Fellowship in clinical psycho oncology

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Fellowship in Clinical Psycho-Oncology

Course Overview

Cancer does not affect only the body, it deeply impacts the mind, emotions, and overall well-being of patients and their families. Psychological distress, depression, anxiety, and fear of recurrence are common in cancer patients, and addressing these concerns is as critical as treating the disease itself. Psycho-oncology bridges the gap between mental health and cancer care, ensuring patients receive holistic, compassionate, and comprehensive treatment.

The Fellowship in Clinical Psycho-Oncology at HCG is designed to train mental health professionals in the specialized psychological assessment and management of cancer patients. The program equips fellows with advanced knowledge in psychological interventions, counseling techniques, palliative care support, survivorship programs, and family therapy.

Conducted at HCG’s leading oncology centers, fellows gain exposure to real-world clinical practice, multidisciplinary teamwork, and mentorship from experienced psycho-oncologists and oncologists. The fellowship emphasizes evidence-based care, research, and patient-centered approaches, preparing participants to play a vital role in improving cancer care outcomes.

By enrolling in this fellowship, you will become a part of a growing field that empowers patients to cope, heal, and live with dignity throughout their cancer journey.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Rising emotional burden of cancer: Psychological care is often overlooked, despite its proven impact on recovery and quality of life.
Global need for specialists: Psycho-oncology is a growing discipline with a shortage of trained professionals worldwide.
Holistic cancer care: Addressing mental health alongside physical treatment improves patient compliance and survival outcomes.
HCG advantage: As a leader in oncology, HCG offers fellows exposure to diverse cases, multidisciplinary learning, and supportive care excellence.

Fellowship Highlights

Specialized Training in Psycho-Oncology: Learn psychological assessment, counseling, and therapy tailored to cancer patients.
Hands-On Clinical Experience: Direct involvement in patient counseling, survivorship programs, and palliative care settings.
Mentorship from Experts: Guidance from experienced psycho-oncologists, psychiatrists, and oncology specialists.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside oncologists, nurses, and palliative care teams for integrated cancer care.
Research and Academic Growth: Opportunities to engage in psycho-oncology research, publications, and global conferences.
Career Advancement: Prepare for roles in hospitals, cancer care centers, research institutes, and academic settings worldwide.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the Fellowship in Clinical Psycho-Oncology, fellows will be able to:

Assess Psychological Needs in Cancer Patients: Identify and manage distress, depression, anxiety, and coping challenges.
Provide Evidence-Based Interventions: Deliver counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and family therapy.
Support Patients Across the Cancer Journey: Work in prevention, active treatment, survivorship, and end-of-life care settings.
Collaborate in Multidisciplinary Teams: Contribute to holistic treatment planning with oncologists and allied health professionals.
Enhance Quality of Life: Empower patients and families to cope with emotional and social challenges of cancer.
Contribute to Research and Education: Advance the field of psycho-oncology through clinical studies, publications, and training future professionals.

Eligibility:

M.Sc./MA/MPhil/PhD Clinical Psychology or Counselling Psychology

FAQs:

Candidates with M.Sc. in Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry, or Counseling are eligible.

Fellows learn psychological assessment, counseling, therapy techniques, and palliative care support for cancer patients.

Duration is usually 6–12 months, including patient interactions and research projects.

Yes. Fellows counsel patients and families during treatment, survivorship, and palliative care.

Graduates can work in psycho-oncology clinics, cancer hospitals, research, or counseling centers.

Program Directors:

Dr. Brindha Sitaram

Group Head, Department of Psycho-oncology HCG Cancer Center, Bangalore

Fellowship in Clinical Psycho-Oncology