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Psychological support

A cancer diagnosis changes the life not only of the patient, but of the entire family, and is accompanied by intense emotional experiences — ranging from fear and confusion to anger, exhaustion, or despair. It can trigger shock, anger, denial, and hopelessness. At the National Cancer Institute, we understand these complex challenges and how vital psychological and/or spiritual support is during this time.

Why is psychological support important?

Psychological support is aimed at improving the patient’s emotional well-being and quality of life and helps to:

  • cope with anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms;
  • understand and accept the diagnosis;
  • maintain motivation throughout all stages of treatment;
  • improve communication with loved ones and medical staff;
  • navigate the treatment and recovery period more easily.

When should you seek psychological support?

Consulting a specialist is recommended if the following symptoms occur:

  • sleep disturbances or changes in appetite;
  • increased anxiety, inner tension, or feelings of fear;
  • irritability, tearfulness, low mood;
  • feelings of uncertainty, confusion, or helplessness;
  • apathy or decreased interest in usual activities;
  • difficulties in communicating with loved ones;
  • forgetfulness, reduced concentration.

The presence of these symptoms may indicate a need for professional support.

Who can receive psychological support at the NCI?

Psychological support is available to patients undergoing treatment or rehabilitation at our institution.

  • In outpatient settings, psychological support is provided free of charge to patients with oncological conditions upon an electronic referral from the treating physician or family doctor.
  • During inpatient treatment, a patient may seek psychological support independently or upon the recommendation of the treating physician.

What psychological support services are provided at the NCI?

Psycho-oncology specialists at the NCI provide:

  • individual and group psycho-oncological care — including counseling, psychodiagnostic, corrective, psycho-preventive, and pharmacological support for patients and their family members;
  • psychological support for patients and their relatives at all stages of diagnosis and treatment at the NCI, aimed at mobilizing internal resources, improving treatment effectiveness, enhancing communication, and improving quality of life;
  • psychological support for families during the period of bereavement (after the death of a patient of any age), including the use of telemedicine technologies.

На базі Центру фізичної та реабілітаційної медицини НІР працюють психологи та лікар-психіатр:

Прошукало Ігор Леонідович - Практичний психолог

Прошукало Ігор Леонідович

Практичний психолог
[email protected]
Коломієць Валентина Вікторівна - Практичний психолог

Коломієць Валентина Вікторівна

Практичний психолог
[email protected]
Тараненко Олена Володимирівна - Лікар-психіатр

Тараненко Олена Володимирівна

Лікар-психіатр
[email protected]

Центр знаходиться у Клініці №1 на 1 поверсі (зали фізичної реабілітації)

Соколовський Павло Вікторович

Капелан
+38 (067) 990-05-15

Spiritual Support

Along with psychological assistance, spiritual support is also available at the Institute. Our healthcare chaplain, Pavlo Sokolovsky, works with patients and their families, helping them find inner strength, hope, and peace during challenging times.

Reach out if you need:

  • Individual conversations with the chaplain in hospital wards or in a specially designated room at the Institute – the interfaith prayer room.
  • Joint prayer (upon the patient’s request).
  • Support for relatives who are worried about their loved ones.
  • Assistance in finding meaning and spiritual balance during treatment.

Spiritual support is voluntary and provided with respect for each person’s worldview and religious beliefs.

Chaplain Pavlo is always open to communication. You can find him at:
  • Clinic No. 1 (Room No. 11)
  • Prayer Room (1st floor)