The Department of MSc Counselling, in association with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), hosted a national webinar on the Process in Psycho-Oncological Counselling on 19th September 2024. The session was facilitated by Ms. Deepthi Kodoth, a Counsellor in Psycho-Oncology from Narayana Health, Bengaluru. A total of 90 participants from various parts of India, including one from Kuwait, attended the event.
The emotional well-being of cancer patients is often overlooked, despite the critical role psycho-oncological counselling plays in offering essential support. Cancer patients and their families endure significant psychological stress, including anxiety, depression, and fear of mortality. Emotional and psychological care is as important as physical treatment in addressing these challenges. Psycho-oncological counselling provides structured therapeutic support to meet these mental and emotional needs.
The main goal of this two-hour virtual session was to equip mental health professionals and students with a deeper understanding of the psycho-oncological counselling process, which helps in supporting cancer patients. Ms. Kodoth highlighted that a psycho-oncologist’s role extends beyond emotional support to assisting patients in managing their fears and uncertainties related to their condition.
Ms. Kodoth stressed the importance of offering compassionate and empathetic care when addressing the psychological challenges faced by cancer patients. She pointed out that these individuals often struggle with identity issues, and existential anxiety. Counsellors, she explained, need to take a holistic approach that considers not only the emotional, but also the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of well-being.
Ms. Kodoth drew from her own experience, providing practical examples of how these interventions can be used in clinical practice. She also underlined the importance of collaborating with medical professionals to ensure comprehensive care for patients.
Participants gained valuable insights into the difficulties faced by cancer patients and their families, along with practical strategies to support their emotional journey. Ms. Kodoth encouraged counsellors to develop key skills such as active listening, resilience-building, and trauma-informed care, emphasizing that psychological support can greatly improve the quality of life for those fighting cancer.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Jomol Antony , of the 2nd MSc Counselling, expressing gratitude to Ms. Kodoth and the organizers for an enriching and insightful session. Participants appreciated the opportunity to deepen their understanding of psycho-oncological counselling and expressed their interest in implementing these practices in their professional work.
Reported by: Sahana Alphonsa, (2nd M.Sc. Counselling)
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