Cancer Therapists in Houston, TX

Photo of Rhonda Sherman, PhD, Psychologist
Rhonda Sherman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
Sherman has assisted patients and their families facing medical crisis during her years working at the world-renowned City of Hope Cancer Center in Los Angeles and in private practice at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla.
As a licensed psychologist for 26 years, Dr. Sherman is a qualified and compassionate professional who assists individuals in identifying personal goals and in creating a treatment plan determined by the needs of each individual. Dr. Sherman's approach to psychotherapy is highly interactive. She focuses on mutual exploration and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship. Dr. Sherman has training and experience in many areas of behavioral health, including treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress related to a variety of life experiences.
Sherman has assisted patients and their families facing medical crisis during her years working at the world-renowned City of Hope Cancer Center in Los Angeles and in private practice at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla.
As a licensed psychologist for 26 years, Dr. Sherman is a qualified and compassionate professional who assists individuals in identifying personal goals and in creating a treatment plan determined by the needs of each individual. Dr. Sherman's approach to psychotherapy is highly interactive. She focuses on mutual exploration and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship. Dr. Sherman has training and experience in many areas of behavioral health, including treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress related to a variety of life experiences.
(281) 557-6946 View (281) 557-6946
Photo of Dr. Heather Goltz, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Heather Goltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with personal or professional relationships? Work hard, but feel stuck? I am a therapist whose evidence-based approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, and Solution-Focused therapies with training in Emotion Focused, Gottman, and Sex Therapy. My clients come to therapy with challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief/loss, cancer, sexual dysfunction, and life/career transitions. My clinical practice empowers clients to break from old thinking and patterns; clarify goals; reduce stress and build positive coping skills; regain control of their lives; and improve relationships, school, or work satisfaction
Are you struggling with personal or professional relationships? Work hard, but feel stuck? I am a therapist whose evidence-based approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, and Solution-Focused therapies with training in Emotion Focused, Gottman, and Sex Therapy. My clients come to therapy with challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief/loss, cancer, sexual dysfunction, and life/career transitions. My clinical practice empowers clients to break from old thinking and patterns; clarify goals; reduce stress and build positive coping skills; regain control of their lives; and improve relationships, school, or work satisfaction
(832) 307-0960 View (832) 307-0960
Photo of Amy Lowery Allison, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Amy Lowery Allison
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77092  (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 clinical 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 clinical 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 Lucy H Raster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucy H Raster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
As a breast cancer survivor, I offer special insight into the needs of individuals, couples and families who are faced with a cancer diagnosis.
I am passionate about collaborating with individuals, couples and families to achieve personal growth and realize your treatment goals so you may lead a more contented life. My clinical training with Baylor College of Medicine provides me special insight in myriad of treatment options to meet your specific needs. I pride myself on providing a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere where you can rediscover hope and healing.
As a breast cancer survivor, I offer special insight into the needs of individuals, couples and families who are faced with a cancer diagnosis.
I am passionate about collaborating with individuals, couples and families to achieve personal growth and realize your treatment goals so you may lead a more contented life. My clinical training with Baylor College of Medicine provides me special insight in myriad of treatment options to meet your specific needs. I pride myself on providing a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere where you can rediscover hope and healing.
(281) 853-9692 View (281) 853-9692
Photo of Susan R Steinbruecker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan R Steinbruecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77042
Working with cancer patients convinced me of the power of hope and the courage it spawns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked for many years as a psychotherapist in private practice with Southwest Psychotherapy. I offer expertise in working with people facing life altering illness and those amid loss and grief. I also treat those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and more. It is my goal to provide a safe environment where clients can explore difficult issues. I employ an active style of practice that is both direct and supportive, always focused on improved communication, healthier self esteem and happier relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families.
Working with cancer patients convinced me of the power of hope and the courage it spawns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked for many years as a psychotherapist in private practice with Southwest Psychotherapy. I offer expertise in working with people facing life altering illness and those amid loss and grief. I also treat those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and more. It is my goal to provide a safe environment where clients can explore difficult issues. I employ an active style of practice that is both direct and supportive, always focused on improved communication, healthier self esteem and happier relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families.
(713) 338-9217 View (713) 338-9217
Photo of Mallory Striesfeld - Healing Pathways Houston, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mallory Striesfeld - Healing Pathways Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Some of these areas include play therapy, self-harm behaviors, teen & young adult issues, and those battling with chronic illness such as diabetes and cancer (caregivers too!).
Let's face it. You've tried therapy before. It wasn't for you, and truly people don't understand you anyway. What would happen if you tried it one more time? Maybe you're wondering what life would look like if you started learning coping skills and began healing. Life can be challenging, and you don't have to venture through it alone. We can navigate through this together. As your therapist, I commit to supporting you on this adventure and beyond!
