Oncology Counselling at Minnerva Clinic
— Gentle Support Before, During & After Your Cancer Journey
Cancer Counselling for Women – Speak Freely, Heal Fully
Hearing words like “abnormal cells,” “biopsy,” “surgery,” or even "cancer" can feel incredibly overwhelming. One day, you might feel perfectly fine, going about your daily life, and the next, you're suddenly full of questions, worries, and uncertainty. It's like a sudden storm has appeared, and you might feel confused, anxious, or completely alone.
This is a very common and human response. You are not alone in these feelings.
At Minnerva Clinic, we understand that facing a health concern, especially one related to cancer, affects more than just your body. It impacts your mind, your emotions, and even your ability to make clear decisions. That's why, beyond screenings and treatments, we offer dedicated Oncology Counselling. These are safe, private sessions where you can talk freely, ask every question on your mind, and feel truly supported throughout your health journey.
Let’s talk — no fear, no rush, just real support.
What Is Oncology Counselling?
Think of Oncology Counselling as a safe, private conversation with a compassionate doctor or a specially trained cancer support expert. It's a space created just for you to unpack your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
During these sessions, you can share anything that's on your mind, such as:
- Your fears: It’s okay to be scared. You can talk about your deepest worries, big or small, without feeling silly or over-emotional.
- Your questions: You might have many questions about your test results, what comes next, or even what certain medical words mean. We’re here to answer them all, simply and clearly.
- Your thoughts about treatment or diagnosis: You might be weighing different options or wondering how a diagnosis will impact your life, family, or work. This is a place to explore those thoughts openly.
We listen without judgment and explain everything gently. We won't rush you, and we won't tell you what to do. Our role is to offer clarity, comfort, and understanding.
It’s important to know that it’s not just about medical information – it’s about you as a whole person. We recognise that your emotional well-being is just as vital as your physical health, especially during challenging times. This counselling is designed to support your mind and heart, not just your body.
Who Needs This Service?
Oncology Counselling at Minnerva Clinic is for any woman aged 25 to 65+ who is facing concerns related to gynaecological cancer. You might find this service helpful if you:
- Just received an abnormal Pap smear or other test result: This can be a confusing time, and we can help you understand what the result means and what might happen next.
- Are waiting anxiously for biopsy or scan reports: The waiting period can be incredibly stressful. Counselling can help you manage that anxiety and prepare for whatever news may come.
- Feel confused or overwhelmed about treatment choices: If you're presented with different medical options and don't know which path to take, we can help break down the information and guide your decision-making process.
- Are afraid of side effects, surgery, or the treatment process: It's normal to have fears about medical procedures and their impact. We can talk through these fears and help you prepare.
- Have a family history of cancer and are worried about your own risk: If cancer runs in your family, you might carry a lot of unspoken worry. We can help you understand your risk and offer peace of mind.
- Are you struggling with emotional challenges after a diagnosis? If you're feeling sad, angry, anxious, or just numb after hearing difficult news, we provide a safe space to process these emotions.
- Simply want to understand more and feel heard: Sometimes, you just need a dedicated space to ask all your "what if" questions and have someone truly listen to your concerns.
- Feel alone or isolated in your journey: You don't have to carry this burden by yourself. Our compassionate team is here to walk alongside you.
- Are you trying to explain your situation to family members? We can help you find words to communicate with your loved ones about your diagnosis or treatment plan.
No matter where you are in your journey, if you feel any level of confusion, anxiety, or simply need a space to talk, this service is for you.
What Happens During a Counselling Session?
When you come for an Oncology Counselling session at Minnerva Clinic, your comfort and privacy are our top priorities.
- Private room, no interruptions: You'll have your session in a calm, private room where you can speak freely without worrying about being overheard or interrupted.
- Speak with Dr. Pragya or a trained support expert: Your session will be with our experienced lead gynaecologist, Dr. Pragya Gupta, or another compassionate, trained support expert on our all-women team.
- You choose what to talk about — we don’t rush or push: This is your time. You decide what topics are most important to you. We follow your lead and respect your pace.
During the session, we can help you in many ways:
- Explain your test results simply: We'll break down any medical jargon and explain what your reports truly mean for your health.
- Discuss all treatment options simply: We can walk you through each option, explaining the benefits, risks, and what to expect.
