Simonton Cancer Counseling Center Charitable Trust

I’m so thankful for Simonton Cancer Center program. All of the therapists were so kind and caring. It takes work but it’s worth it! This is a great tool in my healing toolbox.

This has been a transformational experience for me and I can't thank Karen and the dedicated team on the Simonton programme enough for what they do and their warmth and compassion throughout. The information and tools provided over the 6 weeks are invaluable. I also wish to thank everyone else in the group - you're inspirational and have been a huge support to me! I hope and pray that this programme will be available to anybody in need of support.

Wonderful group of people who helped me through my experience in more ways than they'll ever know. I will forver be an advocate of the simonton programme and have full belief in the power of the methods that are taught. Thank you Simonton commuity

At first, I had a breast left cancer level 0. Only
When I contacted Carl SIMENTON CANCER CENTER to do the. Program, my moral was very bad, the oncologist told the tretments are not working in me. He can not give me anything else. I have a colon cancer with metastasis in Lungs, head and bonds. Before I had in liver, pancreas.
The Simenton Cancer Program boost me my physical, my body and spirt, and their very professional support . start to have hope again. Thank you very much for all their health.

I learn something new at every session. This is more than a cancer program - it’s a balanced life program!

My Father, an engineer, attended the Simonton program years ago.
Changed his whole perceptive. It was a great benefit for both of my parents.
Strongly recommended!

I had a chance to meet Dr. Carl Simonton and experience and participate in a dedication to Dr. Simonton shortly after his death. I heard testimonials of their success and healing while receiving I participated in the drum circle. We were in California. I greatly appreciated the experience.
James Bachmann

I volunteered for the Simonton Cancer Center every summer when I was in college (and high school) and had a truly wonderful experience working with Dr. Simonton, Karen, and the rest of their dedicated and incredible staff. Dr. Simonton's work is so inspiring, and though he passed away, the SCC continues to spread his message and provide life-changing care to cancer patients and the folks who support them.

When my dad was diagnosed with cancer a couple of years ago, I reached out and the SCC immediately supplied us with some of Dr. Simonton's teachings and recordings. To this day, my dad keeps the Visualization CD in his car stereo and says he won't get a new car that doesn't have a CD player because he wants access to it when he drives (my dad hasn't warmed up to some of the newer technologies just yet!).

The work the SCC does is powerful and important and I will be forever grateful to them for all the good they brought into my dad's life after his diagnosis.

I have stage 4 metastatic recurrent ovarian cancer, and I have found the Simonton course,, along with the books and CDS, to be the most effective complementary program that I have participated in throughout my 3 year cancer journey. The relaxation and mental imagery exercises have been very helpful in improving my attitude, and mood, especially prior to and during chemo treatments.

Karen Simonton is truly a pleasure to know and interact with. She does an incredible job of overseeing the program, and also keeps the spirit and teachings of Carl Simonton alive with videos and meditations. His voice is very calm which makes it easy to relax very quickly and begin the process of creative thinking.

The staff truly cares, and each member of the team contributes their own unique style of counseling. They have a vast amount of knowledge in a wide variety of helpful topics pertaining to cancer and also general life issues, which creates a very thorough and helpful counseling experience. As a result, I have experienced a complete turnaround in my attitude towards my recurrence. I have released the anger and I’ve gained a much healthier perspective on life. I have also learned valuable skills for dealing with family drama, which was negatively affecting me.

I cannot recommend the Simonton program highly enough as it has truly helped me tremendously .

The counselling within the Simonton program allowed me to move forward -- with or without illness -- in life, being true to myself and understanding what that means for me.

There's work involved, for sure, and if you're up for digging around to unearth your unhealthy beliefs, you will come away from the program with healthy and healing beliefs. I discovered ways of thinking that were hurting me, that I hadn't even recognized, even through psychotherapy work.

In each session, the counsellors lead participants through the work in the most caring and gentle way. The level of participation is up to you. Personally, I got a lot out of each session, and afterwards, there's support for me in the books and in the material provided.

All the best to you!

The Simonton Cancer Counselling Center staff and program was incredible! The care and expertise shown to all participants was life affirming, supportive, positively challenging and led to hope and health for us all. The balance of wise counsel with good models and both group and 121 sessions led to deep learning and changes for me personally and for so many others in our group. I will be forever grateful to these amazing people for doing such skilful and life affirming work in such an important and difficult area as cancer care. Keep up the great work, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. If anyone is considering attending a program here, DO IT NOW! You will be amazed at how the team's and your own joint hard work and fun will change your life and your health for the better.

I learned of the Simonton program via a book by Bernie Siegel (Love, Medicine and Miracles) that my father loved—it mentioned Carl Simonton and his healing philosophy as outlined in his book Getting Well Again. My father used a number of these healing tools—visualization, healthy-belief work, and play, among others, as he dealt with grade three brain cancer that was diagnosed in 1984. His spirits remained high, and he outlived his dire prognosis of six-months-to-a-year, by 14 good years.

In 2021, I was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, and while not needing immediate treatment, there is a possibility of treatment in the future, with a stem cell transplant seen as a potential curative option. I signed up for the course while recovering from an infection that required a five-day hospitalization—I felt the information in the course (which I had read about in the book Getting Well Again) would provide a number of tools to use as I navigate my current health uncertainties.

It was a fantastic course—every session covered another valuable topic—all which I continue to use. The counselors are caring and compassionate, and it is valuable to me to know that I have them to call on as a resource.

I wholeheartedly recommend The Simonton Center to anyone who is facing a serious diagnosis—the support and healing tools are a tremendous addition to any other treatment that is already underway—or not, as is my case thus far.

My experience with the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center Charitable Trust is that it was just what I needed for dealing with my cancer. Let me explain.

In December 2021, I was diagnosed with stage 3A lung cancer despite never having smoked. With chemotherapy and surgery that included the removal of my right lung, the cancer was thought to have been cured. But in March 2024 a Pet scan revealed that it had metastasized to my shoulder, a number of lymph nodes, and elsewhere. I was restaged from 3A to 4, the incurable worst stage. Then I was started on chemotherapy for the rest of my life, I was told. The survival statistics gave me an average of two years left to live. None of my doctors indicated that there was anything I could or should do on my own except to dutifully report for chemotherapy every three weeks.

I adopted a fatalistic attitude, assuming that I was on a short downhill trip to the end. I hurried up end-of-life activities such as writing a will and purchasing a burial plot.

Then I discovered the 1982 book, Getting Well Again, written by radiation oncologist Carl Simonton, psychologist Stephanie Mathews-Simonton, and James L. Creighton. They persuasively argued that there was plenty that cancer patients could do on their own to maximize their survivals and quality of life. Primarily, they should be working to strengthen their cancer-fighting immune systems through psychological and physical work.

I was so struck by the book that I read it twice and found the website for the Simonton Cancer Center. It had a wealth of helpful information. It also announced six-week Zoom workshops. I immediately signed up.

The six weeks of twice weekly two-hour sessions flew by. The workshop had five patients and five Simonton counselors interspersed with one-on-one sessions.

When I told friends what I was doing, they would say, “Oh, a support group.” No, it was not a support group though it had elements of that. It was, rather, a workshop for learning a paradigm for how to supplement conventional cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy.

There are a lot of scams out there that prey on the desperation of cancer victims. This is not that. It is totally legitimate.

I had high expectations for it. It exceeded those expectations. I now have a strategy that I will keep following to maximize my survival and quality of life.

With Simonton I went from fatalism to hope and feeling a lot better.

How am I doing? I feel great except for short periods after chemotherapy that I can bear. And then, halfway through the Simonton workshop, I learned that a Pet scan could not find any cancer. I had had a complete response to the chemotherapy. It does not mean I have been cured. Cancer can be undetectable. But I firmly believe that the combination of the chemotherapy and the immune strengthening techniques and habits that I have learned from the Simonton program will keep the cancer at bay for as long as possible and maybe I will die of something else instead.

In November I attended the virtual ‘Getting Well Again’ program run by the Simonton Cancer Center.

I was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in 2019. I was treated with radiation, immunotherapy and a variety of chemotherapies. The cancer progressed slowly. I began feeling pessimistic about the outcome . Then in 2021 I found Dr Simonton’s marvellous book — Getting Well Again.

Packed full of stories of patients recovering from terminal diagnoses, with a range of practical self healing exercises, this book became my bible. What I most liked about it was that it encouraged me to do more to help myself rather than leaving everything up to the doctors. The Simonton method works alongside conventional medicine. It does not replace it.

I followed a lot of the advice and exercises in the book. I think this and the medical treatment I was receiving was why my cancer reduced significantly and remained stable for two years.

Then last summer bad scan results sent me in search of more help which is how I discovered the Simonton online program. It’s a six-week program— four hours of presentations, discussions and small group work every week — providing training in the psychoneuroimmunological approach to healing. One-to-one appointments with a member of the excellent therapy team are available on request. Three months of follow-up are offered after the course has ended.

The sessions I found most helpful were:

*Belief work — understanding how unhealthy beliefs such as cancer being stronger than you, chemotherapy being poisonous, side effects being worse than the treatment and emotions such as despair and fear can impede healing and learning how to change these beliefs
*Using imagery and creative visualisation to promote healing;
*Support and communication with carers;
*Play — how to use play to bring joy and happiness into your life. During this session I could feel my spirits lifting.

That is just a taste of this remarkable program. . It is exceptionally good value. A bonus is that carers and spouses are encouraged to attend and do so free of charge.

I can’t recommend this program highly enough to anyone with a cancer diagnoses.

I was not sure what I was looking for - but found peace, joy and friends.
Excellent readings and worksheets.
I would like to re-do the workshop in person, I am a people person who needs that in person connection to fully engage. I try to avoid computers and the disconnect of zoom.

Dr. Simonton's methods have stood the test of time, and it is so valuable for everyone to have continued access to his teaching and the ongoing work of the Center.

