Liver Cancer Treatment — Mind-Body Medicine

Mind-Body Medicine for Liver Cancer

At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), we treat the whole patient, not just the cancer. Our multifaceted and patient-centered approach means that every attempt is made to empower you to participate fully in your care team, and decisions about your liver cancer treatment. It means that treatment is broadly defined to include not only excellent medical care, but also healing support for your emotional, cognitive thoughts, spiritual and relationship issues. 

The Mind-Body Medicine Progam at CTCA helps liver cancer patients and their loved ones explore and experience what is unique to them at all levels of their being—body, mind and spirit. In concert with traditional medical therapies for liver cancer treatment, the Mind-Body Medicine Program offers a range of individual and group learning opportunities to facilitate healing at the mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels.

Defining Psychoneuroimmunology

Mind-Body Medicine is based on a relatively new area of care called Psychoneuroimmunology, or PNI.  The “psycho" portion of the word refers to your thinking, emotions and mood states. The "neuro" portion of the word refers to the neurological and neuroendocrine systems in your body. The “immunology" portion of the word refers to your cellular structures and immune system. PNI explores the relationship between the mind and the body and immune system; and how the mind can help stimulate the natural healing power of the body.

Mind-Body Medicine Therapies at CTCA 

Liver cancer treatment can be physically demanding and can sometimes cause side effects that make it difficult to cope. Mind-body specialists at CTCA strive to help you direct your energies toward healing and health during liver cancer treatment, and beyond. Mind-body medicine techniques may also help with your peace of mind and quality of life.

The innovative PNI program at CTCA offers liver cancer patients and their families the following complementary mind-body medicine therapies:

• Individual, couple and family counseling 
• Stress management
• Relaxation, deep breathing, and guided imagery training
• Spiritual meditation
• Energy therapies
• Support groups for you and your family
• Humor therapy (also called laughter therapy)
• Educational resources