- Help you talk to family if you’re unsure how: We can help you think through how to approach these conversations.
- Support your emotional and mental health: We provide a safe space for you to express all emotions and can suggest coping strategies.
- Answer every question: No question is too small or silly. We encourage you to ask everything on your mind.
- Connect you with resources: If needed, we can guide you to other helpful resources, such as support groups.
Our aim is for you to leave your session feeling clearer, calmer, and more capable of facing your health journey.
Topics Women Often Talk About
Women come to Oncology Counselling with a wide range of questions and feelings. Here are some of the topics that women often bring up in their private sessions:
“What does my report mean? I don't understand the medical words.”
Our response: We'll break down your lab results into plain, easy-to-understand language, explaining each term and what it means for your health.
“Is this cancer? Am I going to die?”
Our response: We address these very real and scary fears directly but gently. We'll clarify your diagnosis, explain the likelihood, and focus on what we do know and what steps can be taken.
“Do I have to go through surgery? Are there other ways?”
Our response: We will explain all your treatment options, including surgery, medication, and less invasive approaches. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each, empowering you to make an informed choice.
“What will my family think? How do I tell my husband/children?”
Our response: We can explore ways to communicate with your loved ones, help you find the right words, and discuss strategies for managing family reactions.
“I’m scared — is that normal? I feel so alone.”
Our response: Yes, it is completely normal to feel scared, anxious, or alone. We validate your feelings and reassure you that you are not alone. This is a safe space to express every emotion.
“How do I prepare for treatment? What will it feel like?”
Our response: We can help you mentally and practically prepare for any upcoming treatments, discussing potential side effects, coping strategies, and what to expect during the process.
“I don’t want medicine — are there other options for my condition?”
Our response: We will discuss all viable options, including non-medical or lifestyle approaches, where appropriate, and respect your preferences regarding treatment.
“Will I still be able to work/care for my family/live a normal life?”
Our response: We can discuss the potential impact of your condition or treatment on your daily life and help you plan for adjustments, connecting you with resources if needed.
“Why did this happen to me?”
Our response: While we can't always pinpoint an exact reason, we can help you process feelings of unfairness or guilt and focus on moving forward with strength and hope.
No matter what is on your mind, we are here to listen with an open heart and provide the support you need.
Why It Matters
You might wonder if simply talking about your concerns can make a real difference when facing a health challenge like cancer. The answer is a resounding yes. When your mind feels calmer and clearer, your body is often better able to heal and cope.
Oncology Counselling helps you in profound ways:
- Feel less afraid: Understanding your situation, having your fears acknowledged, and knowing you have support can significantly reduce anxiety and fear. Knowledge and support empower you.
- Understand your options fully: When you grasp all the medical information and choices clearly, you feel more in control. This clarity allows you to make decisions that truly align with your values and wishes.
- Make choices with confidence: Instead of feeling pushed into a decision, you'll feel confident and empowered in the choices you make about your care, knowing you've considered everything thoughtfully.
- Stay strong emotionally during recovery: A calm and prepared mind is a powerful asset during any healing process. Counselling helps you build emotional resilience and coping strategies, supporting your overall well-being during and after treatment.
- Improve communication with loved ones: By processing your feelings and understanding how to talk about your situation, you can improve communication with your family and friends, fostering stronger support systems.
- Reduce isolation: Knowing you have a dedicated, non-judgmental space to share your deepest concerns can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Improve overall quality of life: When the emotional burden is lighter, you can focus more energy on healing, living, and enjoying life, even amidst health challenges.
Oncology Counselling is not just an add-on; it's an essential part of comprehensive, compassionate care that supports your whole self.
How Minnerva Makes It Safe
Your emotional safety and comfort are paramount when discussing sensitive health concerns. At Minnerva Clinic, we've carefully created an environment where you can feel completely secure and supported.
- Women-only team: Our entire team, including our doctors and support staff, is all women. This creates a unique atmosphere of understanding, empathy, and trust. You can share your most personal feelings and concerns without any hesitation or discomfort.
- You are never judged or rushed: We offer a non-judgmental space where all your feelings are valid. You will never feel hurried or pressured to make decisions. Your pace is our pace.
- We speak in your language and pace: We avoid complex medical jargon. Our team will explain everything clearly, simply, and patiently, ensuring you truly understand what's being discussed. We adjust our communication style to your needs.
