NCT06172907

A Dyadic Intervention for Young Adult Patients With Cancer and Their Partner Caregivers

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 20 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 25 Years – 39 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

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.

Detailed 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 clinical trial. This study will include 10 YAs and their partner-caregivers (N=20). Participants will complete surveys at baseline and after the intervention, and will be invited to complete optional semi-structured exit interviews.

Conditions

• Cancer
• Survivorship
• Caregiver Burden
• Psychological Distress
• Coping Skills
• Couples

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Young 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.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-04-19
• Primary completion: 2026-06-01
• Completion: 2026-12-01
• First posted: 2023-12-15
• Last updated: 2026-01-12

Locations

4 sites across 1 country: United States