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Oncology & Psychotherapy

A cancer diagnosis can cause stress, anxiety and depression not only in the cancer patient but also in family members. Counseling, or psychotherapy, can help patients and their families cope with the diagnosis and prognosis and improve their quality of life.

  1. Depression

    • Cancer patients often experience a feeling of lack of control over their lives, which can lead to depression. Individual counseling and medication, if necessary, can help patients deal with feelings of depression and despondency.

    Stress and Anxiety

    • Coping with cancer is often stressful for the patient. Phobias, including the fear of needles, anxiety about treatment and surgery and even claustrophobia, which is a significant issue for many during MRIs, can be addressed with psychotherapy.

    Quality of Life

    • Psychotherapy has become a standard treatment to improve the quality of life for oncology patients. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends all cancer patients be evaluated for emotional distress and be referred for counseling if necessary.

    Family Counseling

    • A cancer diagnosis affects the entire family. Counseling can help families cope with the diagnosis, illness and prognosis, and help them to better understand and communicate their fears and feelings.

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