The UCSF Patient and Family Cancer Support Center (formerly the Cancer Resource Center) supports whole-person care by providing information, wellness programs and community connections to people facing cancer and to their loved ones. Since opening in 1997, we have offered support groups, classes and workshops at no cost to participants. Learn more about our offerings below.
The support center is part of the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.
View our orientation slideshow, available in seven languages, to learn about the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, including our support services for patients and their caregivers.
Check out our guidebook, available in three languages, for tips on navigating the UCSF system, links to resources and a summary of all available support services.
Staff members and volunteers can help you find cancer-related events and support in your community as well as information online and in print. The center also offers the following services at no cost:
Nutrition counseling
UCSF offers nutrition counseling to our patients with cancer as well as nutrition seminars that are open to anyone.
Exercise counseling
Our one-on-one exercise training sessions, customized for individual needs and abilities, can complement other cancer treatments and speed recovery.
Peer support
Patients are matched with peer support volunteers according to certain criteria, such as diagnosis, cancer stage, age and gender. Speaking with someone who's "been there" can be very helpful.
Support groups
We offer numerous support groups for cancer patients and their families. These are free and open to all patients, no matter where they get their health care.
Events calendar
Special events for patients and family members are ongoing. Learn about upcoming classes, workshops and other opportunities in our calendar.
Core and more exercise class
A strong body helps you fight cancer and enjoy life more. Join this class to stabilize your core, strengthen your muscles and improve overall fitness. For cancer patients and caregivers!
Meditation and guided imagery
Drop in for a free class designed to help you heal, relax and find balance during your treatment. UCSF and non-UCSF patients are welcome.
Yoga
Relax, stretch, breathe deeply, and reduce pain and anxiety with laughter yoga and other free yoga classes.
Monthly newsletter
Stay connected with the UCSF Patient and Family Cancer Support Center through our monthly newsletter.
Clinical trials
As a patient of the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, you may be eligible to participate in one of our clinical trials (studies of promising new treatments).
Tips for communicating with your doctor
The relationship with a doctor is a personal one, built on understanding and trust. Learn how you can build an effective medical partnership to ensure the best care.
Guide to coping with chemotherapy
Everyone has different experiences with chemotherapy's side effects, and the various drugs have different side effects, so getting guidance for your specific situation can help.
1600 Divisadero St.
First Floor, Room B-101
San Francisco, CA 94115
Due to COVID-19, this location is open for appointments only. We don't take walk-ins.
Bakar Precision Cancer Medicine Building
1825 Fourth St., First Floor
San Francisco, CA 94158
We are open for walk-in visits Tu-Th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