Some of these areas include play therapy, self-harm behaviors, teen & young adult issues, and those battling with chronic illness such as diabetes and cancer (caregivers too!).
Let's face it. You've tried therapy before. It wasn't for you, and truly people don't understand you anyway. What would happen if you tried it one more time? Maybe you're wondering what life would look like if you started learning coping skills and began healing. Life can be challenging, and you don't have to venture through it alone. We can navigate through this together. As your therapist, I commit to supporting you on this adventure and beyond!
(832) 280-1603 View (832) 280-1603
Photo of Sylvia E Boyd - Light of Hope Counseling and Consultation, PLLC, MA, LPC-S, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Light of Hope Counseling and Consultation, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77044  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty includes assisting clients with self-esteem, grief counseling, peer relationships, depression, emotional issues, life changes, foster care children, school issues, cancer patients, school counseling, and education consulting.
"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite of all of the darkness"-Tutu. My desire is to assist teens, adults, and families overcome obstacles by helping them see that there is "light". I especially have a passion for working with teens and adolescents. I have worked with children and adolescents ages 3-19 in the education and school counseling field for over 15 years. As a school counselor, LPC, and overcoming many obstacles myself, I understand some of the needs and struggles that children and families encounter today.
My specialty includes assisting clients with self-esteem, grief counseling, peer relationships, depression, emotional issues, life changes, foster care children, school issues, cancer patients, school counseling, and education consulting.
"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite of all of the darkness"-Tutu. My desire is to assist teens, adults, and families overcome obstacles by helping them see that there is "light". I especially have a passion for working with teens and adolescents. I have worked with children and adolescents ages 3-19 in the education and school counseling field for over 15 years. As a school counselor, LPC, and overcoming many obstacles myself, I understand some of the needs and struggles that children and families encounter today.
(832) 905-9927 View (832) 905-9927
Photo of David M. Latini, PhD, MSCP, MSW, Psychologist
David M. Latini
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
I have a particular expertise in behavioral medicine, cancer, chronic illness and sexual health/sex therapy.
My approach to helping is supportive and collaborative. I want to work with you on agreed upon goals to help you improve your functioning in your daily life and in your relationships. My work is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model, with some influence by Emotionally Focused Therapy and with insights from dynamic approaches where appropriate. My own personal development work has been influenced by Jungian and Buddhist writings. Kink/poly/CNM friendly!!
I have a particular expertise in behavioral medicine, cancer, chronic illness and sexual health/sex therapy.
My approach to helping is supportive and collaborative. I want to work with you on agreed upon goals to help you improve your functioning in your daily life and in your relationships. My work is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model, with some influence by Emotionally Focused Therapy and with insights from dynamic approaches where appropriate. My own personal development work has been influenced by Jungian and Buddhist writings. Kink/poly/CNM friendly!!
(281) 607-2258 View (281) 607-2258
Photo of Ann Marie Buckley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Marie Buckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
The best therapy happens when you are ready for change and your therapist supports you in defining and reaching your goals. I am here to help you achieve the change you want. I specialize in couple/marital therapy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 21 years of experience. Additional special interests include expertise in postpartum depression and in breast cancer survivorship. My years of corporate management experience allow me to offer career-focused therapy and insights from a place of experience. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!
The best therapy happens when you are ready for change and your therapist supports you in defining and reaching your goals. I am here to help you achieve the change you want. I specialize in couple/marital therapy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 21 years of experience. Additional special interests include expertise in postpartum depression and in breast cancer survivorship. My years of corporate management experience allow me to offer career-focused therapy and insights from a place of experience. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!
(713) 568-9952 View (713) 568-9952
Photo of Paige Falcon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Falcon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77096  (Online Only)
I’ve worked with teens, adults, LGTBQIA+ and families/caregivers dealing with high risk behaviors, teenage pregnancy, Chronic illness, HIV, anticipatory grief, grief, and cancer.
Hi I’m Paige Falcon! Life can be really hard, I’m here to help! Falcon Counseling, PLLC was established to provide counseling services for those who need help coping with what life is throwing at them. I aim to help decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and help you work through trauma and stressful feelings and behaviors that are interfering with your ability to function in your daily life.
I’ve worked with teens, adults, LGTBQIA+ and families/caregivers dealing with high risk behaviors, teenage pregnancy, Chronic illness, HIV, anticipatory grief, grief, and cancer.
Hi I’m Paige Falcon! Life can be really hard, I’m here to help! Falcon Counseling, PLLC was established to provide counseling services for those who need help coping with what life is throwing at them. I aim to help decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and help you work through trauma and stressful feelings and behaviors that are interfering with your ability to function in your daily life.