The work presented by the Center is presented as being for cancer patients, but it can benefit anyone interested in better health and happiness.

Thank you for making this possible.

In 2010, my husband and I participated in the Simonton Program for the first time. I joined the program as a support person and it proved to be a fantastic awakening experience for me. Since then, my life has completely changed. Years later, after my husband's passing, I returned to the program as an intern. I was lost and deeply desperate, but the Simonton team helped me stand up and start living my life again. They taught me how to live a meaningful life with love and compassion, regardless of the situation. I am forever in their debt. I am profoundly grateful that I had an opportunity to get to know the lovely staff and the Simonton method.

Great professionalism, great programme, great atmosphere! Highly recommend!

I am a clinical psychologist working in Dallas, Tx. I attended the Simonton training in the 1990’s. I have been utilizing what I learned since then, working with cancer patients. I have also sent patients to the Simonton program. I highly recommend this program, not only for patients, but also for other therapist to receive training in these treatment methods.

I can only THANK all the team for their professionalism, their conscious approach and their life-changing guidance.
It's amazing to have so many professionals just for a few of us, totally available. Not only during the 6 weeks program but many weeks after.
I personally lived this as a deep transforming retreat, working profoundly on many levels (mental, emotional, spiritual, physical, practical...).
And I have been able to attend this incredible program thanks to a scholarship, as I really felt I needed to do this but I didn't have all the money to pay the whole fee.
The SIMONTON TRAINING is necessary, not only for persons with cancer, but really for each person wanting to live a happier, healthier and free life!!
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU from the bottom of my hearth and from each of my cells!
Yasmina Tippenhauer Ferru
(Swiss and Haitian living in Portugal :) )
one.yasmina@gmail.com

a really terrific program; it is interesting, informative and a tremendous help in dealing with
cancer

I have recurrent stage 4 ovarian cancer. I attended the Simonton virtual workshop in 2022 and learnt a lot about how our beliefs can hamper or help healing. After the workshop, I continued private sessions with Karen. These were incredibly helpful. I have become emotionally and mentally stronger and more balanced. I find this work so helpful that I attended the virtual workshop again in September 2023. Carls's video recordings are amazing. Thank you!!

My cancer diagnosis was a shock and a huge trauma. I was 45, healthy, active, without a risk factors. IMy daughter was 3 y.o... Happily in this difficult situation, my friends recommended me a Simonton Method Therapist. Later I went forward and did a Program with SCCC. Instead of PTSD I became stronger and generally much more happier. I recommend this program to all cancer patients and their families, and actually not only - this methodology can address any disease or challenging situation. Deep nod to the Creators and Therapists. Thank you!

Once again, I had a wonderful experience with the Simonton Programme, this time online. Keep up the good work.

My husband was diagnosed with cancer almost 6 months ago. While we're grateful for the medical help he has received, we were accutely aware that it may not be enough. That's when we found the 6 week virtual program at the Simonton Cancer Center. As my husband's support person, I was able to participate along with him. To say that the experience has been incredible is an understatement. Words can't express how grateful we are to have received this help at this time. Karen, Rahla, Richard and Thera conducted each group seminar with kindness and compassion. They gave us space to absorb the information provided and followed up later to make sure that we had the clear understanding necessary to do this work which included unearthing deeply held beliefs and powerful imagery. I really wish that this program could be offered to all cancer patients as an integral part of their treatment plan.

OMG!! Working with the brilliant and gifted Rahla Kahn on Simonton methodologies, became a huge piece of my healing. I began the journey with a 4th Stage diagnosis of peritoneal cancer … a deep & sudden shock. In the mix of multiple strategies including an intense regime of chemo treatment, supplements, diet and meditation, I began to ‘unbundle’ the constrictions and contractions in the core of my body; to unpack old worn belief systems that no longer served, replacing them with new healthier and more expansive beliefs. All this and more, deeper and deeper. And the healing began. My tumor marker numbers went from 5000 to 2. This work seems to me to have been an essential and necessary piece of the archaeology of this journey. I’m on the other side now and profoundly grateful! And … I continue to use many of the teachings on a daily basis: ‘I am expanding not constricting’ as just one of them. Thank you Rahla and Simonton!

Sue Kiel Seeff

I had the fantastic privilege of working with the skillful and talented Rahla Kahn doing the Simonton work. My dearest friend Sue Kiel was diagnosed with 4th stage Peritoneal Cancer. The future looked very bleak. I signed on to be Sue’s partner in her sessions with Rahla. These were life changing for Sue but me as well. The protocol is a roadmap for unraveling and unpacking old ways of feeling, thinking and believing. To begin a process of reframing to inspire healing and a new way of living.

I have had an excellent experience with Simonton Cancer center. They have really helped me go through this difficult period of my life and have enhanced my belief work practices which is not something that other organizations have helped me with. Highly reccomend

When I participated in the Simonton Cancer retreat last January and February I received more support than I ever anticipated I would. The tools, the staff, their skill and generosity gave me what I needed to face a difficult diagnosis and begin to focus on “getting well”. With their encouragement I brought my husband as my support person and we were able to learn remarkable skills together that we continue to use. It’s truly a blessing that this program exists, that it is affordable, and provides for a great need for support to cancer patients.

The Simonton center is truly one of the most amazing resources for someone experiencing chronic illness. It is a resource like no other I've encountered. It provides education, guidance and support in helping those dealing with illness as well as their loved ones as a support person, in understanding the psychological factors that may have contributed and perpetuate illness and the psychological factors associated with a diagnosis and how to navigate and better handle all these situations. They have a very clear, simple, compassionate and enjoyable process of bringing you self awareness and self clarity and to a place to be able to clearly handle the situations surrounding the diagnosis and all situations within life itself. The Simonton center goes above and beyond, although it was technically closed during covid, I reached out during that time and the center dedicated time to me each week for several months to help guide and support me. A blessing. I subsequently jumped at the chance to join in one of their group sessions on zoom, once it re-opened and it was an amazing experience indeed. I am grateful to Karen Simonton and the center's very dedicated therapists, for continuing Dr. Carl Simonton's very important, unparalleled work. Truly a program everyone should consider experiencing.

I cannot recommend The Simonton Center enough. I desperately needed some help with my growing sense of hopelessness and fear in the face of a devastating lung cancer diagnosis. Karen Simonton and her team were exactly what I was searching for. The tools and techniques taught in the program helped dissolve a lot of the fear I was facing and gave me a firm foundation to stand on. I am truly grateful for this wonderful and empowering program and the people who run it. It has been such a lifesaver for me.

The Simonton Cancer Center (SCC) experience has changed our lives. My wife was diagnosed with cancer in March 2020. After surgery and radiation we thought it was behind us. In July 2021 the devastating news of Metastatic cancer was given. If not for SCC I’m not sure how we would have managed these last 8 months. Both for her and for me, the team at SCC were always there to support and guide us. Thank you Karen for continuing Carl’s work! The world needs SCC.

My wife is a cancer patient and signed up for the virtual Simonton program offered in early 2022 with me as her support person. We were very impressed with the program, with the director, Karen, and all the counselors. Much was covered in the 6 week program. In addition to the group lectures and work, individual virtual or phone meetings were offered, not only to my wife and other patients but also to me and other support people. The techniques we learned will continue to be helpful for my wife's healing and my support. The counselors were knowledgeable and compassionate.

I learned about the Simonton Center in 1984 when my father had cancer and I researched alternative approaches to treatment. He wasn’t interested in the tools the Simonton Center offered but I always remembered what I learned about the tools from reading the Getting Well Again book.
When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I knew that I would seek out alternative methods and I remembered the Simonton Center. After looking at their web site and learning about the online program, I applied.
I find it very empowering to know that we can play a positive role in our health and healing from cancer. I learned the importance of keeping healthy thoughts about my illness and the role that joy, laughter and play can have in getting better.
I also found it helpful to be in a group of others who were going through similar feelings and emotions and how they cope with the situation.
I learned the importance of relaxing and using visualizations to help the body’s immune system to heal.
The program also includes several other experienced and caring therapists to help with the treatment and course lessons.
I recommend this program to anyone dealing with cancer or any other disease who wants to learn more about their body and mind and how we affect our illnesses and to give us a better chance of being healthy again.

I was diagnosed with metastatic cancer in July 2021. I was devastated and suffering, mentally and emotionally. I began looking for any help, read many books, and discovered the Simonton program. I was thrilled to be accepted into the on-line program in January 2022. What I and my husband have gained from this program has been life-changing. Tools, support, knowledge. Karen, Nanami, Rahla, Richard and Thera are truly gifted, compassionate counsellors. I can’t say enough about how much this has helped me. It has changed me, put me on a new path, discovered so much about myself. I have gained such a sense of peace and happiness. I am so grateful to everyone at the Simonton Centre. Karen, you are tremendous. This program is a gift.

I live in a remote community in northern British Columbia, Canada I was diagnosed with breast cancer in the spring of 2021. Although second opinions are recommend, where I live there are no options for second opinions. The medical system here gives no mention of the emotional side of dis-ease. I found the doctors and professionals assigned to my care were very busy and had little time for all my questions. I had to do my own research and on the topic of wellness I discovered the book “Getting Well. Again” by Carl Simonton For me this was the best information. It kept coming into my mind and finally January 2022 I talked with Karen Simonton and there I was signed up a week before the program started. It was meant to be. I have found that other support groups included a lot of discussion around the scary parts of the treatment which just leaves a person more fear The cancer diagnosis and the treatments can leave a person feeling powerless and vulnerable. The SCC program was so empowering which is critical for healing and wellness.

In Aug - Sep 2021, I attended the first online Simonton programme which the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center offered :-) (zoom meetings, one-on-one and with our group)
Due to covid, the seminar in Malibu had to be cancelled, and they set up a totally successful, professional and also very personal programme.

