Psychologists' and psychotherapists' knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices regarding the therapeutic use of psychedelics

Mental health professionals in California report limited knowledge about the risks and benefits of psychedelic use, with average knowledge scores of 4.7 and 5.4 on a 10-point scale. 45% feel inadequately informed to counsel patients on psychedelic use. Despite this, 97% support additional research, 91% approve of medical use, and 89% believe in therapeutic benefits. 73% discuss psychedelics with patients, but 49% are uncomfortable addressing their effects. Greater knowledge correlates with more favorable attitudes and clinical practices. The findings indicate a need for better provider education on psychedelics.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Introduction This study explored the current knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices regarding psychedelics among mental health professionals in California, where state legislation to decriminalize psychedelics has been proposed. Method Two hundred thirty‐seven mental health providers (74% female; mean age 54; 83% White; 46% psychologists) completed a 37‐item online survey between November 2021 and February 2022, disseminated through local and state‐wide professional organizations in California. Results Providers endorsed limited knowledge about the risks and benefits of psychedelic use ( M = 4.7 and 5.4, respectively, with 10 = high knowledge ) and inadequate knowledge to counsel patients on use (45%). Gaps in knowledge related to psychedelic drug scheduling and current use in clinical research were identified. Providers expressed support for additional psychedelic research (97%), approval of recreational (66%) and medical (91%) psychedelic use, belief in the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics (89%), and concerns about safety (33%) and potential psychiatric risks (27%). Results indicated that most providers discuss psychedelic use with patients (73%), yet many do not feel comfortable addressing the effects of use (49%). There were significant correlations between knowledge and attitudes towards psychedelics ( r = 0.2, p = .006; r = 0.31, p < .001) and attitudes and clinical practices ( r = 0.34, p < .001). Conclusions Findings suggest that providers are interested in psychedelic‐assisted treatments and hold favourable attitudes towards the therapeutic use of psychedelics yet lack the knowledge to appropriately counsel patients, highlighting the need for additional provider education about psychedelics.