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Karen Fasciano, PsyD, director of YAP, discusses the unique challenges of living with cancer as a young person, and several young patients share their experiences.
Young adults with cancer often face challenges different from those of children and older adults. Our mission is to provide clinical services and programs that validate and support the needs of young adults with cancer. We are committed to:
We also ensure that young adults are aware of — and have access to — programs provided through other offices, divisions, and departments within Dana-Farber.
YAP@DFCI provides services for young adult patients being treated at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
"Young adult" is loosely defined as anyone 18-39 years old. However, if you are out of this age range and consider yourself a young adult, don’t hesitate to contact us to see if our programs may be appropriate for you.
Our clinicians in Social Work and Psychosocial Oncology have specific expertise working with young adults and addressing emotional challenges such as:
Our services include:
The Young Adult Program team, part of the Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, is a core group of staff dedicated to coordinating support and programs for young adults.
For information about clinical mental health services
For information about programs, events, or volunteer opportunities
Visit our online community for, about, and by young adults at Dana-Farber.
If you're caring for a young adult with cancer, join our online community for helpful resources and to connect with others going through similar situations.
The Young Adult Program hosts as annual conference for young adult patients and their caregivers to learn strategies for coping with cancer.