Can music soothe cancer anxiety as well as talk therapy?

NCT ID NCT05215353

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares music therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for reducing anxiety in people who have had cancer. 368 cancer survivors with anxiety will receive seven weekly virtual sessions of either music therapy or CBT. Researchers will track anxiety levels over 26 weeks to see which approach works better and for whom.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Music therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that music therapy is as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy for easing anxiety in cancer survivors, offering a new, accessible option.
What could go wrong: This is a Phase 4 study, but it compares two established therapies, not a new drug. Results may show no clear difference, or one therapy may work better for certain individuals. The virtual format may not suit everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SURVIVORSHIP

Contacts and locations

Locations

Baptist Alliance MCI
RECRUITING

Miami, Florida, 33143, United States
Drexel University
ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
RECRUITING

New York, New York, 10065, United States

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