(346) 292-5468 View (346) 292-5468
Photo of Lynsay E. Gaines, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynsay E. Gaines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056
I provide a confidential, non-judgemental, and safe place to help individuals dealing with grief and loss, life adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, cancer, relationship discord, divorce, and/or trauma.
Are you trying to find balance in your life? Are you having difficulty maintaining healthy relationships with others? Do you constantly worry about things and feel overwhelmed? Knowing where to go and seeking help for dealing with these life issues is not easy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process for helping individuals to identify patterns, resources and solutions for their areas of concern. I work alongside individuals to help them change their ways of thinking about various aspects of their life, enhance coping skills, their response to stressors, create healthy boundaries, and improve relationships.
I provide a confidential, non-judgemental, and safe place to help individuals dealing with grief and loss, life adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, cancer, relationship discord, divorce, and/or trauma.
Are you trying to find balance in your life? Are you having difficulty maintaining healthy relationships with others? Do you constantly worry about things and feel overwhelmed? Knowing where to go and seeking help for dealing with these life issues is not easy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process for helping individuals to identify patterns, resources and solutions for their areas of concern. I work alongside individuals to help them change their ways of thinking about various aspects of their life, enhance coping skills, their response to stressors, create healthy boundaries, and improve relationships.
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Photo of Joseph W Fincher, MEd, C-MMT
Joseph W Fincher
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, C-MMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
I am a LPC-Associate under supervision of Noel C Gonzalez, PhD, LPC-S. My focus is in working with clients who are experiencing trauma from the many challenges we each face. Areas of specialty include accidents, cancer, and HIV; however, these are not the only areas that I can help with. I also work with clients with anxiety and depression, including general anxiety disorder, PTSD, and major depressive disorder (episodic or chronic), as well as men's issues and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I am a LPC-Associate under supervision of Noel C Gonzalez, PhD, LPC-S. My focus is in working with clients who are experiencing trauma from the many challenges we each face. Areas of specialty include accidents, cancer, and HIV; however, these are not the only areas that I can help with. I also work with clients with anxiety and depression, including general anxiety disorder, PTSD, and major depressive disorder (episodic or chronic), as well as men's issues and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(832) 934-8427 View (832) 934-8427
Photo of Cesar Seveso, MA, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cesar Seveso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77025
I believe that the quality of our mind shapes the quality of our life. You can regain the freedom to choose how you feel and respond to challenges and difficulties while nurturing richer and happier relationships. My experience and training revolve around four major areas: anxiety, depression, trauma, and cancer. I know how to address your psychological distress with empathy and support, harnessing your strengths to master new coping skills. I view therapy as a collaborative effort and continually seek out feedback as to how treatment is progressing.
I believe that the quality of our mind shapes the quality of our life. You can regain the freedom to choose how you feel and respond to challenges and difficulties while nurturing richer and happier relationships. My experience and training revolve around four major areas: anxiety, depression, trauma, and cancer. I know how to address your psychological distress with empathy and support, harnessing your strengths to master new coping skills. I view therapy as a collaborative effort and continually seek out feedback as to how treatment is progressing.
(281) 940-3601 View (281) 940-3601
Photo of Courtney Vastine, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Vastine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77019  (Online Only)
Are you stressed, feeling overwhelmed, or wondering how to resolve issues? Have you tried to feel better but just feel stuck? I'm Courtney, a licensed therapist and I welcome the opportunity to help you. My passion is helping people find calm while reaching their goals. Clinical specialties: adults facing anxiety, stress, trauma PTSD, panic attacks, OCD, depression, career issues, ADHD, grief/loss, life changes, coping with chronic illness/pain or cancer, and more. Recently completed Anxiety Management coursework at Harvard University.
Are you stressed, feeling overwhelmed, or wondering how to resolve issues? Have you tried to feel better but just feel stuck? I'm Courtney, a licensed therapist and I welcome the opportunity to help you. My passion is helping people find calm while reaching their goals. Clinical specialties: adults facing anxiety, stress, trauma PTSD, panic attacks, OCD, depression, career issues, ADHD, grief/loss, life changes, coping with chronic illness/pain or cancer, and more. Recently completed Anxiety Management coursework at Harvard University.
(281) 843-3393 View (281) 843-3393
Photo of Ben Carrettin, MA, NCC, MAC, LPC-S, CISM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Carrettin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, MAC, LPC-S, CISM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I'm a Nationally Board Certified (2) and LPC-Supervisor with over 20 years of clinical experience in Complicated Grief, Trad & NonTrad Addiction Recovery, Cancer Patients, Cardiac and Pre/Post Organ Transplant Patients, PTS & Traumatic Events/Exposure (CISM), Depression, Anxiety, Work/Life Balance and Cross-Cultural conflict. Additionally, I work with Medical Professionals, First Responders and Clergy (multi) and also serve as an ESI Consultant for Business/Legal.
