Cancer Therapists in Dallas, TX

Photo of Lizzie Cleary, PhD, Psychologist
Lizzie Cleary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychologist, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with my years of experience supporting others through grief, adjustment to cancer, and managing worry.
The experiences of grief, a cancer diagnosis, or supporting a loved one with cancer are challenging and often lonely. These major life events understandably alter one’s mood, energy, and outlook on life. Having a skilled guide makes things easier. With a doctorate degree in Clinical and Health Psychology from UCLA, I worked for over ten years at UCLA’s Cancer Center as the Director of Clinical Training and Senior Psychologist. While I have expertise in the impact of cancer, I support people (anyone based in CA or TX) with all forms of grief and loss, as well as general worry and anxiety, including health anxiety and death anxiety.
As a psychologist, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with my years of experience supporting others through grief, adjustment to cancer, and managing worry.
The experiences of grief, a cancer diagnosis, or supporting a loved one with cancer are challenging and often lonely. These major life events understandably alter one’s mood, energy, and outlook on life. Having a skilled guide makes things easier. With a doctorate degree in Clinical and Health Psychology from UCLA, I worked for over ten years at UCLA’s Cancer Center as the Director of Clinical Training and Senior Psychologist. While I have expertise in the impact of cancer, I support people (anyone based in CA or TX) with all forms of grief and loss, as well as general worry and anxiety, including health anxiety and death anxiety.
(424) 393-0300 View (424) 393-0300
Photo of Amy Lowery Allison, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Amy Lowery Allison
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I've held faculty positions at some of the top hospitals, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College.
You are more than a body. So when your body is struggling, it makes sense that you would also struggle mentally, emotionally, socially or even spiritually. I can help you through this. I am a medical psychologist with leading expertise in providing psychotherapy to individuals dealing with health concerns ( cancer, high stress/tension, coping with illness, disease or disability, fear of progression/recurrence, reducing physical symptoms, body image/changes, impact on relationships, communicating with loved ones, coping with depression, anxiety, or isolation, spiritual distress, enriching meaning, or even support facing end of life).
I've held faculty positions at some of the top hospitals, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College.
You are more than a body. So when your body is struggling, it makes sense that you would also struggle mentally, emotionally, socially or even spiritually. I can help you through this. I am a medical psychologist with leading expertise in providing psychotherapy to individuals dealing with health concerns ( cancer, high stress/tension, coping with illness, disease or disability, fear of progression/recurrence, reducing physical symptoms, body image/changes, impact on relationships, communicating with loved ones, coping with depression, anxiety, or isolation, spiritual distress, enriching meaning, or even support facing end of life).
(646) 916-5548 View (646) 916-5548
Photo of Hannah Cassedy, PhD, Psychologist
Hannah Cassedy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Waitlist for new clients
I also have a specialty in psycho-oncology: that is, therapy for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers.
Do you consider yourself an insecure overachiever? Maybe you're a bright thinker and hard worker, but you never quite feel good enough. You might excel professionally or academically, but new challenges seem to take more work than they should. Maybe this is a longstanding issue, or maybe it only became a problem when you faced a big change in your life like the loss of a relationship, the birth of a child, or the threat of a serious medical illness. If you feel deflated or overwhelmed by the end of the day, I can help with that.
I also have a specialty in psycho-oncology: that is, therapy for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers.
Do you consider yourself an insecure overachiever? Maybe you're a bright thinker and hard worker, but you never quite feel good enough. You might excel professionally or academically, but new challenges seem to take more work than they should. Maybe this is a longstanding issue, or maybe it only became a problem when you faced a big change in your life like the loss of a relationship, the birth of a child, or the threat of a serious medical illness. If you feel deflated or overwhelmed by the end of the day, I can help with that.
(469) 746-4980 View (469) 746-4980
Photo of Anna Johnson Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Anna Johnson Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Waitlist for new clients
I work with older adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties, including those who are struggling with anxiety, mood, stress, grief and life transitions. I am also uniquely trained as a health psychologist and have worked with individuals coping with a host of medical issues including women's issues, cancer, HIV, irritable bowel disease, diabetes, chronic pain and burn injury. Additionally, I often work with caregivers and patient's families. When appropriate and with permission, I will collaborate with one's treatment team (physicians, psychiatrists and specialists) to provide comprehensive care.
