Attitudes toward psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy among Australian mental healthcare providers
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – July 15, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Australian mental healthcare providers generally support Psilocybin and other Psychedelics for mental health, yet significant concerns persist. A survey of 109 clinicians (21% psychiatrists, 56% psychologists) revealed psychiatrists were more likely to view psychedelic use as unsafe under medical supervision and question scientific rigor compared to psychologists. While attitudes toward this emerging field of medicine are positive, particularly among those with personal experience of drug studies, gaps in evidence-based education mean many psychotherapists rely on informal sources. Targeted training is crucial for safe, effective health care.
Abstract
Background: Recent regulatory changes in Australia have approved 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine for treating post-traumatic stress disorder and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. However, limited data exists on Australian mental healthcare providers’ attitudes, knowledge and readiness to implement with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between December 2023 and March 2024, targeting Australian general practitioners, psychiatrists and psychologists. Participants completed online questionnaires developed based on the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices framework to explore mental healthcare providers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices toward psychedelics. Results: The survey was completed by 109 clinicians (21% psychiatrists, 56% psychologists, 23% general practitioners). Attitudes toward psychedelic-assisted therapy were positive. However, safety and efficacy concerns persisted, particularly among psychiatrists, who were significantly more likely than psychologists to perceive psychedelic use as unsafe under medical supervision and question the scientific rigor of current research. Self-rated knowledge positively predicted actual knowledge, though many clinicians relied on informal sources such as podcasts and Internet-based media, highlighting gaps in evidence-based education. Clinicians with personal experience of psychedelic use expressed higher levels of agreement with statements relating to psychedelics improving outcomes in conjunction with psychotherapy and showing promise in treating psychiatric disorders. Conclusion: While Australian mental healthcare providers generally support psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, significant safety and efficacy concerns remain, particularly among psychiatrists. Targeted educational initiatives from professional bodies, emphasizing evidence-based training and accessible resources, are essential to support informed clinical decision-making and safe therapeutic practices in this emerging field.