Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (CALM)
CALM is a counselling approach for those diagnosed with advanced cancer.
It is designed to alleviate distress, with counselling focused on four topics:
- symptom management and communication with healthcare providers;
- changes in self and relations with close others;
- sense of meaning and purpose; and
- the future and mortality.
What is included in counselling?
- Conversations about symptom management
- Hope, meaning, and the future
- There is also the opportunity to include a loved one
If you'd like more information...
More information is also available in the Frequently Asked Questions section below.
To arrange a referral to CALM, please speak with your oncology team or your family physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CALM intervention is intended for adults with advanced cancer.
Counselling is provided by our team of trained counselling professionals. Our lead clinician is Dr. Janet de Groot.
Research has shown that CALM sessions with a trained counselling professional help to reduce and prevent psychological distress. Counselling sessions are designed to help people with advanced cancer and their close others manage commonly experienced practical and profound concerns related to advanced disease.
You will meet with your counsellor for three to six sessions, with the option of additional sessions if desired.
Appointments are available from Monday to Friday.
Psychosocial Resources Department
Tom Baker Cancer Centre or Holy Cross Centre
2202 - 2nd Street, SW, Calgary (North Entrance)
If preferred, virtual counselling sessions are also available. Virtual counselling is offered over the phone, Zoom and MyAHSConnect.
The first appointment will take about 60-90 minutes. Additional appointments will be scheduled over the next 6 months, for a total of three to six appointments. You are encouraged to ask a close other (partner, adult child, close family member/friend) to attend with you.
The CALM Implementation Study (Now Completed)
More information on the CALM Implementation Study for clinicians and academics.
The CALM Team
Learn more about the CALM team.
Referrals
Contact us if you are interested in learning more, or if you are a service provider who would like to refer a patient.