A case-study evaluation of the “Copenhagen Music Program” for psilocybin-assisted therapy
Frontiers in Psychology – June 16, 2023
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A music program for psilocybin journeys, intended for therapeutic use, proved deeply problematic. An Indigenous psychotherapist undergoing a 3.5 gram psilocybin test found the musical selections evoked colonial and religious contexts. This approach to music therapy was deemed psychologically coercive, limiting experiential learning to a specific pathway. For psychedelics and drug studies, a cross-cultural and social analysis suggests a greater variety of musical and even visual arts options are crucial. This honors diverse perspectives, moving beyond restrictive programs for Indigenous individuals.
Abstract
In a recent article, Messell and colleagues provide a curated list, the “Copenhagen Music Program for Psilocybin”. We test their music program with an experienced Indigenous therapist/psychonaut on a 3.5 gram psilocybin journey. Based on comments provided by the Indigenous therapist, we find the program contains musical choices that evoke specific colonial and religious contexts. We also find the program psychologically and emotionally coercive, meaning it is intended to contain the experience by forcing the individual on a specific experiential pathway. We conclude the program is not suitable for Indigenous travelers and suggest that curation of a wider variety of playlists, and music more in line with traditional shamanic practices, might be a better approach to psychedelic curation.