Cancer is complicated. It is an overwhelming and life-altering experience that impacts patients, caregivers, family, and friends. Navigating the diagnostic tests, staging procedures, surgery, pathology reports, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy is absolutely consuming. Outside of active treatment, the challenges begin to transform into anxiety regarding fear of recurrence or relapse, how to cope with the medical trauma that just ensued, dealing with cancer treatment-related side effects, and uncertainty about the future. Many people struggle to make sense of their identity after receiving a cancer diagnosis. Most people who are navigating the impact of cancer are also dealing with family conflict, work stress, long-standing depression and anxiety, and relationship challenges. Addressing the emotional needs of cancer patients and their loved ones is critical. 

 

Throughout my career as a therapist, I have worked extensively with the oncology population. This area of specialty is referred to as psycho-oncology. I am equipped to work with adults navigating a new cancer diagnosis, active treatment, post-treatment, survivorship, metastatic disease, and end-of-life concerns. My focus includes cancer patients, loved ones, and caregivers.