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Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care
Group Counselling and Therapy
Talking with others in a similar situation can be supportive, educational and can decrease feelings of isolation. Some groups are designed for patients with specific types of cancer, while others are mixed groups. Our group counselling and therapy includes:
- Art Therapy
- Bone Marrow Transplant Group
- Pencer Centre Support groups for Brain Tumor Patients and Families
Art Therapy
The Gerry and Nancy Pencer Brain Tumor Centre offers group art therapy throughout the year. The focus of the group is using art expression as a way of communicating and coping with having a brain tumor. Membership is open to individuals of all ages and previous art experience or skill in not necessary. The emphasis is on stress reduction, enhanced communication and sharing experiences.
Contact (416) 946-2240 for more information.
Bone Marrow Transplant Group - Autologous Blood and Marrow Transplant Orientation Session
The purpose of the Orientation session for Autologus Blood and Marrow Transplant patients is to provide information and education about the upcoming stem cell collection and transplant procedure. This is an opportunity for patients and families to get information to help them cope with their current treatment, and plan for the inpatient phase of transplant.
The agenda for the session includes presentations from team members, including: a transplant nurse coordinator, dietician, social worker, and former patient (graduate). Written information is also available about community and hospital resources. Participants get a chance to have their questions answered throughout the session.
The presentation is followed by a short tour of the stem cell collection unit. Evaluations are completed and collected at the end of the session.
Contact (416) 946-2904 for more information.
Pencer Centre Support groups for Brain Tumor Patients and Families
Living with a brain tumor diagnosis may evoke a variety of emotional responses from patients and their loved-ones. Learning to cope effectively with feelings related to illness may improve patient and family quality of life. The support group provides participants with the opportunity to share their experiences, address any personal concerns or issues they might have, and gain emotional support in a safe and relaxed atmosphere.
Groups are open to new participants and occur every second Tuesday of each month from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in the Gerry and Nancy Pencer Brain Tumor Centre; 18th Floor of PMH.
Why would I want to attend?
- To meet other people who have dealt with similar problems
- To share in the dynamic support that a group can offer
- To obtain factual information from your qualified health care team
Who will be present at these groups?
- Patients, family members and friends may attend. There will be two separate groups (one for the patients and one for family members, friends and caregivers). The two groups run simultaneously.
- Co-leadership is provided by a nurse, a social worker, occupational therapist or another health care professional with experience on the brain tumor team.
- Guest speakers may present on various topics, as requested by group members
Contact (416) 946-4528 for more information.
