Cancer affects the body physically and emotionally. Cancer care at Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center aims to treat it all.

“Addressing the psychological issues of cancer patients should be the standard of care, not an extra,” says Robyn Edwards, psychosocial oncology counselor. “We have a high level of awareness here. We may be small but we pack a powerful punch.”

Ms. Edwards helps cancer center patients cope with anxiety by teaching them relaxation techniques such as guided imagery and deep breathing. Cancer patients also have access to other services that can help reduce anxiety, such as biofeedback, reiki, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, yoga and massage therapy. Some of those therapies also can help boost the immune system.

In addition, patients can participate in the “Partners in Healing” program, in which they are paired with a cancer survivor for emotional support, and they can attend a survivorship lecture series.

“We aim to give people a sense of empowerment,” Ms. Edwards says.

“You can’t just address the physical disease,” Ms. Edwards explains. “You have to give them tools to function as a parent, friend, daughter, brother. If we don’t give them the tools to prevent or manage the anxiety, fear or sleeplessness, as well as to promote wellness, then we are not treating the whole patient.”

For more information, call 908-237-2337.