The main aim of the HPCA’s Counselling and Information Service is to provide psychosocial and information support through high quality, responsive, short-term counselling for the following identified target groups:

Men with a high risk of developing prostate cancer

The service has been of benefit to men with a high risk of developing prostate cancer through our workplace and community group ‘Early Detection’ education sessions. Counsellors have been able to assist men with first degree relatives or a family history, to identify their need for and to encourage regular health checks with their GP.

Men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer

The service has been of direct benefit to men who are newly diagnosed by providing emotional support, and assisting with strategies and coping mechanisms to help alleviate their levels of stress and anxiety

Men experiencing side effects of prostate cancer treatment

The service provides support for the psychological and emotional issues present in men with prostate cancer such as anxiety about choice of treatment options, the uncertainty of active surveillance and the potential sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, weakness, fatigue, pain, and other side effects of treatment which have profound effects on mood, irritability, and anxiety.

Men with advanced prostate cancer

The service provides support for the psychological issues present in men with advanced prostate cancer. This ranges from counselling support for times of existential crisis and allowing men to talk about their emotions and fears in a safe, non-judgemental environment.

Families, and carers, of men diagnosed with prostate cancer

The service is available for all carers and members of the client’s family providing psychosocial support and information. It has been identified that the females of the family are the health care managers, and as such, they often need to be included in the decision making process.

Men seeking support regarding PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test results.

Our Counsellors are able to take the time to explain what the test is and what the results might mean. The service encourages clients to keep a record of the date of the test and PSA levels detected in order to provide a history to assist their GP’s and Urologists.  The service does not interpret tests results, does not make diagnosis nor give medical advice.