I provide individual counseling to adults and teens diagnosed with cancer as well as counseling for caregivers of patients with cancer. I use a form of counseling called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT has been effective in helping my clients learn ways to worry less and enjoy life more, despite their cancer diagnosis.
I like to work closely with a small group of clients for a limited period of time. This does reduce the number of clients who can work with me at any given time, but I'm always happy to provide referrals to other excellent counselors and support programs within the community.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with a doctorate in Behavioral Health. I spent 15 years working for Banner Health in Arizona as an oncology counselor. I have won awards for my work with patients and their families.
To get a better idea of your needs and whether would work well together, please fill out a consultation form on the website or call me at 602-842-2970.
Cancer is a sobering diagnosis and the treatment of it can seem like a full-time job. The patient is given a treatment plan and must find their way through it, with an emphasis on managing the physical side effects. The caregiver cannot personally experience these side effects, and often find themselves coping most intensely with the psychological and emotional side effects of the diagnosis. Family counseling can help address these challenges and improve communication.
In addition, a diagnosis of cancer affects children and teens in the family. That's why the programs and services I introduced during my time with Banner Health, such as the CLIMB© Family Support Program, made such an impact. CLIMB© gives children a chance to learn about cancer and how it is treated, and learn they are not alone in having a family member diagnosed with cancer. This national program (available online) helps to improve family communication and reduces cancer-related stress within the family.
Let’s talk about strategies that might help you, your caregivers and your entire family get through this together.
The CLIMB© program is a supportive, educational program available online through the Children’s Treehouse Foundation. For more information, please go to www.Children’sTreehousefdn.org
In session, we will explore the personal strengths that have helped you through previous life challenges and consider other, less-used strengths you can use but may not be as familiar with. Both can help you through the challenge of treatment.