Support Services and Programs

 

View supportive care programs for radiation oncology patients at Mass General.

Art Therapy
Art therapy uses simple art activities to help people express themselves and develop a sense of well-being through the creative process. You do not have to be an artist to enjoy and take advantage of art’s powers to enhance wellness. Individual sessions take place in the clinic where you are receiving treatment. Sessions are led by Expressive Arts Therapists.

Floral Therapy
Floral therapy provides an opportunity for patients to come together to relax and express themselves through the art of floral arrangement. These arrangements may be brought home, or given as a gift to another cancer patient.

Gentle Yoga
Open to all Radiation Oncology patients and family members, Gentle Yoga is an easy form of exercise that uses mild stretching and healthy breathing to promote relaxation, flexibility and wellness. No yoga experience is necessary.

Images Boutique
Located in the Yawkey Center, Suite 2D, this oncology boutique offers a selection of wigs, hats, and scarves, in addition to specialty products for patients with breast cancer, such as breast prostheses and mastectomy products. Staff is available to discuss topics such as managing hair loss, in a group setting or on a one – one basis.

Integrative Therapies
The Katherine A. Gallagher Integrative Therapies Program at the Mass General Cancer Center offers free wellness services, education and support workshops. Learn more about the program and view the calendar of events here.

Massage Therapy
Experience how massage can help decrease stress, anxiety and muscle tension. Chair massages sessions are offered to radiation oncology patients and family members to promote relaxation. Sessions are provided by a Licensed Massage Therapist.

Music Therapy
Experience music’s ability to increase coping skills and promote relaxation. Sessions are led by Music Therapists. No musical ability is required.

Oncology Resource Specialist
Our Social Work Oncology Resource Specialist is available to give you information about community transportation options if you need assistance getting to your appointments and to provide information about temporary lodging for patients who require local housing during their course of treatment.

Patient Navigator
The Patient Navigator is available to meet with newly diagnosed patients to assist with access issues, local housing, including the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge and Home Away From Home. Our Patient Navigator will introduce other available resources within the Cancer Center, MGH, outside facilities and within the community.

Social Work 
Attend monthly sessions on various topics to learn how to cope and balance personal and family needs as you go through treatment. Learn about other resources available to patients and families. Monthly sessions are led by a Licensed Social Worker.

Speech, language and Swallowing Pathology
Speech-language pathologists work collaboratively with our Radiation Oncologists treating patients with head and neck malignancies, to maximize the patient’s communication and oral and pharyngeal swallowing abilities to help them function at an optimal level.

Spiritual Well-being  
Informal sessions, led by the Oncology Chaplain, are offered to help patients renew and refresh their spirits.

Toy and Sibling Program for Pediatric Patients
Toy Friday is an anticipated day for all the children under treatment.  The toys are a reward for a “job well done” during that week.  Siblings are also acknowledged, and share in the fun of selecting a toy from the Treasure Cabinet each week.

All sessions and services are free of charge.

Program offerings may vary at our Emerson Hospital, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, and North Shore Danvers locations.