Mapping cognitive-behavioral approach in psychedelic-assisted treatment: a systematic review across phases with classic and non-classic psychedelics
European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience March 28, 2026 Yves Martins Varela, Vagner Deuel De O. Tavares, Luiza Macedo Delgado et al. 1 citation
Cognitive-behavioral therapies are being combined with psychedelic substances such as ketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA to treat mental disorders, but the way they are integrated varies widely across studies. A systematic review of 9 clinical trials involving 283 patients found that traditional cognitive behavioral therapy was the most common approach, used in 6 studies, while mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy were each used in 2 and 1 studies respectively. The timing of therapy relative to the psychedelic experience—before, during, or after—also differed. The findings highlight the need for more consistent research to clarify how these therapeutic models are best implemented.