- Counselling is always private and confidential: What you share in your counselling session stays strictly confidential. Your privacy is protected at all times, allowing you to speak freely and honestly.
- Available in-person or by call (if arranged in advance): We offer flexibility to suit your needs. You can choose to have your counselling session in our calming clinic, or if it's more convenient and arranged beforehand, we can conduct sessions over the phone.
At Minnerva Clinic, we believe that true healing begins when you feel safe, heard, and deeply supported.
When to Book Counselling
You don't need a specific diagnosis or a "big" reason to book an Oncology Counselling session. If you're feeling any level of confusion, anxiety, or simply need a safe space to talk, that's reason enough.
Here are some common times when women find counselling particularly helpful:
- Before or after a screening: If you're feeling anxious about an upcoming Pap smear or mammogram, or if you've just had one and want to understand the typical next steps.
- While waiting for test results: The waiting period for biopsy or scan results can be incredibly stressful. Counselling can help you manage this anxiety.
- When facing treatment choices: If you've received a diagnosis and are weighing different treatment options (like surgery, medication, or other therapies), and need clarity to make a confident decision.
- During or after active treatment: To cope with the physical and emotional demands of treatment, manage side effects, or process feelings once treatment is complete.
- Anytime you feel unsure, scared, or stuck: You don't need a medical reason; if you feel overwhelmed by thoughts or emotions related to your health or a potential diagnosis, please reach out.
- Even if it’s just “I need to talk”: Sometimes, you just need to voice your fears, worries, or frustrations to a compassionate, expert listener. We're here for that.
- When you're trying to support a loved one with cancer: Understanding their journey and how to best support them can also be a topic for your counselling session.
You are welcome to reach out to us at any point in your health journey.
Testimonials
"After my biopsy, I couldn’t sleep. My mind was racing with so many 'what ifs.' The counselling session with Dr. Gupta helped me breathe again. She listened patiently and calmly explained everything, which brought immense peace."
"I received an abnormal report and just didn’t understand what it meant. Dr. Pragya explained it in such simple words, without any medical jargon. She helped me choose my next steps calmly and confidently. I felt so much more in control."
"When I found out about the cell changes, I felt so alone. The counselling session made me realise I had support. It wasn't just about the medical facts; it was about my feelings. I left feeling much stronger."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this like therapy?
While Oncology Counselling shares some similarities with traditional therapy in providing a safe space to talk, its focus is specifically on the emotional, practical, and decision-making aspects of a cancer concern or diagnosis. It's about giving you clarity and support related to your health journey, rather than deep-seated psychological issues.
What if I cry or get emotional during the session?
It's absolutely, 100% okay to cry or get emotional during your session. These are very natural and healthy responses to stress, fear, and uncertainty. Our team is here to support you with kindness and empathy, without judgment. We provide a safe space for all your feelings.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a trusted family member or friend with you to your counselling session if that makes you feel more comfortable. Sometimes, having an extra set of ears can be helpful, and a loved one might also have questions.
Is this free or part of a package?
Oncology Counselling is a dedicated service offered by Minnerva Clinic. Please contact us directly to inquire about the fee structure and how our services are provided. We aim to be transparent and helpful with all information.
Will you tell me what to do?
No, we will not tell you what to do. Our role is to provide you with all the clear, factual information, explain all your options simply, answer your questions, and support you emotionally. The ultimate decisions about your health and treatment plan are always yours, and we will empower you to make choices that feel right for you.
Can I come even if I don’t have cancer?
Absolutely, yes. Oncology Counselling is often most helpful before a cancer diagnosis is even made. If you've received an abnormal screening result, are waiting for test results, or simply feel anxious about your risk due to family history, you are welcome to book a session. It’s about prevention and early support.
Related Services to Link
Cervical Cancer Screening – If you haven’t had your regular cervical or vaginal health check yet.
Precancerous Lesion Management – Learn about the next steps and gentle treatments if abnormal cells are found during screening.
Endometrial / Uterine Cancer Screening – For women experiencing abnormal bleeding or with specific risk factors for uterine health.
Medical & Surgical Cancer Care – If advanced support and treatment options are needed for a cancer diagnosis.
Emotional Support in Menopause or PCOS – For general emotional support and well-being, especially related to hormonal changes or conditions like PCOS.