Cancer services

Cancer: Emotional and Psychological well-being

Cancer: Emotional and Psychological well-being

Each of us responds to cancer in a different way, and the experience can feel overwhelming and frightening. A cancer diagnosis may also bring back difficult past memories and experiences. We provide a range of support to help you, and those close to you, find ways of adjusting to your diagnosis, the treatment and its effects.

For some people, talking with a friend or with their named key worker or cancer nurse specialist (CNS), may help. However, sometimes you might need additional support or want to protect others from the difficult and unwanted feelings you are experiencing. At these times, it can be useful to talk to our expert cancer counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists.

Different approaches

We provide a range of psychologically informed approaches, including person-centred counselling, psychodynamic and existential psychotherapy, psychosexual therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Our acceptance and commitment therapy includes mindfulness approaches and systemic therapy. Together, we will discuss your current concerns and identify the best approach for you.

What we offer

One-to-one therapeutic support for people with cancer or their loved ones, including specialist psychiatry if needed.

Family support; supporting people with cancer alongside their partner, spouse or family members, including children.

Support groups; drop-in groups for people with cancer and their carers led by therapists and a clinical nurse. Here, you can meet others in a similar situation, talk through your experiences and share practical tips.

Therapy groups; groups run by therapists focusing on a specific topic. These currently include: ‘men with cancer group’, ‘survivorship in action for people worried that cancer will return’ and ‘bereavement therapy’.