Sheila Garland

My research has thus far focused on the evaluation of psychosocial interventions with the potential to improve physical and psychological outcomes for cancer patients and their families. Specifically, I have investigated the impact of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for reducing sleep disturbances. I also compared the MBSR intervention to a creative arts program for facilitating spirituality and post-traumatic growth. My Masters research looked at how a psychosocial retreat called “Tapestry” could impact the quality of life, distress, marital satisfaction and existential concerns of palliative cancer patients and their partners. I am currently conducting a randomized trial comparing the effect of MBSR to CBT for the treatment of insomnia in individuals with cancer.

Research Topics:
Psychosocial Oncology

Research fellowship from the Psychosocial Oncology Research Training (PORT) initiative at McGill University Strategic training fellowship from the Transdisciplinary Understanding & Training on Research-Primary Health Care initiative at the University of Western Ontario

I have wanted to work with people as a Psychologist for as long as I can remember and I have enjoyed the journey so far. My experiences with the patients that have generously contributed their time to our research have taught me many life lessons and continually inspire me with their strength. When I am not working on my academics or research, I pursue several other interests including volunteering with a non-profit animal rescue society and running for fitness and relaxation.