When Cancer Enters the Therapy Room: The Lived Experience of Psychodynamic Therapists Working with Clients with a Recent Diagnosis of Cancer

Abstract

The psychological impact of cancer is becoming well-acknowledged. Given its prevalence, practitioners will encounter cancer in their therapy rooms. There is limited research on the experience and application of psychodynamic therapy for clients with cancer. This study generates a new understanding through the experience of psychodynamic practitioners. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight UK psychodynamic therapists on their lived experience of working with client(s) with a recent (less than 5 years) diagnosis of cancer. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The findings reveal that psychodynamic therapists' experience with clients with cancer is emotionally demanding, mentally stimulating and deeply personal. They point to the unique space that psychodynamic therapy provides and highlight some of the challenges. The analysis is understood through the framework of psychodynamic theory and practice.