Virtual group therapy to improve psychological wellbeing in cancer patients
Official title: "Live Fully With Cancer": Assessing the Impact of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion-Based Virtual Group Intervention for Diverse Cancer Patients
Run by Mayo Clinic · NCT06246955 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Mayo Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Scottsdale, Arizona) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 8, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06246955 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Previous studies have shown that acceptance and commitment therapy can improve psychological outcomes for cancer patients, suggesting a promising approach.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Mayo Clinic in Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chun Tao, PhD, LP — Mayo Clinic
- Study coordinator: Clinical Trials Referral Office
- Email: mayocliniccancerstudies@mayo.edu
- Phone: 855-776-0015
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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.