Psychological disorders among people affected by cancer

“Welcome to the cancer journey where the night is dark and full of terrors”

About this presentation: The ever growing prevalence rates of cancer and greater survival rates mean that psychologists are likely to be working with a patient or a family member of someone who has a cancer diagnosis.  A brief overview of psycho-oncology will outline the prevalence of cancer and psychological disorders in adult patients with cancer.

Two case studies will be presented along with key psychological formulation components and the evidence based intervention strategies used. While predominantly discussed from a cognitive behavioural therapy framework, core components of Meta Cognitive Therapy, and Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (Managing CALM) will be presented.

About the presenter: Michelle Davey is a Clinical Psychologist who trained at Canterbury University in New Zealand and moved to Sydney in 2015. She has worked within psycho-oncology in both New Zealand and Australia across public and private settings. Currently at Liverpool Hospital in the Gynaecology Oncology Team, she is passionate about the psychosocial care of her patients and their families. Michelle has training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Meta Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness, and more recently “Managing CALM”.