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A Support Group for Breast Cancer Patients: Development of a Cognitive-Behavioural Approach

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 June 2009

Maggie Watson ,
Debbie Fenlon ,
Gillian McVey  and
Maria Fernandez-Marcos
Maggie Watson
Affiliation:
Royal Marsden NHS Trust and Institute of Cancer Research
Debbie Fenlon
Affiliation:
Royal Marsden NHS Trust and Institute of Cancer Research
Gillian McVey
Affiliation:
Royal Marsden NHS Trust and Institute of Cancer Research
Maria Fernandez-Marcos
Affiliation:
University of Madrid
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Abstract

Cognitive behavioural therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and depression in cancer patients when provided within the context of individual sessions. We describe the application of a cognitive behavioural model to a group therapy context. This represents a novel approach to the psychological treatment of cancer patients. Fourteen breast cancer patients attending the Royal Marsden Hospital were included in an assessment of treatment outcome pre-and post-group therapy. Outcome was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) Scale and a study-specific visual analog measure relating to perceived efficacy of the therapeutic techniques. Rationale and organization of group therapy is described along with the preliminary pilot study results.

Type
Clinical Section
Information
Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy , Volume 24 , Issue 1 , January 1996 , pp. 73 - 81
Copyright
Copyright © British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies 1996

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