Psychosocial Oncology & Cancer Patient Support Program: Professional Development

The American Psychosocial Oncology Society (APOS) was formed in 1986 to bring together professionals working in the psychological, behavioral and social aspects of cancer. Its mission broadened in the early 2000s to network professionals from all disciplines working in psychosocial oncology. Over five hundred psychosocial oncology professionals gather at APOS' annual conference to share new research and clinical innovations. The Psycho-Oncology journal was begun in 1992 to publish research specific to psychosocial oncology in one journal.

The International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) was founded in 1984 to foster international multidisciplinary communication about clinical, educational and research issues that relate to the subspecialty of psycho-oncology. The Society sought to provide leadership and development of standards for education and research on the psychological, social and spiritual factors that affect the quality of life of cancer patients and their loved ones, and that influence tumor progression and survival. The aims of IPOS have been to foster training, encourage psychosocial principles and a humanistic approach in cancer care, and to stimulate research and develop training so psychosocial care may be integrated with all clinical oncologic specialties for optimal patient care.

The Association for Death Education and Counseling® is an international, professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence and recognizing diversity in death education, care of the dying, grief counseling and research in thanatology. Based on quality research, theory and practice, the association provides information, support and resources to its international, multicultural, multidisciplinary membership and to the public.

The American Counseling Association is a not-for-profit, professional and educational organization that is dedicated to the growth and enhancement of the counseling profession. Founded in 1952, ACA is the world's largest association exclusively representing professional counselors in various practice settings.

The Clinical Social Work Association is an individual membership organization that protects the interests of LCSWs at both the state and national level. Invest in your professional credibility and personal development by connecting with CSWA's network of clinical social workers.

The North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors’ mission under NC GS Article 24 90-329 states that, it is declared to be the public policy of this State that the activities of persons who render counseling services to the public be regulated to insure the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare.

The National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. and Affiliates (NBCC) is the premier credentialing body for counselors, ensuring that counselors who become board certified have achieved the highest standard of practice through education, examination, supervision, experience, and ethical guidelines. Established as a not-for-profit, independent certification organization in 1982, the NBCC’s original and primary purposes have broadened, and its divisions and affiliates have taken on additional responsibilities to advance the counseling profession and enhance mental health worldwide.