Group Interventions for Breast Cancer Survivors

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

+1 other location

Overseen byWendy Lichtenthal, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Female

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The purpose of this study is to compare two types of groups for breast cancer survivors: a Meaning-Centered Group and a Discussion Group. Many breast cancer survivors seek help to deal with the emotional burden of having gone through the cancer experience. Participation in groups offering support often helps cancer survivors cope with stressors of life after having had cancer by giving them a place to express their feelings. The "Meaning-Centered Group" is intended to teach breast cancer survivors how to maintain or even increase a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives after treatment for cancer. The "Discussion Group" is intended to help breast cancer survivors cope by giving them a place to get support from other breast cancer survivors. The goal of this study is to compare the benefits of these two types of group approaches for breast cancer survivors. The study is also testing the benefits and feasibility of conducting the groups virtually using a telephone and computer.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for breast cancer survivors who have completed treatment, are over 18 years old, and feel distressed related to their cancer or survivorship. They must be stable on any mood-related medications and have access to a phone and internet. Those with metastatic disease or significant psychiatric issues that prevent informed consent are excluded.

Inclusion Criteria

I feel significant distress related to my breast cancer, scoring 4 or more on the DT.

My medication for mood or sleep issues has been stable and unchanged.

I had breast cancer before, but it did not spread to other parts of my body.

+4 more

Exclusion Criteria

Significant psychiatric or cognitive disturbance sufficient, in the investigator's judgment, to preclude providing informed consent or participating in the groups (i.e., acute psychiatric symptoms which require individual treatment)

My cancer has spread to other parts of my body.

Participant Groups

The study compares two group interventions for emotional support: a 'Meaning-Centered Group' designed to help find purpose post-treatment, and a 'Discussion Group' for general survivor support. The effectiveness of conducting these groups virtually is also being tested.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Meaning-Centered Group for Breast Cancer Survivors (MCG-BCS)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

Group II: Discussion Group (DG)Active Control1 Intervention