Susan Hess
Cancer Coaching
About
I look forward to talking with you! I have been having cancer conversations with patients, survivors, and their families & friends for over 25 years. I facilitated my first ovarian cancer support group in 1998 as a graduate student and was deeply struck by the challenges and struggles individuals in the group were facing. I decided then to dedicate myself to the ovarian cancer community.
Since then, I have worked with many, many individuals managing ovarian cancer and facilitated over 1,000 ovarian cancer support groups. In 2005, members of the early support group and I founded the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance (COCA - now Colorado Gynecologic Cancer Alliance, CGCA), and Nicki's Circle Support Groups. I remained the Programs Director and a support groups facilitator at COCA until 2018.
In 2018 I joined the team at The Clearity Foundation in San Diego, California, to help develop the Steps Through OC program. I was an OC Counselor, the STEPS Team Lead, and the STEPS Program Director at Clearity until 2022 when I became the Director of Education.
In October 2023 I changed course to pursue private practice coaching and counseling.
December 2023 I received a World Ovarian Cancer Coalition "Above and Beyond" Impact award for exemplary care, dedication and compassion.
While my specialty is in the ovarian cancer arena, I work with all types of cancer diagnoses as a cancer coach. I may not be as familiar with the medical specifics of your diagnosis, but I do understand the hazards and challenges of the cancer journey.
I graduated from Naropa University in 1998 with a master's degree in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology, Music Therapy Concentration. I am offering coaching sessions worldwide to help guide you through your cancer experience.
I look forward to having a conversation with you!
Packages
Initial 30-min conversation (no charge)
I look forward to meeting you! In our first conversation at no charge you can share your cancer experience, learn about my approach to coaching and we can determine a way forward...
1-hour conversation
Our conversations are guided by your questions, concerns and inquiries. We can check in on your medical progress then dive into a current challenge you are facing in your life with cancer.
Package of 2 - 1 hour conversations
Setting up repeating sessions is a great way to keep in touch and receive support on a regular basis. Purchase 2 sessions at a time at a discounted rate of $83 per session. Schedule one at purchase and schedule the second one through your client portal...
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't make it to the session I scheduled?
There is a rescheduling link in the email you received when you confirmed the calendar appointment for your session online. If you can provide a 24-hour notice that works best for me....although I know sometimes there are medical changes you can't control.
Do you accept insurance?
If you live in Colorado and are seeking therapy, I do accept insurance through my psychotherapy practice at: susanhesscounseling.com. My coaching and counseling practices are separate, and I do not accept insurance for coaching. When we first meet we can discuss the fee and what might work best for you.
Do you talk to spouses, family members and/or friends?
Yes, I talk with spouses, family members and/or friends of loved ones facing an ovarian cancer diagnosis and they are welcome to schedule a session. Depending on the situation, I can also talk to both parties - patient and loved one - together in a session.