Liver Cancer Mind-Body Medicine, Counseling & Support Groups

Mind-Body Medicine for Liver Cancer

The Mind-Body Medicine Program at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) supports you and your loved ones before, during, and after your liver cancer treatments. 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.

Mind-Body Programs

The following activities, classes, and relaxation therapies are just some of the mind-body medicine programs we offer to 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 or join one of our liver cancer support groups.
• 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 liver 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 liver cancer treatment team and are here to support you in making ongoing care decisions. In addition, they can connect you with qualified practitioners and liver cancer support groups in your area once you return home.

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