Psychoanalyst attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted therapy

Summary

Psychoanalysts generally support psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) for treating mental disorders, but believe it is ineffective for substance use disorders. A survey of 130 psychoanalysts revealed that those with a history of psychedelic use held more positive attitudes towards PAT. This suggests a need for education to address misinformation and stigma surrounding psychedelics in therapy.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background Numerous clinical trials have supported psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) as a treatment for psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and substance use. While empirical evidence indicates PAT’s benefits, the perspectives of mental health practitioners on this topic remain unclear.Methods This quantitative study attempted to capture psychoanalyst practitioners’ attitudes toward PAT. A sample of 130 graduate-level trained psychoanalysts in at least part-time clinical practice was recruited to participate in an online survey.Results The study found that psychoanalysts were cautiously supportive of PAT, open to their clients engaging in PAT, and optimistic about PAT’s potential in treating mental disorders. Additionally, they reported that PAT would be ineffective in treating substance use disorders (SUDs). Lastly, participants who reported a history of psychedelic use were significantly more likely to have greater positive attitudes toward PAT than those who had not.Conclusion Results indicate the potential for misinformation about psychedelics and a lingering cultural stigma regarding the utility of psychedelics in the therapeutic environment among psychoanalysts. Therefore, education on the risks, potential benefits, and limitations of the evidence base of psychedelics and their effectiveness across psychiatric disorders appears warranted in the psychoanalytic community.

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