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Sophie van der Helder

UNSW Sydney

2 papers in the library · 1 citation · publishing 2025-2026

Papers

Exploring the perceived usefulness of integration support after naturalistic psychedelic experiences in people concerned about their substance use: A survey

Journal of Psychedelic Studies April 22, 2025 Sophie van der Helder, K. Siefried, L. Acheson et al. 1 citation

Most people with substance use concerns who had used psychedelics in the past year thought that psychosocial support after their experiences would be useful. Of 108 participants, 94 (87.0%) considered integration support helpful. Among those interested, most preferred individual support led by a psychologist (67.0%) or a peer worker with lived experience of psychedelic use (58.5%), focusing on applying insights from the psychedelic experience to daily life (63.0%). The findings suggest potential benefits for offering such support and could be explored further with qualitative research.

Navigating ‘k-land’: a qualitative exploration of participants’ experiences of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder

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.