Cancer Counseling

Therapist – Overland Park, Kansas

One of the first questions asked after a cancer diagnosis is “why me?” I know that I asked that question after my first diagnosis. I had just turned 25, was a vegan, nondrinker, nonsmoker, and I worked out frequently. I believed that the test results were wrong. It felt like a rug had been pulled out from under me. My body felt like a land mine. I became suspicious of every single ache, bump, and pain. Do I have a headache or is it a brain tumor? As a therapist specializing in working with cancer patients, I am directly aware of cancer’s toll and its effects. I know the psychological effects a cancer diagnosis has. I also know how beneficial therapy is for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. I am passionate about working with anyone that has been impacted by a cancer diagnosis. I want to help you feel empowered and gain a fresh perspective. I can work with you to help you move past the worries related to having cancer, surviving it or providing care.

everything changes with a

Cancer Diagnosis

When someone is told they have cancer, it can change the lives of everyone around them. It often happens without warning and changes everything for the person who has it and their loved ones.

everything changes with a

Cancer Diagnosis

When someone is told they have cancer, it can change the lives of everyone around them. It often happens without warning and changes everything for the
person who has it and their loved ones.

my treatment approach for

Cancer Therapy

I take a multifaceted and eclectic approach. I will put together a unique treatment plan that fits your situation. I typically take a mindfulness approach and utilize CBT, DBT, and ACT. I want to assist you in identifying your core beliefs and fears while implementing realistic goals and interventions. I am also trained in EMDR. While working with cancer patients, caregivers, and survivors, I like to focus on mindfulness practices that help you stay in the present moment. This will help decrease anxiety and increase your ability to self soothe. Grief, loss, mortality and individuality are all topics that frequently come up in my work with cancer patients and survivors.

A cancer diagnosis doesn’t define you. I was diagnosed with cancer twice. I know for a fact that there is hope for you at any point along this path. Having cancer is difficult, but it does not define you. As a cancer survivor, I know how important counseling is for healing, growth, and empowerment.

support for

Caregivers

Caregivers & family members often feel guilt. The guilt can creep up unexpectedly; for example, if they are having a good time or if they are doing something for themselves. They question how can they be enjoying themselves when their loved one has cancer? They may feel like they are abandoning their loved one. Caregivers also might feel more anxious and stressed as they are taking on more responsibilities in providing care. These emotions are common. Counseling can help you get through these hard times and find some relief. In therapy, you can openly share your thoughts, emotions, and anxieties.

what happens

After Treatment

When cancer treatment is completed, many cancer patients feel like their safety net is gone. This can be very stressful. Cancer survivors also worry that the cancer could come back. They may experience panic attacks anytime they go to the doctor to get blood work or scans done. Cancer survivors also worry about the long-term side effects of their cancer treatments. They might be grieving the loss of their “former” healthy self. There could be financial stress if they had to miss work during treatment and there are always expenses acquired during treatment (medical costs are the number one cause of bankruptcy in the USA). Some cancer survivors are unable to have children due to their cancer treatments. It can be difficult for cancer survivors to express these feelings as everyone around them expects them to be happy for “beating cancer.” Cancer survivors may feel the need to be strong and cheerful for others. Often, they will repress emotions which can cause anxiety or depression. Counseling for cancer allows for a safe place to process fears and emotions. Through counseling, I want you to see things in a different way and feel more in charge of your life.

contact me to get started