Lalla Salma Foundation - Psycho-Oncology and Maisons de Vie

Established in 2005 and designated a public utility, the Lalla Salma Foundation has fundamentally reshaped oncological care across Morocco by embedding psychological support into clinical treatment. Receiving a cancer diagnosis triggers acute emotional turmoil for patients and their families. To address this distress, the Foundation established and equipped specialized psycho-oncology units within major regional oncology centers, staffed by qualified clinical psychologists offering individual counseling and coping strategies.

Concurrently, the Foundation constructed the Maisons de Vie adjacent to regional oncology hospitals in Rabat, Casablanca, Fes, Marrakech, Agadir, Oujda, Tangier, and Meknes. These humane residential facilities accommodate low-income patients living far from healthcare hubs alongside their family caregivers. The Maisons de Vie offer balanced nutrition, creative workshops, structured psychological support, and stress-reduction activities to bolster emotional well-being and treatment adherence.

Specialized psycho-oncology consultations for cancer patients and caregivers. Clinical treatment of treatment-induced anxiety and depression. Temporary residential accommodation and social casework within Maisons de Vie. Art therapy, relaxation, and physical well-being workshops. Peer support groups during active oncology therapies. Bereavement counseling for grieving families.

Psycho-oncological consultations are accessible directly within partner public oncology centers for registered patients. Admission to a Maison de Vie requires an approved medical and social referral from the attending oncologist. Services are delivered free of charge or for a nominal fee depending on verified economic vulnerability.

Clinical psychologists specialized in psycho-oncology, consultant oncologists, hospital social workers, Maison de Vie residential directors, art therapists, and dedicated volunteers.

Formal alliance with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, University Hospital Centers (CHU), the National Institute of Oncology (INO) in Rabat, and the World Health Organization (WHO).