Counselling and Individual Support
Canteen counsellors are specially trained to understand the challenges cancer brings and you can talk to them about thoughts or feelings that you may find hard sharing with others. Our counsellors provide an initial 8-10 sessions either online or face to face.
Our counsellors can help:
- Develop strategies to deal with the impact of cancer on your life
- Manage school, work, changing relationships with loved ones
- Connect you with Canteen face-to-face and digital programs
Counselling and Individual Support FAQs
What kind of support do counsellors provide?
Counsellors are specially trained to understand the unique challenges cancer brings. They offer confidential, free support to help you manage the emotional, social, and practical impacts of cancer. This can include developing coping strategies, navigating school or work, and managing changes in relationships.
How are sessions delivered?
Sessions are delivered either online or face‑to‑face. Support is available no matter where you live, and you can choose the format that feels most comfortable for you.
Who can use Canteen’s counselling services and does it cost anything?
Canteen’s counselling services are completely free and available to young people impacted by cancer – whether you’re dealing with your own diagnosis, a family member’s diagnosis, or grief after a loss. Counselling is tailored to your individual situation and needs.
About Canteen
When cancer crashes into a young person’s world, Canteen is in their corner with whatever support they need. We provide individually tailored support to young people aged 12-25 and their parents.
Discover our other cancer services and resources
Communicating about Cancer for Parents and Carers
Parenting is tough enough without adding cancer to the mix. We get it. Here are some tips for parents and carers impacted by cancer on communicating and supporting their children.
Talking to kids about cancer: 7 handy tips
Talking about cancer to children can be particularly challenging. Here are seven handy tips for talking to kids about cancer.
How can Centrelink help my family?
Understanding and navigating Centrelink can be difficult and confusing. Below are some tips about Centrelink and other options that may be relevant to you and your family.
Cancer Education Program
The Camp Quality Puppets visit primary and preschools across Australia delivering education that dispels cancer myths and creates an inclusive community for kids impacted by cancer.
Tips to help families ease financial stress while facing childhood cancer
Childhood cancer can have a large impact on a family’s financial situation. Here are some support services that may be able to help.
Camps
Kids’ Camps and Family Camps are opportunities for kids and their families to have fun experiences together, make positive memories and meet friends who understand.
Canteen Connect
A secure online community where 12-25 year-olds can connect with other young people impacted by cancer, check out events and chat to a counsellor.
Grief and Bereavement Support
Redkite offers a safe space to talk about grief, overwhelming emotions, other people’s expectations or whatever matters most to you. We are here to support you in the way you need, when you’re ready.
Education and Career Support
This service helps young cancer patients aged 15-25 stay connected to study or work both during and after their cancer treatment.
How do I make a decision about cancer treatments
Feel empowered to make decisions about your cancer treatment. Ask about options and take control where possible, including treatment timing and location.