237. SAFETY AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR PSYCHEDELIC ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY (PAP)
International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology August 18, 2025 S Rossell
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) shows promise for conditions like major depressive disorder and PTSD, but its safe and ethical clinical use requires rigorous standards. Ethical concerns include heightened expectations about transformative effects, unavoidable unblinding in trials, challenges with informed consent, conflicts of interest, grandiosity, problematic interpersonal dynamics, the underground psychedelics movement, and screening processes. Globally-endorsed standards do not yet exist, but initial work has identified key factors to consider. Further research and continued discussion are needed to refine best practices.