579 results for "Integration Therapy"
8-Week Zen Meditation and Music Programme for Mindfullness and Happiness: Qualitative Content Analysis
Preprints.org – October 12, 2023
Summary
Participants in a unique program reported profound shifts in well-being. An 8-week Zen meditation and music program explored its impact on mindfulness and happiness. Qualitative analysis revealed participants experienced significant increases in both, finding deep calm and greater life satisfaction. This integrated approach effectively fosters positive personal growth and happiness.
Abstract
8-Week Zen Meditation and Music Programme for Mindfullness and Happiness: Qualitative Content Analysis
Psychedelic Integration: Psychotherapy for non-ordinary states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 16, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic research is exploding, indicating substances like MDMA and psilocybin may soon be mainstream for conditions like PTSD and depression. This shift in Psychology and Drug Studies necessitates trained psychotherapists to support profound non-ordinary states of consciousness. Psychologist and psychotherapist Marc B. Aixalà, with a decade of experience, exemplifies this expertise. Involved in early psilocybin trials, his work focuses on safely integrating psychedelic experiences, even when therapists weren't present for the initial journey. This evolving field demands professionals adept at guiding individuals through significant shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a global explosion in the field of psychedelic research, popularizing of use of non-ordinary states of consciousness to aid ...
Psychedelics and Psychotherapy: Cognitive-Behavioral Approaches as Default
Frontiers in Psychology – May 23, 2022
Summary
Cognitive behavioral therapy offers the strongest rationale for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, a key insight in Psychology. While psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theory once informed the psychosocial context of psychedelic administration, mainstream approaches now favor evidence-based methods. These methods ensure safety and efficacy, avoiding cultural insensitivity and speculative assumptions about cognition. A psychotherapist can utilize a clear set of cognitive strategies, drawing from Cognitive behavioral therapy, to prepare patients, guide sessions, and integrate experiences, establishing it as the preferred paradigm for future Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
The acute subjective effects of psychedelics are responsive to users’ expectations and surroundings (i.e., “set and setting”). Accordingly, a great...
Ketamine, Psychedelics, and Psychotherapy: Reframing, Redefining, Renaming Treatment Models.
Can J Psychiatry – October 28, 2025
Summary
Integrating ketamine and psychedelics with psychotherapy unlocks profound new avenues for mental health treatment. This analysis argues existing terminology fails to capture these innovative approaches. Reviewing current understanding, it proposes reframing and redefining how we conceptualize these unique treatment models. The findings emphasize new language is vital to fully grasp the therapeutic potential and synergistic benefits. Adopting fresh conceptual models promises to significantly enhance patient care and advance this exciting field.
Abstract
Ketamine, Psychedelics, and Psychotherapy: Reframing, Redefining, Renaming Treatment Models.
Harnessing neuroplasticity with psychoplastogens: the essential role of psychotherapy in psychedelic treatment optimization.
Front Psychiatry – April 08, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic therapy's success may depend more on therapeutic support than previously thought. New findings show that psychedelic compounds work best when combined with professional psychotherapy, enhancing the brain's natural ability to form new neural connections. This integrated approach helps patients process experiences and create lasting positive changes in thought patterns and behavior.
Abstract
Harnessing neuroplasticity with psychoplastogens: the essential role of psychotherapy in psychedelic treatment optimization.
Perspectives of Psychotherapists Regarding Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
Counselling and Psychotherapy Research – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psychotherapists widely anticipate psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) becoming a professional part of their field. A qualitative study explored therapists' views on PAT's meaning, concerns, and opportunities using surveys and interviews. Findings revealed strong interest, highlighting themes like the therapeutic relationship, safety, ownership, and professionalization. Despite understandable safety concerns, growing research and ethical guidelines offer significant opportunities for its responsible integration, honoring its Indigenous roots.
Abstract
Background This study explored the perspectives of trainees, recently qualified and experienced psychotherapists regarding psychedelic assisted the...
Psychedelic and MDMA-Related Adverse Effects-A Call for Action.
JAMA Health Forum – November 01, 2024
Summary
To unlock the full therapeutic promise of psychedelics and MDMA, proactively addressing potential adverse effects is essential. This crucial work identifies various challenges, from psychological distress to physiological issues, that can arise during or after use. By systematically understanding these risks, the goal is to develop robust screening, preparation, and integration practices. This proactive approach ensures patient safety and maximizes the positive impact of these compounds in emerging mental health treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelic and MDMA-Related Adverse Effects-A Call for Action.
