The Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care offers an array of valuable prevention and support resources to aid to those suffering from any type of cancer. Whether your needs are physical, spiritual or emotional, our exceptional supportive services will enhance your life.
The programs are designed to help patients and their families cope with the psychological and emotional effects of cancer and cancer treatment. Through education, supportive counseling and stress management techniques, you, your loved ones and our own medical staff work together to help you face the challenges of cancer with knowledge, support and hope.
Services are available to patients who have recently been diagnosed with cancer, are currently undergoing cancer treatment, are in post-treatment and are at genetic risk for cancer. They are also available to spouses and family members and are provided at no cost. Many are offered in English and Spanish. Available services include:
Individual Psychotherapy
One-to-one counseling is provided to help patients and families cope with the emotional challenges of living with cancer and its treatment. Bereavement counseling is also available.
B.O.L.D. Living Program
The Bronx Oncology Living Daily (B.O.L.D. Living) Program, sponsored by a grant from the Entertainment Industry Foundation's Revlon Run/Walk and open to all, offers a variety of free support, educational, and mind-body workshops designed to empower and nurture cancer patients, survivors, and loved ones. Workshops feature fitness/nutrition, mind-body programs, creative arts and more.
Free Quality of Life Screening Program
The Quality of Life Screening Program helps to determine physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of cancer patients and their families, and how they are responding to available support services. This screening program is part of a research study to improve quality of life among all those affected by cancer and is offered in English and Spanish.
Yoga-Based Cancer Rehabilitation
If you have breast, lung or colorectal cancer, you may be eligible to participate in our Yoga-Based Cancer Rehabilitation Program. This program—begun in 2000 as part of a research study funded by the National Cancer Institute, the Langeloth Foundation and other private sources and conducted by Albert Einstein Cancer Center — examines the physical and psychological benefits of yoga among patients with cancer. Participants enjoy 12 weeks of free yoga, taught in English and Spanish by a certified instructor. Patients must meet physical eligibility requirements to qualify for participation.
Mind-Body-Spirit Support Group
The Mind-Body-Spirit Support Group at Montefiore, developed through a grant from the American Cancer Society, is a study to examine the effectiveness of two types of mind-body groups, each exploring different ways to improve quality of life after cancer. The sessions are available to individuals with advanced stages of cancer or who are actively in treatment and meet weekly.
Meditation Stress-Management Program
This program for breast cancer survivors teaches relaxation skills and practices based on the use of meditation, visual imagery, and breathing exercises to promote stress reduction and inner peace. It is funded by the Avon Foundation as part of a research study to examine the benefits of meditation after breast cancer.
Eat Healthy Shop Smart
Cancer patients receiving treatment at Montefiore also benefit from expert advice on how to choose fresh and healthy foods to help fight their disease and minimize the side effects of treatment. Oncology Nutritionist Maria Romano, RD, CDN, organizes tours of Montefiore's Farmer's Market in the East Garden of the Moses Division which provides the community with an opportunity to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, baked goods, pasta and various nuts from local vendors. Patients and caregivers receive shopping advice, recipes and healthy diet tips. The Program also offers one-on-one nutritional counseling to address each patient's unique needs and cooking classes to teach patients how to prepare healthy foods all year round.
Smoking Cessation Program
Einstein's Be Smart – Quit Smoking Program consists of eight sessions and includes pharmacotherapy discussions, free nicotine replacement therapy, self-hypnosis and relaxation training, tips for breaking the habit and tools for conquering urges and temptations. Led by a trained psychosocial oncology counselor, the program is offered several times a year and is open to anyone. Participants pay $50 to start the program and receive $5 back for each session they attend. Up to $40 may be reimbursed and other financial arrangements are available. For more information or to register, please call 718-430-2697.
Strength through Laughter
For the past four years, patients at the Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care have come together for laughs, friendship and understanding through our "Strength through Laughter" support group. As part of this inspiring program, individuals share the challenge of cancer through education and humor.