CANCER SUPPORT

Individual Support

A diagnosis of cancer is a particularly stressful event. For some patients, distress may persist over time and impact everyday functioning. Sources of distress can depend on the type of cancer, however, concerns for individuals diagnosed with cancer include:

-          Anxiety including fear of cancer recurrence and anxiety in response to specific treatments

-          Physical symptoms including pain and breathlessness

-          Worry about children/family members

-          Depression

-          Treatment-related side effects  

Alys’ therapeutic approach is informed by interventions that have been found to be effective for people with cancer in reducing distress and improving quality of life.  These interventions include cognitive behaviour therapy, mindfulness-based therapies and supportive counselling.

Family Support

A diagnosis of cancer is distressing for family members.  Support for partners of people with cancer can help to reduce distress for both partners and patients alike.  It can be difficult for family members to access appropriate support.  For parents, knowing how to speak with children about cancer can be challenging.  Furthermore, children can have a hard time adjusting to their parent’s cancer diagnosis.

Alys works in a family-inclusive way to support family members’ adjustment following a cancer diagnosis.  Family members may prefer to be seen individually.  For some families there may be benefit in multiple family members attending sessions.  Decisions around who attends sessions can be made at the time of referral or as therapy progresses.