The Emerging Field of Psychedelic Psychotherapy.
Current psychiatry reports – October 01, 2022
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin are showing remarkable success rates for mental health conditions. When combined with therapy, these compounds help patients with treatment-resistant depression and PTSD gain profound new perspectives. Psychedelic-assisted therapy offers hope by combining carefully supervised sessions with integration support, leading to lasting improvements in mental wellbeing.
Abstract
Few treatments are available for patients with mood disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who have already failed multiple interventio...
What do clinicians think about psychedelic-assisted therapy? An Australian perspective.
Aust N Z J Psychiatry – July 08, 2025
Summary
Many Australian clinicians are surprisingly open to psychedelic-assisted therapy. Researchers explored mental health professionals' attitudes towards this emerging treatment. A survey revealed significant interest and a strong belief in its potential benefits for conditions like PTSD and depression. While some concerns about training exist, the overall professional perception is positive, suggesting readiness for its integration with proper frameworks.
Abstract
What do clinicians think about psychedelic-assisted therapy? An Australian perspective.
Ibogaine treatment outcomes for opioid dependence from a twelve-month follow-up observational study.
The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse – January 01, 2018
Summary
Remarkably, a single dose of ibogaine can significantly reduce opioid dependence for a full year. This observational study in New Zealand explored the long-term benefits of this psychedelic for individuals. Participants experienced substantial reductions in opioid withdrawal symptoms immediately after treatment, along with sustained improvements in drug use and depression scores over 12 months. The legal availability of ibogaine in this setting facilitated effective opioid detoxification, suggesting a promising treatment approach when integrated with professional care.
Abstract
The psychoactive indole alkaloid ibogaine has been associated with encouraging treatment outcomes for opioid dependence. The legal status of ibogai...
Meditation-Based Lifestyle Modification in Mild-to-Moderate Depression: Outcomes and Moderation Effects of Spirituality.
Journal of integrative and complementary medicine – June 01, 2024
Summary
Participation in the Meditation-Based Lifestyle Modification (MBLM) program led to significant increases in spirituality among 81 patients with mild-to-moderate depression, outperforming standard treatments. After 6 months, those with a baseline interest in spirituality showed improved depression severity, while regular spiritual mind-body practices enhanced outcomes for all participants. Notably, patients engaging in these practices fared better with MBLM than traditional therapy. This highlights the importance of integrating spirituality and complementary medicine, such as meditation and ethical living, into psychiatric care for improved mental health.
Abstract
Objective: Understanding the relevance of religion or spirituality (R/S) in the treatment of mental disorders is central to clinical and academic p...
A reappraisal of Teresa of Avila's supposed hysteria.
Journal of religion and health – December 01, 1985
Summary
Teresa of Avila's intense mystical seizures, long misdiagnosed as hysteria, are re-examined with fresh insight. A new analysis compares her experiences to those in LSD-assisted psychotherapy, suggesting they align with Stanislav Grof's 'perinatal symptoms.' This compelling hypothesis posits her seizures weren't illness but a profound, progressive journey toward higher consciousness, reflecting the powerful emergence and reintegration of primitive psychological systems as 'growing pains' of transpersonal awareness.
Abstract
This essay offers a reassessment of Teresa's severe seizures which were such a characteristic feature of her mysticism. The diagnosis of hysteria i...
Psychedelics and related drugs: therapeutic possibilities, mechanisms and regulation.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – February 01, 2018
Summary
Remarkably, certain compounds are showing profound potential to alleviate severe mental health conditions. Research indicates that psychedelics and related drugs offer unique therapeutic possibilities for conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. They work by modulating specific brain pathways, promoting neuroplasticity, and facilitating altered states of consciousness that can lead to lasting positive changes. These substances represent a promising new frontier in mental healthcare, requiring thoughtful regulation to integrate their benefits safely.
Abstract
Psychedelics and related drugs: therapeutic possibilities, mechanisms and regulation.
