Cognitive behavioral therapy for patients stopping immunotherapy
Official title: Distress Associated With Stopping Immunotherapy of Cancer Patients
Run by University of Pittsburgh · NCT04761328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if online therapy can help cancer patients feel better and manage their worries after stopping immunotherapy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | immunotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 2, 2021 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | December 5, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04761328 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with cancer and have a history of treatment with immunotherapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active suicidal ideation, delusions, or hallucinations may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study focuses on helping cancer patients who are experiencing distress related to stopping immunotherapy. It utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy delivered via telemedicine to address fears of recurrence, depression, and anxiety, ultimately aiming to improve the patients' quality of life. The intervention is designed to provide patients with evidence-based psychological and behavioral strategies tailored to their preferences, while also minimizing barriers to treatment such as cost and transportation. Participants will learn skills to manage their distress as they transition off immunotherapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the quality of life for cancer patients transitioning off immunotherapy by reducing anxiety and fear of recurrence.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown success with cognitive-behavioral therapy in managing anxiety and depression in cancer patients, suggesting a promising approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 21 years and older * Fluent in English * Diagnosis of cancer and history of treatment with immunotherapy Exclusion Criteria: * Active suicidal ideation, delusions or hallucinations
Where it's running
-
UPMC Hillman Cancer Centers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jason Luke — Hillman Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Jennifer L Steel, Ph.D.
- Email: steejl@upmc.edu
- Phone: 412-692-2041
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.