Cancer can affect much more than your physical health. A diagnosis may also bring emotional stress, changes at work, financial concerns, transportation challenges, family responsibilities, and uncertainty about what comes next.
At Astera Cancer Care, you do not have to manage these challenges alone. Our oncology social workers support patients, families, and caregivers throughout the cancer journey by providing counseling, practical assistance, helpful resources, and connections to community services.
Support From Diagnosis Through Survivorship
You can connect with an oncology social worker at any point during your care journey. Some patients prefer to reach out shortly after diagnosis, while others need additional support during treatment, recovery, survivorship, or bereavement.
Your needs may change over time. Astera’s social work team is here to listen, help you understand your options, and connect you with resources that fit your individual circumstances.
Emotional Support for Patients and Families
There is no single “right” way to respond to cancer. You may experience fear, sadness, frustration, anger, uncertainty, or a combination of emotions that changes from one day to the next. Family members and caregivers may face many of these feelings as well.
Astera’s oncology social workers provide individual and family counseling to help patients and their loved ones process these emotions, manage stress, adjust to changes, and communicate with one another. They can also connect you with support groups for patients, caregivers, survivors, and those experiencing loss.
Sometimes, simply having a trusted person to talk with can make the journey feel more manageable.
Help With Practical Concerns
Cancer can create unexpected challenges outside the treatment room. Astera’s social work team can provide information, referrals, and assistance with coordinating resources related to:
- Government benefits and entitlements, including disability and family leave programs
- Financial advocacy
- Health insurance enrollment and coverage options
- Transportation to appointments
- Housing and utility concerns
- Food assistance and home-delivered meals
- Nonmedical care at home
- Fertility and family-planning resources
- Nutrition, fitness, and wellness programs
- Technology support
Your social worker can help you determine which resources may be relevant and guide you through the next steps.
Programs That Bring People Together
Astera’s social work team facilitates monthly Compass programs designed to help patients and families better navigate the cancer journey. These programs address topics that support emotional well-being, education, connection, and everyday life during and after treatment.
Participating in a program or support group can also provide an opportunity to connect with people who understand some of the challenges you may be facing.
Asking for Support Is Part of Your Care
You may feel hesitant to ask for help, especially if you are accustomed to handling things independently. However, you do not need to wait until a concern becomes overwhelming.
Letting your care team know what you are experiencing allows us to better support you as a whole person. Whether you need counseling, help finding transportation, guidance with benefits, or assistance locating community resources, Astera’s oncology social workers are ready to help.
At Astera Cancer Care, comprehensive cancer care extends beyond your medical treatment. Our social work team is here to help you and your loved ones feel informed, connected, and supported at every step.
To learn more about Astera’s Social Work services, visit asteracancercare.org/patient-family-resources/social-work , call 732-853-1038, or email social.work@asterahealthcare.org.