1 in 2 people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime.

Beyond the physical challenges, the emotional and mental strain on both patients and their families is immense, as they navigate the journey through diagnosis, treatment, and the uncertainty of the future.

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A multidisciplinary approach to cancer care

Our comprehensive team includes not only Consultant Psychiatrists but also Clinical Psychologists, Psychotherapists and Counsellors, all working together to provide a diverse range of services.

This collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives tailored, holistic care, addressing the diverse mental health needs that arise during the cancer journey.

Our highly specialised mental health clinic supports people with cancer

Schoen Clinic Chelsea is a private outpatient clinic offering a dedicated service to support individuals and their loved ones with the mental health implications of cancer.

Located in the heart of West London, our calm and welcoming clinic provides a peaceful environment for in-person appointments and therapies.

For added convenience, we also offer remote and online appointments, ensuring our patients receive the compassionate care they need, no matter where they are.

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The benefits of seeking mental health support during cancer treatment

While mental health support may not directly treat or cure cancer, it plays a crucial role in helping individuals manage the emotional and psychological challenges that accompany a diagnosis.

Counselling and therapy can significantly reduce stress, improve quality of life, and help individuals cope better during and after treatment.

Research has shown that mental health support can alleviate depression and anxiety commonly associated with cancer. Additionally, specific counselling techniques can help patients overcome phobias related to treatment procedures, such as injections or MRI scans, further easing the overall treatment experience.

Our mental health services for people with cancer

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we offer a comprehensive range of mental health services tailored to support individuals with cancer.

Our expert Consultant Psychiatrists provide thorough mental health reviews and specialist medication management, particularly in the context of complex oncology treatments.

We support existing mental health conditions, ensuring they are optimally managed during cancer care, and diagnose and treat new conditions that may arise from oncology investigations, diagnosis, and treatment.

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Specialised therapies and additional interventions

Our services include assistance with adjustment to changes in health status, body image and function, as well as coping strategies for treatments like radiology, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy, all of which can significantly impact mental health.

We offer specialist psychological therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and schema therapy, along with trauma-focused therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprogramming).

In addition to standard medication management, we provide alternative treatment options, including medicinal cannabis, under full certification and registration. Our team liaises with physical health specialists, oncologists, and pain control teams as needed and assists with complex capacity issues when deciding on cancer treatment.

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Anonymised cancer patient case examples

Overcoming anxiety and alcohol dependence during cancer treatment

A patient with known social anxiety and anxiety related to hospital appointments and scans faced a relapse of their disease, necessitating a return to chemotherapy. To cope with the situation, the patient began using alcohol, leading to significant intake and resulting in withdrawal tremors.

Our team provided immediate support, initiating urgent medical treatment for both anxiety and alcohol dependence. This intervention quickly brought the situation under control, making it much easier for the patient to attend hospital appointments and day-care for chemotherapy. Consequently, the patient was able to successfully complete their treatment.

Managing medication interactions for safe cancer treatment

A patient with a long-standing history of anxiety and depression had been on sertraline for many years. Upon starting a new leukaemia treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, there was a risk of QT prolongation, a condition potentially exacerbated by sertraline.

Our expert team conducted a thorough review, leading to safe dose adjustments and, when necessary, a switch to an alternative antidepressant. This careful management allowed effective treatment of the patient's pre-existing mental health condition alongside the new and fluctuating physical health issues, optimising overall care and well-being.

Diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder for improved cancer treatment

During the course of cancer treatment, a patient developed significant mood swings initially thought to be related to steroid use. However, further evaluation revealed an undiagnosed bipolar disorder with accompanying anxiety.

With the correct diagnosis, our team implemented appropriate treatment with mood stabilisers, leading to significant improvement. This allowed the patient to continue oncology treatment successfully and with fewer complications. Additionally, the patient experienced substantial benefits beyond medical treatment, including the ability to resume university studies that had been previously suspended due to erratic mood swings.

Addressing anxiety and ADHD for effective cancer treatment

A patient with relapsed Hodgkin's Lymphoma needed to proceed to an autograft but struggled with significant anxiety. To cope, the patient developed a substantial daytime cannabis habit, which impaired concentration and focus, leading to missed cancer treatment appointments.

Upon referral for psychiatric evaluation, our team identified potential undiagnosed ADHD. After a formal diagnosis and treatment, the patient's quality of life improved significantly, allowing them to attend cancer treatment reliably. This intervention not only facilitated the successful treatment of lymphoma but also enhanced the patient's overall well-being.

Peace of mind when it really counts

No question is too big or too small for our team. We're here to listen and provide guidance whenever you need it. Collaborating closely with your GP and oncology team, we ensure seamless, comprehensive mental healthcare every step of the way

Our multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists includes psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists, experts in menopause, occupational therapists and many others.

Meet our cancer mental health team

Facing cancer together: Your mental healthcare, on your terms

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, we recognise that a cancer diagnosis affects both your physical and mental wellbeing.

Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate support, addressing your mental health needs with the utmost care. We are committed to being with you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the comprehensive care you deserve.

You're not alone on this journey.