In Aug 2020, I was diagnosed with colon cancer with metastasis to several organs. I spent a year searching to figure out how to best live my life, which recommendations to follow, and which of them felt right for me. My mind was constantly taking new turns in choosing how and what to do in this emotional rollercoaster. I just knew, that I could participate in my body`s own healing ability, and not just sit there like a victim, solely depending only on recieving aggressive treatments. As in any country I guess, the focus is on physical treatment - as so in Norway. The absence of help in how to best emotionally DEAL with the fact of having cancer is total. You simply have to figure it out yourself...

I came to listen to a podcast (can`t remember which) where the book "Getting well again" was mentioned, which led me to The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. I read the book.
Everything in the book helped me in so many ways, and I decided to take part in their programme.

HOW did and is The Simonton Method helping me?

I found a safe place, with a wonderful, caring and professional team taking us step by step, through all topics that matter, when experiencing having cancer.
I found PEACE. I found direction. Strength. Gentleness. Power. Deep connection with self and important values to not only think about, but to activate in daily life. And so much more.

If you decide to join online, know that it is a private, warm, respecting, caring, personal, professional environment you enter. And since the programme runs through a couple of months, we all had time to use the tools, and share our experiences (if we wanted to), in a very gentle and safe way.

I now have the tools I so needed, and I use them every day - they are easy to do, and they really help me to handle my everyday life in an uplifting and also very joyful way :-)
The tools have helped me to find very important and deep values, to change unhealthy beliefs to healthy beliefs - and how to tackle people situations that I encounter, in a healthy way.
I feel and live differently now. My family, friends and I are SO grateful and happy for shift I am managing to do, as a direct result of all I learned through the online programme of The Simonton Method.
I highly recommend Simonton Counseling Center !

Kind regards, Hilde Person
Norway

While relaxing on the beach in Costa Rica, Jake and I met Charlie from California, a 15-year survivor of a rare and aggressive form of jaw cancer. He revealed that he had gone to Simonton Cancer Center, which was "life-changing." Referring to his chemotherapy as candy, he said, "I knew it was working, and I said GIVE ME MORE! I will eat it like Skittles!" After a year of intense treatment, his cancer was gone, and he has never looked back. Little did I know that just a few weeks later I, too, would be joining the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center Charitable Trust.

A few months into my treatment for triple-negative breast cancer recurrence, my oncologist alerted me that, although my cancer blood markers were decreasing, he was increasing my dosage of my chemotherapy from 75% potency to 100% strength. I spent the weekend worrying about the side-effects I might experience with this new dose. Worrying that maybe the treatment wasn't working. Worrying that more hair might fall out. Worrying about decreased energy and increased nausea. Worry about how I would vacuume this week...or cook food. Or wash the dogs. And on and on.

Thankfully, Simonton Cancer Center came to my rescue, along with my family, assuring me that this increased dosage is in fact part of the plan. Now that my body has adjusted to the medicine and my side effects are more tolerable/mild, I am ready to handle more of the medicine and fight even harder.

My husband and I had been attending the Simonton program for a few weeks, and one of the most important things that happened is that my despair over my diagnosis turned into hopefulness, and I started living and learning to enjoy life more than I ever had before. I was able to speak to a counselor, outside of the regular classes, to address my fear for the upcoming treatment.

By Sunday, I started to look forward to my next treatment, knowing that I am fighting even harder with my own body's defenses, as well as the added medicine to get rid of every last cancer cell in my body. I realized I had an amazing team of doctors, nurses, dieticians, acupuncturists, naturolpaths, friends, and family. So, BRING IT ON!! !GIVE ME MORE! I will 'take' it like "Skittles!"

I was diagnosed with stage4 colon cancer in April 2021. In my search for treatments I found the Simonton Cancer Center and I am forever grateful for Karen and her beautiful team. They turned my life around from helping me with understanding how to work with my beliefs, relaxation, stress, play, creativity, and creating a health plan for during and after cancer. I cannot share in words what this program did for me, my health and my family. It has changed the way I move through and into the world. Thank you beautiful Simonton Center, it has been life changing and I could not have gotten through this without you all!

Bless You all including all of my dear compadres, may you all heal and be well.

I was diagnosed with stage 4 GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor) in my intestines which had metastasized to my abdominal lining and my liver in December 2019. I was told by the oncologist that this is an extremely rare cancer and it is TERMIINAL. Due to the stage 4 metastasis, I could die within 2 years! I was stunned, as was my husband and 2 adult children.

I was put on the first-line-of-defense medication, Gleevec. I was on it for less than a year and a half when a CT scan showed more tumor growth. This required I stop the Gleevec, as it was no longer effective, and begin another drug, Sutent. This was very disturbing news and I was experiencing some depression.

My son and I had read a book, The Holographic Universe by Michael Talbot, a number of years ago. My son referred back to it and re-read about Dr. O. Carl Simonton, a radiation oncologist who founded a program for cancer patients that addressed the Mind/Body connection to help heal cancer. We found the Simonton Cancer Center on the internet and were excited that it is based out of Southern California where we live!! I immediately ordered Dr. Simonton's 2 books, Getting Well Again, and The Healing Journey. I contacted the Center and was promptly emailed back by Karen Simonton. We then spoke on the phone and after an interview and background paperwork, I was accepted for the upcoming program. It normally would have been 5 days at a Retreat location, but we are now dealing with COVID 19. This "Retreat" was to be a Zoom Beta test for the program as COVID 19 restricted the gathering of a real Retreat!

I was so excited because 1) the program still existed, 2) I would be a client in the Zoom Retreat, and 3) I believed this would be extremely beneficial!

I joined the group with 4 other women and their Support people, and we met on Zoom a little over 4 weeks with many sessions to learn about our individual Mind/Body beliefs and how to develop healthy beliefs, trust in ourselves and our bodies, visualization to promote healing, how to deal with stress in a healthy way, and much more to bring healing to our bodies and minds; while still respecting the medical treatments that are fighting the cancers. We had our Support people join us in the work and in the sessions, which was immensely helpful.

Karen and the counselors are extremely professional, very knowledgeable in the methods of the program, beautifully heartfelt in their communication with us, and available to us throughout the program and into the future if need be.

I am extremely grateful to my son who got this rolling and immensely grateful to all of the Simonton Cancer Center counselors and Karen Simonton. This is a Godsend to cancer patients. I encourage people to join this excellent program! Even during the COVID 19 pandemic, this program has given me hope, renewed my desire to live and given me the ability to be healthy in what may come. As far as the prognosis of this rare cancer, NO ONE can predict the future!!

i was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer, and was going thru chemo/radiation/brachytherapy. i found the simonton cancer center, and thank goodness i did! their program really could be applied to any illness. karen and her team are caring, honest, genuine people who really care. i loved our group meetings, where you really learn from each other. when you have a diagnosis as heavy as cancer, besides the medical aspect, getting help with the emotional, mental aspect is equally important, and simonton cancer center provided that... and then some!

The Simonton Cancer Center is an organisation who works with their heart and full commitment in the support they gave to participants. It's touching how quickly emotional safety and trust is build in the whole group. Thanks for being a part of this loving and exploring experience.

After being diagnosed with Breast Cancer for the 3rd time my mentor recommended I read the book Getting Well Again. I read the book and knew immediately I had to work with this organization. I was very fortunate to be able to work one on one with someone since the Pandemic prohibited in person workshops. I have gained valuable knowledge and insight being part of the program. This insight and knowledge ultimately helps me better live my life with positivity and forward thinking. It has been an invaluable experience during the most difficult time of my life. Truly a life line! I am so grateful and recommend donating so the organization can continue to help people in their times of struggle.

Simonton Cancer Center and my counselor Karen offered much needed support and guidance during very uncertain and anxiety provoking times of Covid pandemic. I was so grateful to find them during this time as my fears about cancer recurrence were also being triggered. Karen helped me utilize Simonton resources to contain my anxiety and learn helpful tools to manage my feelings and reactions in a way that helped me get through this difficult time. I am forever grateful and will seek their help again when needed in the future! I recommend this center to anybody who needs support on this journey!

After seven years of medical problems with no clue as to the cause, in 2017 it was discovered that on the upper right side of my mouth I had an oral antral fistula caused by infected root canal teeth. The infection had also moved into my sinuses. In November 2017 I had a double surgery to clean out the infection and close the hole in the bone.

The maxillofacial surgery was successful but the sinus surgery was not. What followed were 2 additional surgeries – both of which were not successful.

In 2019 I was told that I needed a more extensive sinus surgery immediately, combined with intensive long term use of intravenous antibiotics. I refused to do it, feeling that surgery was not working and was not the answer.

I wanted to try something alternative to surgery but I did not know what. A friend suggested that I read the book, “Getting Well Again.” And shortly afterwards I contacted the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center for help.

Because I do not live in the US, it was not possible for me to attend one of their retreats. But that did not stop the Simonton Center from offering and giving me help. Since February of 2020 I have had the privilege of working with the Center over the phone and through email almost every week! The impact on my life and illness has been remarkable. I have been taught how to help my body heal through meditation, visualization, writing, music, laughter, and connections with others.

Two months ago I consulted with an ENT surgeon who told me I still needed surgery and the IV antibiotic treatment. But when he compared the CT scan from the previous year with the current one, he said that the condition had not gotten any worse at all, which he could not understand or explain.

But I do understand. And I thank the Simonton Center for the help it has given me and continues to give me.

Anyone with cancer and his/her caretaker can greatly profit from the wealthy of wisdom and guidance Simonton can give. As a cancer survivor, I highly recommend their literature and retreats. They gave me peace!

I recently attended the Simonton program in LA It helped me to realign with renewed hope I learned to live
better with cancer diagnosis.It was a very worthwhile experience facilitated with compassion and understanding I was very well looked after during the whole week Thanks to all the team & interns
Ann Maria Dunne

I found the time spent with the Simonton Team very rewarding and challenging (in a good way). My experience of the work that they do is that it is life changing if you want it to be.

