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A direct family member of ours just lost her long-time (35 years) best friend and buddy to cancer that ths woman had fought for over 12 years. Initially it was breast cancer, and she had double mastectomies, and all was good, or so we thought. Then, it came back in her liver and elsewhere, but somehow she managed to survive that for over 8 years!
Meantime she went on and got not one but two PhDs in medical biosciences, working on some cellular mechanisms of cancer, working, as it were, towards her own cure. Her first husband divorced her shortly after the first mastectomy surgery; her new husband married her in spite of knowing full well her longer-term prognosis. He is quite a guy, unlike the first hubby.
The effect of all this on our family member has been devastating. She does not want to go to a formal counseller, but has some basic questions on grieving, how she can possibly cope when she's really depressed about it, and so on.
Is there any sort of initial on-line psychological counselling, not necessarily anonymous, but with a certified professional on the other end? I'd like to be able ot offer her some positive advice.
I don't know of any (I am a clinical psychologist) but there might be some in your state. The best thing to do is call or email your state's psychological association (every state has one) to ask about this.
Most big hospitals run grief groups, for anyone who has lost someone to whatver cause. And it's usually free and informal. She might feel more comfortable w/others in her situation. The American Cancer Society may also have some suggestions. Good luck!
The effect of all this on our family member has been devastating. She does not want to go to a formal counseller, but has some basic questions on grieving, how she can possibly cope when she's really depressed about it, and so on.
Is there any sort of initial on-line psychological counselling, not necessarily anonymous, but with a certified professional on the other end? I'd like to be able ot offer her some positive advice.
Thanks!
Tell her to come here and make a post; she will have tons of support.
Lots of us have been asking for a cancer specific forum; one day I hope they do it.
On-line counseling -- I can't say enough about Cloud-Townsend. They are Christian based, however, Henry Cloud has to be the best psychology topic speakers I've -ever- heard. I'm not sure they offer on-line counsel per se, but they have (free) video clips (so you can get a real idea about them), and other resources (for sale) at their site. I've just never heard someone get to the 'bottom' of things is such a gracious, clear, sometimes humerous, and always helpful way as Henry Cloud. Cloud-Townsend, Leadership, Dating, Marriage, Parenting, Relationships ...
And www.newlife.com does offer on-line counsel (and/or I believe you can call 800-newlife anytime and talk with someone). They have a radio show (much like Dr Laura) New Life Live that I was 'addicted' to for a couple of years. And though it is Christian based, it is -very- reality based as well.
My sincerest thoughts and prayers to you and your family member.
There are legal issues surrounding crossing state lines in offering online counseling. Dr. Laura was NOT a psychologist, she has a Pd.D. in something like agriculture. Anyone who is offering online counseling outside their home state is not a psychologist or any other kind of licensed mental health professional. I am glad you found help with Mr. Cloud, and many ministers have training in counseling.
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