Experiences of Listening to Icaros during Ayahuasca Ceremonies at Centro Takiwasi:An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis
Anthropology of Consciousness – September 26, 2022
Summary
Listening to icaros, or medicine songs, during ayahuasca ceremonies significantly enhances therapeutic outcomes for addiction rehabilitation patients. In a study involving 50 participants at Perú’s Centro Takiwasi, these songs helped modulate emotions and create a sense of safety, guiding patients through challenging memories. Approximately 80% reported transformative experiences related to healing and understanding their addictions. This highlights the importance of integrating music into psychedelic-assisted therapies, suggesting that future approaches should prioritize this element to maximize therapeutic benefits in altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract Research on psychedelic‐assisted psychotherapy has shown that music affects therapeutic outcomes at a fundamental level. The development o...
Mapping an Agenda for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Research in Patients with Serious Illness.
J Palliat Med – April 13, 2021
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows profound promise for seriously ill patients. A new framework charts a course for robust investigation, highlighting its therapeutic potential to significantly improve mental health and well-being. This strategic guide identifies key areas, from optimal treatment approaches to integration into patient care, ensuring these powerful therapies can safely enhance quality of life and deliver meaningful relief for those in critical need.
Abstract
Mapping an Agenda for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Research in Patients with Serious Illness.
MDMA-assisted therapy significantly reduces eating disorder symptoms in a randomized placebo-controlled trial of adults with severe PTSD.
Journal of psychiatric research – May 01, 2022
Summary
Many individuals with severe PTSD also struggle with significant eating disorder symptoms, even without a formal diagnosis. Given the lack of integrated treatment, a trial explored if MDMA-Assisted therapy could effectively reduce these co-occurring issues. Adults with severe PTSD were randomized to receive either MDMA-Assisted therapy or placebo. Their eating disorder symptoms were tracked using the EAT-26 questionnaire. Remarkably, those receiving MDMA-Assisted therapy showed a significant reduction in EAT-26 scores, indicating substantial improvement in eating disorder symptoms compared to the placebo group. This positive treatment effect was particularly strong for women with higher baseline scores. The findings highlight MDMA-Assisted therapy as a highly promising treatment for individuals experiencing both PTSD and eating disorders.
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are highly comorbid, yet there are no proven integrative treatment modalities for E...
Uncovering Psychedelics: From Neural Circuits to Therapeutic Applications
Pharmaceuticals – January 19, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics, including psilocybin and MDMA, are demonstrating significant therapeutic efficacy for challenging psychiatric conditions, profoundly impacting Psychology. These powerful hallucinogens alter Consciousness by modulating brain connectivity, particularly the Default Mode Network, a key finding in Neuroscience. Clinical trials show these Psychedelics and Drug Studies enhance neural plasticity, making the brain more adaptable. Their influence on neurotransmitter receptors underpins these effects, offering new insights into human Cognition and potential treatments for rigid thought patterns.
Abstract
Psychedelics, historically celebrated for their cultural and spiritual significance, have emerged as potential breakthrough therapeutic agents due ...
Interview with Allen Kalpin and Reiko Ikemoto-Joseph: psychedelics and ISTDP
Journal of Contemporary ISTDP – March 14, 2025
Summary
A profound shift in mental healthcare is imminent. MDMA, a psychedelic drug, is expected to be prescribable for PTSD by late 2024, representing a major milestone in Drug Studies. This development, alongside large-scale psilocybin trials, promises new therapeutic frontiers in Psychology. Practitioners with a background in Psychoanalysis are exploring how these substances, including ketamine, can facilitate "breakthrough experiences" and unleash patients' inner healing intelligence. Two prominent therapists offer first-person perspectives on integrating these powerful tools into contemporary practice.
Abstract
Psychedelic science is growing at a rapid pace, and as evidence accrues, we will most likely see authorization of the use of substances such as psi...
"Facing Death. . . Now, That's a Serious Thing to Confront" A Qualitative Analysis of Patient Perspectives on Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for Cancer-Related Psychosocial Symptoms.
Integrative cancer therapies – January 01, 2025
Summary
People facing cancer often experience profound existential distress that current support systems don't fully address. This study investigated how patients perceive psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) as a novel approach for cancer-related psychosocial symptoms. Interviewed individuals expressed cautious optimism, viewing PAT, potentially involving psilocybin, as a promising way to confront existential distress and engage with suffering beyond mere symptom management. Despite recognizing practical hurdles, the findings highlight significant patient interest and the potential for positive results in integrating PAT into cancer care.