The Team were always available and more than willing to support with an open heart.

Very grateful for the experience and the opportunity to work with such wonderful people.

I attended my level 2 training at Simonton in September 2018. My mother was given 6 months to live 30 years ago this year. 1 month later she was given the book 'Getting Well Again' by Carl Simonton and the rest is history. She's 77 now and I am finally realising my dream to bring this wisdom to Ireland having been touched by the Simonton approach which was practiced daily in our home till my mother journeyed her way out of stage 3/4 ovarian cancer. My first trip to train in Simonton was great, my second trip was even more amazing.. I got a deeper understanding of the program and all the easy to use tools offered to patients such as believe work, imagery,. the importance of joy in healing and the journey to find your authentic self, true nature and the beautiful inner wisdom that resides within. I am fully convinced of the power of this programme and really appreciated how this programme weaves so effortlessly together. For me it totally disempowers cancer and empowers the person to play a full, vital and powerful role in determining the outcome of their health. This is not a self help programme to make your cancer ride more comfortable -this is a gentle, loving programme to equip you with concrete and very accessible tools to empower you to determine your own life and health outcomes, whatever you choose that to be. I cannot wait to share this knowledge with the patients I come across in my current work and look forward to becoming certified after my level 3 next year. As a trainee without cancer, I met the most amazing people and the process at Simonton gave me tools to deepen my connection with self and to improve my relations through non violent communication. Personal practice will ensure I know this road so I can facilitate others to take this road too. Absolutely life changing and I strongly encourage anyone with health concerns or a desire to assist those with cancer to attend this evidenced based life changing programme. Thank you Karen, Thera, Rahla, Richard and Casper

I did my 1st Level training for SCC Health Educator and the experience was incredible. I´ve learned about the effectiveness of the process and techniques tough for patients and support persons with great professionalism and kindness. I became impressed with the positive emotional and hope transformation occurred with each participants and the care every staff person dedicate to each of them.

I recommend this training for every professional working in this area due to the extremely useful approach and philosophy to be included in the care of cancer patient and survivor.

I just only say THANK YOU for every professionals in charge of this learning experience. GREAT JOB!! Congratulations!!

I had a the best experience at the one week cancer patient retreat at the Simonton Cancer Center, is a life changing retreat. The staff is outstanding !

I had a wonderful experience at the one week cancer patient retreat at the Simonton Cancer Center. The staff is super knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate. I have been in several personal development seminars and workshops, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was learning something new. It is experiential. During the retreat you will practice and experience a different way of being in the world and you leave with very useful tools and skills to improve well-being. To me, the most important lesson was to realize the importance of joy, play, and fun in my life. The retreat will give you tools to help you make sure you include these in your new life.

The Simonton Retreat provided a true life changing experience.
The level of professionalism, wisdom, empathy, and care of everyone at Simonton is simply outstanding. I recommend this program to anyone dealing with cancer or some other very difficult situation in life.

I am so impressed and nearly overwhelmed by all the wisdom and healthy ways to face life.....I hardly can give words to that what I have experienced......I want everybody to have this opportunity to join the Simonton retreat and become a person who will live in more inner harmony and joy! I also experience much more inner peace of mind and harmony with the world around me. Amazing and wish this for everybody.

I was at a life changing event, the Simonton retreat. I read the book " Getting well again" and was curious how much I could learn out of the week after reading the book and have done a lot of self development courses in my life.......but the professionalism of all the staff members is beyond expectations! And I became in close connection with the core messages to improve the quality of my life even more. Thanks for all the wisdom I got.

My sister has diagnosed three different cancers within last couple years. her call month ago about her third cancer had absolutely terrified me- I was working in medical field 30 years and never had heard about cases like that. I red about SCC 10 years ago and I decide to contact them when last cancer happened. Karen was absolutely amazing to explain what we have to do and help me to set up private course of treatment (my sister do not speak English) A week ago, we both attended the 4 days long training and counseling program. It was excellent. It wasn’t easy for us and I assume it wasn’t easy for them- Karen, Rahla, and Richard worked with us 10 hours every day! It was incredible All of them are deeply knowledgeable, caring and VERY skilled.their self-value and PLAY program was fun and informative same time. Both my sister and I gained immeasurably. We were challenged a lot, but most important was how much both of us grew. As a support person I not just translated but learn a tone about my sister and myself. I learned how to listen her and how to help her stay in right path. we both know now-it is a long way ahead and I hope it help her to getting better soon!

Personally, I am grateful for experiencing the Simonton Program. In particular, I am thankful for learning to frame the perspective of my treatment to a way that will heal and support my well being. Immediately, I put it into practice at the beginning of my second cycle with good results. Visualized the infusion medicine burning away the cancer. Imagined the needle being placed into a cherry and entering the veins easily. Felt more at ease and content than previous times filled with fear before each treatment. Additional, insights of inspiration were gained that inspired my spirits. For example, give consideration to making my bedroom a pleasant healing environment. Therefore, I plan to paint my bedroom and purchase new comforter as starters. Another, to keep in check my beliefs for healthy thoughts. Instead of thinking that the treatment will make me weaker change my thoughts for healing ones. Lastly, I learned to take time to utilize the breathe technique to ease and help me with the relaxation of my body.

Татьяна Савельева. Дорогие друзья! Разрешите выразить вам признательность и благодарность за проделанную работу. Я с трудом решилась на поездку в Лос—Анджелес. Я была уверена, что помощь мне не нужна, но я глубоко ошибалась. Здесь меня встретили профессионалы своего дела: интеллигентная, вдумчивая Керрен, эмоциональная, яркая Ролла, благородный, воспитанный Ричард. Каждый из вас внёс свою лепту в то, чтобы я разобралась в своих проблемах, пересмотрела свою жизнь, изменила ее и работала над собой, планируя свою деятельность, выполняя различные упражнения на релаксацию и визуализацию. Вы учили меня прислушиваться к своему внутреннему голосу, развивать интуицию, концентрировать внимание, делать только то, что приносит мне радость, больше уделять внимание себе и делать то, что я хочу, а не в угоду другим, не бояться выразить своё мнение и научиться говорить «нет». Вы учили меня преобразовать не здоровые мысли в здоровые. Поверьте, это очень сложно. Я верю, что наша встреча изменит мою жизнь и поможет мне полностью восстановить мое здоровье. Огромное вам спасибо за ваше благородное дело, здоровья всем вам, удачи во всех ваших начинаниях!
Tatyana Savelieva. Dear friends! Allow me to express my gratitude and for all hard work you done. I had a hard time deciding on a trip to Los Angeles. I was sure that I did not need help, but I was deeply mistaken. Here I met with professionals: intelligent, thoughtful Karen, emotional, bright Rahla, a noble, educated Richard. Each of you contributed to my understanding of my problems, reconsidered my life, changed it and worked on myself, planning my activities, performing various exercises for relaxation and visualization.

You taught me to listen to my inner voice, develop intuition, concentrate attention, do only what brings me joy, pay more attention to myself and do what I want, not to please others, do not be afraid to express my opinion and learn how to say "no". You taught me to transform not healthy thoughts into healthy ones. Believe me, this is very difficult. I believe that our meeting will change my life and help me completely restore my health. Thank you very much for your noble cause, health to all of you, good luck in all your endeavors!

Valery Argo, support person.
My sister has diagnosed three different cancers within last couple years. her call month ago about her third cancer had absolutely terrified me- I was working in medical field 30 years and never had heard about cases like that. I red about SCC 10 years ago and I decide to contact them when last cancer happened. Karen was absolutely amazing to explain what we have to do and help me to set up private course of treatment (my sister do not speak English) A week ago, we both attended the 4 days long training and counseling program. It was excellent. It wasn’t easy for us and I assume it wasn’t easy for them- Karen, Rahla, and Richard worked with us 10 hours every day! It was incredible All of them are deeply knowledgeable, caring and VERY skilled.their self-value and PLAY program was fun and informative same time. Both my sister and I gained immeasurably. We were challenged a lot, but most important was how much both of us grew. As a support person I not just translated but learn a tone about my sister and myself. I learned how to listen her and how to help her stay in right path. we both know now-it is a long way ahead and I hope it help her to getting better soon!

I am a proud and knowledgeable student at the University of Life. Isn't that neat?
One more.. I took off the label "I AM CANCER" , which I carried since I was diagnosed 10 years ago. Now, I am a Human Being , who experiences cancer as an opportunity to grow and live with purpose. These are just some of the powerful and meaningful things that I learned three weeks ago at the Simonton Cancer Center program.
This is a program that welcomes people from all over the world. We were a group of different nationalities speaking english as a second language, which did not matter at all. On the contrary, it was fun and deep ! We were human beings with the same fears seeking to "GET WELL AGAIN"!
I came back home with a "Tool Box" full of simple and effective techniques to practice everyday, which have helped me to love my body, be grateful with whatever I get and get connected to my inner source.
Last thing to say that I have learned, Play..Play.. and Laugh ! Life is not that serious. enjoy living!

I participated in the Simonton Program for the first time as a support person in 2010. It was an unforgettable life changing experience. Honestly I was genuinely surprised by the Simonton method and the knowledgeable thoughtful staff. After that, I took part in the program as an intern in 2016 and a couple of weeks ago so far. My purpose of living is to live a happy healthy life. Each time when I join the program, I learn something more and feel the method becomes more natural and better settles in myself. The Simonton method was initially developed by Dr. Carl Simonton for cancer patients. But I am fully convinced that the Simonton Philosophy and Method can help not only cancer patients get well but also all people who want to live a happy meaningful life.

