On This Page
- For Women
- For Men
- For Breast Cancer Patients
- For Gynecological Cancer Patients
- For Liver Cancer Patients
- For Lung Cancer Patients
- For Myeloma – Amyloidosis Patients
- For Pancreatic Cancer Patients
- For All Cancer Patients
- Tobacco Cessation
- For Caregivers Of Cancer Patients
For Women:
Look Good, Feel Better (American Cancer Society)
The Look Good, Feel Better program helps women who are undergoing cancer treatment deal with the cosmetic changes that may occur during treatment and provides women with a complimentary kit of makeup and an opportunity to be with others sharing similar experiences.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Free to all women with any cancer diagnosis
CONTACT: Madeleine Encarnacion (212-305-6320)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: 10:00am - 12:00pm
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
New York City Wig Program (American Cancer Society)
Female cancer patients can call and schedule an appointment for a one-on-one consultation to be fitted for one free new wig of their choice. Patients are also given accessories such as a hat, scarf, wig cap or turban. Consultations take place at the Manhattan ACS office.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Female cancer patients who are in need of a wig or accessory
CONTACT: Joelle Vasquez (212-237-3816)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
Cancer Genetics Program
Our Cancer Genetics Program offers education, genetic counseling, testing and research. It is tailored to the individual concerns of each patient, based on medical and family history. There is the opportunity for close collaboration, medical follow-up, and psychological support through the Columbia University Medical Center Comprehensive Breast Center.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Women – men with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
CONTACT: Donna Russo (212-305-0190 or [email protected])
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
Woman To Woman
Is a team gynecological cancer survivors who are peer supporters to newly diagnosed women. The premise of the group is "to know the road ahead ask those coming back" while getting chemotherapy and radiation. Woman to Woman offers phone support and comfort bags.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Female Gynecological Cancers
CONTACT: Ellen Kapito (212-305-8243)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: By Appointment
Depression – Trauma Therapy Group In Spanish
The group is open to women who are 30-40 years old and are currently seeking therapy.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Women who are 30-40 years old
CONTACT: Brenda Mejia-Smith, PhD (212-305-4814)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: By Appointment
Depression – Trauma Therapy Group In Spanish
This group is open to women who are 30-40 years old and who are currently seeking therapy.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Free to all women who are currently seeking therapy
CONTACT: Brenda Mejia-Smith, PhD (212-305-4814)
MEETING DATES: Call for meeting dates
TIMES: Call for meeting times
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
For Men:
Brother To Brother (American Cancer Society)
A forum for men to learn about prostate cancer diagnoses, treatment options, and coping techniques.
WHO MAY ATTEND: African american men and their families dealing with prostate cancer
CONTACT: Rosemary Perez (212-237-3917)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
For Breast Cancer Patients:
Reach To Recovery (American Cancer Society)
Trained breast cancer survivors provide one-on-one support and up-to-date information to individuals facing breast cancer diagnoses, treatment, recurrence or recovery. When appropriate, volunteers will provide breast cancer patients with a mastectomy kit, which includes a temporary dacron fiber prostheses and nylon cover, a special pocketed bra, and information on the procedure, types of permanent prostheses and where they are locally available. A lumpectomy kit is also available. It provides patients with information on lumpectomies and radiation.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Breast Cancer Patients
CONTACT: Joelle Vasquez (212-237-3816)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
The Women At Risk Stacey Garil Womack Resource Library
Provides information and support to breast cancer patients at the Herbert Irving Pavilion Comprehensive Cancer Center.
