Journal of Psychedelic Studies
August 21, 2023
Stacey B. Armstrong, Adam W. Levin, Yitong Xin et al.
12 citations
Among 856 U.S. mental health professionals—social workers, psychiatrists, and psychologists—there were no differences in confidence that psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) would be effective. However, psychiatrists showed a better understanding of PAT than social workers. Psychologists rated PAT as more acceptable than social workers did, and psychologists also rated it as a more reasonable treatment approach than both social workers and psychiatrists. Social workers perceived greater disadvantages of PAT than psychologists and psychiatrists, and they were less likely than both other groups to believe PAT could permanently improve clients' lives. The findings indicate a need for education and training across professions as PAT moves toward approval.
Journal of Psychedelic Studies
September 4, 2025
Alan K. Davis, Meghan DellaCrosse, Nathan D. Sepeda et al.
4 citations
Over a five-year follow-up period, psilocybin-assisted therapy produced significant and sustained reductions in depression for people with major depressive disorder. Among the 18 participants who completed the study, 67% remained in remission for at least five years after treatment. Anxiety and functional impairment also improved. Qualitative interviews revealed lasting positive changes in mindset, emotional health, and relationships, including enhanced empathy, self-acceptance, and improved interpersonal relationships. No severe adverse events were reported. These findings support the long-term efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted therapy for reducing depressive symptoms and improving mental health.
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
September 12, 2024
Katinka Hooyer, Rachel Yehuda, Alan K. Davis et al.
4 citations
About half of U.S. military veterans surveyed reported using psychedelics, most often for healing or treatment (70%) and spiritual purposes (48%). The vast majority (85%) said they benefited from use. Veterans who used psychedelics indicated they would be more likely to use VA services, and they expressed greater interest in psychedelic therapy compared to non-users. However, some adverse outcomes were reported, suggesting that without proper preparation and support, psychedelics may carry risks. The findings point to a potential role for psychedelic-assisted approaches in veteran mental health care.
Journal of Psychedelic Studies
September 17, 2024
Adam W. Levin, Aryan Sarparast, Paul B Nagib et al.
Among a sample of 180 American psychiatrists (mean age 48.4, 65.5% male, 24.1% trainees), about one-third (32.8%) reported personal use of and social connection to psychedelics. Psychiatrists with such personal connection tended to be younger and have fewer years of practice. Those with personal and social connection were more likely to disagree that using illegal drugs is morally wrong, that users should go to prison, are weak-minded, have no future, are poorly educated, are dishonest, or make them angry. Personal and social proximity to psychedelics is associated with less stigma toward drug use and people who use drugs.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
July 1, 2024
Alan K. Davis, Adam W. Levin, Rafael Lancelotta et al.
No Summary
Journal of Psychedelic Studies
May 28, 2026
Rafaelle L. Lancelotta, Paul B. Nagib, Stacey B. Armstrong et al.
A methodology for designing and evaluating a music playlist for a clinical psilocybin trial was developed, combining theory, therapeutic goals, and metrics. The playlist was structured across pre-peak, peak, and post-peak phases of the psilocybin experience. Spotify API metrics (Beats Per Minute, Danceability, Energy, Valence) and a novel human-rated Transcendence measure were used to assess tracks. Most musical features followed the expected emotional arc of the psilocybin experience, but nature-based tracks were sometimes misclassified as high-energy by the Spotify API, revealing algorithmic limitations. Transcendence ratings indicated continued emotional depth during post-peak phases. This proof-of-concept model shows the value of integrating intentional design with algorithmic and experiential metrics, though Spotify metrics may lack stability and generalizability.