Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology

04/17/2026

Weight gain after a breast cancer diagnosis is very common—affecting up to 60% of patients—and it’s not simply about diet or willpower. 💙

Hormonal changes, treatment side effects, fatigue, stress, and sleep disruption can all play a role in how the body stores and uses energy.

Instead of focusing only on weight, experts recommend building a strong foundation for overall health:
• Strength training to maintain muscle
• Balanced nutrition with protein and fiber
• Plant-forward eating patterns
• Prioritizing sleep and stress management

Small, sustainable changes can make a meaningful difference.

If you’d like additional support, the Simms/Mann Center offers nutrition and integrative care resources for patients navigating treatment and survivorship. Find it here:

Breadcrumb Home Simms Mann How to deal with weight gain after a breast cancer diagnosis Sleep, resistance training and whole foods are important, says UCLA Health dietitian Emma Veilleux. Dietitian Emma Veilleux, right, provides nutritional consultation for patients of the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for...

04/11/2026

A cancer diagnosis often brings difficult conversations—with doctors, loved ones, and even colleagues.

Knowing what to say (or how much to share) can feel overwhelming. 💬

This resource shares gentle guidance to help you:
• Ask questions and advocate for yourself
• Communicate your needs clearly
• Set boundaries that feel right for you

Remember, you are allowed to take these conversations at your own pace—and you don’t have to go through them alone.

If you’d like additional support, the Simms/Mann Center offers resources for communication, stress, and coping 💙... click here to learn more: https://ucla.in/3PZ1vBm

04/04/2026

Members of the Simms/Mann Center team recently traveled to New Orleans to present at the Annual Psychosocial Oncology Society (APOS) Conference.

This national (and international) conference brings together leaders in the field to advance equitable, evidence-based psychosocial oncology care through research, clinical practice, education, and advocacy.

Our team was proud to contribute to important discussions on:
• Mental health and decision-making in advanced cancer care
• Interdisciplinary learning and supervision
• Addressing spirituality in cancer care

We’re honored to be part of a global community working to improve the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of cancer care.

04/02/2026

Stress can be an ongoing part of the cancer experience—for both patients and caregivers.

This Stress Awareness Month, we’re sharing gentle journal prompts to help you slow down, reflect, and check in with yourself. Even a few moments of writing can help bring clarity, release tension, or simply acknowledge what you’re feeling.

There’s no right or wrong way to do this—just start where you are.

If you’re looking for additional support, the Simms/Mann Center offers mindfulness and stress management resources for patients and caregivers. We’re here for you when you’re ready. Learn more about us here: https://www.uclahealth.org/simms-mann-center

03/31/2026

Discover a valuable resource for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals: the Simms/Mann Center Video Library. This curated collection features patient stories, expert insights, and integrative oncology tools designed to support every step of the cancer journey. Access the videos anytime here: https://ucla.in/4jWaf4w

03/24/2026

✨ Brandon Chico’s cancer journey is anything but ordinary. Diagnosed at 22 with Hodgkin lymphoma, he used TikTok to share his story — mixing dance, pop culture, and real talk about treatment and survivorship. Supported by Aditi Wahi-Singh, LCSW, at Simms/Mann UCLA, Brandon’s openness has created a global community of hope and support.

💙 Click here to see his inspiring story and how social media can heal: https://ucla.in/4uQC6tw

03/21/2026

When someone you care about shares a cancer diagnosis, it’s natural to want to say the right thing — but knowing what that is can feel hard. 💛

UCLA Health clinical psychologist Dr. Valentina Ogaryan reminds us that simple, honest responses — and showing up with genuine presence — matter more than perfect words.

Learn what to say (and what to avoid) when someone you love is facing cancer.
👉 Read more: https://ucla.in/3NenROk

03/17/2026

We’re excited to highlight our amazing Multidisciplinary Training Program Cohort! 🎉 This group of dedicated clinicians is committed to advancing patient care through comprehensive training, including weekly didactic sessions, bimonthly case conferences, and hands-on experience in medical clinics.

Under the guidance of Dr. Valentina Ogaryan and our Simms/Mann Clinical Supervisors, they’re developing the skills needed to make a real difference in psycho-oncology.

A heartfelt thank you to our 2025/2026 Cohort for your hard work and passion! 💙👏 . Click here and learn more about the program: https://ucla.in/4bfkPm7

03/13/2026

We’re proud to announce that Shannon La Cava, PsyD, Senior Director of the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, will be the Keynote Speaker at the 2026 Women’s Cancer Survivors Conference on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Dr. La Cava is a clinical psychologist and nationally recognized leader in integrative and psychosocial oncology. At UCLA Health, she oversees a multidisciplinary team of 40+ clinicians providing compassionate, whole-person care to individuals and families impacted by cancer.

We’re honored to see her leadership and expertise highlighted at this important event focused on survivorship, connection, and healing.

Learn more about the conference here: https://www.womenscancersurvivorsconference.com/

📅 Saturday, April 18, 2026
🎤 Keynote Address: Shannon La Cava, PsyD

03/06/2026

Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can often be prevented through screening — yet far too many people aren’t getting screened on time. In the latest episode of UCLA Health’s Medically Speaking, Dr. Eve Glazier welcomes back the show’s very first guest, award-winning journalist, Katie Couric, along with Fola May, MD, PhD, UCLA gastroenterologist, and researcher, to discuss what’s changed in the conversation around colorectal cancer.

They cover why screening matters more than ever, symptoms to watch for, how to choose the right screening, and the barriers that prevent follow-through. Awareness is just the first step — turning it into action can save lives.

Tune in for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! 💙

Follow UCLA Health Medically Speaking for more. Get the podcast here: https://linktr.ee/uclahealthmedicallyspeaking

03/03/2026

March at Simms/Mann UCLA: Support & Education for Your Cancer Journey

Explore expert-led sessions designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Join us this March to connect, learn, and find strength.

Cultural Considerations in Nutrition and Cancer
March 19, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Dive into cultural adaptations, food safety, and alternative therapies in oncology nutrition to support your unique needs.

Stillness & Strength: A Breathwork Group
Wednesdays in March | 12:00 – 1:00 PM (4-week virtual series)
Learn gentle breathwork techniques to ease anxiety, fatigue, and emotional challenges during cancer treatment.

Expert-Led Nutrition for Breast Cancer Patients
Wednesdays in March | 9:00 – 9:30 AM
Join focused group sessions with evidence-based nutrition guidance for during and after breast cancer treatment.

Navigating GI Cancer: UCLA Resources & Support
First Wednesday Monthly | 12:30 – 1:30 PM
Discover supportive care services including palliative care, nutrition, and psychosocial support for GI cancer patients and caregivers.

Advance Care Planning for Oncology Patients
First Wednesday Monthly | 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Gain peace of mind with guidance on care planning to help loved ones make decisions if you’re unable.

Register & learn more by clicking here: https://ucla.in/4fpZFlK

02/28/2026

Looking for a happier, more grounded 2026? 💙

UCLA Health psychologist Dr. Valentina Ogaryan shares nine simple, research-backed ways to support your mental and emotional well-being — from prioritizing sleep and movement to practicing self-compassion and connection.

These small, intentional habits can help create more calm, centeredness and joy all year long.
👉 Read more:

Breadcrumb Home News & Insights Nine mental-health tips for a happier 2026 Move, play, sleep and anchor yourself in calm. Psychologist Valentina Ogaryan offers a guide for creating calm, centeredness and happiness in 2026. December 30, 2025 By Sandy Cohen, Senior Writer 6 min read Regardless of any....