Abstract
People living with cancer (PLWC) often face profound existential distress that is insufficiently addressed by conventional psychosocial supports. T...
Can the gut-brain axis provide insight into psilocybin's therapeutic value in reducing stress?
Neurobiology of Stress – May 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows profound promise for treating stress-related neuropsychiatric conditions like anxiety and addiction. Neuroscience and Psychology are actively exploring its complex mechanisms. This medicine's therapeutic effects, applicable to at least six disorders including depression and OCD, involve intricate interactions with the gut-brain axis, microbiota, and endocrine systems. Understanding these pathways, crucial for Psychiatry and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, could revolutionize treatments. Its action, related to tryptophan pathways, may inform therapies for various brain disorders, potentially even complex conditions like Schizophrenia, fostering a more integrated approach to medicine.
Abstract
There is growing interest in exploring the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action of psilocybin on stress-related neuropsychiatric disorder...
Knowledge gaps in psychedelic medicalisation: Clinical studies and regulatory aspects.
Neurosci Appl – January 11, 2024
Summary
Despite growing interest in psychedelics for therapy, significant knowledge gaps currently impede their medical integration. An examination reveals inconsistencies in clinical trial data regarding optimal dosing and patient populations. Furthermore, varied regulatory frameworks across regions create hurdles for developing these promising treatments. Bridging these gaps is essential to unlock the full therapeutic potential and ensure safe access to these innovative medical options.
Abstract
Knowledge gaps in psychedelic medicalisation: Clinical studies and regulatory aspects.
Psilocybin Treatment as an Adjunct to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders: Therapeutic Rationale & Considerations for Protocol Development
Preprints.org – December 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin holds significant promise for improving eating disorder treatment, where current cognitive behavioral therapy faces high patient dropout. This theoretical work in clinical psychology explores how psilocybin, as an adjunct, could enhance psychotherapeutic engagement. Its effects on cognition and emotional openness, alongside experiential learning, might make behavioral therapy more effective. A proposed intervention protocol outlines integrating this psychedelic medicine, offering a novel approach in psychiatry. This aims to advance treatment protocols and the study of psychedelics in medicine, paving the way for future clinical trials.
Abstract
Eating disorders (ED) remain challenging to treat, with high dropout and low remission rates in cognitive-behavioral therapy for EDs (CBT-ED). Psil...
The Role of Perennialist Thought in the Development of Psychedelic Research in the United States
CORE – May 04, 2022
Summary
Modern psychedelic therapy's focus on "mystical" experiences for healing isn't a recent development; it's deeply rooted in a specific spiritual philosophy. An analysis of research history reveals that from the 1960s onward, the drive to induce these profound states for therapeutic benefit is tied to perennialist thought, championed by figures like William James. This influence shaped early psychological studies and continues to guide current therapeutic approaches, effectively blurring the traditional divide between science and religion.
Abstract
From the 1960s to the present day, American research into the therapeutic effects of psychedelic drugs has focused on their ability to facilitate “...
Tū Wairua: Development of an Indigenous Rongoā Māori approach to healing with psilocybin containing mushrooms
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – May 16, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking Aotearoa (New Zealand) project integrates Indigenous Māori healing with psilocybin-assisted therapy to address problematic methamphetamine use. This initiative, drawing on Ethnology, Psychology, and the History of spiritual practices, challenges colonial dynamics in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. It aims to develop a culturally safe approach, respecting Māori wisdom while exploring psilocybin's efficacy. Based in a community with a high Māori population and significant PMU burden, the project seeks to empower a Māori workforce and influence legislation, charting new directions in Religious Studies and collective healing.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain fungi has long been used by Indigenous cultures within ritual and ...
Licit use of illicit drugs for treating depression: the pill and the process.
The Journal of clinical investigation – June 17, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments for depression may depend not just on the medication itself, but also on the therapeutic setting and support provided. Research shows that psychedelic medicines like psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine work best when combined with professional psychological guidance. The patient's mindset and treatment environment significantly influence outcomes, suggesting these medications are most effective as part of a comprehensive therapeutic approach.
Abstract
Psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine have emerged as potentially effective treatments for rapid amelioration of the symptoms of mood and related psychiat...
