A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming and frightening. The first concern for an individual is their physical well-being. But psychosocial and spiritual health are also important and are integrated into each patient’s treatment plan at the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute.

Our psychosocial support care team focuses on resolving multiple aspects of distress, as well as practical issues of treatment and lifestyle. Psychosocial oncology support helps patients improve their quality of life by re-framing their way of thinking. Research has shown that cancer patients who can "re-frame" their thinking can dramatically improve their quality of life, decrease anxiety, stress reduction, improve sleep, reduce pain, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Our support programs are designed to teach patients and their families’ skills to cope with a cancer diagnosis.

Support Programs for All

Survivorship Support Services/Resources

  • Beat the Odds® in Cancer Treatment 
    (562) 933-9520 
    The Beat the Odds® program consists of 10 weekly 2 ½-hour classes offering research-based strategies for improving quality of life, managing symptoms and side effects, and positively impacting survival after a cancer diagnosis.
  • Boost the Odds 
    (562) 933-9520 
    The Boost the Odds program is an advanced cancer survivorship program for alumni of Beat the Odds. It is a 2-hour class offered once a month, free of charge. It focuses on more in depth exploration of the skills and concepts taught in Beat the Odds with more emphasis on how to effectively introduce healthy lifestyle modification.
  • Cancer Coaching 
    (562) 933-9520 
    A diagnosis of cancer is one of life’s greatest challenges. A cancer coach provides guidance and tools needed to feel confident and empowered along the way. This service is free, personal and confidential.
  • Community Events 
    ‭(562) 933-7854‬
    Throughout the year, the Todd Cancer Institute hosts several community events, including Team Spirit Long Beach Cancer 5K, Annual Survivorship Celebration and more.
  • E-Newsletter 
    Stay in the loop and sign up for our monthly e-newsletter to hear the latest announcements about survivor support programs & activities from the Todd Cancer Institute and our cancer community partners. To learn more, visit memorialcare.org/TCINews.
  • “Freedom from Smoking” Program 
    ‭(562) 933-0977‬
    The American Lung Association’s “Freedom from Smoking” program includes eight group-style meetings and features a step-by-step plan to help tobacco users gain control over their behavior and quit smoking. Each meeting is led by an Oncology Nurse Navigator/Certified Freedom from Smoking Facilitator.
  • Genetic Counseling 
    (562) 933-7475 
    The Todd Cancer Institute is pleased to offer genetic counseling services by master’s-trained health care professionals. Our genetic counselors perform risk assessments for patients who have a personal and/or family history of cancer.
  • Marti’s Closet 
    (562) 933-7880 
    Marti’s Closet comforts those after cancer surgery through blouses that are gently worn, clean, and ready to wear. Patients may select button-down blouses free of charge during a time of possible need after surgery.
  • Nurse Navigators 
    (562) 933-0900 
    Compassionate oncology navigators assist with education, resources, and care coordination throughout the continuum of cancer care.
  • Nutrition Support 
    (562) 933-1877 
    Registered dietitian nutritionists offer counseling for the management of symptoms and side effects related to cancer and cancer treatment. Our dietitians also provide nutrition education to support you during and after cancer treatment.
  • Outpatient Palliative Care Clinic 
    (562) 933-1877 
    Palliative Care is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and the stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve the quality of life for both patient and their family.
  • Pilates 
    (562) 933-9505 
    This gentle Pilates and core strengthening class, facilitated by a physical therapist, is designed for cancer survivors. Pilates is an exercise system which focuses on engaging the mind and body with exercises initiated from the core. Pilates can help strengthen the spine and improve spinal health at various stages of healing and fitness.
  • Rehabilitation 
    (562) 933-9570 
    Physical therapy before and after cancer treatment may help patients regain and maintain strength and energy. Each patient receives specialized care from our professional physical therapy staff surrounded by a culture of healing and hope.
  • Social Work 
    (562) 933-2833 
    Oncology social workers are available to provide counseling and connections to community resources, which can improve coping and reduce stress for patients and their families through all phases of cancer treatment.
  • Support Groups 
    We offer various support groups designed to teach patients and their families skills to cope with a cancer diagnosis, including:
    • Breast Cancer Support Group (Virtual)
      2nd & 4th Wednesday, 4:30 - 6 p.m.
      (562) 933-7845
    • Gynecologic Cancer Support Group (Virtual)
      1st & 3rd Tuesday, 4:30 - 6 p.m.
      (562) 933-2833
    • Bereavement Support Group (In Person)
      1st & 3rd Wednesday, 4:30 - 6 p.m.
      (562) 933-1450
      Hosted by Memorial Long Beach Medical Center Spiritual Care
    • Bereavement Support Group (Virtual)
      2nd & 4th Monday, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
      (310) 376-3550
      Sponsored by the Cancer Support Community South Bay
  • Spiritual Care Support
    ‭(562) 933-9355‬
    Chaplains provide spiritual and emotional support for patients and their families to help them cope with all of the various ways their diagnoses impacts their lives to foster hope, peace, and clarity.
  • Walking Group 
    (562) 933-7854
    Saturdays Once a month from 8 – 9 a.m.
    Women Guiding Women Walking Group for Breast & Gynecologic Cancer Patients & Survivors. Whether you are newly diagnosed, in active treatment, or are post treatment, come join us for a walk.
  • Women Guiding Women: Cancer Support & Education™ 
    (562) 933-7854
    A peer mentor program for women who are newly diagnosed with breast or gynecologic cancers. Patients are matched with our mentors who are specially trained cancer survivors that encourage and guide patients through the time of diagnosis, treatment, surgery and onto recovery. Free program open to the community, regardless of where you receive treatment.
  • Yoga 
    (562) 933-9505 
    This gentle yoga wellness exercise class, hosted by an assistant physical therapist, is designed for cancer patients and caregivers. The class focuses on breathing, meditation and gentle yoga poses to help relieve stress and relax muscles. No experience required. Wear comfortable clothing.