Psychotherapy for Patients Receiving Palliative and Hospice Care: A Systematic Review
A systematic review published in the Annals of Palliative Medicine examined the efficacy of psychotherapy delivered by trained mental health professionals to patients receiving palliative or hospice care, their caregivers, and patient-caregiver dyads, a population that frequently experiences depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. Across twenty-seven studies, hypnotherapy, existential-phenomenological therapy, and life review/memory specificity therapy showed the strongest evidence-base, while cognitive behavioral therapy, dignity therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy was limited or of low quality. The authors conclude that while psychotherapy aligns with the values of palliative and hospice care and is generally well-tolerated, it inconsistently improves objective outcomes for this population.