Psychedelic-assisted therapy, also known as psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, combines the use of psychedelic substances with psychotherapy to treat various mental health conditions. The term was coined by Rick Doblin in 1989 when he founded the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). MAPS runs a series of studies to research this area, and so far there have been promising results showing that many patients are helped by psychedelic assisted therapy.

MDMA (Ecstasy), LSD, Psilocybin (Shrooms) & Ayahuasca

These are all substances that fall under one umbrella known as psychedelics. These drugs have been linked to treating a plethora of mental disorders, including PTSD, eating disorders, alcoholism, depression and more. While they may have obvious mind-altering effects on users—which is why they’re considered illegal in most countries—they could be instrumental to our society if used properly.

How Are These Drugs Used for Therapy?

The drugs are administered in controlled, medical settings (hospital or outpatient) by a licensed therapist who also monitors you during your trip. This can be in conjunction with talk therapy or on its own. You’ll take these drugs orally as a liquid, pill or through injection. The effects may last for an hour, or they might last for six hours—sometimes even more. Each experience varies by person depending on factors like gender, age and physical health status.

Benefits of Psychedelics

Psychedelics offer many benefits, including increased spiritual experiences, enhanced physical health and improved mental health. These substances have been used by shamans for centuries to treat addiction and trauma. Today, psychedelics are gaining traction in hospitals as part of psychedelic assisted therapy. While research on these substances may still be controversial, there’s no denying they can help with certain mental health issues.

Drawbacks of Psychedelics

Though psychedelics can offer many benefits, they do come with some drawbacks. People who choose to use them may be at risk of experiencing adverse reactions. While most of these negative experiences are minor, they’re still important to consider before taking a psychedelic drug like LSD or psilocybin mushrooms.

Further Reading

The Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) offers extensive studies on psychedelic assisted therapy. Find more information here.