- In my 35 years of doing psychotherapeutic treatment I have treated many oncology patients. I knew what it was to be a doctor. In September 2011 it was discovered that I had a very aggressive cancer that required immediate attention. I now know what it is like to be a patient.
I had surgery with Dr. Kawachi at the City of Hope and am now a cancer survivor and am acutely aware of the process that cancer patients and their families endure from the initial diagnosis through surgery and subsequent treatment. I have a personal understanding of the emotional and physical toll that the process has on it's victims, and the hurdles that a person can be left with even as a survivor.
I would welcome the opportunity to have a conversation with you and discuss the possibility of therapy and strategies to handle the range of emotions that accompany cancer and it's course.
Dr. Lester Summerfield.
I can offer you support with the following:
- - Rediscovering your optimism, courage and strength.
- - Setting goals for life plans.
- - Coping strategies.
- - Depression and anxiety.
- - Setting a plan, physical and psychological.
- - Relaxation training.
- - Working with doctors and specialists.
- - Hospital consultations.
- Family member support, giving and receiving.
- - Communicating with physicians.
- - Coping with physical changes.
- - Dealing with long term changes.
- This support can be in the form of:
- - Private sessions.
- - Private groups.
- - Support / focus groups.
- - Family sessions.
- - Communication with your medical team.