The behavioral medicine specialist is a health professional who has had special training in helping people cope with being ill or with some parts of treatment of disease. This person provides support and information and will teach you ways to address yo ur concerns about cancer and its effects on people's lives. Support groups and coping programs are available. The psychologist is a mental health professional who provides support and counseling for people with cancer and their family members. Services include psychological evaluation, individual and group therapy and support sessions, behavioral therapy, and relaxation and stress management training.
Psychiatric consultations are also available.
Your oncologist or nurse may recommend these services, or you may ask for these services at any time. The psychiatrist is a medical doctor with education in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of emotional disorders. When coping with cancer, patients and family members may feel anxious or depressed at times. The psychiatrist can prescribe medications and provide support to help you cope. The pathologist is a doctor trained in diagnosing disease by noting changes in the body's organs, tissues, and fluids.