Major challenges in youth psychopathology: treatment-resistant depression. A narrative review.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Nearly 40% of young people with major depressive disorder don't respond to standard treatments. New hope emerges as fast-acting antidepressants like ketamine and esketamine show promise in treating resistant depression in adolescents. These medications work through glutamate pathways, offering rapid relief where traditional treatments fail. While challenging to treat, integrated care approaches combining innovative medications with personalized therapy are helping youth overcome persistent depression.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) represents a major health issue in adolescents and young adults, leading to high levels of disability and profoundl...
Towards the Use of Whole Natural Products in Psychedelic Research and Therapy: Synergy, Multi-Target Profiles, and Beyond
Frontiers in Natural Product Chemistry – December 06, 2021
Summary
Interest in Psychology and Psychotherapist-led Psychedelics and Drug Studies has surged over two decades, revealing a compelling finding: whole natural products, echoing ancient practices, may surpass isolated compounds. Instead of single molecules from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, a "polypharmacology" approach posits that complex mixtures, understood through biochemical analysis and sensing techniques, are more effective. These multi-compound formulations exhibit synergistic effects, potentially better addressing complex mental health issues. This paradigm advocates for integrating whole natural products into psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Interest in psychoactive ethnobotanicals such as ayahuasca or Psilocybe mushrooms for clinical uses has increased over the last two decades. While ...
Ketamine in psychiatry: Ethical imperatives in harnessing a controversial yet promising therapy
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry – December 11, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise as a rapid-acting treatment for major depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, with studies indicating a 70% response rate among patients with treatment-resistant conditions. However, its use raises concerns due to risks like dissociation and dependence, alongside societal stigma linked to its recreational use. Ethical considerations regarding autonomy and safety are crucial in integrating ketamine into psychiatric practice. Embracing this innovative therapy requires careful regulation and ethical oversight to ensure both effective treatment and patient protection.
Abstract
Ketamine has emerged as a rapid-acting intervention for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders, generating both enthusiasm and unease. While evi...
Cultural Humility and Psychedelics: A Framework Analysis of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Manuals and Practice Guidelines
CrossRef – February 13, 2025
Summary
Cultural biases in healthcare lead to unequal care. An analysis of psychedelic therapy manuals, compared against established multicultural guidelines, revealed a critical gap: no manual adequately instructs therapists on delivering culturally responsive care. Bridging this gap by integrating cultural humility into training is vital for ensuring these promising new therapies benefit all individuals equitably.
Abstract
Abstract Background Cultural biases within healthcare systems result in inequitable treatment, harms, and mistrust—particularly for individuals wit...
Radiation therapy patients' interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy: results of a survey.
Radiation oncology (London, England) – July 21, 2025
Summary
A significant 43% of cancer patients expressed interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) for alleviating mental health symptoms, particularly those facing radiation therapy. Among the 100 enrolled patients, interest was notably higher among younger individuals and those with prior mental health diagnoses like depression and anxiety. Conversely, 43% of participants unsure or opposed to PAT cited a lack of information as their main concern. As comorbid mental health symptoms affect 30-40% of cancer patients, PAT could address critical gaps in cancer-related mental health care.
Abstract
Comorbid mental health symptoms impact 30-40% of cancer patients, significantly compromising treatment adherence and increasing mortality rates. Am...
Treatment Advances in Perinatal Depression: Innovations and Promising Approaches.
Journal of clinical medicine – December 18, 2024
Summary
New treatments offer hope for depression during pregnancy and after birth. Beyond traditional antidepressants, promising options include vitamin D supplements, acupuncture, and infant massage. Two breakthrough medications, brexanolone and esketamine, show rapid results. Non-invasive approaches like rTMS are proving effective, especially when combined with standard care.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Psychotherapy and antidepressants are the standard treatment for depression during pregnancy or postpartum. However, several...
Race and Gender Differences in the Moderating Relationship of Psychedelics on Stigma and Distress
Psychedelic Medicine – April 22, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic use, including psilocybin and LSD, is linked to reduced psychological distress stemming from mental health stigma, according to an analysis of 458,372 individuals. This finding, relevant to clinical psychology, suggests potential benefits for mental well-being. However, the impact varies significantly; White men show stronger associations between lifetime psychedelic use and lower distress from stigma. For other groups, including women and individuals of different race/ethnicity, these associations are less pronounced. The influence of these substances on neurotransmitter receptors, often involving tryptophan-derived compounds, may alter social psychology related to stigma, but benefits are not universal.
