Oncology Social Workers
Behavioral Health Services
A cancer diagnosis can affect a person in many areas of their lives. Common experiences during this time include feelings of stress, worry, sadness, changes in mood, changes in how a person's body looks, feels, and functions. It is important to recognize these changes and get help when needed.
Oncology social workers help to provide emotional support and guidance to people with cancer, their families, and caregivers. Oncology social workers are especially helpful at planned and unplanned life transitions, such as during a new cancer diagnosis, changes in treatment and prognosis, or end-of-life care. They can also help with practical aspects including referrals for transportation and community resources. At PIH Health, you and your family are not alone. We are here to help you and your family cope with cancer.
Oncology social workers provide the following services and support:
- Assistance in learning new ways of coping
- Help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety
- Individual and family psychosocial supportive counseling
- End-of-life care
- Improved communication with the medical team and loved ones
- Cancer-focused support groups
- Grief and bereavement counseling
- Abuse or neglect assessments
- Crisis intervention
- Psychosocial assessments
- Education
- Advocacy
- Referrals for transportation
- Referrals to community resources
- Information on advance directives
- Suicide assessments
- Help to file for disability insurance and social security benefits
