Evaluating the Feasibility of Virtual Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYACS; aged 12-25) face unique biological and social challenges that exacerbate psychological functioning, especially post cancer treatment. Although acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) has been used to reduce psychosocial symptoms in adolescents and young adults, ACT has limited research with AYACS, particularly via telehealth. The present study examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a brief, virtual ACT protocol with AYACS. Exploratory outcomes of psychological flexibility, quality of life, anxiety, and neurocognitive functioning were also examined. Participants were prescribed a six-session weekly intervention lasting 60-munutes each and delivered by trained interventionists within ECU’s PhD Health Psychology program. Each session focused on the six core processes of ACT. A mixed-methods pre- and post- design was used to assess feasibility and acceptability as well as exploratory outcome variables. The study recruited a total of five young adults. Despite use of a multimodal recruitment strategy, including EHR record review, provider referral, and social media, the recruitment feasibility aim was not met. However, attendance and retention rates of individuals enrolled indicated that the method of delivery, along with the frequency of the sessions, was appropriate and acceptable. Length of sessions was appropriate for all sessions, except for one, according to participant feedback. Participants reported high levels of acceptability, specifically highlighting the interventionists’ rapport, content, and logistical arrangements as particularly favorable. Exploratory outcomes reflected improvements in specific ACT processes (Values), quality of life, and anxiety. Implications for research and practice are discussed.