Short-term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy in Serious Physical Illness

Launched by UNIVERSITÄTSKLINIKUM HAMBURG-EPPENDORF · Aug 26, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a type of therapy called psychodynamic psychotherapy for patients with advanced cancer who are experiencing high levels of psychological distress. The goal is to see if this relationship-focused therapy can help these patients cope better with their feelings and the challenges that come with their serious illness. The trial is currently recruiting participants aged 18 and older who have stage IV solid tumors and can commit to at least 12 therapy sessions.

To be eligible for the trial, participants must have a mental health condition that is causing them significant stress related to their illness. However, those who are experiencing severe mental health issues, such as acute suicidal thoughts or severe cognitive and physical impairments, will not be included. If someone joins the trial, they can expect to engage in therapy sessions aimed at improving their emotional well-being during a challenging time in their lives. It's important to note that participants will need to understand German well enough to give informed consent and complete questionnaires about their experiences.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18 years and older
• • UICC stage IV solid tumor
• • Informed consent
• • Current physical condition that allows for at least 12 therapy sessions
• • Indication: Presence of a mental disorder with existential stress and limitations in coping capacity
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Acute suicidality
• • Psychotic disorder (ICD-10: F2 diagnosis)
• • Substance dependence or abuse (ICD-10: F1 diagnosis)
• • Structural deficits that interfere with attending to regular appointments
• • Other psychotherapeutic treatment
• • Severe cognitive impairment
• • Severe physical impairment
• • Insufficient German to give informed consent and complete self-report questionnaires