Internet‐administered, low‐intensity cognitive behavioral therapy for parents of children treated for cancer: A feasibility trial (ENGAGE)

BACKGROUND: Parents of children treated for cancer may experience mental health difficulties, such as depression and anxiety. There is a lack of evidence‐based psychological interventions for parents, with psychological support needs unmet. An internet‐administered, guided, low‐intensity cognitive behavioral therapy‐based (LICBT) self‐help intervention may provide a solution. METHODS: The feasibility and acceptability of such an intervention was examined using a single‐arm feasibility trial (ENGAGE). Primary objectives examined: (1) estimates of recruitment and retention rates; (2) feasibility and acceptability of data collection instruments and procedures; and (3) intervention feasibility and acceptability. Clinical outcomes were collected at baseline, post‐treatment (12 weeks), and follow‐up (6 months). RESULTS: The following progression criteria were met: sample size was exceeded within 5 months, with 11.0% enrolled of total population invited, study dropout rate was 24.0%, intervention dropout was 23.6%, missing data remained at ≤10% per measure, and no substantial negative consequences related to participation were reported. Intervention adherence was slightly lower than progression criteria (47.9%). CONCLUSION: Findings suggest an internet‐administered, guided, LICBT self‐help intervention may represent a feasible and acceptable solution for parents of children treated for cancer. With minor study protocol and intervention modifications, progression to a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) and subsequent superiority RCT is warranted.