be unpredictable, sometimes sending us in a direction we could never truly prepare for. When met with uncertainty, struggle, or suffering it can be difficult to know what path to take forward. I take an authentic, collaborative and compassion-focused stance so you can feel comfortable and confident in your ability to navigate challenges. My specialized training in clinical health psychology allows me to consider how complex biological, social and psychological factors intersect, providing a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation.
(704) 910-8381 View (704) 910-8381
Photo of Marty S Rosser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Marty S Rosser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
My specialties include working with those individuals and families impacted by Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Parkinson's disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Dementia, Prostate Cancer and other chronic conditions.
As a therapist with over 40 years of experience, I specialize in working with individual adults, couples and families. Working from a family systems perspective, I build on my clients' capacities to bounce back from hard times. I engage each unique client in a way that facilitates their being able to challenge their patterns of dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. Clients have shared that they appreciate the empathy and understanding that I bring to our work together.
My specialties include working with those individuals and families impacted by Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Parkinson's disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Dementia, Prostate Cancer and other chronic conditions.
As a therapist with over 40 years of experience, I specialize in working with individual adults, couples and families. Working from a family systems perspective, I build on my clients' capacities to bounce back from hard times. I engage each unique client in a way that facilitates their being able to challenge their patterns of dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. Clients have shared that they appreciate the empathy and understanding that I bring to our work together.
(336) 502-2764 View (336) 502-2764
Photo of Antranique Neblett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Antranique Neblett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217
With over 20 years of experience in the field I've been able to learn in a variety of settings and helped individuals struggling with, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflict, trauma, cancer, medical, and stress from many of life's transitions.
Counseling and coaching services for Adults, youth 12+, families and couples. Together we work as a team to create the best treatment plan that is specific to your needs. I challenge you along the way so that you learn effective coping skills that can be applied to everyday situations. The goal is always for you to gain insight into bothersome areas of life.
With over 20 years of experience in the field I've been able to learn in a variety of settings and helped individuals struggling with, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflict, trauma, cancer, medical, and stress from many of life's transitions.
Counseling and coaching services for Adults, youth 12+, families and couples. Together we work as a team to create the best treatment plan that is specific to your needs. I challenge you along the way so that you learn effective coping skills that can be applied to everyday situations. The goal is always for you to gain insight into bothersome areas of life.
(704) 271-9179 View (704) 271-9179
Photo of Lisa Trahan, Psychologist, PhD
Lisa Trahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My clients also seek support and guidance on coping well with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic health condition, including cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes.
I strive to create a warm and inviting environment for you to discuss your concerns and the barriers you are encountering to living the life you envision. During therapy, you will learn skills to free yourself from unhelpful thoughts and to empower you to live in line with your values. My style is collaborative, goal-oriented, and supportive.
My clients also seek support and guidance on coping well with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic health condition, including cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes.
I strive to create a warm and inviting environment for you to discuss your concerns and the barriers you are encountering to living the life you envision. During therapy, you will learn skills to free yourself from unhelpful thoughts and to empower you to live in line with your values. My style is collaborative, goal-oriented, and supportive.
(828) 330-9352 View (828) 330-9352
Photo of Lauren Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Inside of life's toughest moments- illness, cancer, trauma, big transitions, or grief- life can be overwhelming.
I offer a safe space where all of you is welcome. My work is trauma-informed, LGTBQIA affirming, & focused on helping you feel more whole and in control. My approach balances creating safety while using practical tools. Many of the clients I partner with are healthcare workers, young adults, queer, neurodivergent, or adult children of addiction.
Inside of life's toughest moments- illness, cancer, trauma, big transitions, or grief- life can be overwhelming.
I offer a safe space where all of you is welcome. My work is trauma-informed, LGTBQIA affirming, & focused on helping you feel more whole and in control. My approach balances creating safety while using practical tools. Many of the clients I partner with are healthcare workers, young adults, queer, neurodivergent, or adult children of addiction.
(910) 519-8262 View (910) 519-8262
Photo of Susan Funk, Psychologist, PsyD
Susan Funk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
However, I have developed particular interest in working with trauma, adult survivors of childhood abuse, cancer issues, spiritual concerns, and with people with intuitive and empathic gifts.
I have worked in the field of psychology for over 25 years, practicing as a licensed psychologist since 2004. Previously I worked for 6+ years at the UNC Charlotte Counseling Center as an individual and group therapist as well as the coordinator of practicum training. Please see my website for additional information.
However, I have developed particular interest in working with trauma, adult survivors of childhood abuse, cancer issues, spiritual concerns, and with people with intuitive and empathic gifts.
I have worked in the field of psychology for over 25 years, practicing as a licensed psychologist since 2004. Previously I worked for 6+ years at the UNC Charlotte Counseling Center as an individual and group therapist as well as the coordinator of practicum training. Please see my website for additional information.
(704) 859-5633 View (704) 859-5633
Photo of Laura S Rand - Laura S. Rand Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MEd
Laura S. Rand Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I received a breast cancer diagnosis several years ago.
