Key Learning Objectives: 

1. Understand Cancer Incidence and Patient Concerns: Explore the prevalence of cancer and identify the most common physical, emotional, and mental health concerns that patients face, such as anxiety, depression, and changes in quality of life, to inform supportive care strategies.

2. Support Families Impacted by Cancer: Develop strategies to provide holistic support to families, addressing emotional, psychological, and practical challenges. This includes understanding the shifting family dynamics and how to assist them in navigating these changes effectively.

3. Enhance Communication Skills with Cancer Patients: Learn and practice effective communication techniques that prioritize empathy and understanding, enabling healthcare providers and caregivers to address the unique emotional and psychological needs of cancer patients with sensitivity.

4. Identify and Utilize Community Resources for Families: Gain knowledge of available community resources and support systems that can assist families affected by cancer, ensuring they have access to necessary services and emotional support throughout the treatment and recovery process.

Course admission requirements:

Minimum of a Master's Degree in a mental health or related field; or be a student in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. In Low- and Middle-Income Countries, a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field is required.

MEET THE PRESENTER

LARA ANDERSON SAINTE, LCSW, 

Clara Anderson Sainte is a licensed clinical social worker with expertise in grief and loss, chronic illness, cancer, depression, anxiety and trauma. She is certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trained as a Grief Recovery Specialist. 

Clara believes therapy is most effective when individuals can be their authentic selves, a principle that guides her practice. She ensures her clients feel understood and heard, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. Her private practice welcomes adults of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, religious or spiritual beliefs and body types of abilities. Clara's clients appreciate her relatable approach of implementing humor and sarcasm in her sessions as they navigate complex and heavy issues. 

In addition to her private practice, Clara serves her community in multiple roles. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare and a clinical social work supervisor. She also works as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant and Continuing Education Coach. Her past roles includes serving as the 6th District Commissioner on Kansas City's LGBTQ Commission, Chair of Children's Mercy's Equity & Diversity Council, board member for Big Brother Big Sisters KC DEI Board and volunteer Big, board member of KC Center for Inclusion Board of Directors, Vice Chair of Mental Health America of the Heartland Board of Directors, and healthcare instructor at Johnson County Community College.