Emotional Support a Substantial Element of our Total Cancer Care Approach

The attitude and will that a patient has can have a big impact on whether or not health will be recovered. At Oasis of Hope patients are active partners in all stages of treatment, rather than passive recipients of medical intervention. By becoming actively involved in a self-healing process, patients can shift from the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness that increase the impairment of the immune system, to a sense of control. There is evidence that being empowered with knowledge and being part of the decision-making process results in an improved health outcome; whereas passivity and apparent lack of control may be harmful to health. The Oasis of Hope Emotional Support Team helps each patient participate in her own healing process, develop a passionate involvement with life, and find a unique purpose and meaning in illness and in health. This is the principle reason why Oasis of Hope has not reduced emotional support to a single visit from a social worker for a quick assessment. The counseling program has daily activities and is a full part of the treatment program.

Through education sessions, group therapy, individual counseling, laughter therapy, and music and art programs, the counselors at Oasis of Hope support patients as they transform a paradigm of helplessness to a new hope-filled outlook. Patients learn the advantages of taking care of the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of their lives. Counselors motivate patients and companions to make positive changes in their thinking style by helping them to understand the big impact that the mind has on health.

If a shift from a perception that a person is dying from cancer can be made toward a renewed sense that a person is dealing with cancer, much of the emotional distress and burdens are alleviated. People need permission to engage in life and enjoy each day whether cancer is present or not. The essence of the Oasis of Hope emotional support program is just that. It is an invitation to live each day to the fullest.

Remember that releasing stress, sadness and anger will influence your physical health in a positive way. Learn with us how to improve your quality of life by using the huge potential of your mind.

Our Program includes:

PATIENT & FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS

An essential part of your Oasis of Hope healing experience includes individual and group sessions. These are designed to provide emotional support for you and your companions. As with any difficulty in life, cancer may bring a lot of emotional distress, confusion and uncertainty. This is why Oasis of Hope provides you with the opportunity to not only heal physically and spiritually, but also emotionally. Through this program you will learn strategies that will help you manage your feelings and thoughts.

We strongly encourage you and your companion to join the group sessions and also take advantage of the one-on-one sessions given by Oasis of Hope staff psychologists. Our psychologists are highly qualified to work with you during and help you manage these difficult times.

ONE-ON-ONE COMMUNICATION WITH FORMER PATIENTS

You and your family may appreciate a telephone conversation with someone who has had a similar cancer experience. The Counseling and Admissions department may help you get in contact with former patients at the hospital or via telephone before or during your visit to the Oasis of Hope. If you have any questions about how to get in touch with someone who has had a similar experience please call the admissions department at 1-888-500-HOPE. Former patients may provide information and share their personal experience.

PASTORAL CARE (AMIGOS DE ESPERANZA/FRIENDS OF HOPE)

Spirituality and faith may be a source of strength and comfort for you and your family. Our chapel provides a quite place for reflection. Volunteers offer spiritual counseling, worship, prayer services and devotional material. For more information about Amigos de Esperanza, please visit their website at www.projectoasisofhope.com or call us at 1-888-500-HOPE and ask to speak with the Friends of Hope or Amigos de Ezperanza.

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS

Our counselors are trained and qualified to work with you and help you through this period in your life. Feel free to contact them and/or come to the sessions.

Our sessions include:

• Discovering how your mind, body, and spirit work together.
• Learning how to improve your quality of life by taking advantage of the huge potential of your mind through relaxation therapies.
• Finding out how positive thinking can change your life.
• Learning coping strategies to change negative beliefs into healing thoughts.
• Taking easy steps to handle stress.
• Art Workshop
• Strengthening your immune system through laughter.
• Pet Therapy
• Companion Workshops
• Spanish Classes