Charlene Haouliya, LICSW

Charlene Haouliya, LICSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 15 years of experience supporting patients and families affected by mesothelioma and other complex thoracic diseases. During her tenure at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, she worked closely with the late Dr. David J. Sugarbaker, founder of the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP), where she became an integral member of one of the world’s leading multidisciplinary mesothelioma treatment teams. Throughout her career, Charlene has been dedicated to helping patients and their loved ones navigate every aspect of the mesothelioma journey. She understands that a mesothelioma diagnosis affects far more than physical health—it impacts emotional well-being, family relationships, financial concerns, and day-to-day life. By providing compassionate counseling, education, advocacy, and practical guidance, she has helped countless patients and caregivers face these challenges with confidence and hope. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Charlene has extensive training in the assessment and treatment of the emotional, psychological, and social issues that often accompany serious illness. Her work is grounded in a holistic, biopsychosocial approach that recognizes the importance of caring for the whole person—not just the disease. She has worked closely with physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, rehabilitation specialists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive comprehensive, patient-centered care throughout every stage of treatment. During her years at the International Mesothelioma Program, Charlene became well known for helping patients who traveled from across the country and around the world to receive treatment in Boston. She understood that many families faced not only the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis but also the challenges of traveling long distances, securing housing, coordinating care, and adjusting to life away from home during treatment. Charlene authored the article, “The House at the International Mesothelioma Program: A House, A Home, A Haven,” which highlighted the unique residence established by Dr. Sugarbaker and Brigham and Women’s Hospital for mesothelioma patients and their families. In the article, she described how the home became far more than a place to stay—it fostered a supportive community where patients and caregivers could share experiences, encourage one another, and find comfort during one of the most difficult times of their lives. Her writing reflects her belief that emotional support and human connection are essential components of quality cancer care. Committed to lifelong learning, Charlene is currently pursuing her nursing degree to further expand her ability to serve patients and families facing complex medical conditions. Her unique background in both clinical social work and nursing education provides her with a broad perspective on the physical, emotional, and practical challenges experienced by individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma. As a contributor to Mesothelioma Ask the Expert program, Charlene welcomes questions from patients, caregivers, and family members seeking guidance throughout their mesothelioma journey. Whether addressing emotional concerns, caregiver challenges, navigating treatment at specialty centers, or finding resources and support, she is committed to providing compassionate, practical, and evidence-based information that helps families feel informed, supported, and empowered. Charlene believes that no one should face mesothelioma alone. Her mission is to ensure that every patient and family has access to the knowledge, support, and compassionate care they need to make informed decisions and move forward with confidence and hope.