My partner and I recently attended the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center's five day program/retreat for cancer survivors and their partners. It was a truly amazing experience! I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer 12 years ago, with several scary and potentially life-threatening progressions in the last 2 years. The Simonton program and its amazing staff, provided me with many specific tools to live more fully with this disease and to develop skills to harness my immune system through imagery to help me fight the cancer. I brought home many new insights about my health and tools to address issues and beliefs that are potentially holding me back. My husband also benefited hugely from the week, and we both learned some ways to communicate about very tough and frightening issues, both with each other and with our children and other family members. If all that wasn't enough, Karen and other staff members keep in touch with participants, and offer help and support after we go back to our everyday lives. I can't recommend this program enough! I just wish everyone facing the challenge of living a full and happy life with cancer could attend the program.

Our week at the simonton cancer counselling center was truly amazing. My partner and I were able to talk about all sorts of issues which we had been scared to mention before. But with the support of the wonderful facilitators we came away feeling wonderfully supported, uplifted and healthy. We are now full of healing plans for the future
I wish everybody suffering from cancer could share in one of these weeks

I am married to a 20 year cancer survivor (with several recurrences). A couple weeks ago, we both attended the week long training and counseling program. It was excellent. Both my wife and I gained immeasurably. The staff is deeply knowledgeable, caring and skilled. We were challenged and grew much. As a support person, I was expecting to learn ways in which I can better support my wife, and to become a better partner. I did learn that. And I also learned plenty about myself that will contribute to my own life being better. One leaves the Simonton program with personal work yet to do, and it is work that I'm confident will enhance our future and further strengthen our connection with each other.

My Father was a client of The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. We attended a week long seminar, he as the "patient" and me as his "support person." We went through all the lectures and activities together. It was a profound experience for both of us. Dad's diagnosis was terminal, however he believed that our time with Simonton extended his life by another six months! We loved the whole team. We came out of that workshop with so much knowledge and good spirit, we felt we could conquer anything. And we did. Dad had been a professional football player, a highly decorated WWII hero, a Bronze Medal winning Olympic athlete, successful business man and civic leader. He knew quality work and had many peak experiences. In that line he included the work at the Simonton Center to be World Class. He eventually succumbed to his disease, but the Simonton work gave both he as the patient, and me as his support person, a brighter and more affirmative outlook to the time we had left together. When we got home, we were also able to bring my Mother into an understanding of the work. When my Father passed, we requested that instead of flowers or any other gifts, than any acknowledgements be contributed to the Simonton Center. With appreciation.

In the time of need, my phone call to a Simonton therapist, was answered with heartfelt compassion. With no history of cancer in our family, my brother had been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. Healing energy and words of wisdom gave me great solace and strength which helped to guide me through the steps of how to cope and how to give my brother the best possible care and advice. Thank you Simonton Cancer Center ~ Mia Valencia

Three years ago August 16th, my family and I were suddenly faced with the nightmare we all fear: Someone in our family had the "c" word.

My father had been diagnosed with 4th stage metastasized lung cancer and was given three to six months to live. In the midst of tears and panic, the voice of calm and compassion came from Simonton Cancer Counseling Center counselor Rahla Rossner. Rather than focus on the family's fear and doctor's death sentence, I was able to gain strength from her words of hope and enlightment and deep knowledge. As the lead in my father's choice to blend eastern and western methodologies, I confidently included Rahla's loving guidance to design a personalized 24/7 plan to rid his body of the disease.

Psychologically and emotionally, my father, my family, and I all benefited tremendously from Rahla's support based in the teachings and proven success of the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. Thank you, thank you, Rahla, and SCC!

Donna-Lisa Valencia

P.S. My father is cancer free today :)

When, about three and a half years ago my wife Susan was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, a friend had recommended that we read Dr. Simonton’s book, “The Healing Journey.” The book provided much useful wisdom, and we were eager to learn more. A trip from the East Coast to the Simonton Center in California wasn’t feasible. My wife then called the Center and they connected her with Rahla Kahn, a visualization coach in California who is associated with the Simonton Cancer Center. Susan’s year of weekly phone sessions with the wonderful Rahla Kahn were absolutely indispensable in helping Susan to maintain a positive outlook throughout the many challenges presented by the cancer and its treatments.

When i was diagnosed with cancer in 1976, i was so fortunate to have been told about the Simonton Cancer program. I called and went to my first session in Texas. My life was changed in so many many ways. I went to 2 more sessions over the next few years. At their recommendation i followed up with councelling at home for the next 10 years. What i learned has made my life so much more happy and successful. Since then i have always recommended this program to anyone that has been diagnosed with cancer. I could write a book about how/what i have learned and experienced that i could trace back to this wonderful, powerful and transforming program. I hope that it will grow and be able to help more and more people live more meaningful and healthy lives.

Read Dr Simonton’s book. Take this retreat, and get well.

I am happy to write a review for the Simonton Cancer Center. I was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer at age 55. After having surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, I had a reoccurrence just over a year later. I also found out that I had brain tumors. My husband found out about the Simonton Center while reading a book by Bernie Siegel. When my husband went online he connected with Karen Simonton, who runs the Center. From then on, we had support and hope! Going to the retreat for five days in beautiful Santa Barbara was wonderful. We worked with therapists and other pAtients in a peaceful and helpful environment. I came away with tools to use every day, I continue to have support from Karen as she calls me every few weeks to offer support and suggestions. I now have the techniques I know I need to do my part in staying alive as long as I can. I 100% recommend the Simonton Center. In fact I would love to return and do it again!

In his book “Getting Well Again”, Carl Simonton broke crucial new grounds by tying together the mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions of the disease we call cancer. He showed us that the human is being more than just a physical body and that all aspects of ones psyche and social environment are involved in the development and the healing of cancer.

The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center (or Simonton center) retreat was 5 amazing days of meeting others with cancer and learning how to live and find joy. I highly recommend the center as well as their books. The counselors could not be more loving, helpful, present, honest, bright, fun and giving. They worked all day and night to make us clients and spouses feel comfortable and consoled when needed. The program was very thorough and well conceived by Dr. Carl Simonton. I learned so much about my belief system and how to turn negative beliefs into healthy beliefs and how it affects our immune system. We laughed, cried and played games. We drew, wrote, helped each other as well learned to take care of our selves and our spouses. It was so much more than I thought it would be and can't recommend it enough. The setting is beautiful in Montecito and walking around the compound was lovely. Every need was met and I came home practicing what I learned and 3 weeks later am still living this new life of calm, peace, living for today and self care in all respects. I am living with cancer and it's just becoming part of my life. And I have a more peaceful life with my family and husband learning techniques and tools to use. THIS IS A PROCESS AND I HAVE TO WORK AT IT EVERY DAY! The speaker was great as well on the science of the immune system. So many things packed into each day including lots of alone time with the therapists. They have stayed in touch as well as us cancer clients. THANK YOU KAREN, RAHLA, THERA, RICHARD, CASPER FOR A LIFE CHANGING 5 DAYS.

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer 10 years ago, my last diagnosis in 2013 was Grade 4 metastasised breast cancer and I was given a couple of months to live. I have read, attended courses, trained and taken advice from 'alternative doctors' , 'out of the box oncologists' , nutritional therapists and alternative therapists. I would state that Simonton Cancer Counseling Centre is NUMBER 1! The quality of therapy, care, knowledge, experience and passion makes the Simontons programme the 1 place to go for anyone dealing with cancer, be that the person with cancer or those closest to them. Life is precious, cancer can be terrifying. the Simonton programme gives YOU the strengh, knowledge and passion to LIVE and LIVE WELL.
We, my husband and I will be forever grateful.

I have been a student of holistic health and psychology for over 15 years and just this summer I was diagnosed with stage three thyroid cancer. The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center was recommended to me right before my radioactive iodine treatment and I'm so grateful I was able to attend the counseling prior to the treatment. The five days I spent with Simonton Cancer Counseling Center were life-altering. The caliber of counseling and counselors was evident from the beginning. I felt the subtle and profound changes throughout the five days, but the aftermath was most impressive, leaving me with feelings of confidence and positivity. I believe (and still believe) that I could take whatever diagnosis came my way. Cancer is difficult enough without all the added stress and fear. The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center equipped me with the tools to transcend unnecessary stress and fears - not just with cancer but in life - and for that I will be forever grateful.

My experience with the Simonton Center has been wonderful. From the first phone call through the actual retreat and now with follow-up calls, it has been a transforming experience. The staff is caring, knowledgeable, helpful, and inspirational. Since the retreat this August, I have been in contact with several other participants and we are currently supporting each other with phone calls and emails. The Simonton Center has been my main source of healing emotionally and spiritually. Thank you.

Before attending the Simonton Center Program, I had only followed conventional treatments. In every instance, I was afraid for my life and I was led to believe that there was nothing I could do to help the outcome. I had several surgeries but not once the connection between body and mind was mentioned.
I had previously had thyroid cancer, endometrium cancer and a brain tumor. On March of this year I was diagnosed with a recurrence of the brain tumor which could not be operated.
I came across the website of the Simonton Cancer Center which immediately spoke to me, as the best alternative to follow. It was imperative for me to participate in the program and learn how my thoughts and emotions, as I had suspected for years, were having an effect in my body.
The program exceeded all my expectations. The therapy sessions were excellent, the meditations, visualizations, the two year plan and the stay at La Casa helped me a great deal. I could see now how I could contribute to my healing and this has been very empowering. Having my husband participate as a support person was very important. In doing the program together, we have grown by the experience and gotten much closer as well.
We are thankful to Karen Simonton for continuing with such a great program, her dedication, caring and follow up are greatly appreciated!

