Psychotherapy intervention for young adults with cancer and their partners
A Dyadic Intervention for Young Adult Patients With Cancer and Their Partner Caregivers
NA · Massachusetts General Hospital · NCT06172907
This study is trying out a short therapy program for young adults with cancer and their partners to see if it helps them cope better and improve their relationship.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 25 Years to 39 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital (other) |
| Locations | 4 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 3 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06172907 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a brief psychotherapy intervention designed to enhance psychosocial coping and strengthen couple relationships among young adults aged 25-39 who are dealing with cancer and their caregiving partners. The intervention consists of eight sessions based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and couples-focused strategies, tailored specifically for young adults. A total of 10 young adults with cancer and their partners will participate, completing surveys before and after the intervention, along with optional exit interviews to gather qualitative feedback. The findings will help refine the intervention for future larger-scale trials.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include young adults aged 25-39 currently undergoing cancer treatment or within two years of completing treatment, along with their partner caregivers.
Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled psychosis, active suicidal ideation, or cognitive impairment may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the psychological well-being and relationship dynamics of young adults with cancer and their caregivers.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using psychotherapy interventions for cancer patients and their caregivers, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Either: (1) Currently receiving active cancer treatment (n=5) or are within two years of completing active treatment (n=5) at Massachusetts General Cancer Center (MGHCC), located in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, OR (2) are the partner of an individual between the ages of 25-39 who is currently receiving treatment at MGHCC (n=5) or who has completed cancer treatment at MGHCC within the past two years (n=5) * Either: (1) Indicates a score ≥4 on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) adapted distress thermometer study screening questions, OR (2) are the partner of a participant indicating a score ≥4 on the NCCN adapted distress thermometer study screening questions * English-speaking Exclusion Criteria: • Uncontrolled psychosis, active suicidal ideation, or cognitive impairment
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts and 3 other locations
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (RECRUITING)
- Emerson Hospital/MGH Cancer Center — Concord, Massachusetts, United States (RECRUITING)
- Mass General at North Shore Cancer Center — Danvers, Massachusetts, United States (RECRUITING)
- Mass General at Newton Wellesley Hospital — Newton, Massachusetts, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jamie M Jacobs, Ph.D. — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Jamie M Jacobs, Ph.D.
- Email: jjacobs@mgh.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-643-1777
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Cancer, Survivorship, Caregiver Burden, Psychological Distress, Coping Skills, Couples, Young Adult Cancer, Cancer Caregiving