- Mind Over Matter (MOM) psycho-educational programme
A series of five group lessons
An evidence-based programme designed specifically for cancer patients and their families, offering structured psychoeducational support and the opportunity to learn psychological techniques, the practice of which can promote awareness and self-regulation of emotions, thoughts and tensions associated with the disease.
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What is MOM?
“Mind Over Matter (MOM) is an evidence-based psychoeducational programme developed specifically for cancer patients and their families. It consists of five 90-minute group sessions (up to 12 participants) held weekly online or in person, depending on the format of the group. The content of the programme integrates insights and practical exercises from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), as well as stress physiology.
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Who is MOM for?
MOM is a suitable programme for adults diagnosed with cancer, for people during the recovery phase and after symptoms have diminished or disappeared, and for the loved ones of cancer patients who want to better support their loved ones. You can join the group immediately after diagnosis or if you have been in active treatment for several years.
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How does MOM work?
During the group sessions, participants take part in relaxation exercises, learn about psychology-based mechanisms and learn practical self-regulation skills for everyday life (e.g. awareness of emotions and skills for evaluating thoughts). The sessions provide a structured and safe environment for exchanging experiences, where participants have the opportunity to share their own experiences and listen to other participants' perspectives. A professionally facilitated psychoeducational group process is provided.
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2026 Groups
JAN
21
January and February group, 2026
21, 28 January, 4, 11, 18 February (18:30-20:00, online)
APR
1
1, 8, 15, 22, 29 April (18:30-20:00, online)
SEP
2
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 September (18:30-20:00, online)
To apply, please fill in the application form (via the button below)! We will contact you within 2-3 working days to finalise your participation. We will reserve your place in the group after payment of the first invoice (€50).
After participating in the MOM study, participants' self-evaluation reports showed:
✓ less emotional tension
✓ a more positive perception of the body experience
✓ more confidence in your ability to look after yourself
MOM results in scientific research
A study published in 2023 suggests that participation in the programme is associated with improvements in emotion regulation skills, experience of stress and management of physical feelings related to the oncology experience (Ferretti et al., 2023).
The data also show that the results of the programme did not differ according to the format of the event, i.e. similar changes were observed in both face-to-face and online groups.
Positive changes in your emotional state
Participants reported feeling less anxious and depressed, and more confident in their ability to take care of themselves emotionally.
(Ferretti et al., 2023)
Positive changes in physical well-being
Participants reported that the physical sensations and symptoms associated with the condition became subjectively easier to bear and were perceived as having less impact on their daily lives, while their sense of control over their well-being increased.
(Ferretti et al., 2023)
Full Programme Fee
- in two invoices
To reserve a place in a group, we invoice €50 immediately after confirmation of participation. The remaining balance is invoiced approximately one week before the first class and we ask that you pay it before the start of the programme. This helps us to secure a place in the group and to prepare in time to work with the participants.
€50 + €250
Shared payment
- in three invoices
If you opt for a split payment, the first instalment (€50) must be paid immediately after confirmation of your participation in order to reserve your place in the group. The second instalment (€150) must be invoiced before the first class of the programme and the third instalment (€100) must be invoiced before the last class.
If you wish to use this option, please indicate this on the application form (via the button below) so that we can invoice you accordingly.
€50 + €150+ €100
Answers to frequently asked questions
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No - a doctor's referral is not required. The programme is voluntary and open to anyone who has experienced cancer - regardless of the stage of treatment or the institution. We trust your inner sense of when it is the right time to take time to care for yourself emotionally.
Is confidentiality respected?
Yes - confidentiality is one of our guiding principles. All classes are organised in a safe and respectful environment. We respect the personal experience of each participant, and all group members are encouraged to respect the principle that whatever is discussed in the group, stays in the group.
Will there be a need to talk and share personal experiences?
Yes - we encourage sharing, but we don't make it compulsory. During the sessions, we encourage participants to share their experiences, feelings and discoveries, as this can be empowering both for the participant and for other people in the group. However, everyone has the right to choose how much they want to reveal. We respect your boundaries, your inner pace and your willingness to talk.
Can I ask my health insurer to cover the membership fee?
Yes - some health insurers cover mental health support services and we bill accordingly. To check whether your insurer reimburses this type of service, please contact your insurer. Please note that IDARTO SIA is not a registered medical institution and psychologists working in Latvia are not medical practitioners by law, but we do have clients in our practice who have been compensated.
Didn't find the answer to one of your questions?
Feel free to contact us by email, call or tick “yes” on the application form (via the button below) to the question “Would you like to speak individually (on the phone) with one of our specialists before taking part in the programme to ask questions and make sure the programme is suitable for your needs?”
- each MOM group is led by two specialists in tandem
MOM leaders
The series of sessions is led by Inova Peterson Life with Cancer™ (USA) trained specialists in Latvia
Daiga Katrīna Bitēna
Clinical and health psychologist
Lāsma Poļikeviča
Co-manager of the MOM programme
Māra Lasmane
Co-manager of the MOM programme
Jolanta Mote
Co-manager of the MOM programme
collaboration
Partners enabling the implementation of MOM in Latvia
The implementation of the programme in Latvia is co-financed by the European Union, National Development Plan: ESF+ project “Support for Social Entrepreneurship” Nr.4.3.3.3/1/24/I/001.
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