Reflection on Psychological Services in Oncology and Palliative Care in Two Montreal University Hospital Centers

In the face of cancer and at the end of life, emotional distress is common and is increasingly recognized, resulting in a significant number of requests for consultation with our specialized psychological services. The authors present a reflection on the various factors that guide their interventions with oncology and palliative care patients in a hospital setting. The challenge is to offer the right care at the right time to all patients and their loved ones who need it. The treatment plan will be adjusted according to the severity and the nature of the distress, the need to intervene within a short delay, the patient's preference, his or her vulnerability, and protective factors while keeping in mind that our mandate as psychologists is limited to oncology and palliative care. This article illustrates that an integrative approach is valuable in responding to the diversity of requests received in the context of limited time and resources.