If this happens, everybody worries alone, which only makes the task of coping more difficult. Sometimes strained relationships have existed in a family for some time, then suddenly the family is faced with a crisis that may seem overwhelming. Sometimes people with cancer don't have family members they can depend on. In that situation, a cancer counselor can offer the support that family members may be unable to provide. In some families, going to a counselor for any reason is looked upon as a sign of weakness.
Some people have misconceptions about counseling.
The idea that something about the way we think or behave will have to change is a scary thought for many of us. A counselor will help you identify the problems that are troubling you and will work with you to find ways to deal with them. Sometimes people with cancer would like to try counseling but their families do not, or vice versa. In that case, whoever wants help should have it, although the ideal situation is to approach problems as a family. People new to the experience and their families might find counseling helpful at the time of diagnosis, when everything is so confusing.