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• Counseling Program

Counseling Program

The Bear Necessities Counseling Program addresses the psychological and emotional needs of families affected by childhood cancer. We are proud to provide this critical support to those who have been touched by pediatric cancer by assisting with the cost of counseling for the pediatric cancer patient and their family.

Who is eligible?

• Bear Hug recipients or Illinois residents who underwent pediatric cancer treatment within the past eight years (initial diagnosis or relapse) and immediate family members, including parents, step-parents, or guardians (and their respective spouse or domestic partner), siblings or step-siblings.
• Counseling can occur during and/or after treatment, including bereavement counseling for those who have lost a loved one to pediatric cancer.
• There is no limit to how many members of a family can participate.

Counseling Program Guidelines

• Counseling formats can include individual, group, family, couple and play therapy.
• 12 sessions will be subsidized (including intake and counseling sessions) per member of the immediate family.
• Bear Necessities will offset the full cost of these counseling sessions, or whatever health insurance does not cover. Families without health insurance are still welcome to participate in this program.

our partners

In-person sessions can occur with SamaraCare therapists in Naperville or Downers Grove, and with Bridgepoint Psychology Center therapists in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago. Virtual sessions also are available.

ready to learn more?

Email [email protected] to express interest and obtain our Counseling Referral Form.

donate to mental health

One counseling session costs $150. To help our families receive the critical mental health care they need, please consider making a donation today.

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