Psycho-Oncology

A cancer diagnosis can and often does affect more than just the body. That is why Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center has an experienced and compassionate psycho-oncology team ready to help patients and families adjust to the emotional and psychological changes that can also occur. Our licensed clinical psychologists and clinical therapists are specially trained to help patients with cancer relieve the stress, sadness, or worry associated with cancer and its treatment.

Signs of emotional stress:

• Difficulty adjusting to a new cancer diagnosis
• Emotional difficulties in coping with cancer (such as sadness or anxiety)
• Daily life stressors becoming more overwhelming since diagnosis
• Challenges managing cancer symptoms or treatment side effects
• Reduced quality of life and feeling unsure of how to improve it
• Fear of cancer recurrence or uncertainty about survivorship

Our psycho-oncology team is here to support you at any stage of cancer treatment. Services we offer include:

• Initial assessment for diagnosis and treatment of overlapping psychological and cancer-related concerns
• Brief individual psychotherapy to aid coping with cancer and develop strategies for wellness
• Behavioral interventions to address treatment adherence and side effects
• Psychological interventions for pain and symptom management
• Caregiver and family consultation, psychoeducation, and support
• Resources for long-term therapy and comprehensive care