Nurturing Hope: The Role of Social Workers on Healthcare Teams

Cancer is a word we all fear because at some level we understand its inherent magnitude—when an individual receives a cancer diagnosis their world changes completely. Cancer not only affects the physical health of individuals but also deeply influences their emotional and social well-being. Coping with a cancer diagnosis involves navigating a complex web of challenges. Within the realm of social work, a concentration in psychosocial oncology can equip practitioners with the tools and knowledge to provide comprehensive support to individuals and families facing cancer.

What is Psychosocial Oncology?

Psychosocial oncology is a specialized field within social work that addresses the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, sexual, and cultural aspects of care needed for managing any chronic or life-limiting disease. Professionals in this field understand that cancer and other life-limiting conditions affect more than just the body; it touches every aspect of a person’s life. From diagnosis through survivorship or end-of-life care, oncology social workers offer support to help individuals and families cope with the challenges these diagnoses can present. Here are some crucial roles psychosocial oncology practitioners may play on the healthcare team:

• Help weighing decisions regarding treatment and advocating for patients’ rights
• Assistance with non-medical, practical issues such as housing, transportation, childcare, and food insecurity
• Offer support for emotional issues that can arise such as anxiety, depression, sadness, and worry
• Advise and guide individuals on navigating the complexities of interpersonal relationships with their spouse/partner, families, and coworkers
• Aid in navigating spiritual concerns like changes in faith or beliefs, ritual or dietary needs, conflicts between beliefs and treatment plans, death, dying, or the afterlife

Is Psychosocial Oncology the Right Career Path for Me?

The psychosocial oncology concentration would be an ideal fit for you if you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing cancer and are eager to specialize in an area where compassion, empathy and expertise converge to offer comprehensive, psychosocial care. The psychosocial oncology concentration available within the online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program at the University of Louisville (UofL) has existed for 14 years and is the only program of its kind nationally. The courses for the psychosocial oncology concentration at UofL are taught through the lens of cancer treatment, but the knowledge and expertise are transferable to any chronic or life-limiting disease. This concentration focuses on the holistic needs of individuals and families affected by terminal or chronic diseases. Our graduates play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life and promoting resilience in the face of adversity. In the healthcare journey, psychosocial oncology social workers are beacons of support, compassion, and hope.

Here are some of the roles you may be qualified for as a graduate of the online MSSW program with a concentration in psychosocial oncology:

• Oncology social worker
• Social worker in behavioral health
• Counselor
• Patient navigator
• Palliative care social worker
• Hospice social worker

Earn Your MSSW at UofL

UofL’s online master’s in social work focuses on expanding students’ application of methods and decision-making practices that promote social justice and build stronger communities. The psychosocial oncology concentration is one of six concentrations students can pursue when completing our Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited, highly ranked MSSW. The other options are Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Gerontology, Mental Health, Military Social Work, Psychosocial Oncology or School Social Work*. Students who choose the psychosocial concentration can expect to take courses like:

• MSSW 647 Psychosocial Practice in Oncology I Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families in Healthcare**
• MSSW 648 Psychosocial Practice in Oncology II: Social Work Practice to Promote Health Equity**
• MSSW 633 Social Work and Human Sexuality
• MSSW 636 Advanced Death and Grief
• MSSW 684 Spirituality and Social Work

All social work programs at UofL are offered through the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work and Family Science (Kent School). Since its founding in 1936, the Kent School has been a catalyst for change with a mission to empower and transform lives. After nearly a decade of preparing students to work in a society with complex social problems and needs, the Kent School has earned its place among the top social work programs. The MSSW is ranked as one of the top programs in the state of Kentucky and is nationally ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Through rigorous academic programs, hands-on practicum experiences, and a supportive learning environment, the Kent School curriculum has been expertly designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become compassionate and capable practitioners.

If psychosocial oncology, or any of the MSSW concentrations, sounds like the right fit for you, request more information on our website to be contacted by a member of our enrollment team.
Are you looking for an undergraduate program? There is a nationally ranked online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) available from the Kent School, and you can read more on our website.

* The school social work concentration is available to Kentucky residents only.

** Required coursework toward the Psychosocial Oncology concentration.