Oncology Social Work Services Serving cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. Oncology social workers are Master’s level, licensed clinical social workers who specialize in helping people whose lives have been affected by cancer.  Oncology social work services are made available through The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing to patients receiving care in the oncology clinics at the Lewiston, Bridgton, Rumford, and Parkview locations of the Central Maine Comprehensive Cancer Center. Services are available to patients and families throughout all phases of the cancer experience, including prevention, diagnosis, and survivorship.  When cure is not possible, oncology social workers are also involved in terminal care and bereavement.  How can an oncology social worker help? We can help you to: Access information to help you understand your diagnosis and your treatments. Cope with your diagnosis of cancer. Consider decisions about treatment options as you think about other factors in your life, including work, family, and personal goals and responsibilities. Understand social security and disability benefits. Obtain information and apply for other programs and services that can help. We offer: Counseling for you and your family members.  Counseling can address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, effects on family and relationships, among other topics. Instruction in Stress Management and Relaxation Techniques, such as guided imagery, progress muscle relaxation, and others.  These services are available in both group and individual sessions through the Dempsey Center. Support & education to parents of minor children/grandchildren re. how to support children when a parent/grandparent has cancer, connecting with community resources for children.  Our Healing Tree Children’s Program, led by an oncology social worker, offers multiple types of support and assistance. Various cancer and caregiver support groups. Information about and referral to community resources for assistance with financial concerns, transportation issues, lodging during treatment, community support groups, etc. Information about and referral to cancer-related information and service organizations. Workplace and school education and consultation We can teach you about: Effectively communicating with your treatment team members. Talking with your children, family, friends, and co-workers about your illness. Coping with your emotions, such as sadness, worry, anger, grief, and fear. Reducing stress and using relaxation skills. How cancer affects sex, intimacy, fertility, and feeling good about your body. Living with cancer; issues commonly experienced and resources to help you long term. Planning for your care with the use of advance directives. Life as a cancer survivor. For more information about oncology social work services, please contact The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at 795-8250 or toll-free 1-877-336-7287