Penny DeCou, LCSW

Penelope (Penny) DeCou is a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on oncology social work and mental health counseling. She has worked in oncology social work since 2007 and has been part of the Texas Oncology team since 2009. Following the expansion of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic, Penny transitioned from a long-standing onsite social work role to providing dedicated remote clinical counseling for patients at Texas Oncology Central Austin.

Penny is passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and beyond. She enjoys helping patients build practical coping skills while fostering resilience, hope, and emotional well-being throughout their cancer journey. Prior to her work in oncology, Penny studied Naturopathy in Melbourne, Australia, an experience that continues to inform her appreciation for integrative and whole-person approaches to care.

Penny participates in speaking engagements with local colleges and community organizations, values collaboration with community partners, and currently serves on the Board of the Moving Beyond Cancer Coalition. In 2023, she became certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based approach that helps members of the cancer community manage distress, navigate uncertainty, and cultivate greater emotional balance during challenging times.