It was, and has been, a wonderful ride in this field of knowing yourself and learning how to help your body to heal itself. As a support person for my wife we attended the 5-day program at Simonton Cancer Center (Sta. Barbara-CA), last May-2016. Although we were researching allover, reading and watching Dr. Carl Simonton materials, and also other materials from professionals in this area, the 5-day intensive program was a wake-up call in many ways. It was comforting to find professionals, in the medical field, that believe and educate you in the heart-mind-body emotion science. Psycho Neuro Immunology is emerging stronger because of pioneers like Carl Simonton and what modern science is proving through quantum-physics.
The program is a life changing opportunity, not only for the sick person, but also for anyone willing to improve their lives. It gives you the information and tools you need to get rid of thoughts and emotions, that are not beneficial, and which you unknowingly have accumulated in your life. Once you understand the information, believe in it and embrace it, it will get you well.
The person in charge, Karen Simonton, is really nice, professional and has a wonderful staff. Our group was one of a kind, we learned a lot from each other, and had fun too in that peaceful and beautiful place, called La Casa de Maria.

This 5 day retreat was exactly what I was hoping and more. I was taught the importance of getting into a relaxed state so my body can heal. Imagery and guided visualizations were taught and I am putting them to practice way more than I was before. The biggest thing that I learned was about beliefs. I knew our beliefs about people and situations effect our health but i really liked the way it was taught. It had a bigger impact on me because I was given tools that will help me shift them. I also enjoyed learning about the importance of play in my life. I did not really consider play an important healing tool before. I tend to take life every seriously so this was perfect medicine for me. Learning about Process communication was very interesting. I would like to learn more about this. It gave me the freedom to be okay with the way that I am, instead of judging and changing parts of me that are just ME. The staff was great! They truly cared about everyone and before during and after the retreat. I am very grateful to them. I came home feeling relaxed and reset. Thankyou

I first heard of Dr. C. Simonton in the 1970s and immediately loved what he was doing with cancer patients using meditation etc. I was thrilled to discover that there was a 5 day internship available in Santa Barbara. The 5 days were amazing, great healthy food, calming location, dedicated teaching staff and tremendous support both before, during and after the 5 days. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is struggling with cancer. I loved that the spouse or support person was included in the whole process.

The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center (SCCC) retreat for cancer patients and their support members is firmly based in reality approach on how patients and those who love them can face cancer and the myriad of considerations involved in the diagnosis.

More importantly, SCCC’s retreat works. From the moment that dread word “cancer” is first spoken, that easy life path most of us were on is shattered into rubble with no way to see beyond the wasteland and with no vision of where or even if the path picks up again.

Simonton Cancer Counseling Center reveals that it does.

From the moment we stepped into the Santa Barbara, CA retreat, we were welcomed by the wonderful SCCC Executive Director and a top team of high-compassion, high-caliber mental health professionals giving us faith, not in the center but in ourselves, in our ability to go through this process and the hard work of putting together a life that might have ceased to seem important. SCCC gives hope where hope had been all but destroyed. It gives a means to love oneself and one’s life all over again. And it gives a plan where plans all had seemed to stop the moment of the diagnosis.

Sessions and discussions on stress, death and recurrence, support and communication, hope, trust, spirituality, the importance of play/joy and so much more are all aimed at one thing - to put the patient and their support person into healthier frames of mind so that the medical/traditional treatment has the best chance of working.

They don’t require that you buy into all of it or any of it. They simply lay it all out for you in a physically and emotionally safe environment. And that we found invaluable.

If you are a cancer patient/survivor or one supporting them in their journey to health, it will give you the tools and confidence you need to do so. We cannot recommend this program highly enough. It was the most important week of our lives and it has made life hopeful again. And as strange as if may sound in the midst of an advanced cancer diagnosis, it has made life a thing of beauty.

Bonjour,
One morning I was checking the Simonton Cancer Center Facebook page. They were offering a donation to attend a one week program. So I call the number and spoke with this very Nice Lady Karen Simonton who explained me the program and offered me the donation even if I was coming from Québec, Canada.
It was still expensive for me and find the money in such a short time was impossible for that session. Finally I was able to go with a good friend donation. I Would like to thank all my Angels especially the Teri Koller Kaplan Fund who allowed me to attend the program in September 2014.
Thank you Karen and your exceptional team for the wonderful full week at La Casa Maria Center.
Finally I met new friends with this terrible disease, cancer and
learn together how to manage our life.
Thank you Dr. Simonton you are an inspiration for me since 1988 Shenzhen Mom had lung Cancer as me. Your book help my mother, my father and my three sisters and myself during this very hard period in our life.

Amitié

I recently attended what I call a healing retreat at the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. Having tried many of the alternative cancer treatments with relative success I felt that I was given a life Line with the incredible amount of information and approach to treating cancer recognizing the relationship in mind -body connection. I am excited about applying the meditation and the guided imagery techniques that we practiced. The instructors were all knowledgeable and full of encouragement and committed to the success of each of the attendees. I feel this program is a must as a adjunct to whatever other therapies are being used. YT

I have just returned from spending a week at the Casa de Maria in Santa Barbara with the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. I was the support person for my sister who has breast cancer. Before attending this healing retreat I read the books by Carl Simonton who stresses the mind-body connection and other valuable techniques for working closely with one's doctor in achieving one's own healing. Already a proponent of his ideas I found a wealth of information in dealing with my own health issues. I am encouraged and feel that I received invaluable techniques that I can apply in improving my own health. I would highly recommend this program to anyone seeking successful alternatives to the present harsh and unbending standard treatment for cancer. P. MacKaron

I just returned from a retreat at the Casa Maria, near Santa Barbara and it was fantastic! We had classes on "Belief Work: the ABC's of Emotions and Form for Changing Beliefs", "Imagery: the Use of Imagination in Health", "Stress Management", "Support and Communications" and Psychoneuroimmunology, amongst many other things. The Center stresses the relationship amongst mind/body/spirit and making you your doctor's partner in regaining your health. The staff were excellent, highly skilled and extremely caring. I would highly recommend this as the best 6 days that anyone with cancer could spend!

My name is Leo Perron and I and my wife attended one of the Simonton Cancer Centers early seminars in Dallas in 1982 when my wife was diagnosed with a metastasis of her earlier breast cancer and was given only 18 to 36 months to live. The seminar was very helpful and encouraging to her and after the seminar she faithfully followed the practices and recommendations we had both learned. She surprised her physicians and lived for another 20 years although she had several more reoccurrences they were all successfully put into remission after treatment and a return to our Simonton practices. I returned this September after a diagnosis of prostate cancer and found the seminar was a useful, encouraging and helpful refresher for my own diagnosis. I whole heartedly recommend both of Carl Simonton's books and the seminar for anyone who has cancer or is a caregiver to someone with the disease.
Leo Perron

Perron & Campbell, Inc.

3707 N. St. Mary’s Suite 201

San Antonio, TX 78212

210-737-8100

leo@perroncampbell.com

After continuous research and digging to get closer to my calling, i found the Simonton Cancer Canter and it suddenly clicked. Having had breast cancer and after doing alot of soul searching, i realized that what i wanted to do was become a cancer councelor and bring my teachings to Dubai where i currently live. I finished the first program a few months ago and i cant wait return to california for my second round . The staff was extremely friendly, warm, and very informed about the physiological/emotional aspects of cancer and other terminal diseases. I would recommend everyone who has been through any life threatening diseases to attend the center for mindfulness and healing of deep routed issues that may have contributed to the illness.

I am on staff at the Simonton Cancer Center. My comments are not prejudiced due to my employment - I honestly and sincerely do the work I do because of the results I have seen, and the appreciation patients have communicated to me. The Simonton Cancer Center offers a unique science-based, profoundly transformative approach to engaging cancer patients and their loved ones to move beyond the deep uncertainty and fear of a cancer diagnosis to a place where emotional, as well as physical healing can occur.

In the many years that I have been on staff, I have seen patients shift their beliefs about their cancer, their treatment and their ability to engage more powerfully with whatever medical protocol they are following. I am always deeply touched and appreciate the work of the Simonton Cancer Center when I see patients make an internal shift from fear and stress, to hope . Whether our clients experience remission (and I have seen many) or not, I always experience a sense of gratitude for the huge leap in the quality of life that our participants experience. This is a consistent outcome of the Simonton Method.

I have worked at the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center since 2003, and I recently joined the Board of Directors. I have seen and participated in the excellent work of this organization, and I am always deeply touched at how participants shift their relationship to cancer and their lives in one short week. The work covers a critical area that profoundly impacts overall health and quality of life. It is an honor to serve such a great program and be an integral part of this aspect of healing.

I just came home from a week at The Simonton Center and want to go back!! It far exceeded my expectations! I have recurring uterine cancer that is not responding to chemo. I felt that I needed to pursue how my emotions and feelings related to my situation before deciding on new kinds of treatment. I certainly made the right decision. Karen Simonton, Rahla and Richard are warm, loving, and compassionate. They teach the tools we use in the same warm, compassionate atmosphere; while keeping us focused and on target. I now know I can make the right decisions for my healing and still laugh, love, and play along the way. What a wonderful way to help people realize how much help one can be to one's own healing process. Thank You So Much! God Bless each of you and this amazing program.

I feel so blessed to have attended the recent Simonton counseling retreat in beautiful Montecito. The information about how our thoughts, beliefs and emotions affect our immune system, and so our healing, was exactly what I have been searching for, and what a lot of alternative programs don't address in depth like Simonton does. In an intimate, safe setting I learned processes and tools that I can practice and use to regain not only my health, but my happiness as well. They have wonderful support materials that I can use for the rest of my life. And even though I didn't have a "support person" to go through the program with, I felt completely embraced by the wonderful group of people there. I have benefitted immensely. When I was diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2011, I knew that I wanted to heal through using my body's innate ability to do so. I still believe that is the best way for me. I am so grateful to have found the Simonton Center.

My husband and I just returned from a week long patient program. My husband has brain cancer and our lives have been turned upside down over the last six months. This program really is the missing link. The tools and techniques have settled us down, brought us closer,and helped us find peace and joy. We can highly recomment this program.

