A Dyadic Intervention for Young Adult Patients With Cancer and Their Partner Caregivers
Massachusetts General Hospital
Summary
The purpose of this pilot study is to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a brief psychotherapy intervention to improve psychosocial coping and maintain couple relationships among young adults (aged 25-39) with cancer and their caregiving partners.
Description
Young adults (YA) with cancer have unique challenges in coping, and their primary partners may experience burden and low self-efficacy related to caregiving. In this single-arm pilot trial, the investigators shall deliver an eight-session intervention to YAs with cancer and their self-identified partners who provide caregiving. The intervention is founded on principles from cognitive-behavioral therapy and couples-focused interventions, tailored for YA. The aim of the study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention, which will inform refinements prior to a larger-scale…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 25–39 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
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 pa…
Interventions
- BehavioralYoung Adults Coping with Cancer Together Intervention
This intervention is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and couples' therapy. It aims to improve cancer and caregiving-related self-efficacy and coping, as well as promote relationship maintenance in context of cancer. The intervention will be delivered by a trained mental health practitioner and include didactics, experiential exercises, and home practice.
Locations (4)
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer CenterBoston, Massachusetts
- Emerson Hospital/MGH Cancer CenterConcord, Massachusetts
- Mass General at North Shore Cancer CenterDanvers, Massachusetts
- Mass General at Newton Wellesley HospitalNewton, Massachusetts