Coping with cancer is a roller coaster of medical and emotional issues. You can be upset and lonely one day and filled with energy the next. You might want your loved ones around you and then the next minute want to be by yourself. All of these feelings and many more and more can be part of your experience. It is important to know that there is no “normal” way to experience or respond to cancer and the treatment it requires. Cancer is a devastating illness that takes over your life and leaves you physically and mentally exhausted. It also disrupts the normal family dynamic between yourself and your spouse and children.
In 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My diagnosis and treatment left me in a place of confusion, stress and fear. I was overwhelmed at the enormity of the situation and the necessity to make decisions about treatment. The experience of multiple surgeries left me emotionally drained. These feelings are not unique to me. I believe everyone diagnosed with cancer goes through some variation of this. I was unable to find a therapist to help me with these issues who had personally gone through the experience. You don’t have to face this life changing experience by yourself. Surviving cancer left me with an intimate knowledge of the disease and its effects which I call upon to help others. I understand that cancer affects all aspects of your life. I will help support you in body, mind and spirit. I treat the whole person, not just the cancer.
I offer therapy and support designed specifically for you, because, your path through treatment and recovery will be unique to you. As it unfolds, I will be there to help you get through it and come out the other side. I provide services for survivors and their caretakers in a supportive environment where they can express their feelings and concerns. The therapy I offer is designed specifically for you, and will focus upon what you are experiencing. With skill, compassion, and intuition, I create a safe place where you may:
- Express the full range of your feelings and emotions without worrying about hurting the feelings of your family and friends.
- Develop ways to cope with your anxiety, fear, stress, confusion, and anger.
- Discuss your thoughts of “why me” or “what did I do to deserve this.”
- Vent your anger and sadness – cry or yell – whatever you need.
- Explore what you want or don’t want from your spouse or family.
- Learn to accept your own needs and let yourself be the priority as go through your treatment.
- Create meaning from your experience and make it a positive influence on your relationships and life.
- Face feelings of isolation or being different.
- Struggle with identity, self-image, femininity, intimacy and sexuality, grief and loss.
- Address difficulties communicating with your partner, spouse, family, friends, or doctors.
- Learn how to transition to life after cancer.