I work with older adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties, including those who are struggling with anxiety, mood, stress, grief and life transitions. I am also uniquely trained as a health psychologist and have worked with individuals coping with a host of medical issues including women's issues, cancer, HIV, irritable bowel disease, diabetes, chronic pain and burn injury. Additionally, I often work with caregivers and patient's families. When appropriate and with permission, I will collaborate with one's treatment team (physicians, psychiatrists and specialists) to provide comprehensive care.
(214) 760-6824 View (214) 760-6824
Photo of Dr. Tracy A Protti, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Tracy A Protti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. Managing mood disorders (anxiety, depression), eating disorders, chronic pain (musculoskeletal, headache disorders, fibromyalgia), cancer, and chronic illness are just a few areas of life that bring about distress, discomfort, and overall malaise. Please access my website to schedule a free consultation.
Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. Managing mood disorders (anxiety, depression), eating disorders, chronic pain (musculoskeletal, headache disorders, fibromyalgia), cancer, and chronic illness are just a few areas of life that bring about distress, discomfort, and overall malaise. Please access my website to schedule a free consultation.
(469) 972-7139 View (469) 972-7139
Photo of Shannon R. Poppito, PhD, Psychologist
Shannon R. Poppito
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Please feel free to reach out if you are struggling with a medical ( cancer or chronic illness) or Life-transitional (personal, relational or occupational) stressor that you need help navigating.
Are you someone who strives to find a WHY - a reason, meaning & purpose - in the struggles and challenges you're facing? Often, depression and anxiety are symptoms of a greater bio-psycho-spiritual issue calling to be attended to and explored. By facing & exploring life-transitional (relational, occupational, medical) stressors that trigger anxiety or sadness, we then delve into patterns of 'stuckness' that help liberate you closer to your true authentic self. I help clients meet therapeutic goals through pragmatic solution-focused problem-solving and support. My goal is to help you to find meaning & purpose in a life worth living.
Please feel free to reach out if you are struggling with a medical ( cancer or chronic illness) or Life-transitional (personal, relational or occupational) stressor that you need help navigating.
Are you someone who strives to find a WHY - a reason, meaning & purpose - in the struggles and challenges you're facing? Often, depression and anxiety are symptoms of a greater bio-psycho-spiritual issue calling to be attended to and explored. By facing & exploring life-transitional (relational, occupational, medical) stressors that trigger anxiety or sadness, we then delve into patterns of 'stuckness' that help liberate you closer to your true authentic self. I help clients meet therapeutic goals through pragmatic solution-focused problem-solving and support. My goal is to help you to find meaning & purpose in a life worth living.
(469) 707-8529 View (469) 707-8529
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Cisneros Liland, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Cassidy Cisneros Liland
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75220
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating the concerns of women across the lifespan including perinatal/postpartum mood and anxiety, infant loss, reproductive issues (infertility, high risk pregnancies), health concerns (PCOS, chronic pain, cancer survivorship and previvorship), grief, trauma, and parenting.
I place great emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I work to foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel understood and fully supported. I enjoy working collaboratively with patients and coordinating treatment efforts with complimentary mental health and medical professionals to help patients achieve therapeutic goals and an enhanced quality of life.
I specialize in treating the concerns of women across the lifespan including perinatal/postpartum mood and anxiety, infant loss, reproductive issues (infertility, high risk pregnancies), health concerns (PCOS, chronic pain, cancer survivorship and previvorship), grief, trauma, and parenting.
I place great emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I work to foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel understood and fully supported. I enjoy working collaboratively with patients and coordinating treatment efforts with complimentary mental health and medical professionals to help patients achieve therapeutic goals and an enhanced quality of life.
(469) 523-0270 x2 View (469) 523-0270 x2
Photo of Blake R. Nunneley - Turtle Creek Counseling Associates, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turtle Creek Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Waitlist for new clients
Being a cancer survivor, I have an affinity for working with people and families impacted by this disease, as well as other chronic, debilitating, and life changing diseases.
After years in corporate America, I changed careers mid-life to help others overcome obstacles and create healthy, happy and rewarding lives of meaning. I believe that all people have the capacity and the right to be mentally healthy, and fulfilled in their lives.
Being a cancer survivor, I have an affinity for working with people and families impacted by this disease, as well as other chronic, debilitating, and life changing diseases.
After years in corporate America, I changed careers mid-life to help others overcome obstacles and create healthy, happy and rewarding lives of meaning. I believe that all people have the capacity and the right to be mentally healthy, and fulfilled in their lives.
