Press Release

Columbia School of Social Work, CancerCare^® and University of Washington School of Social Work Introduce the Handbook of Oncology Social Work

Columbia School of Social Work, CancerCare and University of Washington School of Social Work applaud the publication of the “Handbook of Oncology Social Work: Psychosocial Care for People with Cancer,” published by Oxford University Press.

The development of this inaugural Handbook of Oncology Social Work provides an up-to-date repository of the scope of oncology social workers’ clinical practice, education, research, policy, and program leadership in the psychosocial care of people with cancer and their families. It addresses both the science and art of psychosocial care and identifies the increasing specialization of oncology social work related to its unique knowledge base, skills, role and the progressive complexity of psychosocial challenges for patients with cancer.

The Handbook’s editors are Grace Christ, DSW/PhD, Professor Emerita, Research Scientist, Columbia School of Social Work; Carolyn Messner, DSW, OSW-C, LCSW-R, Director of Education and Training, CancerCare; and Lynn Behar, PhD, LICSW, OSW-C, and Founder, Carol LaMare Program for Oncology and Palliative Social Work, University of Washington School of Social Work.

The “Handbook of Oncology Social Work: Psychosocial Care for People with Cancer” includes 109 chapters by 160 authors and is available now for order.

Advance Praise of the Handbook of Oncology Social Work

“This long-awaited volume written by pioneers in the field, provides a wealth of evidence-based information on how to deliver cancer care for the whole person ... a must read for anyone practicing in oncology.”

-- Julia H. Rowland, PhD, Director, Office of Cancer Survivorship, National Cancer Institute, NIH/DHHS

About Columbia School of Social Work

Columbia School of Social Work has been a leader in social work education and research since 1898. It joins rigorous academic theory with real-world practice to enhance the welfare of citizens and communities in New York City, the nation and around the world. To learn more, visit www.socialwork.columbia.edu.

About CancerCare^®

Founded in 1944, CancerCare is the leading national organization providing free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. Our comprehensive services include counseling and support groups over the phone, online and in-person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. All CancerCare services are provided by oncology social workers and world-leading cancer experts. Headquartered in New York, NY, CancerCare maintains three additional locations in Norwalk, CT, Ridgewood, NJ and Syosset, NY. To learn more, visit www.cancercare.org or call 800-813-HOPE (4673).

About University of Washington School of Social Work

Founded in 1934, and celebrating 80 years of impact, the University of Washington School of Social Work is a recognized leader in solving the most demanding social issues of our day through rigorous research, academic innovation and public service. Visit
www.socialwork.uw.edu to learn more.

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