Why Cancer Counselling

Counselling charity We Hear You’s (WHY) next free group counselling for people living with and beyond a diagnosis of cancer or other life threatening condition starts on 24th September at the New Oriel Hall in Bath and the Crispin Centre in Street. The groups bring people together to discuss the impact of a life threatening diagnosis on emotions, the physical self and personal and professional relationships. The charity has offered one-to-one counselling for people affected by cancer or a life threatening condition since 1994 and added group therapy to its portfolio of services in 2017, thanks to a three-year grant from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Cath Wilkins, Clinical Manager at WHY, says: ‘The positive impact of our one-to-one counselling service for people coping with cancer or a life threatening condition is beyond question and we’re proud to have supported people in the communities we serve for more than 25 years. However, the opportunity for people to share space and speak openly with others who have had similar experiences can provide a unique healing experience with opportunities for learning and self-growth. Our groups are a valuable addition to the services we offer, as evidenced by feedback from our clients.”

“It was lovely to share stories and experiences of cancer with others. It was helpful to reflect on the impact of cancer and the topics each week were good in that they focused the discussion.”

“Made me feel normal – my experiences of treatment, my feelings, my fears. Friendly environment to discuss things. When offered counselling I did not want to go to a group session, but I am so glad I did.”

The next course of group therapy in Bath runs at the New Oriel Hall from 10.45am to 12.15pm on Tuesday mornings from 24th September until 10th December 2019. The Street group runs from 24th September on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 7.30 until 17th December 2019 at the Crispin Centre with a break for October half term There is a maximum of eight participants in each group, all of whom must have cancer or be in remission. The groups are facilitated by two professional counsellors and participants will have an opportunity to talk with them individually in the weeks preceding the start date. For more information, and if you would be interested in participating, please call 01373 455255 or email info@wehearyou.org.uk. Further information about the other services provided by We Hear You is available at www.wehearyou.org.uk.