Psychosocial Oncology: What to Expect When Caring for an Oncology Patient

Course Overview

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will be offering an inaugural, virtual conference accredited by Harvard Medical School. This course will focus on the psychosocial care of cancer patients. With 1 out of 3 people diagnosed with cancer at some point in their life, there is an increasing need for cancer-related training among health care professionals. In this conference, psychosocial oncology experts will discuss and review the impact of cancer on the mental health of patients, caregivers, and families throughout the trajectory of cancer care starting at diagnosis, through treatment, survivorship, and bereavement. Health care providers will learn about the diagnosis and management of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and demoralization, as well as opportunities for interventions to improve quality of life and coping. All clinicians interested in learning more about the care of individuals living with cancer are encouraged to attend, including psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, oncologists, nurses, and primary care providers. This conference will address common psychosocial responses, diagnoses, concerns and interventions throughout the cancer trajectory, and survivorship. 

Who Should Attend

• Psychiatrists 
• Psychologists 
• Social Workers 
• Mental Health Counselors and Therapists
• Oncology Providers 
• Nurses 
• Primary Care Providers 
• Physician Assistants 
• Specialty Physicians
• Other 

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Identify psychosocial stressors faced by patients living with cancer.
• Develop skills in managing the psychosocial needs of these patients.