A dose of therapy with psilocybin - A meta-analysis of the relationship between the amount of therapy hours and treatment outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy
General Hospital Psychiatry – August 05, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Surprisingly, a meta-analysis of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy (PAT) suggests the *duration* of psychotherapist interaction may not directly influence depressive outcomes. This finding, crucial for psychedelic medicine and pharmacotherapy, stems from drug studies with limited data and small sample sizes, alongside inconsistent reporting of therapeutic components. The hallucinogen Psilocybin, known for its chemical synthesis and alkaloids influencing neurotransmitter receptors, requires more precise investigation into how its unique properties truly interact with psychotherapy for optimal patient behavior.
Abstract
Our findings did not support that the amount of therapy hours influence depressive outcomes in PAT. However, this interpretation should be made with caution due to small sample sizes, heterogeneity, and poor reporting of the therapeutic component across studies. Future research should apply greater methodological rigor and standardized reporting of therapy to clarify its role in PAT.