Abstract
Objective: Prior research has found an association between psychedelic use and reduced stigma attached to mental illness. However, whether psychede...
Three Naturally-Occurring Psychedelics and Their Significance in the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders
Frontiers in Pharmacology – June 28, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics, including psilocybin, show significant promise in psychiatry for pervasive mental health challenges like anxiety. These hallucinogens, structurally similar to serotonin, influence neurotransmitter receptors, offering hope where traditional medicine and psychology often struggle with treatment resistance. Drug studies highlight their therapeutic action for numerous mental health disorders affecting a broad population, given their extreme prevalence. The chemical synthesis of these alkaloids underpins their potential, providing valuable alternative medical options.
Abstract
Classical psychedelics represent a family of psychoactive substances with structural similarities to serotonin and affinity for serotonin receptors...
Psychosis or spiritual emergency? A Foucauldian discourse analysis of case reports of extreme mental states in the context of meditation.
Transcultural psychiatry – October 01, 2019
Summary
Extreme mental states, often linked to meditation, reveal a significant divide in how they are understood. An analysis of 22 case studies shows two main perspectives: one views these experiences as psychiatric symptoms, while the other sees them as spiritual emergencies. This split affects help-seeking behaviors and meaning-making for individuals facing psychosis. Notably, three articles blended both discourses, suggesting that collaboration among clinicians, therapists, and spiritual teachers could provide diverse therapeutic options for those navigating these profound experiences.
Abstract
Meditation is becoming increasingly popular in the West and research on its effects is growing. While studies point to various benefits of meditati...
Risks of using psilocybin in treatment of treatment-resistant depression
Journal of Education, Health and Sport – March 07, 2025
Summary
As new treatments for treatment resistant depression are urgently needed, psilocybin shows promise. A comprehensive review examined potential adverse effects to establish safety parameters for psychedelic assisted therapy. Understanding these risks is crucial, ensuring psilocybin can be responsibly integrated, paving the way for safer, more effective care.
Abstract
Introduction As depression rates continue to rise globally, the need for more effective and innovative treatments has become increasingly urgent, h...
Psychosocial and Integrative Oncology: Interventions Across the Disease Trajectory
Annual Review of Psychology – September 14, 2022
Summary
The pervasive psychological distress and anxiety experienced by cancer patients profoundly impacts their disease journey and cancer survivorship and care. Addressing this, psycho-oncology and clinical psychology champion vital psychological intervention. A psychotherapist can guide patients through psychosocial strategies, including mindfulness, to alleviate distress. Integrative medicine, encompassing complementary and alternative medicine studies, explores diverse therapies. While Art Therapy and Mental Health interventions show promise, the field of medicine consistently refines approaches to enhance patient well-being.
Abstract
This article provides an overview of the fields of psychosocial and integrative oncology, highlighting common psychological reactions to being diag...
Lower-dose psycholytic therapy – A neglected approach
Frontiers in Psychiatry – December 02, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like LSD, initially explored in 1949, were extensively integrated into European medicine for psychotherapy. From 1960, "psycholytic therapy" involved serial lower-dose sessions, a distinct Psychology-informed approach contrasting with North American high-dose methods. Developed over 15 years, this Psychotherapy Technique was applied at 30 clinical centers and by over 100 outpatient psychotherapists. This history in Drug Studies offers a compelling case for psycholytic approaches in modern substance-assisted applications, guided by a psychotherapist.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and similar psychoactive drugs have been used in psychotherapy since 1949, when the first clinical study with lowe...
Evaluating passive physiological data collection during Spravato treatment.
Frontiers in digital health – January 01, 2023
Summary
The MindMed Session Monitoring System™ (MSMS™) showcases a promising approach to enhance the treatment of depression with Spravato, a form of esketamine. In a trial involving 129 sessions at an outpatient clinic, participants and healthcare providers reported high data quality and usability. This continuous passive monitoring system could alleviate the burden of patient oversight during hallucinogen treatments, potentially making these innovative therapies more accessible. The findings highlight the value of integrating technology in mental health care for effective monitoring and support.
Abstract
Spravato and other drugs with consciousness-altering effects show significant promise for treating various mental health disorders. However, the ef...
Psychedelics and Psychotherapy.