I have been using relaxation techniques, visualization, guided imagery and other protocol initiated by Dr. Simmonton in his Cancer Center, and was fortunate to have attented their seminar in early June. The synchronicity of their techniques used as an integrative method of patients´ participation is an indispensable tool that should be made available to all cancer patients to participate in their healing. They have developed an outstanding teaching method with first class professionals in their teaching and have a very comprehensive protocol to be followed to encompass body, mind and spiritual techcniques. I recommend it highly to all patients institutiions and professionals in the field

I attended the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center "Getting Well Again" program on June 1-6, 2014 in Santa Barbara. Their program helped identify how my beliefs and attitudes can affect my health and over all well-being. They provided tools that will benefit me now and in the future with all types of questions and concerns. The program was very well organized. The whole experience was informative, uplifting, and provided the support and confidence I need to move forward with my decisions.

The La Casa de Maria retreat location was so beautiful! It provided a relaxing environment while learning to cope and manage stress.

Thank you Simonton Cancer Center for changing my life! I will use this information always!

Simply wonderful!! So I would call the program offered by Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. The approach to patient and his family, the level of details discussed in aspects of social support, the respect towards the face of different opinions on treatment options for patients, everything is handled with care and love. Furthermore the approach is so broad that it is indeed a healing journey which all those present benefit in their personal lives. It is easy to see that the commitment of the program is personal transformation towards a happy life full of satisfaction and empowerment of people in search of personal fulfillment. As a medical oncologist I found the program with scientific basis, and with a level of organization that integrates interventions in a doable way in the lives of patients.
Thus I can understand why after 43 years of operation, the program continues running very well. I have to recognize and congratulate this pioneering work. Even without the physical presence of Carl Simonton we feel how alive are your ideas and also as a powerful seed germinates in a leafy tree with juicy fruits.

I first became aware of Dr. Simonton's remarkable work in the early 80's when I read 'Getting Well Again' and found it the first, and only, book of techniques, encouragement, and factual information to help the person with cancer stay energized and focused on their recovery. I am an RN and have used the teachings with many patients over the years. Now, thirty years later, I am a trainee at the Center working to expand my skills to continue supporting people who have a cancer diagnosis. I attended the March, 2014, five-day workshop and was impressed with the organization and clarity of the work that has remained after many years and many clients around the world. The experience will empower anyone who wants to do what they can to improve the effectiveness of their chosen treatment, improve their quality of life, improve their ability to communicate with those around them, and focus on getting well. The work goes deep and is carefully orchestrated to provide a level of comfort and safety that allows participants the opportunity to touch into their heartfelt desires and their greatest joys. At the end of the training you will have the tools and the support to shift into the work of recovery. The staff is knowledgeable and caring. This is important work which anyone receiving a cancer diagnosis can benefit from.

While I was an intern, I attended the Simonton program three times in Santa Barbara. I observed that the tools and techniques taught in the program helped the participants to reduce stress related to their diagnoses/illness and helped them to gain confidence that they can positively influence their healing. The staff were very helpful and knowledgeable, I learned a lot from the therapists as I observed them working with the clients. Malonie

I have been involved with the Simonton program since March 2012. I had a massive heart attack in December 2011 and chose the Simonton program as one of my tools for healing. The information was not new to me but I love the simple way it is put together. I practiced the techniques after the first class for my own healing. I completely healed my heart naturally and the tools I learned at the Simonton program have been very instrumental in my healing. I have become an intern and just got certified as a therapist of the program. I work with people diagnosed with cancer and lyme disease and I am grateful to be able to help others in their healing journey. Malonie

I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in July, 2013. In March, 2014 my wife and I attended the Simonton Cancer Center "Getting Well Again" Program in Santa Barbara. The program far exceeded our expectations. It was well organized, provided tools and techniques for dealing with the Mind/Body aspect of my disease, provided lots of individual attention, and the staff and counselors were wonderful. In addition, the location of the program at La Casa de Maria retreat was terrific: relaxing and inviting, comfortable and very clean, and the food was outstanding.
The program included not only the core training from Dr. Simonton's books and research, but brought in additional aspects such as the Power of Play and an evening of restorative yoga, all of which blended beautifully with the rest of the program.
At times it wasn't easy, but it was exceptionally helpful and useful to us.
I found the other cancer patients and their support persons to be exceptionally helpful to the learning process and came away with a new set of friendships that I treasure and hope to build on going forward.
Thank you to Karen Simonton and her staff as well as the staff at La Casa De Maria for a great week.

I attended the 5 day seminar in Santa Barbara last week. I have had a recent diagnosis of stage IV cancer and the group sessions and individual counseling were wonderfully helpful to me. The philosophy, tools ad techniques of the Simonton program empowered me and will be invaluable in my quest to regain my health.
The counselors, as well as Karen Simonton were compassionate, kind and very skilled at this work. I would highly recommend this program to any person who has cancer.

My husband and I were at the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center in March of 2014. We have been pleasantly surprised how well organized and personal the program is. It helped us to resolve many issues that has been dwelling on us for quite a while. The dedication and professional knowledge of the staff was very refreshing. Thank you very much and we hope that you can operate for a long time helping others and making a huge difference.
Marina

Some words about training program in Santa Barbara...
It was very interesting and useful seminar for me. Studies were dynamic and productive. Despite linguistic divide, I understood a core of the subject. Thanks for support, warmth and care of all participants of this training I felt calm and confident.
I have many unusual feelings. Lovely place, weather, nature. It seemed that time stood still, pleasure and tranquillity as I returned to my childhood, to my soul. I enjoyed the learning process and I was afraid that I would not have time to understand and to realize everything in 5 days.
Much of what I heard was familiar to me. I use it in the work in Ukraine. But, there are differences, and it is a huge resource.
I am grateful to all especially, to the executive director - for a fine and unforgettable trip, patience, understanding and fascinating work.

I cannot say enough good things about the Simonton Cancer Center! This past November, I attended the Getting Well Again conference as my mom's support person. The care, concern, dedication, and compassion from Karen and her staff was notable and very much appreciated. The retreat was an enriching, valuable experience for not only my mom, but me as well. Concepts were explained very well and everything we learned was applicable in hands-on activities, discussions, visualizations, and meditation work. Carl's amazing work does such a great job of helping patients to move forward in a positive direction, post diagnosis and treatment, and gives them a platform for how to live a healthy, vibrant life when they return home. The material and exercises with belief work and the Power of Play really helps uncover places that require attention and the staff at the SCC are well-trained in how to help patients in these areas. By the end of the conference, you have a beautifully organized binder to take home for easy reference based on topics discussed during the retreat so that you have exactly what you need. This retreat was a life-changing experience for both of us are so grateful to Karen, Rahla, Claude, Jan, and all the wonderful interns! Thank you, SCC!

I heard about Simonton while in Germany visiting a friend and having severe pain and pancreatic cysts. I contacted them when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer early 2013. They helped me to prepare for surgery followed by chemo and radiation therapy by using their loving guidance in designing my own personal protection visualization. I have just this week completed chemotherapy, and have experienced no pain and minimal side effects. I was "no evidence of disease" in Sept. 2013 scans. I attended the November session 2013, and have learned more tools to design a more healthy belief system and ways to plan out how to do everything I know to do, to be healthy and vital.

Many years ago, my wife had stage 4 melanoma removed and drs were positive it had already spread. ,Testing equipment was not as sophisiticated then, and she was give a 60 per cent chance of survival. We went to MD Anderson, in TX, and there were not treatments available for her. Coincidentially, she saw the book by Dr. O. Carl Simonton, "Getting Well Again", and bought it and immediately started the exercises and meditations in the book. She gethered a group of friends to work with her with healing meditations, from a distance. Amazingly, and gratefully, the cancer never had spread, and never returned. We are grateful to the Simonton Cancer healing methods. She is still alive 30 years later.
Years later, we attended a sesson at the Simonton Center, and definitely would recommend it to all cancer patients and caregivers.

I've been associated with the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center since 1979. The organization has been a leader in mind body medicine and cancer for treating both patients and their families. It also has provided a standard of care for a cancer counseling model that has been used in training thousands of healthcare professionals from all over the world. The Center is dedicated to increasing hopefulness as an essential element of treatment in getting well with cancer. The Center's clinical research over the last 30 years has continued to show a doubling of median life expectancy for people implementing this approach with their standard medical treatment for cancer.

We live in Izmir - Turkey. Last February (2013) we found out that my wife has lung cancer. Than we started to search for ways to fight cancer. During a conference in Turkey we heard about the Simonton Counceling Center in CA- USA and we did our reservation for the session of August, 2013 and we fortunately have been in that 5 days training in CA - USA. Now, just after the Simonton training we feel so sure that we have good tools to fight with my wife's cancer and we'll get rid of it in a short time. Simonton trainers are like our family members, very warm, kind: during the training days they have worked with us all day long, even once until 10 pm. Simonton is a caring organization. I believe that the Simonton training is necessary to any person who wants to keep himself in good health.

Although my own father died of cancer, as did both of his brothers, I had no personal experience with the Simonton Cancer Center prior to volunteering and later becoming a member of the board of directors. For my dad’s sake, I wish I had known about the program. I was actually drawn to Simonton Cancer Center after meeting the Executive Director, Karen Simonton. Karen’s compassion for the patients and dedication to the work is paramount to the organization's continued success.

In the spirit of learning about the organization, I observed one of the week-long patient retreats held in Santa Barbara at the very beautiful and serene sanctuary, La Casa de Maria. In just a few days of community and guided exploration, there was a palpable shift in energy from a dark hopelessness to light and life among the participants. Patients who came into the program with no idea of what to do next, left with a plan and a trained support person. I saw eyes of hope where hopelessness had been just a few days earlier.

Pioneering the mind-body connection in cancer therapy, Dr. O. Carl Simonton was ahead of his time when he developed a whole person model of cancer recovery; an intervention program that addresses the mind-body connection of illness by tapping into a person’s own “inner guide to health.”

Through imagery and belief work participants learn to access their own inner wisdom; through relaxation exercises participants learn how to reduce stress; and during one-on-one and group sessions, participants learn how to communicate effectively and ask for the support they need.

