Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Patients with Cancer

Course overview

In January 2026, the American Cancer Society estimated that over 2,110,000 people would be diagnosed with cancer, and over 625,000 people would die from the disease. Cancer not only impacts a significant number of people in the U.S., but it can also change many, if not all, aspects of an individual's life, including those that are psychosocial. Studies have shown that about half to two-thirds of cancer patients experience considerable psychosocial distress during the course of their illness. Part of psychosocial distress is psychological, encompassing cognitive, behavioral, and emotional components. With the increasing number of people impacted by cancer and the prevalence of cancer-related psychosocial distress, including mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, social workers and other mental health professionals need to understand the specific psychological care needs of patients with cancer. In addition to gaining this understanding, it is also beneficial to have the knowledge and skills to manage psychological responses to the diagnosis. One effective management approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a variety of therapeutic approaches that have in common the basic notion that a patient's thoughts and behaviors are a key part of psychological distress. This course will outline how social workers and other mental health professionals can help people diagnosed with cancer by using CBT, so that they are equipped to deliver personalized, effective treatment that fosters psychological adjustment and resilience at every stage of the medical continuum.