Support and Counselling
A diagnosis of breast cancer and coping with the treatment is difficult for most patients and their family members. The need for support can begin even before diagnosis and continue to the end of treatment and beyond. In addition to family and friends, many patients find it helpful to receive support and/or counselling from other sources such as their family physician, support groups, breast cancer survivors, social workers, psychotherapists or psychiatrists specialized in addressing the needs of cancer patients.
There are many support and counselling services available in the community to help patients and their family members deal with the challenges they may face. North York General Hospital and the Canadian Cancer Society have partnered to provide confidential support and information to our breast cancer patients and families. A Willow staff member will be available on Tuesdays for appointments or drop-in in the BMO Breast Diagnostic Clinic and Anne Tanenbaum Chemotherapy Clinic.
NOTE: Please contact the patient navigator if you have any questions or concerns.
Social services in the community
Many social services are offered in the community to help you with the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. You may wish to address some of your concerns with your primary care physician or specialist. Alternatively, there are other trained health care professionals such as social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists available to help you meet these challenges.
Emotional support
Breast cancer is a life-altering experience for patients and their families. There are several kinds of emotional support services available. Peer support offers the opportunity to talk with other people who have gone through similar experiences with breast cancer. Peer support can occur in one-to-one settings or in groups. Support groups, provided through community organizations, are facilitated either by a peer or by a health care professional.
Assistance and support organizations
Patients often have questions or need help regarding financial challenges, transportation, lodging services for family near treatment centres, and shops for wigs and bra prostheses. Several organizations are available to help connect you to the assistance you are looking for.
More Resources
If you are unsure which community resources might be the most suitable for you or inquire about the availability of services, you may contact agencies that can provide more information:
Mosaic Community Resource Centre: Call 905-597-7000
Community Navigation and Access Program (CNAP): Call 1-877-540-6565
If you have any other inquiries, contact the Breast Cancer Patient Navigator.