CONTACT: Angela Heller, LMSW (212-305-2347)
Women At Risk (English)
WHO MAY ATTEND: English Speaking Female Breast Cancer Patients
CONTACT: Geri Lipschitz, LESW-R (212-305-2527)
MEETING DATES: 2nd – 4th Fridays of every month
TIMES: 2:00 - 3:30pm
LOCATION: Garden Conference Room, Herbert Irving Pavilion
161 Fort Washington Avenue
Women At Risk (Spanish)
WHO MAY ATTEND: Spanish Speaking Female Breast Cancer Patients
CONTACT: Jenny Saldana (212-305-9894 or [email protected])
MEETING DATES: 1/08/15, 3/12/15, 3/26/15, 4/09/15, 4/23/15, 5/14/15, 5/28/15, 6/11/15, 6/25/15
TIMES: 10:00 - 11:30am
LOCATION: Room 213, Reemtsma Conference Room, 7th Floor
Milstein Building, 177 Fort Washington Avenue
For Gynecological Cancer Patients:
Gynecological Oncology Patient Navigator - American Cancer Society
CONTACT: Rosemary Perez Bell (212-237-3917)
MEETING DATES: Wednesdays
TIMES: 10:00am - 1:00pm
LOCATION: 8th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
Gynecological Oncology Support Group
CONTACT: Geri Lipschitz (212-305-2527)
MEETING DATES: Second Tuesday of the Month
TIMES: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION: 8th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
For Liver Cancer Patients:
Liver Disease – Transplantation Patient Education Workshops
Educational workshops for pre- and post-transplant patients are held four times per year in 8 weekly sessions. Topics include: an overview of liver disease, including listing criteria for transplant, liver transplantation options: deceased donor vs. living donation, Immunosuppressant medications and their side-effects, patients' stories of transplant, tour of the operating room and ICUs, pain management, stress management, nutrition, physical therapy, psychological healing and post-transplant complications.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Pre- and Post-Transplant Patients – their Caregivers
CONTACT: Aimee Muth (212-305-1884)
MEETING DATES: Thursdays
TIMES: 3:00-4:20pm
LOCATION: Room 2, First Floor, Russ Berrie Medical Science Pavilion, 1150 St Nicholas Avenue at 168th Street
Liver: Post-Transplant Support Group
WHO MAY ATTEND: Post-Transplant Patients – Families
CONTACT: Aimee Muth (212-305-1884)
MEETING DATES: 1st – 3rd Thursdays
TIMES: 10:00 - 11:30am
LOCATION: Room 213, 7 Hudson South, Reemtsma Conference Room, Milstein Hospital Building, 117 Fort Washington
For Lung Cancer Patients:
Lung Cancer Support Group
Support groups and private counseling sessions for patients and/or families are available through our social work services. Comprised of a team of experts who specialize in treating and counseling patients with lung cancer.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Lung Cancer Patients – Their Caregivers
CONTACT: Diane Den Bleyker (646-317-2151) – Tina Sapienza (212-305-5274)
MEETING DATES: 1st Tuesday of Every Month
TIMES: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION: 14th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
For Myeloma – Amyloidosis Patients:
Multiple Myeloma Support Group (Leukemia – Lymphoma Society)
WHO MAY ATTEND: Myeloma – Amyloidosis Patients
CONTACT: Bridget Sheehy ([email protected] or 646-317-4965)
MEETING DATES: 2nd Wednesday of Every Month
TIMES: 1:00 - 2:30pm
(Advanced Registration Required)
LOCATION:Call for directions – to register
For Pancreatic Cancer Patients:
Pancreatic Hope Network
The Pancreatic Hope Network is comprised of previous patients from The Pancreas Center at NYP/Columbia who are here for you to contact. Whether you are looking to develop relationships with other patients who have shared similar experiences or are looking to talk to someone just once, The Pancreatic Hope Network is here for you. We will put you in touch with someone while working around whatever means of communication and level of involvement that is most comfortable for you. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Pancreatic cancer patients – their caregivers
CONTACT: 212-305-9467
The Pancreatic Center Nutritionist
WHO MAY ATTEND: Pancreatic Patients – Their Caregivers
CONTACT: Kristin Greenspan-Addona (212-305-9028)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: Infusion Center
The Pancreatic Center Psychological Support
Support groups and private counseling sessions for patients and/or families are available through our social work services. Comprised of a team of experts who specialize in treating and counseling patients with cancer, the program aims to evaluate how well the patient is living with pancreatic cancer and to develop strategies to improve and restore the patient's quality of life.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Pancreatic Patients – Their Caregivers
CONTACT: Geri Lipschitz (212-305-2527)
MEETING DATES: 3rd Tuesday of Every Month
TIMES: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION: 5th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
