Rita Abdallah believes that we each deserve to achieve our greatness. As a social worker who built her career caring for those dealing with the toughest struggles of their lives, Rita has learned how to help others create a joyful, spirited, and resilient life.
As Founder of Turning Point Services, Ltd., Rita researches, writes, consults, and speaks on topics that help cancer-care professionals provide a better experience for their patients. Her mission: to offer individuals and groups with valuable tools to discover peace, love and joy. She is an authority on the topics of cancer survivorship, work-life balance, grief recovery, and conquering the challenges of change. Rita is passionate about serving people through conversation, engagement and action.
An author, Rita wrote “Nurturing Spirit through Complementary Cancer Care” for the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing and co-authored other clinical oncology articles.
Rita brings a wealth of academic preparation, professional knowledge and life experience to her life’s passion. She received a Master’s degree in social work from the University of Connecticut School of Social Worker and an undergraduate degree from John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio.
Upon graduation, Rita served as a member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps for two years. As a paralegal, she advocated for Persons with HIV/AIDS and helped them obtain much-needed benefits, food and household goods. She also lobbied at the local and state levels for expanded legal measures, monies and support to care for this disenfranchised group.
Rita is a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Supervisor, Licensed Certified Social Worker- Clinical and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers. During the course of her career, Rita has been the recipient of local and state awards for her commitment to serving others.
She is the co-founder of Destination Hope, a dedicated group of survivors, oncology professionals, and passionate individuals committed to promoting the art of positive living through humor, support, and knowledge for individuals touched by cancer by offering unique and high-quality experiences.
Rita loves yoga, travel, and holistic health. She calls Avon Lake, Ohio home and shares her life with her husband, daughter, and Mimi the dog.
Topics: Caregiver Support; Complementary Therapies; Coping Techniques; End of Life Care; Health & Online/Social Media; Humor & Medicine; Mind, Body, Relaxation Techniques; Oncology Professional Burnout; Parents & Cancer; Patient Navigation; Psychosocial Care Practice; Social Work Practice; Spirituality; Stress Management; and Survivorship Care Planning.