I'm a Nationally Board Certified (2) and LPC-Supervisor with over 20 years of clinical experience in Complicated Grief, Trad & NonTrad Addiction Recovery, Cancer Patients, Cardiac and Pre/Post Organ Transplant Patients, PTS & Traumatic Events/Exposure (CISM), Depression, Anxiety, Work/Life Balance and Cross-Cultural conflict. Additionally, I work with Medical Professionals, First Responders and Clergy (multi) and also serve as an ESI Consultant for Business/Legal.
(832) 529-6839 View (832) 529-6839
Photo of Meya Srithapin - Mesquite Psychotherapy and Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mesquite Psychotherapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77001  (Online Only)
We are fortunate to have a diverse team of therapists who can address a wide range of needs, including grief counseling, dementia, Alzheimer's, cancer support, as well as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
In therapy, our goal is to cultivate hope and happiness while fostering a positive outlook for the future, along with nurturing self-love and self-care. Life can be challenging at times, filled with family disagreements, work-related issues, and feelings of being overwhelmed or unsure about how to cope. Together, we will work on strengthening coping skills and mindfulness, helping navigate life’s challenges and relationships with greater ease. You can expect a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic environment that is full of hope. We will draw on techniques from therapy modalities modified to capture your needs.
We are fortunate to have a diverse team of therapists who can address a wide range of needs, including grief counseling, dementia, Alzheimer's, cancer support, as well as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
In therapy, our goal is to cultivate hope and happiness while fostering a positive outlook for the future, along with nurturing self-love and self-care. Life can be challenging at times, filled with family disagreements, work-related issues, and feelings of being overwhelmed or unsure about how to cope. Together, we will work on strengthening coping skills and mindfulness, helping navigate life’s challenges and relationships with greater ease. You can expect a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic environment that is full of hope. We will draw on techniques from therapy modalities modified to capture your needs.
(512) 881-8684 View (512) 881-8684
Photo of Charley (Rachel) Howard, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charley (Rachel) Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (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 Nanette Christopher White, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nanette Christopher White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
As a cancer survivor and widow, working with anxiety, grief and loss is close to my heart.
When experiencing life's challenges, we often find ourselves feeling misunderstood and rejected rather than accepted and validated. Our experiences often stand in our way to emotional well-being. My own experience in therapy was a catalyst for launching my career. For me, being a therapist is a lifestyle. I understand that being human is riddled with imperfections. I will help you realize that you are not alone, guide, and encourage you to give yourself grace as you learn to manage these struggles. I use an interpersonal and emotionally focused approach to provide person-centered counseling.
As a cancer survivor and widow, working with anxiety, grief and loss is close to my heart.
When experiencing life's challenges, we often find ourselves feeling misunderstood and rejected rather than accepted and validated. Our experiences often stand in our way to emotional well-being. My own experience in therapy was a catalyst for launching my career. For me, being a therapist is a lifestyle. I understand that being human is riddled with imperfections. I will help you realize that you are not alone, guide, and encourage you to give yourself grace as you learn to manage these struggles. I use an interpersonal and emotionally focused approach to provide person-centered counseling.
(936) 226-2960 View (936) 226-2960
Photo of Traci L Eichin, MS, LCDC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Traci L Eichin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCDC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77068  (Online Only)
Are you stuck and unable to move forward in your life? Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Maybe you just need a caring and compassionate person to listen to your story. I am a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, a breast cancer survivor, a Christian and an empath. I live in West Texas, am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with 8 years of experience, and see individuals ages 12 and up. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, anger, relationship issues or past trauma/PTSD, let’s talk.
Are you stuck and unable to move forward in your life? Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Maybe you just need a caring and compassionate person to listen to your story. I am a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, a breast cancer survivor, a Christian and an empath. I live in West Texas, am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with 8 years of experience, and see individuals ages 12 and up. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, anger, relationship issues or past trauma/PTSD, let’s talk.
(325) 241-4898 View (325) 241-4898
Photo of Christine Chinni, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Chinni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77010  (Online Only)
My own experience with cancer allows me to offer others a depth of connection and empathy that comes from walking a similar path.
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 rushed reprioritization of every aspect of your existence. Life—once familiar and routine becomes immediately unrecognizable through the lens of uncertainty. Isolation sets 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.
My own experience with cancer allows me to offer others a depth of connection and empathy that comes from walking a similar path.
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 rushed reprioritization of every aspect of your existence. Life—once familiar and routine becomes immediately unrecognizable through the lens of uncertainty. Isolation sets 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.