Psychedelic therapy combines psychedelic substances with psychotherapy to treat conditions like depression and substance use disorders. Music is typically used as pre-recorded playlists during sessions. This project explores using music therapy improvisation during the drug-free integration phase, where patients apply insights from sessions to daily life. The author reviewed literature on psychedelic therapy, music, integration, and improvisation, synthesized knowledge through visual and musical art, and created a preliminary framework for incorporating music therapy improvisation into psychedelic therapy integration.
Music plays a central role in psychedelic therapy by structuring the experience, eliciting emotion, facilitating meaning-making, stimulating imagery, providing continuity, and supporting peak experiences. Clients who have positive experiences with music often show higher therapeutic outcomes. Despite its widespread use, little research has examined how music supports psychedelic therapy. Interviews with clinicians and a music therapist trained in the Bonny Method of Imagery and Music reveal that adapting music to individual needs may improve outcomes. Music therapists' skills could be vital during psychedelic sessions and follow-up integration. The paper explores future collaboration between music therapists and clinicians.