For the last six decades, “psychedelics” have conjured an image of flower crowns and 1960s counter-culture. And while LSD, “magic mushrooms,” and ayahuasca have occupied a key space in our cultural imagination, researchers are now viewing psychedelics as an exciting new frontier for effective psychotherapeutic treatment. From treatment-resistant depression to addiction to post-traumatic stress disorder, research is growing that guided psychedelic therapies could be a ground-breaking treatment for these mental health issues.
But what are psychedelics? How do they work? Are they legal and safe? This post is your starting place for answering these important questions.
What Are Psychedelics?
Psychedelics are a class of substances known for their profound effects on perception, cognition, and emotion. They can induce altered states of consciousness, leading to experiences such as enhanced sensory perception, synesthesia (mixing of senses), and introspective insights. Some of the major psychedelics include:
- LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide): Known for intense visual and auditory distortions.
- Magic Mushrooms (Psilocybin/Psilocin): Natural psychedelic with hallucinogenic effects.
- DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): Potent compound which induces visual and auditory distortions, often used in ayahuasca.
While not technically considered “psychedelics,” MDMA and Ketamine are often included in the discussion of psychotherapeutic treatments:
- MDMA (3,4-Methyl
enedioxy methamphetamine): Known for heightened empathy, euphoria, and altered perception. - Ketamine: A dissociative anesthetic with rapid antidepressant effects.
The Neuroscience of Psychedelics
Now, let’s take a peek inside the brain to understand how psychedelics actually work. These substances primarily interact with serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptors. This interaction leads to changes in neural connectivity and activity, disrupting typical brain networks and allowing for novel patterns of thought and perception. It’s like temporarily rewiring the brain’s circuits, opening doors to altered states of consciousness.
The Legality of Psychedelics in the United States
The legal landscape surrounding psychedelics in the United States is currently undergoing significant changes. While substances like LSD and psilocybin mushrooms remain classified as Schedule I drugs federally, several cities and states have taken steps to decriminalize or legalize certain psychedelics for therapeutic or personal use. Some states, including Oregon and California, have passed legislation allowing for the medical and therapeutic use of psychedelics under controlled settings. Academic institutions and research organizations are also gaining approval to conduct studies on psychedelics. This research aims to expand our understanding of these substances’ effects, potential therapeutic applications, and safety profiles. FDA-approved clinical trials are underway to evaluate the efficacy of psychedelics in treating various mental health disorders.
While these developments mark a shift toward more progressive attitudes and policies regarding psychedelics, it’s important to note that the legal status of these substances varies widely across different jurisdictions. Federal laws still classify many psychedelics as controlled substances, and individuals should be aware of local laws and regulations before engaging with these substances.
Psychedelics in Psychotherapeutic Treatment
One of the most intriguing aspects of psychedelics is their potential in psychotherapeutic treatment. Research has shown promising results in using psychedelics to treat mental health disorders like depression, PTSD, and addiction. These substances can catalyze deep introspection, emotional release, and even spiritual experiences, offering a unique avenue for healing under professional guidance.
- Enhanced Introspection: Psychedelics can quiet the default mode network (DMN) of the brain, which is responsible for self-referential thoughts and ego-related processes. This temporary quieting allows individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs from a more objective perspective, leading to insights and breakthroughs in therapy.
- Emotional Release: Many individuals report experiencing deep emotional release and catharsis during psychedelic sessions. Traumatic memories and suppressed emotions may surface, and with the support of trained therapists, individuals can process and integrate these experiences in a therapeutic setting.
- Spiritual and Transcendent Experiences: Psychedelics have the potential to induce spiritual or transcendent experiences, often described as moments of unity, interconnectedness, and profound meaning. These experiences can foster a sense of purpose, connectedness, and well-being, contributing to overall mental health.
- Neuroplasticity and Healing: Research suggests that psychedelics may promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections. This neuroplasticity can support healing from mental health conditions by creating pathways for new perspectives, behaviors, and coping mechanisms.
