Support Groups
Board-certified neurosurgeons · 12 NJ hospital affiliationsA brain or spine diagnosis affects not just the patient but their entire family. Atlantic Brain and Spine connects patients and caregivers with structured support groups, patient navigators, and community resources both in-person at Morristown Medical Center and through virtual platforms so no one faces a difficult diagnosis alone.
Key takeaways
- The Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center at Morristown Medical Center hosts dedicated support groups for brain tumor patients and their families.
- Support groups are facilitated by trained social workers and meet regularly check the Atlantic Health System events calendar for current schedules.
- Virtual participation options are available for patients who cannot travel.
- Atlantic Brain and Spine patient navigators help coordinate care, answer questions between appointments, and connect patients with community resources.
- Peer support from others who have faced the same diagnosis is consistently cited by patients as one of the most valuable parts of their care.
| Brain tumor support group | Hosted at the Glasser Brain Tumor Center, Morristown Medical Center |
| Facilitators | Licensed clinical social workers with oncology and neurology specialization |
| Who can attend | Patients and family members or caregivers |
| Format | In-person and virtual options available |
| Patient navigators | Available through ABS to coordinate care and answer questions between visits |
| National resources | National Brain Tumor Society, American Brain Tumor Association, Brain Tumor Network |
| Scheduling | Contact ABS or the Glasser Center directly for current meeting schedules |
Why support groups matter in neurosurgical care
Research consistently shows that patients with strong social and emotional support during cancer and serious illness experience better quality of life, greater adherence to treatment, and in some diagnoses, improved outcomes. For conditions like glioblastoma where the treatment journey involves surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and ongoing surveillance having a community of people who truly understand the experience is irreplaceable.
Support groups provide:
- A safe space to share fears, questions, and experiences without burdening family members
- Practical advice from patients who have navigated the same treatments and side effects
- Current information about clinical trials, new treatments, and resources
- Connection for caregivers, who often experience their own significant emotional and logistical burden
Additional support resources
Beyond in-person groups at Morristown Medical Center, Atlantic Brain and Spine patients can access:
- National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS): braintumor.org resources, research updates, and community connections for brain tumor patients
- American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA): abta.org patient education, caregiver resources, and a peer support matching program
- Brain Tumor Network: Free one-on-one peer support matching brain tumor patients with trained volunteers who have had the same diagnosis
- Atlantic Health System social work team: Available at every ABS hospital location to connect patients with local resources, financial assistance programs, and mental health support
- Spine patient resources: The American Spine Patient Advocacy Group and the North American Spine Society patient resource library provide condition-specific education and community forums
Benefits and risks
Potential benefits
- Reduces isolation and anxiety for patients and caregivers facing serious neurological diagnoses
- Provides peer knowledge from others who have navigated the same treatments
- Connects patients with clinical trial information and emerging treatment options
- Available virtually no travel required for patients with limited mobility or distance barriers
Possible risks
- Support groups are not a substitute for professional mental health care patients experiencing significant anxiety or depression should speak with their care team about referral to a neuropsychologist or therapist
- Virtual groups may have fewer interpersonal connection opportunities than in-person meetings
- Group schedules and availability vary contact the Glasser Center or ABS directly for current information
- No medical risks associated with support group participation
Your surgeon will review the benefits and risks specific to your diagnosis during your consultation.
What recovery looks like
Support groups are available throughout the treatment journey before surgery, during treatment, and during long-term surveillance:
- At diagnosis Patient navigators and social workers are available immediately after diagnosis to answer questions and connect with resources.
- During treatment Support groups meet regularly throughout the treatment phase surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or rehabilitation.
- Long-term surveillance Many patients continue attending support groups during the surveillance phase, both for community and to stay informed about new research.
- For caregivers Caregiver-specific support is available alongside patient groups caregivers benefit from dedicated peer support as much as patients do.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out when the next support group meets?
Contact the Gerald J. Glasser Brain Tumor Center at Morristown Medical Center, or ask your Atlantic Brain and Spine care coordinator. Meeting schedules are also listed on the Atlantic Health System community events calendar at atlantichealth.org.
Can I bring a family member?
Yes, Family members and caregivers are welcome and encouraged to attend. Many patients find that having a loved one present helps both parties process the diagnosis and treatment experience together.
Are support groups confidential?
Yes, Support groups facilitated by licensed social workers operate under professional confidentiality standards. Participants are also expected to respect the privacy of other group members.
What if I am not ready to talk in a group setting?
Participation is entirely voluntary you can attend and listen without sharing anything. Many patients find that simply hearing others’ experiences is valuable even before they are ready to share their own. One-on-one social work support is also available if group settings feel difficult.
This page is for general education and does not replace medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made with a qualified neurosurgeon based on your individual diagnosis and imaging. To discuss your options, call Atlantic Brain and Spine Brain Tumor Care at 973.993.7322 or request a consultation.
