NCT07555015 · Texas Woman's University
An Online Nurse-Led Purpose-Focused Group Program for Adult Women With Multiple Sclerosis: Effects on Meaning and Quality of Life
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to learn how a six-week, nurse-led virtual group program may affect meaning in life and quality of life in adult women living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Many people with MS describe changes in identity, purpose, and daily life.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to learn how a six-week, nurse-led virtual group program may affect meaning in life and quality of life in adult women living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Many people with MS describe changes in identity, purpose, and daily life. This study will help researchers understand whether a structured group program can support women as they explore meaning and purpose while living with MS. The main questions this study aims to answer are: * How does the program affect how participants search for meaning in life? * How does it affect their sense of life purpose or direction? * How does it affect their overall quality of life? This study uses a single-group design. All participants will take part in the six-week virtual group program. The program is led by a registered nurse and focuses on guided reflection, values exploration, and group discussion. Participants will: * Attend one virtual group session for one hour each week for six weeks * Take part in guided discussions and reflection exercises * Complete three online surveys: one before the program begins, one at Week 3, and one after Week 6 * Use a computer, tablet, or phone to join all virtual sessions The surveys will ask about: * How participants search for meaning in their lives * How much purpose and direction they feel * Their physical and emotional quality of life There are no medications, invasive procedures, or in-person visits in this study.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Nurse-Led Purpose-Building Intervention
The Nurse-Led Virtual Purpose-Building Intervention is a six-week, synchronous behavioral program delivered in small groups through a secure videoconferencing platform. Sessions are facilitated by a registered nurse trained in the study protocol. Each weekly session lasts 60 minutes and follows a standardized structure that includes: (1) an opening reflective prompt or grounding exercise, (2) guided group dialogue focused on meaning, identity, and purpose in the context of living with Multiple Sclerosis, (3) a brief integrative activity such as journaling or values-based reflection, and (4) a closing synthesis. The intervention emphasizes person-centered exploration, reflective engagement, and meaning-making rather than clinical counseling or symptom management. No medical treatments, diagnostic procedures, or therapeutic techniques are used. Fidelity to session structure is supported through a facilitator manual and weekly documentation.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Quality of Life (Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-29 Scale)
Time frame: Baseline, Week 3, Week 6
Quality of life will be assessed using the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-29 (MSQOL-29), which generates composite scores for physical and mental well-being. Subscale scores are standardized from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better quality of life. The outcome is the change in MSQOL-29 composite scores from Baseline to Week 3 and Week 6.
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
- over the age of 18
- a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (Primary Progressive, Relapsing-Remitting, Secondary Progressive)
- access to a device with internet capability as well as audio and video functions
- comfortable reading, writing, and participating in group discussions in English
Exclusion criteria
- currently enrolled (or have been enrolled within the last 4 weeks) of any similar group based intervention therapy (logotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
Where
- Denton, Texas
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 Jul 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations