Acceptance and Commitment Based Group Therapy for Cancer Patients

Acceptance and Commitment Based Group Therapy for Cancer Patients: a Pilot Study Comparing ACT-group Therapy With Individual ACT Therapy for Cancer Patients Experiencing Psychological Distress

This study evaluates the preliminary effects of an Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)-based group therapy compared to individual ACT-therapy for adult cancer patients suffering from psychological distress. Half of the participants will receive ACT in a group setting, while the other half will receive individual ACT.

This study evaluates the preliminary effects of an Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)-based group therapy compared to individual ACT-therapy for adult cancer patients suffering from psychological distress. Participants will be recruited from referrals to the Cancer Rehabilitation Unit at Helsingborg Hospital, Sweden. A total number of 12-20 participants will be assigned to either the experimental group, receiving ACT group therapy, or the Active Control group, receiving individual ACT therapy. Both therapy interventions aim at increasing psychological flexibility. Sociodemographic as well as Medical information regarding their somatic disease will be collected at baseline assessment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years
• Able to speak and understand the Swedish language
• Cancer patients at hospitals in Skånevård Sund (geographical area)
• Experience of psychological distress related to cancer diagnosis or cancer treatment
• Stable and planned cancer treatment or no ongoing treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive problems
• Severe psychiatric disorder
• Ongoing substance abuse