Learn more about psychedelics in psychotherapeutic treatment.
Importance "Set" and "Setting"
In psychedelic-assisted therapy, the concept of “set and setting” plays a crucial role. “Set” refers to the mindset, expectations, intentions, and emotional state of the individual undergoing the psychedelic experience. A positive and open mindset, along with clear therapeutic intentions, can enhance the therapeutic outcomes of the session. Conversely, anxiety, fear, or unresolved emotional issues can influence the nature of the experience.
“Setting,” on the other hand, encompasses the physical environment, atmosphere, and support system during the psychedelic session. A safe, comfortable, and supportive setting, often in a therapeutic setting or retreat center, can provide the necessary framework for a transformative experience. Trained therapists or facilitators guide the individual through the journey, offering support, reassurance, and integration tools.
The synergy between a conducive set and setting and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics can be profound. It creates a container for introspection, emotional processing, and personal growth. When combined with skilled therapeutic guidance, “set and setting” maximizes the benefits of psychedelics in the context of mental health treatment.
Research Findings
Research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for treating various mental health disorders has yielded promising findings. Here are some key highlights from recent studies:
Depression
Studies have shown that psychedelics like psilocybin can lead to rapid and significant reductions in depressive symptoms, even in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. The effects are often sustained over time, suggesting a potential breakthrough in addressing this condition.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Psychedelic-assisted therapy, particularly with MDMA, has demonstrated effectiveness in treating PTSD. MDMA’s ability to reduce fear responses and enhance feelings of empathy and safety can facilitate trauma processing and emotional healing.
Addiction
Research on psychedelics’ role in addiction treatment has shown promising results, especially for substance use disorders like alcoholism and nicotine addiction. Psychedelic-assisted therapy can promote insights into underlying psychological processes, break patterns of addictive behavior, and support long-term recovery.
Read more about addiction here.
Anxiety and End-of-Life Distress
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, have been studied for their efficacy in reducing anxiety in patients facing life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life distress. These substances can induce profound existential experiences and reduce fear of death, leading to improved quality of life and psychological well-being.
Neuroplasticity and Neural Connectivity
Neuroimaging studies have provided insights into how psychedelics impact brain function. They suggest that psychedelics can promote neuroplasticity, enhance neural connectivity, and disrupt rigid patterns of thinking and behavior. This offers new avenues for therapeutic interventions.
Safety and Efficacy
Controlled studies have consistently shown that psychedelics, when administered in a safe and controlled setting under professional supervision, can be both safe and effective for therapeutic purposes. Adverse effects are typically mild and transient, with serious complications being rare.
While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and optimize treatment protocols, the growing body of evidence supports the potential of psychedelics as valuable tools in mental health care.
Risks and Safety
Psychedelics offer potential therapeutic benefits but also carry significant risks. These substances can induce intense psychological experiences, leading to anxiety, paranoia, confusion, and hallucinations, especially for individuals with a history of mental health issues. Adverse reactions like panic attacks, psychosis-like symptoms, or persistent mood changes can occur. Legal and ethical concerns surround their use. Certain medical conditions or medications may contraindicate their use, including psychotic disorders, heart conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and specific medications like MAOIs and SSRIs. Due to these potential risks, caution, informed decision-making, and professional guidance are essential.
Psychedelics represent an exciting new terrain in psychotherapeutic treatment. As research continues and societal attitudes evolve, we may unlock even more of their potential benefits and better understand how to mitigate risks. Whether you’re a curious explorer, a healthcare professional, or simply interested in the field, staying informed and open-minded is key to navigating the promise and risks of psychedelics.
Interested in exploring psychedelics in psychotherapy? Check out our Ketamine Assisted Therapy service we provide, along with the following webinar we offer:
Join the conversation! What do you think about including psychedelics in psychotherapeutic treatments? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
1 comment
I am so glad we are talking about this! This is wonderful information and I am looking forward to learning more at the webinar this week!