Psychologist Clinic in the Radiotherapy Unit

Why see a Psychologist

Physical illness and/or a hospital stay can be difficult and challenging for the patient, their immediate family and friends.

It is often helpful to have an opportunity to talk over any concerns with a trained psychologist, who can assist with health-related problems and adjustments to an illness or injury.

Psychologists respect the privacy and confidentiality of patient’s issues and concerns that can occur.

The service is available to

·       All patients receiving radiotherapy treatment

·       Family members and/or

·       significant others of patients receiving treatment

Common concerns for patients and family members

·       Adjusting physically and emotionally to the illness or injury

·       Anxiety

·       Depressed mood/sadness

·       Family concerns/conflicts

·       Grief and loss

·       Pain management

·       Relationship concerns

·       Self image/Self esteem

·       Stress

·       Panic attacks

·       Sleep difficulties

·       Fatigue and symptoms related to the treatment

·       Adjustment to the stages of the illness

·       How best to help the patient

·       How do the family care for themselves

Psychologists provide

·         Counselling & psychological assessment for adjustment, anxiety, depression, grief, etc.

·         Education for patients, family, carers and staff in:

-          Physical adjustment to treatment

-          Psychological adjustment to illness 

-          Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

-          Behaviour

-          Emotional wellbeing

-          Mental health

-          Neuropsychological syndromes

-          Psychiatric illness

·         Consultation with other therapists and health professionals involved with patient care

How to access Psychology Services

Patients may make a private phone call to the radiotherapy receptionist to make an appointment on (03) 51738770 or another health

professional involved with the patient’s care can make a referral. Counselling over the phone is also available.

The Oncology Team

Psychologists are members of the oncology team, consisting of a variety of experienced health Professionals.

The Team includes

• Oncology Specialist physician

• Oncology Nurses

• Radiation Therapists

• Psychologist

• Social Workers

• Dietitians

• Speech therapists

• Cancer Care Nurses

Psychologists are specialists in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of major mental illnesses and common

psychological problems.

Their role in the in the cancer care unit is to provide psychological services to patients, their families and significant others while patients are

receiving treatment in the unit.

The Oncology Service provides

·       A coordinated team approach that considers all aspects of a patient’s well being

·       Programs developed around individual patient goals to ensure the best treatment for each patient

·       Opportunities for involvement of patients and families/carers in the decision making processes that will ensure the best outcome for patients and their families.

Lee Minton

Psychologist

Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm

For enquires and bookings please contact:

Radiotherapy Reception

5173 8770

Allied Health Reception

5173 8383