(214) 390-9428 View (214) 390-9428
Photo of Heather Carlile, MA, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Carlile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Relationships. Couples. Communication. Grief. Dropouts. Sessions are 1.5 hours or more. Anxiety. Depression. Turning Points. Grief. Ordeals. College Students. Failure to Launch. Cancer. See heathercarlile.com for my blogs, books and programs. 100 videos on my You Tube channel: youtube.com/heathercarlile To get me up to speed, we start with your ENNEAGRAM personality: enneagraminstitute.com. Share your concerns, problems, family history, Genogram (family tree). Each session you should feel better. Resources: The Hero's Journey, The Family Virtues Guide, the Search Institute, the Gurian Institute, PREP and more for marriages.
Relationships. Couples. Communication. Grief. Dropouts. Sessions are 1.5 hours or more. Anxiety. Depression. Turning Points. Grief. Ordeals. College Students. Failure to Launch. Cancer. See heathercarlile.com for my blogs, books and programs. 100 videos on my You Tube channel: youtube.com/heathercarlile To get me up to speed, we start with your ENNEAGRAM personality: enneagraminstitute.com. Share your concerns, problems, family history, Genogram (family tree). Each session you should feel better. Resources: The Hero's Journey, The Family Virtues Guide, the Search Institute, the Gurian Institute, PREP and more for marriages.
(972) 996-7114 View (972) 996-7114
Photo of Dr. Ben Lippe, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Ben Lippe
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have advanced training and experience working with clients that are dealing with health problems, including chronic illness, chronic pain, and adjusting to a new medical diagnosis such as cancer. You may be struggling with anxiety about your health, experiencing sadness and frustration regarding how your medical issues are impacting your quality of life, and are seeking ways to help manage the stress of health problems. Some clients need pre-surgical assessments (e.g., Transplant, bariatric procedures, plastic surgery) as part of their medical workup.
I have advanced training and experience working with clients that are dealing with health problems, including chronic illness, chronic pain, and adjusting to a new medical diagnosis such as cancer. You may be struggling with anxiety about your health, experiencing sadness and frustration regarding how your medical issues are impacting your quality of life, and are seeking ways to help manage the stress of health problems. Some clients need pre-surgical assessments (e.g., Transplant, bariatric procedures, plastic surgery) as part of their medical workup.
(817) 954-8244 View (817) 954-8244
Photo of Charley (Rachel) Howard, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charley (Rachel) Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I love working with adults dealing with life's stressors, transitions, existential angst, as well as neurodiverse folx, those affected by chronic illness and cancer, as well as those needing psychedelic integration.
Our minds can be real asshats sometimes, and this often makes us sad, frustrated, even down right depressive. Using a mindful, relational, somatic and holistic perspective with psychoeducation, humor and sometimes silliness, I will work collaboratively with you to help you discover the strengths that will allow you to overcome self-sabotaging behavior or any other inner obstacle, and to regain a sense of wholeness and meaning, while trying to survive the regular shit we deal with on a daily basis. Only offering telehealth services for the state of Texas and I don't accept insurance.
I love working with adults dealing with life's stressors, transitions, existential angst, as well as neurodiverse folx, those affected by chronic illness and cancer, as well as those needing psychedelic integration.
Our minds can be real asshats sometimes, and this often makes us sad, frustrated, even down right depressive. Using a mindful, relational, somatic and holistic perspective with psychoeducation, humor and sometimes silliness, I will work collaboratively with you to help you discover the strengths that will allow you to overcome self-sabotaging behavior or any other inner obstacle, and to regain a sense of wholeness and meaning, while trying to survive the regular shit we deal with on a daily basis. Only offering telehealth services for the state of Texas and I don't accept insurance.
(512) 299-6282 View (512) 299-6282
Photo of Kathy Sexton Scalise, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Sexton Scalise
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Help Cancer patients and families cope with the diagnosis, treatment, and pain.
After twenty six years in practice I still look forward to helping people piece together their lives. I strive to help them heal from their past while empowering them to be active participants in their present and future health and happiness. Individuals, couples and families can grow through adversities and heal. I incorporate very practical techniques for change which include but are not limited to: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral), Solution Focused, and Mind-Body. I integrate into the counseling relationship compassion, education, and coaching to help bring about growth and change. Specialize in Cancer/Medical Disorders and LBGTQ.
Help Cancer patients and families cope with the diagnosis, treatment, and pain.
