This course reviews current psychological theory and empirical evidence relevant to applied clinical practice in the OVCA context (e.g., psychosexual impact and adaptation; gender-specific issues regarding coping with health threat). Identifies and discusses the physical and psychological sequelae of an OVCA diagnosis and treatment (e.g., side effects of treatment, quality of life, loss issues, possible genetic component). Techniques and skills to facilitate patient adjustment (e.g. increase adaptive communication with medical team and other support members; practice of stress and pain management; utilization of support system) are presented.

• Identify the empirical evidence on psychological adjustment to ovarian cancer across the disease continuum
• Describe common symptoms that correspond to ovarian cancer treatment (e.g., chemotherapy-related fatigue) and how they are distinguished from symptoms related to mood disturbances (e.g., depression) and other psychological syndromes.
• Indicate psychological techniques that facilitate adaptation to ovarian cancer and their clinical application within this cancer population.