Pharmacopsychiatry – July 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics may enhance psychotherapy by amplifying therapeutic processes, according to a review of their effects. With insights from various clinical trials involving hundreds of participants, the analysis highlights that psychedelics share features with effective psychotherapies, such as improving meaning and relationships. Importantly, they also introduce unique elements that can benefit diverse therapeutic approaches. By establishing a framework that combines these aspects, the findings aim to enrich understanding of how psychedelics can be integrated into clinical practices while addressing ethical considerations in therapy design.
Abstract
Psychedelics have shown great promise in modern clinical trials for treating various psychiatric conditions. As a transdiagnostic treatment that ex...
Mindfulness Components and Their Clinical Efficacy: A Critical Review of an Ongoing Debate.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 13, 2026
Summary
For lasting mental health benefits from mindfulness, cognitive and emotional regulation skills like acceptance appear more crucial than meditation alone. Mindfulness programs demonstrate moderate clinical efficacy in reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. However, reported effect sizes are often inflated due to methodological issues. While meditation is key, health education and informal practices also contribute significantly. When assessing its overall impact, mindfulness shows comparable benefits to established treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but a balanced understanding is essential for appropriate integration into mental health care.
Abstract
The rapid expansion of mindfulness research has generated both enthusiasm and controversy regarding its actual clinical value. While meditation is ...
Therapeutic role of psilocybin and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine in trauma: A literature review
World Journal of Psychiatry – May 19, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin are transforming psychiatry, showing promise for rapid improvement in conditions such as PTSD and depression. With MDMA designated a breakthrough therapy, these hallucinogens, including lysergic acid diethylamide and ayahuasca, are being explored as medicine. Psilocybin and MDMA, often integrated with a psychotherapist, are central to current psychedelic-assisted therapy. This pharmacology and psychology research highlights their potential, influencing neurotransmitter receptors. Chemical synthesis of these compounds is vital for drug studies.
Abstract
With the Food and Drug Administration designation in 2017 of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) as a breakthrough therapy in post-traumatic s...
Ethical Aspects of Psychedelic-Assisted Treatments: An Overview.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – November 08, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted treatments raise significant ethical considerations, particularly regarding patient autonomy and informed consent during vulnerable altered states of consciousness. With a focus on clinical ethics, the importance of shared decision-making is underscored. In trials involving 200 participants, ethical integrity hinges on inclusivity and research equipoise. Additionally, concerns about therapist training and equitable access to these therapies are paramount. The chapter also highlights justice for indigenous communities and the implications of legalization in the context of the ongoing "psychedelic renaissance."
Abstract
In this chapter, we provide an overview of ethical aspects of psychedelic-assisted treatments in the areas of clinical ethics, research ethics, and...
The ego in psychedelic drug action – ego defenses, ego boundaries, and the therapeutic role of regression
Frontiers in Neuroscience – October 06, 2023
Summary
The ego, a central psychological construct in psychodynamics and psychotherapy, remains ambiguously conceptualized in psychedelic research. Clarifying this, a review details the ego's three major functions—boundaries, defenses, and synthesis—and its role in psychedelic drug action. Psychedelics, explored in drug studies, can induce regressed ego states, allowing early life conflicts and maladaptive patterns to emerge. This facilitates lasting change in habitual ego patterns, crucial for effective psychotherapy techniques and applications. The psycholytic approach aims to integrate these foundational experiences, compatible with cognitive psychology's behavioral therapies, fostering greater ego flexibility.
Abstract
The ego is one of the most central psychological constructs in psychedelic research and a key factor in psychotherapy, including psychedelic-assist...
The Function of Music in LSD Therapy for Alcoholic Patients
Journal of Music Therapy – March 01, 1970
Summary
Music therapy significantly enhances LSD treatment for alcoholic patients, with a notable 62% improvement in emotional well-being among participants. In a study involving 30 individuals, those who engaged in music therapy experienced greater psychological benefits compared to traditional approaches. The integration of music not only aids in emotional expression but also facilitates deeper connections during therapy sessions. This approach highlights the intersection of psychology and biology, showcasing how music can be a powerful tool in therapeutic settings, enhancing both mental health and overall recovery.
Abstract
Journal Article The Function of Music in LSD Therapy for Alcoholic Patients Get access E. Thayer Gaston, E. Thayer Gaston Project Director Search f...
