In this video, audiences will learn the necessary information that will provide them with an important foundation to help them in working with both the patient and their families who are experiencing a life-threatening illness. The video examines key concepts related to caring for patients and families experiencing a life-threatening illness. Topics include an overview of counseling individuals with life-threatening illness as well as an historical perspective on dying and illness, the seven sensitivities necessary to be an effective counselor, the competencies necessary to be a skilled counselor, the responses that the patient experiences when diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, cognitive, emotional, behavioral and spiritual responses, the particular issues raised as the result of dealing with a life-threatening illness and the five phases of the illness experienced by the patient.