After twenty six years in practice I still look forward to helping people piece together their lives. I strive to help them heal from their past while empowering them to be active participants in their present and future health and happiness. Individuals, couples and families can grow through adversities and heal. I incorporate very practical techniques for change which include but are not limited to: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral), Solution Focused, and Mind-Body. I integrate into the counseling relationship compassion, education, and coaching to help bring about growth and change. Specialize in Cancer/Medical Disorders and LBGTQ.
(214) 206-4256 View (214) 206-4256
Photo of Erica Joy, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Joy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adolescents, teens, and adults facing a variety of life's challenges. My lived experience as part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as a cancer survivor spurred a passion for working with others who are also walking those paths. I also specialize in working with those who are exploring their identity in any capacity, or who are feeling stuck in their current situation. Additional areas of focus include depression and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body dysmorphia/body image, and executive dysfunction/ADHD.
I work with adolescents, teens, and adults facing a variety of life's challenges. My lived experience as part of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as a cancer survivor spurred a passion for working with others who are also walking those paths. I also specialize in working with those who are exploring their identity in any capacity, or who are feeling stuck in their current situation. Additional areas of focus include depression and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, body dysmorphia/body image, and executive dysfunction/ADHD.
(512) 746-8673 View (512) 746-8673
Photo of Morgan Moore, MEd, CSC
Morgan Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
At times, we need perspective, support, and guidance to navigate the world in which we live. I believe there is something to learn from everyone and I would be honored to assist you or your loved one in the journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. From a young age, I have always been passionate about helping others. My passion for people and connection led me to earning a degree in counseling. My journey was greatly impacted when I was personally diagnosed with cancer. Determined to help others see the same hope and healing, I wanted to use my experience to bring someone else out of their own darkness.
At times, we need perspective, support, and guidance to navigate the world in which we live. I believe there is something to learn from everyone and I would be honored to assist you or your loved one in the journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. From a young age, I have always been passionate about helping others. My passion for people and connection led me to earning a degree in counseling. My journey was greatly impacted when I was personally diagnosed with cancer. Determined to help others see the same hope and healing, I wanted to use my experience to bring someone else out of their own darkness.
(817) 646-6886 View (817) 646-6886
Photo of Christy Stone, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christy Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With specialized expertise in anxiety, depression, burnout, chronic illness, cancer, grief, and spirituality, I am committed to supporting you on your journey.
Who do you turn to when life throws challenges your way or you're going through a big transition? Who do you open up to about your spiritual questions? Whether you're dealing with everyday stress or searching for deeper meaning, I’m here to walk with you. As a counselor and spiritual director, I keep it real and relatable, focusing on your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Let’s dig into what really matters. Your journey is uniquely yours, and I would be honored to walk alongside you.
With specialized expertise in anxiety, depression, burnout, chronic illness, cancer, grief, and spirituality, I am committed to supporting you on your journey.
Who do you turn to when life throws challenges your way or you're going through a big transition? Who do you open up to about your spiritual questions? Whether you're dealing with everyday stress or searching for deeper meaning, I’m here to walk with you. As a counselor and spiritual director, I keep it real and relatable, focusing on your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Let’s dig into what really matters. Your journey is uniquely yours, and I would be honored to walk alongside you.
(972) 433-5487 View (972) 433-5487
Photo of Michelle Di Paolo, PhD, LPC, NCC, ADHDCSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Di Paolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
New in 2024: ADHD Clinical Services Provider and available for ADHD neuropsychological evaluation for adults. - I help people improve their mental wellness and quality of life pertaining to: health stressors, romantic/family relationships, social anxiety, existential identity issues, traumatic experiences, and specialize in treating those with medical conditions like heart disease, cancer, surgeries, terminal illness, autoimmune disorders and many more. Addressing physical conditions along with mental health ones is essential in the work I do: sleep/insomnia, sexual dysfunction, weight gain/loss, and pain management.
New in 2024: ADHD Clinical Services Provider and available for ADHD neuropsychological evaluation for adults. - I help people improve their mental wellness and quality of life pertaining to: health stressors, romantic/family relationships, social anxiety, existential identity issues, traumatic experiences, and specialize in treating those with medical conditions like heart disease, cancer, surgeries, terminal illness, autoimmune disorders and many more. Addressing physical conditions along with mental health ones is essential in the work I do: sleep/insomnia, sexual dysfunction, weight gain/loss, and pain management.