For All Cancer Patients:
The Chaplain Is In
Multi-Faith Chaplains available for spiritual and emotional support
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Patients – Caregivers
CONTACT: Linda Golding (212-305-5817)
MEETING DATES: Mondays & Wednesdays
TIMES: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
LOCATION: 14th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
On Site Patient Navigator –American Cancer Society
CONTACT: Claudia Molina ([email protected])
MEETING DATES: Monday - Friday
TIMES: 2:00 - 3:30pm
LOCATION: 14th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
Social Work
Social workers are available to meet with patients, families and caregivers to offer emotional support while coping with illness, short-term counseling, referrals to psychiatrists and long-term psychotherapists, as well as links to community resources and support groups.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Patients – Caregivers
CONTACT: Angela Lloyd (212-305-2347)
MEETING DATES: Monday - Friday
TIMES: 9:00am - 5:00pm
HealthOutreach
HealthOutreach offers individuals 60 and older lectures and workshops by physicians, dieticians, psychologists, social workers and other healthcare specialists. Expert guidance is available to help you make informed decisions regarding health insurance coverage and resolve insurance issues. Professional staff can assist you in accessing the hospital and community services. HealthOutreach organizes cultural events that offer introduction to new ideas and friendships.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Older adults (60 years old and above)
CONTACT: 212-746-4365
Palliative Care Clinic - Outpatient
Outpatient palliative care clinic that provides symptom management.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Patients
CONTACT: (212-305-7114)
MEETING DATES: Tuesdays
TIMES: Mornings
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
Individualized Outpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy And Counseling Services
Registered Dieticians are available to meet with patients (and caregivers) undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment regarding related side effects, unwanted weight changes, questions about food choices, supplements, special diets, and any other questions regarding diet and nutrition.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Patients – Caregivers (Chemotherapy)
CONTACT: Kristin Greenspan-Addona (212-305-9028)
MEETING DATES: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: 14th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Patients – Caregivers (Radiation Therapy)
CONTACT: Emily Moore (212-305-2991)
MEETING DATES: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
TIMES: By Appointment
Outpatient Nutrition Classes
Group lectures are offered on various topics and are led by registered dietitians.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Outpatient Oncology Patients – Caregivers
CONTACT: Kristin Greenspan-Addona (Infusion Center) Emily Moore (Radiation Center)
MEETING DATES: Several times during the week
LOCATION: 14th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue or Radiation Center
A Taste Of Healing Snack Cart
Cancer treatment may cause different side effects on the journey towards healing. Although experience is individualized, common side effects include decreased appetite, weight loss, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, mouth sores, sore throat/difficulty swallowing, and changes in taste or smell. It is our goal as the Food and Nutrition Department at NYP/Columbia to support you nutritionally through this process and help manage side effects with food and beverages. This is why we have started a snack cart as part of our A Taste of Healing program. The snack cart will be located on the Oncology Units several times per week, offering beverages and snacks for our patients that may help relieve symptoms.
MEETING DATES: Several times during the week
LOCATION: Oncology Units
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Outpatients
MEETING DATES: Several times during the week
LOCATION: Infusion Outpatient Units
Bereavement Group
WHO MAY ATTEND: Patients, Families – Caregivers
CONTACT: Fran Heller (212-305-3953) – Phyllis Sachs (212-305-6266)
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
Pastoral Care
Chaplains who specialize in addressing the spiritual and emotional needs of the cancer patient are available on all patient care units. Multi-faith chaplains provide religion-specific support, including communion, anointing, Shabbat candles, and other observance supportive services, as well as spiritual and emotional support for patients and their loved ones as they journey through diagnosis, treatment, and living with long-term illness.
