Translating Dignity Therapy into Practice: Effects and Lessons Learned

Abstract

Dignity Therapy (DT) is an intervention designed to lessen existential suffering as death draws near. DT has a growing evidence base, with positive outcomes for patients and their family members; however, it is not yet widely available in community settings. The purpose of this project was to translate DT into clinical practice in a cancer center in the midwestern United States. DT was provided to 10 patients with metastatic cancer who completed baseline and post-intervention measures of depression, existential distress, health-related quality of life, and satisfaction with the intervention. DT was found to be feasible and acceptable to the majority of patients and their families. DT outcomes will be presented, along with suggestions for clinicians who are interested in offering DT in their practices.