Our Oncology Counselling team offers support to patients of the Kent Oncology Centre and their relatives. Counselling offers the opportunity to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences in a supportive confidential environment. In addition, our service aims to:

• Identify and alleviate psychological and physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, low mood and depression.
• Facilitate open and honest communication where appropriate.
• Identify and explore social, psychological and spiritual difficulties.
• Facilitate self-help through empowerment.
• Provide support through their own, or their loved one’s cancer journey.
• Identify current coping strategies and suggest additional healthy coping strategies that may be helpful.

A diagnosis of cancer can impact on the whole family. The Oncology Counselling team can accept referrals for patients with an Oncological diagnosis and their family members. Patients must be registered with a named consultant at MTW NHS Trust and also be receiving part or all of their treatment at MTW NHS Trust.  Unfortunately, referrals for relatives of patients who live outside of Kent or for people under the age of 18 cannot be accepted. However, patients can be helped to think through how to talk to their children about cancer and its effects.

If you meet the criteria as described above, you can refer yourself by calling the number below or ask to be referred by a medical professional. Once your referral has been received, you will be placed on the waiting list and will be contacted within two to four weeks. Please see the below alternative support and resources which may be helpful. If you do not meet the criteria please contact your GP who will be able to refer you to an appropriate counselling service.

The Oncology Counselling team offers a predominantly outpatient-based service. However, the service also provides ward-based therapeutic interventions for in-patients.