The Value of an Oncology Clinical Social Worker
An oncology social worker provides emotional and practical support to cancer patients and their families throughout the cancer journey, including diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. ECHO is fortunate to have Antonio Okosky, LCSW who joined the ECHO team in July of 2024. At ECHO, he provides therapeutic services, as well as assists clients in increasing social support and optimizing quality of life.
My background
I have been in this field since 2011. I spent many years as a Bereavement Coordinator, a Group Facilitator for Hospice Care, and a Coordinator of Palliative Care. Most recently, I worked as a private practitioner in New London, CT where I provided individualized therapy with a focus anticipatory grief, grief, and complicated mourning/prolonged grief disorder.
Why I chose this field
I have always felt the need to help others and make a difference. Unfortunately, I have experienced a lot of loss among family and friends. I have seen the difference that counseling can have in helping an individual and their families navigate through all stages of treatment. I have also seen the benefits that therapy can serve at end of life and in managing the grief process. I find it a privilege and an honor to care for the physical and emotional well-being of others.
My Role at ECHO
As a licensed clinical social worker, I provide individualized, client-centered therapy to help patients manage through treatment, change in clinical status, and loss. I primarily work with patients, although family members and caregivers are invited to attend sessions. I work at the comfort level of the patient – whether that means 1:1 therapy, couples therapy or involving additional family members.
Types of Issues I address
I address the psychological and social needs of cancer patients and their families, providing emotional support, counseling, and guidance. I provide individual, family, and group counseling to help patients and families cope with the emotional impact of cancer, including anxiety, depression, grief, and fear. I also direct patients to helpful resources, facilitate support groups, and coordinate with other members of the ECHO care team including our patient navigator.
How Therapy Works
I meet with clients in the office in a private room. Sessions usually last between 30-50 minutes. Counselling sessions usually are billed to insurance and many plans will provide this coverage. Patients can be referred to me by any member of the ECHO care team. Or patients can contact the front desk and request an appointment. The frequency of meetings is up to the patient. I meet with some people weekly, others meet twice a month, and some patients prefer monthly or periodic sessions.
My Therapeutic Approach
I specialize in client centered therapy. My motto is to is to ‘meet patients where they are at’.
Some of the therapeutic approaches I utilize include:
- Solution focused therapy
- Mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy
- Bereavement Therapy
Regardless of the approach, I have one goal. That is to be there for patients, serving as a trusted partner to help manage the social, emotional, and psychological side effects of facing cancer.
How Patients Benefit
I provide patients with a valuable outlet, someone to validate and listen to what they are experiencing. Grief is so individual and coping with a diagnosis can be stressful on so many fronts. Yet, there are commonalities that many people share. I help my patients address their fears and help them understand that their concerns are normal. I help them find coping strategies and ways to improve quality of life. And, by meeting their loved ones, I help the family have meaningful dialogue and work together.
What I Enjoy About Working at ECHO
ECHO is the most genuine practice where everyone goes above and beyond for patients. All the members of the team are down to earth, relatable, and able to customize care based on the needs of each patient. You don’t see this level of personalized care or flexibility in large healthcare or hospital-based practices. My patients consistently tell me they feel they get the best care at ECHO. That is how I know that I am in the right place.
Welcoming New Patients
You don’t have to go through cancer alone. I am here for all ECHO patients and their caregivers. If you would like to schedule a session, please call our front desk at (860) 886-8362. Or I can be reached at extension x244 or by email at aokosky@echoct.com.