Virtual group therapy to improve psychological wellbeing in cancer patients

"Live Fully With Cancer": Assessing the Impact of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion-Based Virtual Group Intervention for Diverse Cancer Patients

Not applicable Interventional Mayo Clinic · NCT06246955

This study is testing if virtual group therapy that combines acceptance and commitment therapy with compassion can help improve the mental wellbeing of cancer patients.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMayo Clinic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Scottsdale, Arizona)
Trial IDNCT06246955 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) combined with compassion-based virtual group therapy in enhancing psychological wellbeing among cancer patients. Participants will engage in weekly 1.5-hour sessions over six weeks, focusing on improving psychological flexibility, self-reported mindfulness, and overall quality of life. The study aims to assess participants' perceptions of compassion from the facilitator and the impact of the therapy on psychological and physical distress. Follow-up assessments will occur one month after the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with a cancer diagnosis who are currently undergoing treatment or have completed treatment within the last two years.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mental health issues or those deemed unable to participate in group therapy due to clinical judgment will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly enhance the psychological wellbeing and quality of life for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that acceptance and commitment therapy can improve psychological outcomes for cancer patients, suggesting a promising approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Being an adult (18 years or older)
* Being a patient of Mayo Clinic Arizona
* Having a cancer diagnosis, having treatment planning in progress, undergoing cancer-related treatment, or having completed cancer within the past 2 years (in recent survivorship
* Experiencing stress or challenges related to cancer and having treatment goals that align with the purpose of the group
* Having self reported proficiency to read/write/speak English
* Expressing interest and commitment to attend all six virtual group sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients' inability to take part in and benefit from the virtual group therapy based on clinical judgment of the psychosocial oncology team member who completes the psychosocial evaluation, which may include having active suicidal or homicidal intent, experiencing uncontrolled psychotic symptoms, having untreated personality disorder/characteristics that are likely disturbing in a group setting, and/or having moderate to severe cognitive impairments

Where this trial is running

Scottsdale, Arizona

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hematopoietic and Lymphoid System NeoplasmMalignant Solid Neoplasm
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.