Desensitizing Distressing Recollections in Cancer Patients

Inclusion criteria

• Age ≥18 years of age
• Distressing cancer-related recollection that has persisted for at least six months
• Distressing cancer-related recollection that causes physiological reactivity (i.e., increased heart rate and/or increased skin conductance level - SCL), as described in section 4.2.3.
• Received a cancer diagnosis at least 6 months prior to being contacted for participation in this study

Exclusion criteria

• Any current Major Mental Disorder, as assessed by Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IV Axis I Disorders (SCID - Clinical Version, First et al, 1997)
• History of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
• Current active mood primary disorder prior to the cancer diagnosis (as per PI or designate)
• History or current diagnosis of substance or alcohol abuse or dependence (as per PI or designate)
• Use of psychotropic medications within the past month or current use of medications that would interfere with autonomic nervous system measures (benzodiazepines, barbiturates, major tranquilizers).
• Use of some psychotropic medications are allowed such as SSRIs and certain sleep aids, but dosages must be stable from six weeks prior to enrollment and throughout study period
• Any psychological or musculoskeletal problems that would interfere with psychophysiological assessments and treatment
• Currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation
• Are in the terminal stages of illness