Bile Duct Cancer Mind-Body Medicine, Counseling & Support Groups
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Our mind-body therapists provide counseling, support groups and other therapies to help you and your loved ones cope with the challenges of bile duct cancer.
Mind-Body Medicine for Bile Duct Cancer
The Mind-Body Medicine Program at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) supports you and your loved ones before, during and after your bile duct cancer treatment. The team provides tools and techniques to help you cope with any mental, physical, emotional and spiritual issues that may arise during your cancer fight. We also realize that caregivers play a big role in your treatment and healing process, and they need support in managing their own emotions and concerns. At CTCA, caregivers can meet one-on-one with a mind-body therapist to address the stresses and concerns.
The following activities, classes and relaxation therapies are just some of the therapies our Mind-Body Medicine Program offers to help reduce stress and improve quality of life. These services are available to patients, caregivers and their families:
- Individual, Couples and Family Counseling. A mind-body therapist schedules at least one visit with every in-patient to introduce the options available in this department. It’s your decision if you would like to continue meeting with a therapist.
- Guided Imagery for Stress Management. A relaxation technique that teaches patients to use positive mental images to manage stress and physical discomfort. Guided imagery can also be used to help bile duct cancer patients deal with their pain, nausea and anxiety, and also to support the immune system.
- Deep Breathing Exercises. Mind-body therapists work with patients on an individual basis to teach deep breathing as a relaxation and stress management technique.
- Laughter Therapy. These sessions provide a safe place where patients can laugh. Research has shown that laughing can reduce stress, improve pain and balance blood pressure.
- Reiki. A gentle, hands-on practice that uses specific techniques to help restore and balance the body’s energy, strengthen its ability to heal, reduce stress and increase peace of mind.
- Qigong. This ancient Chinese healing art uses a series of soft, flowing movements to focus the mind and body. Qigong is taught to help reduce stress, build stamina and enhance the immune system. The gentle movements also increase lymph circulation, which is important for cancer patients.
- Smoking Cessation Support. Mind-body support is available to help patients quit smoking through individual counseling, acupuncture, deep breathing and guided imagery. Patients are also encouraged to call the mind-body medicine team when they are in need of support or experiencing nicotine cravings.
Our mind-body therapists work closely with your entire cancer treatment team and are here to support you in making ongoing care decisions. In addition, they can connect you with qualified practitioners, as well as bile duct cancer support groups and counseling services in your area once you return home.
Next Topic: Oncology Rehabilitation for Bile Duct Cancer
