PSYCHEDELIC-ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY: HOW PSYCHEDELICS COULD CATALYZE CONVENTIONAL THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES FOR TREATING TRAUMA-RELATED CONDITIONS

Abstract

The use of psychedelics as a therapeutic adjacent to psychotherapy is emerging as a treatment method for various psychiatric conditions. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) for treating trauma-related conditions such as complex trauma, PTSD, and acute stress disorder. This review evaluated clinical trials assessing the experiences induced by psychedelics such as MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD. Clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of PAP for treatment of various psychiatric conditions, including PTSD, were also assessed. Results indicated the safety and efficacy of PAP in reducing clinical outcomes associated with trauma-related conditions when administered in controlled settings, even for treatment resistant conditions. Common themes reported from qualitative reports included significant decrease in arousal often precipitated by the recall of traumatic memories, increased insight into the self, reduction in resistance to communicate feelings, increased connectedness to others, increased acceptance and processing of emotions, positive changes in worldview, forgiveness, enhanced therapeutic alliance, enhanced self-compassion and empathy, ego dissolution, and increased motivation and commitment to change. All of these experiences could enhance the efficacy of conventional therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and internal family systems psychotherapy in the treatment of trauma related conditions. Psychedelics used in conjunction with conventional therapeutic approaches could potentially aid in the treatment of trauma-related conditions and positively influence clinical outcomes.