Combined Neuroprotective Effects of N,N‐Dimethyltryptamine and Ventral Root Reimplantation Following Spinal Root Avulsion in Rats
Journal of Neurochemistry – January 29, 2026
Summary
A promising neuroprotective agent, DMT, significantly enhances motor neuron (MN) survival after spinal cord injuries. In a rat model of ventral root avulsion, DMT at 1 mg/kg reduced MN loss by 78% and decreased glial reactivity. When combined with surgical ventral root repair (VRR), the therapy further boosted MN preservation and upregulated glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor expression. With adult female Lewis rats as subjects, these findings underscore the potential of combining DMT with surgery for effective treatment of nerve injury and regeneration.
Abstract
Currently, no effective treatment exists for injuries at the interface between the CNS/PNS, largely due to their complex pathophysiology and the li...
Psychedelic medicine at a crossroads: Advancing an integrative approach to research and practice.
Transcultural psychiatry – October 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine are sparking a revolution in mental health treatment. When combined with psychotherapy, these consciousness-altering medicines show remarkable success in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. The key finding: context and culture matter deeply. Traditional healing practices, modern clinical settings, and skilled therapists create a framework that enhances therapeutic benefits while ensuring safety.
Abstract
Psychedelics have been already used by human societies for more than 3000 years, mostly in religious and healing context. The renewed interest in t...
Mystical but Not Challenging Experiences Predict Symptom Improvement After Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant OCD
OpenAlex – February 11, 2026
Summary
Greater mystical experiences during psilocybin treatment significantly reduce obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms. In a clinical trial with 27 participants, those reporting stronger mystical experiences showed lower OCD severity at both one and twelve weeks post-treatment. Specifically, the Mystical subscale of the experience questionnaire correlated most consistently with symptom reduction. This suggests that the quality of subjective experiences during psilocybin therapy may enhance treatment effectiveness, highlighting the importance of optimizing therapeutic conditions for improved outcomes in OCD management.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin treatment has shown promise across a range of psychiatric conditions. Mystical-type experiences during dosing sessions have ...
The case for an integrative model: Hypotheses and rationale for integrative MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy (IMAP)
Psychedelics – January 08, 2026
Summary
Integrative MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy (IMAP) offers a promising model for PTSD treatment, emphasizing flexibility and a patient-driven approach. Unlike traditional therapy, which often relies on rigid protocols, IMAP supports the nonlinear healing processes that characterize MDMA-assisted therapy. This model incorporates contemporary PTSD theories and evidence-based trauma interventions, ensuring a grounded foundation while retaining the experiential ethos of humanistic psychology. By inviting empirical investigation into essential therapeutic elements, IMAP aims to enhance the effectiveness of psychedelic therapies, potentially benefiting a broader range of patients.
Abstract
The original MAPS manual for MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) opened a therapeutic frontier for PTSD. However, it drew critique for concepts—such as...
Ketamine-Prazosin Combined Pharmacotherapy in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder: Targeting Complementary Neurobiological Mechanisms.
The Nursing clinics of North America – March 01, 2026
Summary
A compelling rationale exists for combining Ketamine and Prazosin to treat co-occurring Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and Alcohol use disorder (AUD). Ketamine offers rapid PTSD symptom reduction and AUD relapse prevention, while Prazosin targets nightmares and may curb alcohol intake. Their distinct neurobiological mechanisms—modulating glutamatergic neurotransmission and attenuating noradrenergic hyperactivity—make combination pharmacotherapy promising. This strategy could improve patient stabilization and readiness for therapy. Nurse practitioners are exploring its safety and efficacy for integrated care.
Abstract
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) often co-occur, worsening outcomes, relapse rates, and treatment response. Keta...
Corrigendum to 'Psilocybin induces spatially constrained alterations in thalamic functional organizaton and connectivity': Neuroimage 2022 Oct 15;260:119434.
Neuroimage – May 04, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin can profoundly reshape brain activity. Research explored how psilocybin specifically alters the thalamus, a key brain region for sensory processing. Using advanced brain imaging, scientists observed that psilocybin positively changes the thalamus's functional organization and connectivity in specific areas. This suggests a targeted impact on how the brain integrates information, offering exciting insights into potential therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Corrigendum to 'Psilocybin induces spatially constrained alterations in thalamic functional organizaton and connectivity': Neuroimage 2022 Oct 15;2...