NCT05215353 · Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
A Study Comparing Music Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety in Cancer Survivors
What this study is about
The researchers are doing this study to compare how music therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, given virtually, may be able to reduce anxiety in people who have had cancer. In addition, this study will see if certain factors affect how well participants respond to music therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.
View original scientific description
The researchers are doing this study to compare how music therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, given virtually, may be able to reduce anxiety in people who have had cancer. In addition, this study will see if certain factors affect how well participants respond to music therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Interventions
OTHER
Music Therapy
Participants will receive seven weekly 60-minute treatments of music therapy. All sessions will be delivered virtually through Zoom.
OTHER
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Participants will receive seven weekly 60-minute treatment of cognitive behavioral therapy. All sessions will be delivered virtually through Zoom.
OTHER
assessments
Participants will complete study assessments prior to randomization (week 0) and at weeks 4, 8, 16, and 26. A subgroup of 60 survivors will complete optional semi-structured interviews after treatment to understand their unique experiences with MT or CBT. All participants will be followed for 26 weeks.
Primary outcome measures
HADS anxiety score changes
Time frame: 8 weeks
Using the seven-item anxiety sub-scale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A score of ≥8 indicates presence of anxiety symptoms.
HADS anxiety score changes
Time frame: 26 weeks
Using the seven-item anxiety sub-scale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A score of ≥8 indicates presence of anxiety symptoms.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- English- or Spanish-speaking
- 18 years or older
- Prior cancer diagnosis of any type or stage
- Free of oncological disease, or stable disease with no evidence of progression
- Score of ≥8 on the anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
- Report anxiety symptoms lasting at least one month
- Willing to adhere to all study-related procedures, including randomization to one of two treatment arms: MT or CBT
- Access to Zoom and a quiet/private location Inclusion Criteria for Advanced Cancer Sub-Study (N=50)
- English-speaking
- 18 years or older
- Advanced cancer diagnosis: stage III or IV lung cancer; any stage pancreatic cancer, unresectable cholangiocarcinoma, unresectable liver cancer, unresectable ampullary or peri-ampullary cancer, or other stage IV gastrointestinal cancer; stage III or IV ovarian or fallopian tube cancers or other stage IV gynecologic cancer; stage IV breast cancer; stage III testicular cancer or any stage IV gen
Where
- Miami, Florida
- New York, New York
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations