When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, fear is the first response. Very emotional friends and family offer their support and advice, but it often focuses on statistics and the experience of others. Busy physicians and other medical professionals speak a new, unfamiliar vocabulary, using words like "malignant," "benign" and "metastasize."
A survivor of two cancers, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Dennis Gibson helps cancer patients negotiate the maze of cancer treatment, concerned loved ones and coping with the stress and fear that every cancer patient experiences.
Through counseling, coaching and mentoring people with a wide variety with issues and goals, Dr. Gibson has spent the last 30 years helping his clients determine ways to overcome personal and relationship problems. He implements these skills to coach cancer patients and their families, focusing on achieving wellness.
Through either face-to-face or optional telephone appointments, Dr. Gibson works with the cancer patient to sort through treatment options, learn to communicate with physicians, and find ways to continue to fulfill their hopes and dreams despite their illness.
During an interview with NBC's "Today Show," Dr. Gibson explained the kinds of questions he tackles with his cancer coaching clients:
- How can I get back to the real me emotionally?
- What do I tell my friends and family? How do I tell them?
- How can I manage feelings of worry, depression, and indecision?
- How can I integrate this experience with my Christian faith?
- How do I ask my medical professionals questions and get answers I can understand?
- Can you help me find useful information about my condition online?
- What arguments are there for and against alternative medicine?
- How might participating in a clinical trial be a better option than standard treatment?
- What should I look for in a support group to decide if it is right for me?
Clients say their conversations with Dr. Gibson are uplifting, informative and thought-provoking. Many choose to have their conversations recorded so that they can listen to them again and again. Dr. Gibson also offers research assistance to help find treatment options and clinical trials for his clients.
How would you like the chance to talk with someone else who has been down this path before you? Dr. Gibson offers that, as well as the expertise to help you make decisions and continue to live your life. Appointments can be either face-to-face, or by telephone. Payment of $150 for fifty minutes is required in advance at the time you set the appointment. You can use Visa, MasterCard or Discover. At the appointed time, Dr. Gibson will call you Dr. Gibson is not free to offer services without charge. Call 630-668-3331, or e-mail Dennis@DennisGibson.com to set an appointment.
Medical Disclaimer: Dr. Gibson's doctorate is in psychology, not medicine. He does not practice, offer to practice, attempt to practice, or hold himself out to practice as a physician. Therefore, any information he offers about cancer diagnosis and treatment comes from him as a fellow patient, to help you talk with your medical advisors and make your decisions intelligently. |
