Psychosocial Oncology Services
Of all life's events, a cancer diagnosis may be one of the most challenging. For many new patients, this is a journey into unfamiliar territory. Countless questions occur, unsolicited emotions arise, and many practical matters require attention.
Your health care team at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center includes a licensed clinical social worker who can offer you support and guidance as you cope with the stresses of a cancer diagnosis. Services may include individual and family counseling, education, linkage to community resources, patient advocacy and assistance with employment or insurance concerns, professionally led support programs, instruction on relaxation techniques, and referrals for mind/body services such as acupuncture, massage, and yoga.
For more information about Oncology Mind & Body Services at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, call (908) 237-5445, or ask your doctor or nurse to call on your behalf.
Mind/Body Services
We recognize that you are more than your cancer diagnosis. Cancer not only impacts the individual's physical well-being, but also the mind and spirit. Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center promotes support for the whole cancer patient; mind, body, and spirit. Services or therapies used in conjunction with radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or surgery are referred to as mind/ body services. They are used in addition to traditional medicine, not instead of. They help patients cope with cancer-related symptoms and the side effects of their treatments, as well as stress, anxiety or depression. Patients should talk to their physician before using any type of mind/body services, and in some cases a referral may be required.
Mind/Body services are offered through Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, Hunterdon Medical Center's Health Education Department, the Hunterdon Center for Pain Management, Hunterdon Behavioral Health, and the Hunterdon Health & Wellness Center in Whitehouse Station.
Acupuncture
Medical acupuncture is believed to work by accessing the body's channels of energy. When a needle is inserted into one of the 600 acupuncture points in the body, the nervous system releases chemicals which influence the body's internal regulating system. The insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless and can be used to help treat side effects associated with chemotherapy treatments, depression, anxiety or chronic pain. Please call (908) 237-5445 for more information.
Biofeedback
During this non-invasive therapy, small electrodes are placed on the ear lobe and the back of the head. While a psychologist engages the patient in either hypnotherapy or relaxation exercises, brain waves which measure the level of relaxation and concentration are transmitted into an electronic device. This, in turn, displays the measurements on a computer screen. Being able to see the reactions on a computer screen allows patients to have a heightened awareness and understanding which eventually assists in adjusting the behavior. For more information, call Hunterdon Behavioral Health at (908) 788-6401.
Complementary Nutrition
Many patients have questions regarding nutrition and nutritional supplementation with vitamins, minerals, or herbs. Some of these dietary changes and supplementation may be contraindicated with your cancer treatment. Our dedicated oncology dietitians can help you determine the safety and efficacy of dietary changes during treatment. Any and all nutrition changes or nutrition supplementation should be shared with your oncologist and dietitian. If you have questions about nutrition during treatment, please call (908) 237-5496 to set up an appointment.
Guided Imagery / Visualization / Meditation / Breath Work
Most people do not breathe correctly preventing their bodies from the benefits of maximal oxygenation. Deep breathing can result in a quieting of the mind, decrease in blood pressure and stress, and the cleansing of toxins from the system. Many people use breathing while undergoing treatment as a way to stay "centered" and "focused" which assists in managing side effects, fear, and anxiety. Simply put, meditation is a quieting of the mind that occurs while focusing on breath, one object, or a mantra or prayer. Guided imagery/visualization believes the mind has incredible power to influence the body. It's a way of "seeing" or journeying with your senses, spirit, mind, thus impacting the body. These modalities can apply to any religious orientation. To schedule a session to learn these techniques or to schedule an appointment, call at (908) 237-5445, the Hunterdon Health & Wellness Center in Whitehouse Station at (908) 534-7600 or in Clinton at (908) 735-6884
Hypnotherapy
Guided by a qualified hypnotherapist, hypnosis can be a safe method of self-improvement. Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, much like daydreaming, that we naturally go into and out of every day. You remain in control and aware at all times and will not do or say anything against your will. During hypnosis, your mind enters a deep state of relaxation. From there, the hypnotherapist can use visualization, guided imagery and other suggestions to teach your subconscious new ideas and patterning. For more information, call (908) 788-6401.
Yoga
Each Friday, please join instructor Lynne LaSpina, CYT, RYT, certified Kripalu Yoga Instructor for 30 to 60 minutes of yoga at Hunterdon Medical Center. Contrary to myth, you do not need to be flexible to do yoga and you can go at your own pace. Yoga teaches us to accept where our bodies, minds and spirits are at -- right at that moment. In addition to many health benefits, yoga teaches us the practice of non-judgment towards ourselves. Bring a mat or towel and wear loose fitting clothing. Fee: 30 min ($5) or 60 min ($10). For more information, please call (908) 237-6920.
For additional classes in Whitehouse Station call the Hunterdon Health & Wellness Center at (908) 534-7600 or Clinton at (908) 735-6884. The Hunterdon Health & Wellness Center offers Yoga, Tai Chi, and Meditation, in addition to a variety of various massage techniques.