ESCA CancerSupport Newsroom

ESCA CancerSupport welcomes Christian Holyoak to its team as the new Counselling and Support Services Manager.

Christian, an experienced Clinical and Counselling Psychologist originally from Australia, is taking over from Raynelle Arcaini.

Raynelle will be stepping down from her management role at the end of November but will continue counselling ESCA CancerSupport clients. Patsy Allen, Co-director, reflects on her time with Raynelle, “I remember the day Raynelle started at ESCA CancerSupport some 10 years ago.  I have watched her build an extremely accomplished and committed team of mental health professionals, but what always impresses me the most is her passion and dedication for helping those touched by cancer.  We are so happy that she is staying on as a counsellor. She is indeed a very special person.”

Christian is a member of the Fédération Suisse des Psychologues (FSP) providing treatment for children, adolescents, adults and couples presenting with a wide range of emotional and interpersonal issues. He has a special interest in working patients with cancer. Christian also works as an organisational consultant, assisting leaders to improve team well-being, cooperation and work performance.

Raynelle and Christian have been working closely during the transition period to ensure clients continue to be fully supported particularly during this new period of confinement.
Raynelle, referring to ESCA CancerSupport’s 20^thanniversary this year, commented “It has been my privilege to be part of ESCA CancerSupport’s management team for the second decade of its continued growth and development. And it is my honour to leave that leadership in the hands of Christian Holyoak who brings the qualities, skills and expertise needed to take ESCA CancerSupport into its third decade.”

Christian will work with clients who often have to juggle work, family and cancer in their daily lives. He says, “I would like to see how we can have a greater connection and involvement with men, and with those families who are living with cancer.  I am also looking forward to working alongside the many dedicated staff and volunteers who have an infectious spirit of hospitality, care and generosity.  It is these magnetising qualities that drew me to ESCA CancerSupport.”

Co-director, Nicola Bowers, concluded “From the moment Christian applied to volunteer with us, I felt his warmth, compassion, empathy and respect for what we do, and I knew he would be a perfect fit. Coupled with his extensive international work experience, I am thrilled to have him a part of our team and am looking forward to working alongside him.”

Once again ESCA CancerSupport would like to say a huge thank you to Raynelle Arcaini for her invaluable contribution to ESCA CancerSupport and to welcome Christian Holyoak to the team.