Journal of medical Internet research
December 6, 2024
Rebecca Blackmore, Claudia Giles, Hailey Tremain et al.
23 citations
A single, brief virtual-reality-supported mindfulness practice—watching a 360-degree forest video with a guided audio voiceover—improved state mindfulness and reduced negative affect and anxiety in people with mood or anxiety disorders. Among 28 participants diagnosed with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or an anxiety disorder, measures of curiosity and decentering (Toronto Mindfulness Scale) increased significantly (Cohen d=1.3 and 1.51), while negative affect (Cohen d=0.62) and state anxiety (Cohen d=0.84) decreased significantly. Positive affect did not change. Qualitative interviews revealed that the VR experience felt effortless, convenient, and safe, and participants saw potential for using VR mindfulness to manage emotions and mental health symptoms.
BMJ open
February 10, 2025
Kathryn Fletcher, Nadine Ezard, Krista J Siefried et al.
1 citation
A pilot study will test the safety and feasibility of combining subanaesthetic ketamine with cognitive behavioural therapy for adults with methamphetamine use disorder. Twenty participants seeking to reduce or stop methamphetamine use will receive three subcutaneous ketamine doses (0.75 to 0.9 mg/kg) at weekly intervals and four therapy sessions over four weeks. The study will measure recruitment time, eligibility rates, treatment completion, retention, and acceptability over eight weeks, and explore changes in methamphetamine use, cravings, withdrawal, quality of life, and treatment satisfaction over 24 weeks. No pharmacological treatments currently exist for this condition, and psychotherapy alone is only moderately effective.
Frontiers in Psychiatry
June 24, 2026
Kathryn Fletcher, Nadine Ezard, Krista J. Siefried et al.
People with methamphetamine use disorder who underwent ketamine-assisted psychotherapy described the treatment as a multi-stage process rather than a simple drug effect. Participants reported that ketamine created a temporary state of reduced emotional and cognitive reactivity, which they called 'psychological space,' making them more receptive to psychotherapy. However, behavioral changes—including reduced methamphetamine use—were variable and depended on ongoing therapeutic engagement, personal motivation, and life context. Participants were uncertain whether improvements came from the ketamine, the therapy, or the supportive environment. Acceptability was generally high when treatment occurred in a structured clinical setting.