The Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology (CAPO) is an organization of clinicians, researchers, educators, and others dedicated to the understanding, treatment and study of the social, psychological, emotional, spiritual and quality-of-life aspects of cancer.
CAPO has partnered with the de Souza Institute to create an engaging e-learning resource to guide health care professionals and educators to support children and teens when a family member has cancer. We know that the effects of cancer in the family are many; we know that most individuals and families benefit from emotional, psychological, spiritual and practical support.
Educators and health care professionals are not on their own as they assist children and families. Psychosocial oncology support exists, in some capacity, in most cancer centres and hospitals. There are trained experts (psychologists, socials workers, psychiatrists, spiritual care professionals, counselors, or advanced practice nurses) who are familiar with the range of concerns and needs that can arise for children when a family member has cancer. They are available to see families, individuals, and children before, during, and after treatment for cancer, and/or provide consultation to you as you provide support. Most centres also provide bereavement services, and can help connect to the other resources in the community.
The resource is divided into four modules. Each module takes about 15 minutes to view. We encourage you to navigate through the modules as you wish to find the information you need.
View the credits for Start the Talk.
