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Are you interested in how psychological care can improve the cancer experience? Come along to this discussion about psycho-oncology and how research is shaping new ways to support the mental health and wellbeing of people affected by cancer and their families.
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Presented by Ms Ella Sexton
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
This event will feature a presentation in an informal setting with audience discussion.
Venue:
The Terminus Hotel
492 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North VIC 3068
Please note that this event is hosted on level 1 of the venue and the only access is via the stairs.
Are you interested in how psychological care can improve the cancer experience? Come along to this discussion about psycho-oncology and how research is shaping new ways to support the mental health and wellbeing of people affected by cancer and their families.
Psycho-oncology sits at the intersection of cancer care and mental health, addressing one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of treatment: the psychological and emotional impact of cancer. From diagnosis through survivorship, it recognises that cancer affects not only the body, but also identity, relationships, and wellbeing—for patients and their families alike. As cancer care continues to advance, integrating evidence-based psychological support is essential to improving both outcomes and the overall experience of care.
This presentation will provide an introduction to the field of psycho-oncology and explore the vital role of psychological care across the cancer continuum. Drawing on contemporary research and clinical practice, it will examine the common psychological challenges experienced by people affected by cancer, including anxiety, depression, uncertainty, adjustment difficulties, and the impact of treatment on quality of life. Particular attention will be given to the unique psychosocial needs of individuals with head and neck cancer, a population often facing significant functional, social, and emotional challenges.
The session will also highlight emerging developments in psychological prehabilitation—interventions delivered before treatment to enhance emotional preparedness, resilience, and coping—as well as the growing recognition of family caregivers, who frequently experience substantial distress while providing essential support. Attendees will gain insight into innovative models of care designed to improve access to timely, evidence-based psychological support for both patients and families.
Through case examples and discussion of current research, this presentation will demonstrate how psycho-oncology contributes to more person-centred, holistic cancer care. It will be relevant to clinicians, researchers, students, and anyone interested in understanding how psychological science can improve the experiences and outcomes of people living with cancer.
Save the date: the AACBT National Conference will be held on 15-17 October 2026 at The Langham in Naarm | Melbourne.
There are great international and domestic speakers, plus multiple Master Clinician Sessions, and Clinical Roundtable Presentations
This event is hosted by the Vic Branch of AACBT.
About this event:
This event will feature a presentation in an informal setting with audience discussion.
Please note that this event is hosted on level 1 of the venue and the only access is via the stairs.
Getting there:
By car: The Terminus Hotel is at 492 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North. Parking can be busy, so allow extra time and check signs carefully, as several nearby areas are permit only. Free parking is usually found further along McKean Street or on Rushall Crescent.
By public transport: Take tram route 86 along Queens Parade and get off at stop 21 (St Georges Road/Queens Parade) right outside the venue. Clifton Hill Station is another option, about a 10 minute walk from the hotel.
Key Learning Objectives:
Who should attend?
This session is suitable for all levels of clinician.
References - readings:
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Ella Sexton is a Senior Clinical Psychologist, clinician-researcher, and lecturer with nationally recognised expertise in psycho-oncology. Her work focuses on improving psychological outcomes for people affected by cancer, with particular expertise in head and neck cancer, psychological prehabilitation, and support for family caregivers. She currently holds appointments as Lecturer in Psychology at Deakin University and Senior Clinical Psychologist at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
Ella is committed to advancing evidence-based psychological care in oncology settings. She co-led the development and implementation of Prep-4-RT, an innovative prehabilitation program for people with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy, and has led the development of a psychological prehabilitation program for patients preparing for head and neck cancer surgery. She also established Australia’s first hospital-based psychological service dedicated to supporting family caregivers of people with cancer, generating important new evidence to inform best practice in caregiver care. This novel program was recognised as a finalist in the 2024 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards.
Her leadership in psychological prehabilitation and psycho-oncology has been recognised nationally and internationally through invited presentations, research collaborations, and clinical innovation. Across her clinical, academic, and research roles, Ella is dedicated to improving the experiences and outcomes of people with cancer and their families.
Are there any refunds?
Cancellations attract a 25% processing fee. Cancellations within one week of the event attract a 50% processing fee. Cancellations within 24 hours of the event will not be refunded under any circumstances. If you wish to transfer the name of your registration to someone else there is no charge.
