If your emotional needs are more complex or you are overwhelmed by everyday stresses, experiencing thoughts of death or anticipatory nausea and vomiting, for example, you may benefit from seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist. This is something that we, as a cancer center, promote and facilitate for patients.
At the Taussig Cancer Institute, we have professionals on staff who are trained to help you deal with a range of emotional and psychological issues. The psychiatry/psychology services offered at the Cancer Institute provide an additional dimension of support to you and your family.
Psychology
Our psychological services program centers on comprehensive evaluation and psychotherapy for patients and caregivers. The evaluation is useful in identifying an individual’s personality, coping style and overall goals for personal growth as well as beginning the process of reducing any emotional distress. They can teach you effective coping skills and non-medicinal methods for symptom control -- to improve sleep and relaxation, for example -- techniques that have helped many, many people who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
You may benefit from seeing a psychologist at our cancer center; if you are experiencing:
- significant fear or anxiety
- depression that impacts your ability to function day to day
- overwhelming stress or a need for additional support
- changes in body image
- difficulty coping with a diagnosis of cancer or the recommended treatment
- troubled relationships at work or home
- anticipatory nausea and vomiting
- difficulty with memory or concentration
For an appointment, please talk to your physician, nurse or social worker, or call 216/738-5522.
Psychiatry
For patients who might benefit from medications or who have a history of mental illness, a psychiatrist is available to evaluate the potential benefit of psychotropic medication and/or to provide a second opinion, in consultation with the medical team. The most common mental health drugs prescribed for cancer patients are anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. For an appointment, please ask your doctor or social worker for a referral.
Psychiatry/psychology services typically are covered by most major insurance plans. Verify your insurance benefits by calling the telephone number for mental health services listed on your insurance card.
