Evaluation of the utility of group therapy as a mechanism of delivering facilitated psychosocial support to those with a neuroendocrine neoplasm diagnosis

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Introduction: Anxiety, uncertainty and reduced psychosocial well-being have been reported in those with neuroendocrine neoplasms. There has been an increasing demand for facilitated psychosocial support from our UK community, that can outstrip capacity. There is evidence that group therapy can provide a cost- efficient and outcome- effective method of treatment: reducing wait times and improving accessibility. Group therapy is a term that can be applied to any kind of psychotherapy that is delivered to a group.

Aim(s): To provide a safe and effective therapeutic environment to address voiced but unmet psychosocial needs.

Materials and methods: An 8-week programme, maximum 16 participants, was developed and held January-March 2023. This expert facilitated pilot programme, utilising established group therapy techniques, included those who had been diagnosed for more than 2 years. Exclusion applied to anyone unable to participate due to logistical, cognitive, or interpersonal factors. A screening application form was utilised to identify suitable candidates.

Conference:

Presenting Author: Hargreaves R

Authors: Jervis N, Winter K, Hargreaves R, Ellis C,

Keywords: Group Therapy, Unmet Needs, Psychosocial Support,