Recruiting

Group counseling to help people cope with health-related stigma

Plain-English translation of NCT05561595 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

Read our Obesity research guide →

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This study is testing a new group counseling program called Healing HEARTS designed to help people who feel ashamed or embarrassed about having a stigmatized health condition. The program teaches coping skills through online group sessions with others facing similar feelings. Researchers want to see if this targeted counseling works better than general peer support alone at reducing internalized stigma — the shame people internalize about their own condition.

Many people with chronic health conditions experience deep shame and embarrassment about their diagnosis, which can make their mental health worse and interfere with treatment. This study exists to test whether a specialized counseling program can help people manage these difficult feelings and improve their overall quality of life.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are 18 years or older
you have been diagnosed with obesity, skin disease, cancer, HIV, diabetes, or chronic pain
you experience significant feelings of shame or embarrassment about your health condition
you are able to attend weekly online group meetings for 12 weeks, then less frequent meetings for another 14 weeks
you have access to a device with video capability (computer, tablet, or phone) and internet connection, or are willing to receive one

You likely don't qualify if…

you have received therapy or counseling focused on your health condition in the past 3 months
you have been hospitalized for psychiatric reasons in the past 6 months
you are currently experiencing active suicidal thoughts or have attempted suicide in the past year
you have a current thought disorder, psychosis, or unmanaged bipolar disorder
you are undergoing intensive cancer treatment like chemotherapy or radiation, or are in end-of-life care

What participation looks like

You will join one of three groups: a specialized stigma-focused counseling program, a general peer support group, or a waitlist group. If assigned to counseling or peer support, you'll attend 50-minute online video sessions weekly for 12 weeks, then every other week for 2 sessions, then monthly for 2 sessions (16 total sessions over 6 months). You'll complete assessments at the start, after 12 weeks, and after 26 weeks. The counseling sessions include homework and handouts to help you practice new coping skills with 8–10 other participants led by a trained therapist.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 5, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida