Cancer Council Queensland has delivered more than 21,000 counselling sessions in the past decade through its free service, which celebrates its 10th birthday in Brisbane today.
Since the Cancer Counselling Service opened in April 2004, more than 7600 Queenslanders impacted by cancer have received support through face-to-face or telephone counselling.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said the Cancer Counselling Service was vital for cancer patients and families throughout Queensland.
“Up to one third of all cancer patients experience clinically significant distress – there is an overwhelming need for ongoing help for Queenslanders affected,” Ms Clift said.
“Our counselling service helps people dealing with a range of issues from stress and difficulty coping to depression, anxiety, grief, loss, treatment, side effects and relationship problems.
“While free, confidential telephone counselling is available to anyone in Queensland, face-to-face counselling is also offered in Brisbane and selected regional offices.
“We’re proud that more than half of all Queenslanders who have accessed our services in the past 10 years live in regional parts of the state.
“63 per cent of people received counselling by telephone and 37 per cent face-to-face at one of our regional offices.
“Our qualified psychologists help clients talk through problems, learn ways to manage stress, set new life goals and find effective ways to talk to family and friends about their concerns.
“CCQ looks forward to the next ten years and beyond – helping more Queenslanders affected by cancer, ensuring no one has to face this disease alone.
“Patients and their loved ones can get referrals to the service from their health professional or by calling Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.”
Ms Clift said the Helpline was a free call* from anywhere in Queensland and also offered information, resources and connection to support programs and advocacy services for those affected by cancer.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland’s Cancer Counselling Service is available via cancerqld.org.au.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5372 or 0409 001 171
*Calls from mobile phones incur standard mobile call charges