Integrative Oncology: Mindfulness

Stack of creek stones near blue lake

Mindfulness can help cancer patients manage stress and improve overall quality of life. At the Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center, patients have access to integrative oncology therapies based on the best available evidence such as meditation, art and music therapy, healing sound bowls, and guided relaxation to support healing alongside medical care.

Explore the Integrative Oncology Program →

What are Mindfulness Therapies?

Mindfulness is the way for an individual to slow down to practice being in the present and focus on one’s breathing and self.  This self-awareness can be powerful.  There are many ways to practice mindfulness, such as:

  • Meditation
  • Art therapy
  • Music therapy
  • Healing sound bowls
  • Guided imagery
  • Self-reflection and self-compassion

Benefits of Mindfulness for Cancer Patients & Caregivers

Mindfulness can offer several meaningful benefits for cancer patients and their loved ones as they navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This integrative oncology practice is increasingly recognized as a valuable complement to traditional cancer care, and can provide benefits such as:

  • Stress reduction
  • Improves depression
  • Reduces anxiety
  • Pain relief
  • Improved feeling of tranquility and positive emotions
  • Encourages healthier eating habits
  • Raises self-esteem and a feeling of well-being
  • Reduces fatigue and improves sleep

Integrative Oncology Mindfulness Resources

Art Therapy

Our oncology specialized art therapist is available to work with patients using different art forms to guide one to explore feelings, thoughts, ideas and experiences.

Hayley Stricker, MS, LAAT, ATR-P
Art Therapist

As an art therapist in Integrative Oncology at the Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the emotional impact of cancer. Art therapy offers a way to express, process, and cope with the challenges of illness that are difficult to put into words, without requiring any prior artistic experience. This approach can be effective in addressing anxiety, grief, identity changes, and emotional distress. I work with both adults and children, collaborating with each client to meet their unique emotional and physical needs.

I hold a BA in Psychology from Flagler College and a MS in Art Therapy from Florida State University. My clinical background includes working with those affected by medical illness and domestic violence, with a focus on trauma-informed and person-centered care. I am also trained in the Instinctual Trauma Response and Sand Play Therapy.

Recommended Links

If you are interested in art therapy, please email our art therapist at hs1493@cinj.rutgers.edu or discuss with a clinical team member.

Recommended Websites & Apps

The following resources are free:

The following apps have a fee:

Complementary Health Approaches for Cancer Treatment

No complementary approach has been shown to cure cancer or cause it to go into remission. Some products or practices that have been advocated for cancer treatment may interfere with conventional cancer treatments or have other risks.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you should consult your health care providers before using any complementary health approach.

Additional Resources

Looking for something else?

For more information, contact IntegrativeOncology@rwjbh.org.