Cancer Support Therapy: Why Reaching Out Is Your Most Powerful Healing Tool
Imagine sitting in your doctor's office, heart racing, as you hear those life-altering words:
"You have cancer."
In that moment, everything changes. Fear and uncertainty flood your mind, leaving you wondering how to navigate the physical battle and the emotional tsunami following a cancer diagnosis.
For the two million people projected to receive a new cancer diagnosis in the United States this year, the instinct to "stay strong" and handle it independently can be overwhelming.
Yet, as Alyssa Cornett, LMFT, a therapist who is part of the Flatwater provider network, has witnessed consistently through her years of supporting cancer patients: “Reaching out for support is a sign of strength and self-love.”
Why Mental Health Support Is Essential in Cancer Treatment
Cancer challenges every aspect of your life – your sense of self, your relationships, and your vision of your future. Research shows that patients who receive psychological support alongside medical treatment experience:
Reduced anxiety and depression
Better treatment adherence
Improved pain management
Enhanced quality of life
Stronger immune function
"Reaching out for support isn't a sign of weakness—it's an act of courage and self-care," emphasizes Cornett. "When patients feel supported emotionally, they're better equipped to handle the challenges ahead."
How Flatwater Removes Barriers to Essential Cancer Support
There are so many costs involved with cancer - paying for medications, co-pays, and basic needs, to name just a few. This can leave something like accessing mental health support untended simply because of the financial barrier it can pose. Unlike programs that require extensive documentation or have complicated qualification processes, Flatwater removes barriers by asking applicants straightforward questions, like:
"Are finances a barrier to accessing mental health care?"
This approach ensures that individuals can focus on what matters most—their healing—without navigating complicated systems during an already overwhelming time. Since 2010, Flatwater has funded over 74,000 therapy sessions for individuals who would otherwise have no means to pay for care.
"That's the power of Flatwater; we take the overwhelm of taking care of you off your plate. It's so approachable and accessible,” she reflects. “Flatwater pays for it, so you don't have to stress about it. Let's take care of you first."
When Alyssa first encountered Flatwater in 2016, she was approached about becoming a therapy provider. Then, about three years ago, she was approached about joining the board and jumped at the chance. “I knew I wanted to be integrated into this mission to help expand and deepen it.”
Knowledgeable Support Through Every Stage of Your Cancer Journey
Through her work as a therapist in the Flatwater provider network, Alyssa guides women at every stage of their cancer journey.
“Every person is on their own unique path,” she explains. “Some are grappling with the shock of a new diagnosis, others are navigating the physical and emotional toll of treatment, and some are dealing with the anxiety that comes after treatment ends.”
Each journey is unique, but one thing remains constant—when patients feel supported emotionally, they are better equipped to handle the challenges ahead.
"Therapy provides a space to process fears, strengthen coping mechanisms, and find moments of hope amidst the struggle."
The Transformative Power of Community in Cancer Recovery
What truly distinguishes Flatwater is its community-centered approach. Beyond individualized therapy, Flatwater supports the creation of connections that combat the isolation cancer often brings.
"There's a powerful sense of connection here," Cornett shares. "Because of the access to services that Flatwater funds, hope and strength can be fostered in ways that are truly life-changing."
Through collaborative partnerships with organizations like Texas Oncology and Wonders & Worries, Flatwater is part of a comprehensive support network where patients are valued as whole people, not just medical cases.
Alyssa witnesses patients in therapy burdened by sorrow and leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and support. They find solace in knowing they are not alone. Many even give back by sharing their experiences, encouraging those just beginning their journey.
5 Self-Care Priorities When Facing Cancer
Cornett emphasizes the importance of prioritizing self-care when facing cancer.
"It's so important to slow down, tune into your needs, and focus on your wellbeing," Cornett advises. "Cancer can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing mental health makes you stronger and more resilient in your fight."
Here are her suggestions:
Honor your emotional needs: Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions arise without judgment. Sadness, anger, and fear are natural responses to cancer.
Set boundaries: Learn to say "no" to obligations that drain your energy and "yes" to support that nourishes you.
Practice mindfulness: Even 5 minutes daily of present-moment awareness can reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation during treatment.
Maintain connections: While you may need to adjust your social engagement, maintaining meaningful relationships provides essential emotional support.
Work with a specialized therapist: A mental health professional with cancer experience can provide targeted strategies for your specific challenges.
Finding Your Calm Waters: How to Access Support Today
Flatwater hopes to expand to meet the growing need for mental health support for cancer patients and their families. Until then, Flatwater is focused on serving patients and their loved ones in central Texas.
If you or someone you love is navigating the emotional challenges of cancer, remember Cornett's powerful message: "You don't have to face this alone. Together, we can help you heal." Reach out to Flatwater to start your care journey.
If you live outside of Flatwater’s service area, take a look at some other financial assistance resources for accessing mental health care in cancer’s wake in different parts of the country.
Even in life's stormiest moments, there's always a path to calmer waters—and Flatwater is here to guide you there.
