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.

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.