Background: Despite the existence of robust evidence-based psychosocial interventions to help cancer survivors manage the impact of cancer, few mental health professionals are trained in these interventions. Leveraging existing resources in community cancer support centres (CCSCs) is a feasible way to improve patient access to these services. This pilot study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and perceived benefit of a training series developed for counsellors working in CCSCs in the South East region of Ireland.
Methods: Counsellors affiliated with South East CCSCs were polled to select their preferences for evidence-based trainings out of an offered list of common issues and interventions in psycho-oncology care. The two highest priorities identified were managing sexuality and intimacy concerns and fear of cancer recurrence and progression. Trainings were provided by ANP and psychologist experts in psycho-oncology. Feedback from participants was used iteratively with adjustments made to the second training session based on previous session feedback.
Results: Nineteen participants attended the first session and 18 the second. Nine individuals attended both trainings, for a total of 28 unique participants from seven CCSCs. Feedback was positive, with an average score of 8.1 (0-10 scale) of reported knowledge gained from the first programme, and 8.65 on the second. 100% of participants reported the first training was the right level of complexity for their background, while 96% agreed for the second. Qualitative comments were highly positive, and reflected appreciation for oncology-specific knowledge and concrete tools and resources that counsellors could incorporate into their daily practice.
Conclusions: The provision of training in evidence-based psychosocial oncology interventions to CCSC counsellors is a feasible and highly acceptable way to expand the spectrum of resources available to people coping with the impact of cancer. Expansion of this training series to CCSCs in other regions in Ireland is in progress.