The Art of Psychosocial Oncology

For years there has been a debate between practitioners and researchers about the value of practice wisdom versus research-based knowledge in informing practice decisions. But this is a false dichotomy. Both types of knowledge are needed for evidence-based practice. Yet, journal editors tend to publish only data-based studies that meet high standards of research, including …

Practice Wisdom and Research-Based Knowledge: Never the Twain Shall Meet? Read More »

Research has consistently demonstrated an increased prevalence of depression among oncology patients. Despite this well-established fact, depression continues to be underdiagnosed within this population. Some attribute this to the overlap between the symptomatology of depression and that of cancer (e.g., sleep disturbance, fatigue, and decreased appetite). Others attribute it to the healthcare team’s tendency to prioritize somatic …

The Many Faces of Depression Among Oncology Patients Read More »

John looked at me quizzically. “I'd never really thought about it,” he said, “But I think I'd like music during the procedure.”

I Still Think of You is a short exploration of what it means to be a fellow traveler at critical junctures in our patients lives, and how these moments leave everlasting impressions on the work we do and the people we become.

During my first few months as editor of the Journal of Psychosocial Oncology (JPO), I have received manuscripts from a variety of countries around the world. This is likely a reflection of the increasing incidence in cancer and cancer deaths across nations.