Healing Begins with Understanding: The World’s First Batch of Psycho-Oncology Graduates Lead a New Era in Cancer Care

“We’re not just launching careers — we’re launching changemakers.”
— Dr. Girish Lad, Founder, Texas School of Mental Health

A Global First, Born in India

In a heartfelt ceremony this July, the Texas School of Mental Health (TSMH) celebrated a world-first: the graduation of the inaugural batch of the Blended Post Graduate Diploma in Psycho-Oncology. It wasn’t just another convocation, it was history being written, and a powerful message to the world that healing must go beyond the physical.

These graduates represent more than academic achievement, they symbolize a paradigm shift in how India and the world approach cancer care: not just through medicine, but with empathy, mental strength, and human connection. At a time when cancer is touching more lives than ever before, this batch is answering a silent but urgent call to listen, to counsel, to comfort, and to walk alongside patients and caregivers in their darkest hours.

It was a movement in motion. The auditorium echoed with stories of courage and tears, of sleepless nights and shared breakthroughs. Some of the graduates were cancer survivors themselves, turning their pain into purpose. Others were healthcare professionals who had long felt a gap in holistic cancer care, a gap this course helped them bridge.

Their presence marked the dawn of a new profession in India, one where science and sensitivity walk hand in hand. Their commitment affirmed that psycho-oncology is not an optional add-on, but a critical component of cancer treatment. With every case study they examined, every session they attended, and every patient they met during their internships, they were building something bigger than themselves - a system of care rooted in humanity.

India, with its cultural diversity, social complexity, and rapidly evolving healthcare needs, became the ideal ground to launch this global-first program. And now, with these graduates stepping into the field, a ripple effect has begun- reaching hospitals, homes, and hearts across the country and beyond.

The Course That’s Redefining Care

Developed in association with IIT Hyderabad, Accredited by CPD, the PG Diploma in Psycho-Oncology is designed for:

• Mental health professionals
• Healthcare providers
• Social workers
• Cancer survivors and advocates
• Passionate graduates ready to make a difference

Delivered in a hybrid format, the course includes:

• 230 hours of pre-recorded content
• 176 hours of live expert-led sessions
• 100 hours of hands-on internship
• 40 hours of in-person residential training
• Real case discussions with cancer patients & caregivers

With 35+ expert faculty — including psycho-oncologists, oncologists, psychologists, psychiatrists and academicians — this is the most comprehensive and practical program of its kind in the world.

Learn more or apply now at www.tsmhfs.com

Why It Matters

Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It shakes your identity. It disrupts families. It brings fear, grief, and sometimes silence.

Psycho-oncologists are the much-needed bridge between medical treatment and emotional healing - they work to improve not just survival, but the quality of life. In a world where cancer rates are rising, the need for these professionals is urgent and universal.

The Graduates Who Lead the Way

This first batch had Indian & International students from various backgrounds - psychologists, nurses, caregivers, survivors — each one united by a purpose to make healing more human.

“We’ve cried with patients. We’ve held their hands when words failed. This course gave us the tools to do it better, to do it with knowledge, compassion, and confidence.”
— A graduate, PGDPO Class of 2024

They are now equipped to work in hospitals, cancer centres, NGOs, and mental health clinics — or even lead initiatives in rural communities, corporate health programs, and government healthcare missions.

Why You Should Join

If you're passionate about mental health, touched by cancer, or simply want to contribute to a kinder, more inclusive healthcare system — this program is your calling.

Limited seats available for the next batch.

🔗 Apply now at www.tsmhfs.com

📧 For inquiries, write to info@texasschoolmh.com

Coming Up Next in the Blog Series:

📝 Blog 2: Guest of Honour — Dr. Mahesh Bhagwat’s vision for justice, dignity, and mental health in cancer care

📝 Blog 3: Shri G.B. Deglurkar’s powerful message: Uttishtha Jagruta Prapyavara Nibodhita and the soul of the convocation

📝 Blog 4: Dr. Girish Lad on the future of psycho-oncology and the need for national-level integration

📝 Blog 5: Honouring the C+ve Awardees — Stories of courage, caregiving, and compassion