All of us have been wounded by life in different ways, personally and in and through our relationships. We need healing and find it painful to examine our wounds. The poet, Rumi, wrote: "Don't turn away. Keep your gaze on the bandaged place. That's where the light enters you." I went back to graduate school so that I could sit with others willing to do this courageous work. Maybe you are ready for such a journey. I work primarily with adults, but I have worked with children for over 30 years as well.
I received a breast cancer diagnosis several years ago.
All of us have been wounded by life in different ways, personally and in and through our relationships. We need healing and find it painful to examine our wounds. The poet, Rumi, wrote: "Don't turn away. Keep your gaze on the bandaged place. That's where the light enters you." I went back to graduate school so that I could sit with others willing to do this courageous work. Maybe you are ready for such a journey. I work primarily with adults, but I have worked with children for over 30 years as well.
(828) 528-4158 View (828) 528-4158
Photo of Dr. Sherri Newpol, Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Dr. Sherri Newpol
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Areas I focus on are ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ (and QIAAP), head injury, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic illness, cancer, "chemo brain," tics, seizures, trichotillomania, & couples counseling.
Hello! I'm a seasoned psychologist who welcomes people with complex issues. If you have multiple diagnoses, facing a life transition such as divorce or new career, or planning for surgery or retirement...I want to work with you. I enjoy working with medical practices helping people navigate bariatric or other surgeries. I have a passion helping people overcome trauma using Prolonged Exposure. I have specialized training in addictions and eating disorders. People return to my practice when facing new life challenges. Couples make fast positive changes under my care. Let's start your journey today. I respond to all inquiries.
Areas I focus on are ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ (and QIAAP), head injury, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic illness, cancer, "chemo brain," tics, seizures, trichotillomania, & couples counseling.
Hello! I'm a seasoned psychologist who welcomes people with complex issues. If you have multiple diagnoses, facing a life transition such as divorce or new career, or planning for surgery or retirement...I want to work with you. I enjoy working with medical practices helping people navigate bariatric or other surgeries. I have a passion helping people overcome trauma using Prolonged Exposure. I have specialized training in addictions and eating disorders. People return to my practice when facing new life challenges. Couples make fast positive changes under my care. Let's start your journey today. I respond to all inquiries.
(984) 689-9269 View (984) 689-9269
Photo of Ashley S Marder, Counselor, LCMHCA
Ashley S Marder
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Though there are many experiences in my life that led me to mental health counseling, the lessons I learned when I overcame breast cancer at 30, put life in a different perspective.
Looking for therapeutic counseling is the first step on your journey to a happier and healthier version of you. Part of that process is finding the right therapist. My goal is to hold a safe space, that is non-judgmental and a comfortable environment where you can be yourself. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, where you are the expert of your own life, and your goals are the focus. I want to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering in your life.
Though there are many experiences in my life that led me to mental health counseling, the lessons I learned when I overcame breast cancer at 30, put life in a different perspective.
Looking for therapeutic counseling is the first step on your journey to a happier and healthier version of you. Part of that process is finding the right therapist. My goal is to hold a safe space, that is non-judgmental and a comfortable environment where you can be yourself. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, where you are the expert of your own life, and your goals are the focus. I want to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering in your life.
(828) 415-5257 View (828) 415-5257
Photo of Samantha Easters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Samantha Easters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am trained in EMDR, family therapy, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and the Wonders and Worries model for working with children when they have a loved one with cancer or a long term illness.
Life can be overwhelming, and I want to help you navigate these challenges by walking alongside you on that journey. I specialize in working with individuals and families around a multitude of challenges. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a difficult event or experience, struggling with overwhelming feelings, or looking to improve your day to day life or relationships, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
I am trained in EMDR, family therapy, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and the Wonders and Worries model for working with children when they have a loved one with cancer or a long term illness.
Life can be overwhelming, and I want to help you navigate these challenges by walking alongside you on that journey. I specialize in working with individuals and families around a multitude of challenges. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a difficult event or experience, struggling with overwhelming feelings, or looking to improve your day to day life or relationships, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
(980) 998-0669 View (980) 998-0669
Photo of Christina Celeste Rush, Psychologist, PhD
Christina Celeste Rush
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
So when obstacles present, such as infertility, not having a partner, pregnancy loss, early births, or cancer, it can cause incredible pain and suffering.
My objective as a therapist is to help process infertility and loss. We will search for effective coping strategies for one's grief in a pro-pregnant world. Also, I do third-party consultations such as recipient-parent meetings, sperm donor assessments, egg donor assessments, gestational carrier evaluations, and joint meetings.
So when obstacles present, such as infertility, not having a partner, pregnancy loss, early births, or cancer, it can cause incredible pain and suffering.
My objective as a therapist is to help process infertility and loss. We will search for effective coping strategies for one's grief in a pro-pregnant world. Also, I do third-party consultations such as recipient-parent meetings, sperm donor assessments, egg donor assessments, gestational carrier evaluations, and joint meetings.
(919) 726-3198 View (919) 726-3198

See more therapy options for Wilkes County

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.