WHO MAY ATTEND: All oncology patients – caregivers
CONTACT: 212-305-5817
MEETING DATES: By Appointment
TIMES: By Appointment
LOCATION: All Patient Care Units
Relaxation/Rejuvenation Guided Meditation
Group and individual meditation sessions are available.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Oncology Patients – Caregivers
CONTACT: Seigan Glassing (212-305-5817)
MEETING DATES: Wednesdays
TIMES: 3:30 - 3:45pm
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
Narrative Oncology Writing Group
WHO MAY ATTEND: Patients, Families, Caregivers, and Staff
CONTACT: Angela Lloyd (212-305-2347) or Fran Heller (212-305-3953)
MEETING DATES: 2nd Tuesday of the Month
TIMES: 5:30 - 7:30pm
LOCATION: Call for directions – to register
The Wellness Series (English – Spanish)
The Wellness Series is a weekly program (materials in English – Spanish) that teaches cancer patients and survivors about integrative therapies — or the incorporation of non-medical therapy such as diet, lifestyle, exercise, stress care, and more — to best support their treatment and improve their physical wellbeing, as well as to empower them to take an active role in their treatment.
WHO MAY ATTEND: All Oncology Patients – Survivors
CONTACT: [email protected] (646-543-4611)
MEETING DATES: Please call for meeting dates
TIMES: 5:00pm - 6:30pm
LOCATION: Please call for meeting location
Tobacco Cessation:
Tobacco Cessation 1:1 Counseling – Treatment
WHO MAY ATTEND: AIM Patients
CONTACT: Annie Eusebio (212-305-6354)
MEETING DATES: Walk-Ins Only
TIMES: Walk-Ins Only
LOCATION: Room #VC-2, 622 West 168th Street
For Caregivers Of Cancer Patients:
HealthOutreach's Caregiver Services
HealthOutreach's Caregiver Services is a free program that provides help and support for individuals and families involved in the care of anyone 60 and older. The program is coordinated by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and is designed to help caregivers identify and cope with the many complex issues confronting them. The caregiver services offers consultation and support groups, educational seminars and workshops focusing on effective strategies and practices for stress reduction and self-care. Information is available on advanced directives: healthcare proxies, living wills and power of attorney as well as physician referral and community services. Professional assistance is available to evaluate care options: i.e., home care, retirement community, skilled nursing facility, and assisted living. There are also opportunities to meet and build supportive relationships with fellow caregivers.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Individuals and families involved in the care of anyone 60 and older
CONTACT: 212-746-4365
Caring For The Caregiver
All caregivers and family welcome.
WHO MAY ATTEND: All caregivers and family
CONTACT: Linda Golding (212-305-5817)
MEETING DATES: Every Other Monday
TIMES: 12:00 - 12:30pm
LOCATION: 14th Floor, Herbert Irving Pavilion, 161 Fort Washington Avenue
Mindful Moments…Practical Stress Management Skills And Techniques For Family Caregivers
This is a series of stress management workshops for family caregivers. In this workshop you will experience simple and empowering mind-body techniques and receive suggestions to help you manage stress more effectively. This workshop series will offer the opportunity to learn and practice various stress reduction techniques including mindfulness meditation, guided imagery and breathing exercises in a supportive group setting.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Individuals and families involved in the care of anyone 60 and older
CONTACT: Sarah Waxse (212-746-4365)
MEETING DATES: Please call to confirm
TIMES: Please call to confirm
LOCATION: 420 East 76th Street (Between First – York Avenue)
Support Group For Family Caregivers Of Older Adults
This is an ongoing support group for caregivers of older adults (60 years old and above) to share concerns, information, reflections and inspirations in a supportive and compassionate setting.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Individuals and families involved in the care of anyone 60 and older
CONTACT: Sarah Waxse (212-746-4365)
MEETING DATES: Tuesdays
TIMES: Please call to confirm
LOCATION: 420 East 76th Street (Between First – York Avenue)
Support Group For Caregivers Of BMT Patients
This is an ongoing support group highlighting the importance of the caregiver's emotional and physical health and will allow caregivers the opportunity to connect with one another and share experiences.
WHO MAY ATTEND: Caregivers of BMT Patients
CONTACT: Bridget Sheehy, LCSW ([email protected] or 646-317-4965) or Cara Reich, LMSW ([email protected] or 212-305-9449)
MEETING DATES: 4th Wednesday of Every Month
TIMES: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
LOCATION: Harkness Pavilion, 11th Floor