Patients with Cancer: Understanding the Psychological Pain

This book compassionately and realistically addresses the concerns, often unspoken, that individuals with cancer face. Dr. Houldin has identified and explored eight very common themes that cause distress among cancer patients. She has expertly combined the experiential with the theoretical by using patient's quotes and intertwining them with the research behind the issue. Arlene then moves on to give very practical intervention techniques that can be easily incorporated into clinical settings. These themes are distress, denial, hope, uncertainty, control, suffering, meaning of illness and forgiveness. Assessment and management strategies address depression, anxiety and general counseling interventions. Interventions are adapted to specific life stages, so that a counselor or health professional can utilize the interventions appropriately.It is clear that Dr. Houldin has devoted years to the science and art of counseling individuals and families that are affected by cancer. She speaks clearly and simply about the issues, while at the same time conveying a respect for the complexities that people live with. Each issue is then addressed in the light of the clinical implications, making it a very practical exploration of patient concerns. Readers will come away with the understanding of how to implement psychological interventions to assist patients and be able to understand not just the physical illness but also the psychological and emotional pain caused by the disease.