(469) 844-4577 View (469) 844-4577
Photo of Nancy Davidson, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy Davidson
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a cancer survivor, I understand the trials of chronic illness and pain.
Struggling with changes in your life? Dealing with family or health problems? Are your emotions feeling out of control? You're definitely not alone. I've helped many people with a wide range of problems like yours, including life transitions, health problems, aging, depression, and anxiety - and I can help you! My clinical skills draw on my faith, professional training and life experience. I carefully and compassionately listen to my clients - and take humble delight in helping people just like you.
As a cancer survivor, I understand the trials of chronic illness and pain.
Struggling with changes in your life? Dealing with family or health problems? Are your emotions feeling out of control? You're definitely not alone. I've helped many people with a wide range of problems like yours, including life transitions, health problems, aging, depression, and anxiety - and I can help you! My clinical skills draw on my faith, professional training and life experience. I carefully and compassionately listen to my clients - and take humble delight in helping people just like you.
(214) 225-9564 View (214) 225-9564
Photo of Irma Guerrero-Ali - Irma Guerrero-Ali, MA, LMFTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irma Guerrero-Ali
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Having navigated many life transitions myself—surviving cancer, making career choices, parenting, and other personal changes—I understand how challenging these moments can be.
Life transitions often bring anxiety, feelings of loss, and fear of the unknown. You may find yourself questioning your decisions, struggling with a "new life" that feels unfamiliar, or unsure of what comes next. It can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unmotivated, but one thing is certain: you're ready for change. You're ready to gain confidence, embrace your choices, and find joy in everyday moments.
Having navigated many life transitions myself—surviving cancer, making career choices, parenting, and other personal changes—I understand how challenging these moments can be.
Life transitions often bring anxiety, feelings of loss, and fear of the unknown. You may find yourself questioning your decisions, struggling with a "new life" that feels unfamiliar, or unsure of what comes next. It can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unmotivated, but one thing is certain: you're ready for change. You're ready to gain confidence, embrace your choices, and find joy in everyday moments.
(346) 409-7111 View (346) 409-7111
Photo of Meryl Bond, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meryl Bond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can become very overwhelming very quickly, making it too easy to place ourselves on the back burner. If you need support to better manage life's challenges and feel connected to yourself again, we may be a good match! I specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, and psycho-oncology to support individuals facing cancer diagnosis and treatment. I have a special interest in women's issues, supporting LGBTQIA+ populations, and supporting those dealing with medical stressors. I offer virtual counseling sessions to adults living anywhere in Texas to improve your access to therapy. Let's collaborate together!
Life can become very overwhelming very quickly, making it too easy to place ourselves on the back burner. If you need support to better manage life's challenges and feel connected to yourself again, we may be a good match! I specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, and psycho-oncology to support individuals facing cancer diagnosis and treatment. I have a special interest in women's issues, supporting LGBTQIA+ populations, and supporting those dealing with medical stressors. I offer virtual counseling sessions to adults living anywhere in Texas to improve your access to therapy. Let's collaborate together!
(940) 268-4267 View (940) 268-4267
Photo of Christine Chinni, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Chinni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
This is an experience that is difficult to understand unless you have been through it—and having had ovarian cancer, chemotherapy, and multiple surgeries myself, I am particularly aware of the challenges associated with a life-altering medical diagnosis.
In the face of life-altering medical illness, our most fundamental assumptions about health, security, and control are challenged in an instant. Ideas about what the future holds are suddenly called into question, as you are forced into a reprioritization of everything. Life—once familiar and routine becomes unrecognizable through the lens of uncertainty. Isolation moves in as you come to realize that friends and family cannot begin to understand what you are experiencing. It feels as if the ground has been ripped out from underneath of you.
This is an experience that is difficult to understand unless you have been through it—and having had ovarian cancer, chemotherapy, and multiple surgeries myself, I am particularly aware of the challenges associated with a life-altering medical diagnosis.
In the face of life-altering medical illness, our most fundamental assumptions about health, security, and control are challenged in an instant. Ideas about what the future holds are suddenly called into question, as you are forced into a reprioritization of everything. Life—once familiar and routine becomes unrecognizable through the lens of uncertainty. Isolation moves in as you come to realize that friends and family cannot begin to understand what you are experiencing. It feels as if the ground has been ripped out from underneath of you.
(512) 675-6402 View (512) 675-6402
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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.