Integrative Support Services
Because we emphasize healing through wholeness, your experience at our center goes beyond cancer treatment. You will also have access to an array of integrated health services—stress reduction, exercise and nutrition consults, massage therapy, family support services and spiritual counseling.
Integrative cancer support services provide patients with emotional, physical and spiritual support through all stages of cancer survivorship. The following groups and services help to strengthen the body, nurture hope and courage and enrich the spirit.
To learn more about the available resources, group/class schedule and more, talk to a member of the Cancer Center team or call our resource specialist at (707) 967-5791.
Aromatherapy The practice of using natural oils to enhance psychological and physical wellbeing. These are skillfully offered by our massage staff to enhance your healing process.
Art Therapy Expressive art therapy groups are designed to allow individuals to experience thoughts, feelings and emotions through the art making process. This class is led by local artist and cancer survivor Jacque Dowdle.
Acupuncture Are you interested in relieving pain or addressing the side effects of your treatment? Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years but most recently scientific research has shown its effectiveness for reducing pain levels. It can also be used as an adjunct cancer therapy for:
- Anxiety, depression, stress
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Nausea/vomiting
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Bend, Stretch and Breathe Breath work and gentle postures are introduced to improve total body conditioning, increase mobility and range of motion, improve circulatory flow and relieve muscle tension. Look for this opportunity to improve overall functioning.
Caregiver Support You have to take care of yourself before you can take care of someone else. “It takes a village, being honest and well informed with help you and how you manage the patient’s care.” A licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who is board certified in oncology social work is available as a therapist for patients and their families and caregivers.
Food of Love A complimentary food support program whereby nutrient dense, delicious meals are provided to Martin-O’Neil Cancer Center patients.
End of Life Option Act This is a new California law that allows eligible adults who have a terminal diagnosis with less than six months to live to have their doctor prescribe drug(s) that will end their life.
Financial Support Services Sorting through insurance forms and financial resources can be overwhelming. Barbara Brown, patient financial Specialist, is available for questions about your health insurance benefits, financial forms, authorizations and billing.
Guided Imagery Guided imagery helps to let go of worries and stress and lets the mind-body connection take you on a relaxing journey. Offered daily by the massage therapists to patients and their family members or caregivers.
Horses & Humans: The Healing Connection This is an inspiring program for cancer survivors, their caregivers and loved ones that aids in reducing stress and anxiety by connecting with rescued horses in a sublime and peaceful sanctuary located in Calistoga.
Journaling Journaling is the oldest and most widely practiced form of expressive therapy that individuals can use to express thoughts and feelings. Journaling is known to ease pain, help sort out confusion and strengthen your immune system. Writing can be done individually or in a group, at home, during treatment or in any comfortable place. It gives you a chance to express your most private thoughts and worries in a confidential way, which you may or may not choose to share with others at a later time.
Massage Therapy Our Cancer Center offers daily therapeutic massage to patients, their family members and caregivers to relieve stress, reduce pain and anxiety and encourage overall relaxation. To schedule an appointment, call (707) 963-6246.
Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations and surrounding environment. Join us for a gathering that will support you in developing focus, calm and connection.
Music Music offers many different ways to identify and express thoughts and feelings, distract from pain, increase self-esteem and to enhance the healing process. Enjoy the sounds of a talented musician who plays regularly in the Cancer Center’s lobby.
Nutritional Counseling Maile Shubin, RD, is our registered dietitian. Maile is here to advise you on ways to optimize your nutritional intake at the beginning of your cancer treatment. She then follows up as needed to monitor your nutritional status while you are undergoing cancer treatment.
Patient Counseling An oncology board certified licensed clinical social worker meets with you and/ or your loved ones to assess your emotional well-being and provide support as needed. By appointment.
Peer Partners This program offers patients and their families an opportunity to request a peer partner, someone who has been through the cancer experience. These volunteers provide support and encouragement in a confidential setting to newly diagnosed individuals.
Pet Therapy Offered weekly in our waiting area, our furry friends can help improve a patient’s social, emotional and cognitive functioning.
Survivors Circle of Wellness An opportunity to explore the emotional roller coaster of experiencing a life altering illness. The group focuses on emotional support along with educational presentations and discussion of wellness topics. Meets the first Friday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Adventist Health Clear Lake Medical Office in Clearlake.
Spiritual Connection For spiritual support, our chaplain is available for an open-hearted conversation about hope, gratitude, fear, connection and meaning.