Current Studies
Our current studies taking place within the Carlson Team!
The Canadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT)
The Canadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy ('CAN-PACT') is a Canadian national initiative advancing psychedelic-assisted therapy for people with living with cancer, focusing on building a robust evidence base via rigorous research, developing bespoke structured training for healthcare workers, and informing and influencing policy. The program is currently in the preparation stage - building the network, developing studies, protocols, training programs, and exploring regulatory pathways for long-lasting change. In future, the program will be recruiting cancer patients for clinical trials across various locations in Canada - further eligibility criteria will follow as projects progress.
The Chemo-Gut Probiotic Study
The Chemo-Gut Probiotic Trial uses a double-blinded placebo-controlled design, in which cancer survivors who have undergone chemotherapy will be randomly assigned to take either a novel oral probiotic treatment or a placebo pill, once daily, for 12 weeks. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the probiotic treatment impacts gastrointestinal symptoms, mental health, and the gut microbiome.
Eligibility criteria for this study:
- Have been diagnosed with any cancer type except colorectal
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must have received chemotherapy in the last 5 years
- Must have completed other cancer treatments (ex: Radiation, Immunotherapy)
- Must be within 2.5 hour radius of the Calgary area
- Must be willing to provide stool samples - used to measure the microbiome
The Nature-Connected Oncology Research Exploration (N-CORE) Survey
There is growing interest in nature-based programs in cancer care, which are activities that involve spending time in nature, because they may help improve mental and physical health. For example, being in nature can boost mood and may help the gut’s healthy bacteria, but these benefits have not been well-studied in people with cancer.
- What is the research goal? The Nature-Connected Oncology Research Exploration (Nature-CORE) survey aims to learn more about how nature can help people with and beyond cancer and caregivers.
- What is the research plan? We will survey people with cancer, caregivers, doctors, and health policy makers to learn about their opinions and experiences with nature-based interventions. This survey will also look at the relationship between nature connectedness and mental and gut health in people living with cancer and caregivers.
The KAPS-C Study: exploring Knowledge and Attitudes towards Probiotic Supplement use among people with Cancer
This survey explores attitudes, awareness, and use of probiotics among individuals with a current or past cancer diagnosis. The goal was to better understand how probiotics are being used in the context of cancer care and where gaps in knowledge or guidance may exist. Findings from this work will help inform the development of more effective resources for patients and healthcare providers, supporting informed decision-making around probiotic use in cancer care.
Priority Setting Partnership (PSP) Survey Study
The James Lind Alliance (JLA) brings together patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to ensure that research focuses on the questions that matter most to those directly affected by a health condition. Participants identify and prioritize the most important unanswered questions about treatments and care. These priorities help guide future research toward addressing real-world needs and improving patient outcomes.
In Round 1 of the PSP Survey, we invited specific voices—patients, caregivers, clinicians, and decision-makers—to help identify and prioritize unanswered questions in psychedelic-assisted cancer therapy. This first phase focused on gathering a broad range of perspectives to better understand what matters most to those directly impacted.
The survey is now closed, and we are preparing for the next stage. Round 2 will open in late summer or early fall 2026, where participants will be invited to review and help prioritize the questions identified in Round 1. To learn more about the James Lind Alliance and their priority settings partnership approach, see below.
The Biofield Study
Biofield therapies work with one’s physical and energetic bodies to support wellbeing. This study will determine how biofield therapies support wellbeing, stress, & pain management.
What was Expected:
- One-on-one session
- Gentle breathing or stretches to begin
- Relax on a table with calming music
- Optional light touch on energy points(e.g. temples, feet)
- Relaxation or meditation skills you can use at home
The study included both individuals with a current or previous cancer diagnosis (on active treatment or post-treatment) and caregivers. Participation required attending three in-person, private sessions, each approximately 75 minutes in length, over the course of one month.
Recruitment for this study is currently closed and will reopen in Fall 2026. If you'd like to be added to our waitlist, please contact Dr. Julie Deleemans at: julie.deleemans@ucalgary.ca or our research assistant Katherine Jarche: justina.jarche@ucalgary.ca
The SEAMLESS Study
The SEAMLESS Study seeks to investigate innovative ways to deliver psychotherapy interventions using technology. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of a 4-week mobile app-based mindfulness intervention for cancer patients after they have completed their treatments. The SEAMLESS study is a result of a Canada-wide collaboration between researchers at the University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Canadian Cancer Trials Group (CCTG), Mobio Interactive. There is both an English- or French-Speaking version.