WCFC Launches Cancer Informed Therapy Program

WEST SPRINGFIELD — West Central Family and Counseling (WCFC) announced the launch of a new interdisciplinary Cancer Informed Therapy Program.

WCFC has developed a mental-health treatment program specifically for cancer patients, families, caregivers, and their loved ones. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2006, the Institute of Medicine issued a report recommending that every cancer patient receive a cancer-survivorship care plan. WCFC will work with healthcare providers to meet the mental-health needs of their care plans.

“The goal of the program is to provide patients and their families cancer informed therapy. We can accomplish this in the clinic and as a home-based support when it seems needed,” said Jo-Anne Gaughan-Cabral, who serves as a clinic supervisor and clinical lead of the Cancer Informed Therapy Program. “Clients and family members who are impacted by a cancer diagnosis will benefit from this program.”

As with any serious illness, a cancer diagnosis can be a challenging experience for patients, caregivers, and their loved ones. Many clients have reported feelings of anxiety and depression along with grief, stress, episodes of confusion, and acute or reoccurring trauma.

An open house will be held on Thursday, May 18 from 8 to 9 a.m. at WCFC for cancer treatment professionals interested in learning more about the new program. Meetings with clinical staff, refreshments, and tours will be provided to attendees.