For over 40 years the Simonton Cancer Center has been teaching mind-body techniques that have been proven to promote health, increase survival, decrease tumor growth, and improve quality of life. While there may be other mind-body programs for cancer patients, survivors, and their families; Simonton Cancer Center is the original, the longest running, and in my opinion-the best.

I attended the Simonton Support Week with my daughter, son in law and his father. My daughter had been diagnosed with an aggressive cancer. I was in high anxiety and fear for my young daughter's life. I benefitted greatly from the workshop which relaxed me and gave me tools and hope. The setting and the healthy food were ok, too. My daughter felt immensely empowered by Carl, Karen and other staff. She embraced their philosophy and recommendations, hired a cancer coach, and won her battle against cancer. The four of us who attended learned to be an effective support team. We taught other family members. Today my daughter is 7 years cancer free and happily realizing her dream to raise her daughters who were babies when she was diagnosed. I am grateful to the Simonton Cancer Center for their life changing work. I refer to them.

I cannot say enough good things about the week my husband and I spent at the Simonton Cancer Counseling session. As a 2 time surviving cancer patient, this program was the most positive and educational approach to cancer I've ever experienced. And it works!! It is held in a peaceful retreat setting in Santa Barbara hills for 5 wonderful days. In meetings with Mrs. Simonton and the counselors and other patients, there is an immediate feeling of love and peace. Instead of fearing cancer, they teach new approaches to taking charge of your life, your health, and reaching deep into your soul to make any necessary changes in yourself and your life to bring about health. This empowered me to not fear cancer, and to use the the various methods that they taught to face cancer head on, and, in my case to use their uncomplicated methods to heal from it.

In meeting other patients, I was surprised that one couple had just flown in from Switzerland to attend this program. I mentioned my surprise at people coming from so far, and was told by staff it is quite a common occurrence. The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center is known internationally and has programs in many other coutnries.

What impressed me, besides the warmth and helpfulness and knowledge of the staff, was that after the program was over, Mrs. Simonton follows up on her patients. It has been years since I attended, and she still keeps in touch with me. She goes above and beyond to find answers to my questions, and works tirelessly to help her patients long after the program is over.

I have personally witnessed the positive changes in people living with cancer who work with the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center. The program offers valuable tools that empower patients to take an active role in their own healing process. I work at the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara and highly recommend this program to all my patients.

I consider myself truly fortunate that God led me to the Simonton Cancer Center. It was truly an experience of a lifetime that I will never forget. The staff are kind, down-to-earth and warm and make you feel like you've been best friends for AGES. The setting of the retreat is rejuvenating and revitalizing w/ the natural sights and sounds of California's array of flora and fauna.

The best part is their simple and easy-to-follow philosophy behind cancer, its possible origins and suggested remedies for bringing it to bay. The teachings are straightforward and easy to understand and are designed in a way that can be incorporated in your daily routine. The program is customized to each individual based on their interests and beliefs and allows the individual to take control of their lives rather than their teachings taking over you.

A truly modern approach to curing cancer, it is a MUST not just for cancer patients, but for anyone interested in getting a refresher course on how to truly "live" life.

The Simonton Cancer Counseling Center is dedicated to personal care through snd through. They have welcomed me with open arms and provided me with wonderful working conditions. I couldn't be happier working for such a genuine and caring organization. I am a psychology major at Pepperdine University and the work they do is something that interests me greatly.

After many months of cancer treatments, my husband and I were told about the Simonton Caner Counseling Center and urged to attend their workshop in California. Our experience there caused a dramatic shift in our beliefs about cancer, life, and death. We felt as though we had found a safe port in an uncontrollable storm. I can't thank the counselors enough for all we gained from them.

This was a rich experience for both myself - and for my future patients. As a psychologist, I believe the philosophy of this program, especially the use of imagery and relaxation are very important to our physical and mental health. One of the subjects taught during this training is the 2 year health plan. Goal setting is important to maintain hopefulness and create a future. If you can manage you mind/thoughts you may chose a better life for yourself. We have no such program like this in Brazil and it is my hope to bring this type of work to my country.

I am a physician and I have worked with people challenged by cancer for 40 years. The spirit-mind-body interconnection has always been fascinating to me as it relates to health. In 1984, I met Dr. Carl Simonton and soon after asked to join his workshops. My research and numerous scholarly books and studies have demonstrated how much our beliefs, attitudes and emotional states influence our physiology at the very cellular level. In the case of cancer, extended longevity with a much improved quality of life have been greatly improved by Dr. Simonton's unique counseling program. Having worked as a counselor at the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center between 1984 and 1996, I have witnessed literally miraculous transformations in all the patients who attended this program, way beyond what medicine alone can produce. This is a life transforming experience that has saved a lot of suffering and prolonged many lives. I strongly believe that every person affected by cancer should be given the opportunity to participate in a Simonton workshop as this will tremendously change their experience with cancer, improve their quality of life forever and, in most case, significantly prolong their life with full enjoyment of it. No other program that I have researched comes close to the Simonton program in helping the patients.

I attended the Simonton 5 day intensive workshop as a support person for a dear friend of mine about 1 month ago. The experience was an amazing gift that keeps growing. The tools I learned and the richness of the program transformed and reshaped who I am. The support from the staff is far reaching and continues past the 5 days - which is extremely comforting and helpful. I've recommended the Simonton Center to several people and will continue to do so. Please endorse this life transforming non profit.

My support person and I participated in a five day counseling event last month, July 2012. The medical and professional staff of the Simonton Cancer Counseling Center showed me how to practice effective action to prevent a re-occurence of cancer. The Simonton method is based on four decades of documented successful experience with people who have had or have active cancer when beginning with Simonton counseling. While I use nutrition and exercise to prevent a re-occurence, the Simonton Center showed me how psycho-neural-immunological processes can both make me ill and make me well. Replacing old beliefs negative beliefs with healthy beliefs can contribute to my health by changing the emotions that come from the beliefs. The counselors showed me how to practice these changes, make them part of my daily life. A month after the days of counseling I am beginning to discard conscious negative beliefs and think more healthfully. Simonton Cancer Counseling Center staff continues to call and discuss my progress and process.

As a cancer survivor, attending the Simonton Counseling Center program is absolutely the single most important aspect that I have done for myself in getting well again. I read the books and listened to the CD's prior to my journey to California and they were terrific and helped me to know that I was heading in the correct direction for my total healing process. However, it is almost difficult to describe how beneficial the program is in person and in the presence of the excellent counselors that guide you to a lifetime of getting well and staying well. A healthy presence of mind is a top aspect in getting well and staying well for a lifetime...this program provides that and more. I cannot say enough positive things about this program, I only hope that you or your loved one will be able to have this experience yourself.

Our experience at Simonton Cancer Center (SCC) changed our lives. The place was so spiritual and the environment created by the counselors was so safe that it allowed and encouraged the sharing of our hearts and souls.
We learned techniques to help deal with the stresses in our lives. As much of cancer has been determined to be caused by stress, doing what we can to eliminate or minimize our stresses goes a long way to eliminating these potential illness-causing influences. Specifically, we learned how to individually recognize those things that are most important to us in life....Those things that bring us the most joy and deep fulfillment. We were able to work through old beliefs that were the cause of pain, anxiety and stress and were taught how to replace them with new beliefs that are healthier. We concluded our session at SCC with defining a 2-year health plan that helps each of us achieve the joy and fulfillment we want, while improving our health during these challenging times.
We feel blessed to be able to participate with the SCC and thank you and your staff for everything.
We endorse the Simonton Cancer Center, it’s talented and intuitively relational counseling team and the SCC program. We want to put the SCC program for health into each and every one of the new communities we develop.
Blessings,
Bridgette and Steve Hawks
360grassroots

I was a trainee at the Simonton and I was amazed at how helpful this organization is in giving cancer patients and their families a new sense of hope in the fight against cancer. It teaches patients how to deal with not only the physical aspect of the disease but also how to cope with the emotional side of living with cancer. I watched patients walk away from the retreat with a whole new way of looking at how they can live a richer and more fulfilled life and cope better. They were really enriched by the experience and knowledge that they had gained after attending the program.

In the Fall of 2010, my partner and I attended a Simonton Cancer Center retreat in California. Jenny had had two, six month rounds of chemo, the latter of which had ended on May 10, 2010. Just four months later, in September, we learned that the markers for her ovarian cancer were elevating.

I had heard about the Simonton Cancer Center previously, and with this news it was apparent that she needed help - help beyond attempting to kill the nasty cells with a chemical cocktail. We were both extremely distraught; in fact, we were 'wound up' as tight as a drum. And so we made the call to the Simonton Center. As it turns out, that was the best decision we could have made. Nine days later we found ourselves in Montecito, California, in the company of other patients and their caregivers, and the facilitators of the program - the most beautiful, compassionate, and knowledgeable people you could imagine.

The introductory session on the evening we arrived, set the tone for the week. As the days rolled on, we became more relaxed, more hopeful (though I want to stress that at no time is any false hope EVER offered), more positive. We learned strategies to help us deal with the stresses associated with the illness. We learned about how our emotions influence the biochemical responses within our bodies. We learned about the importance of having fun.

We shared, we laughed, we cried. And it was one of the most memorable weeks in the lives of both of us. When we returned home, we were so much calmer and relaxed. We had a different perspective of our lives and of Jenny's illness. Our friends and family noticed the change in both of us.

Jenny passed away in July of 2011. The Simonton program started a process for both of us that led us, in her final few months, to a place of peace and acceptance - a feeling that I hold to this day. Though Jenny's life did not go on too much longer, the quality of her life was greatly enhanced. My life has changed forever. And it all started in a lounge room in Montecito, California.

Attending the Simonton program is THE best thing we could ever have done. I am so grateful for having had this experience, as was Jenny.
Sharon Wilkinson, Victoria, British Columbia