Psychedelic Therapy Meaning and Use in Addiction Treatment

Psychedelic therapy is gaining attention as an approach to addiction treatment. This method uses substances like psilocybin, LSD, ketamine, and MDMA to create psychological experiences that may aid in healing and recovery. Rooted in ancient traditions and now supported by some modern scientific research, psychedelic therapy presents potential benefits and challenges.

The use of psychedelics in therapy isn’t new. Indigenous cultures have used these substances in sacred rituals for spiritual and healing purposes for centuries. These practices highlight the significant role of psychedelics in fostering personal insight and emotional healing.

Psychedelic therapy is not a standalone treatment for addiction. Instead, it acts as a tool within a comprehensive treatment plan, potentially enhancing the overall therapeutic process. This holistic approach often includes counseling, support groups, and lifestyle changes.

Let’s explore the potential benefits, risks, and best practices associated with psychedelic therapy in addiction treatment.

What is Psychedelic Therapy?

Psychedelic therapy is a therapeutic approach that involves the supervised use of psychedelic substances to facilitate psychological insight and emotional healing, aimed at treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. Psychedelic therapy incorporates the controlled use of psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin (found in “magic mushrooms”) or MDMA (commonly known as “ecstasy” or “molly”). It combines the therapeutic benefits of these substances with psychological support and guidance from trained professionals.

Two doses of psilocybin, a compound found in psychedelic mushrooms, reduces heavy drinking by 83 percent on average among heavy drinkers when combined with psychotherapy.

Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine

In psychedelic therapy, the psychedelic substance is administered in a carefully controlled and supervised setting, often in conjunction with psychotherapy sessions. The therapy aims to facilitate deep introspection, emotional healing, and personal growth by inducing altered states of consciousness that can enhance self-awareness, increase emotional openness, and promote insights and breakthroughs.

A recent study conducted at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that two doses of psilocybin, given with supportive psychotherapy, produced rapid and substantial reductions in depressive symptoms. Many participants showed improvement, and half of the participants achieved remission through the four-week follow-up. The goal of psychedelic therapy is a more centered hole self, craving reduction, increased motivation for change, and sustained abstinence

Quick Facts about psychedelic therapy:

Potential Benefits:

• May facilitate deep psychological insights and emotional healing.
• Can enhance motivation for recovery.
• Might reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Potential Risks:

• Possibility of adverse psychological reactions.
• Requires careful monitoring and professional guidance.
• Legal and regulatory considerations.

Best Practices:

• Conduct therapy under professional supervision.
• Integrate with other therapeutic approaches.
• Ensure a supportive and safe environment.

While it is still a developing field and research in this area is ongoing, studies have shown promising results in terms of reduced craving, increased motivation for change, and sustained abstinence in some individuals. For example, a study conducted at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that two doses of psilocybin, given with supportive psychotherapy, produced rapid and substantial reductions in depressive symptoms. Many participants showed improvement, and half of the participants achieved remission through the four-week follow-up.

How Does Psychedelic Therapy Work?

Psychedelic therapy typically involves several key elements that contribute to its effectiveness:

1. Preparation

Before undergoing a psychedelic therapy session, individuals engage in thorough preparation. This may include discussing treatment goals, addressing concerns or fears, establishing trust with the therapist, and learning about the potential effects of the psychedelic substance.

2. Setting

The therapy takes place in a carefully designed environment that is safe, comfortable, and conducive to the therapeutic process. The setting is typically calm, supportive, and aesthetically pleasing, with attention given to factors such as lighting, music, and interpersonal dynamics.

3. Administration of Psychedelic Substance

The psychedelic substance, such as psilocybin or MDMA, is administered under the supervision of trained professionals. The dosage is carefully determined to ensure a balance between safety and therapeutic efficacy. The substance is typically ingested orally, and the effects can last several hours.

4. Guided Experience

During the psychedelic experience, individuals are supported by therapists who provide ongoing guidance, encouragement, and emotional support. Therapists may facilitate discussions, encourage introspection, and help individuals navigate challenging emotions or experiences that arise during the session.

5. Integration

After the psychedelic experience, the integration phase begins. This involves processing and making sense of the insights, emotions, and experiences that emerged during the session. Therapists work with individuals to help integrate these insights into their daily lives, fostering long-term behavioral changes and personal growth.

6. Follow-up Support

Psychedelic therapy often includes ongoing support and follow-up sessions to reinforce the therapeutic progress made and address any lingering questions or concerns. This support can help individuals maintain the positive changes achieved during the therapy.

Psychedelic therapy works by facilitating a profound and transformative experience that can promote self-reflection, emotional healing, and personal growth. The altered states of consciousness induced by psychedelic substances can enhance introspection, promote emotional openness, and lead to insights and breakthroughs that can contribute to lasting positive change.

Note that this form of therapy should be done under the close supervision of an expert, as psychedelic addiction can also become a concern if taken in excessive amounts or without the guidance of a specialist.

What are the Types of Drugs Used in Psychedelic Therapy? 

Psychedelic therapy utilizes drugs like LSD, psilocybin, MDMA, ayahuasca, DMT, and ketamine in controlled, supervised settings to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders, demonstrating significant therapeutic potential according to various studies​​​​.

1. LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide):

LSD is a powerful hallucinogen that significantly alters perception, mood, and thought processes. It is synthesized from lysergic acid, found in the ergot fungus that grows on rye and other grains. According to Mackey KM, Anderson JK, Williams BE, et al., LSD has shown efficacy in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD, with patients experiencing lasting improvements in symptoms​​.

In psychedelic therapy, LSD is typically administered in a controlled, supervised setting. The sessions often involve a pre-treatment phase to prepare the patient, the drug administration phase where the patient is guided through the experience by a therapist, and a post-treatment integration phase to help the patient make sense of their experiences and apply insights to their daily life.

2. Psilocybin:

Psilocybin is the active compound in “magic mushrooms,” known for its psychoactive effects. It has been studied for its potential to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to Mackey KM, Anderson JK, Williams BE, et al., psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy may reduce depression severity and lead to sustained remission for some participants​​.

Psilocybin therapy involves a carefully structured process where the patient undergoes a preparation phase, followed by one or more psilocybin dosing sessions in a controlled environment, and finally, integration sessions to process the experience. The therapy is conducted with the support of trained therapists to ensure safety and maximize therapeutic outcomes.

3. MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine):

MDMA is used primarily for its empathogenic effects, which enhance emotional closeness and reduce fear and defensiveness. According to Mackey KM, Anderson JK, Williams BE, et al., MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has shown significant promise in reducing PTSD symptom severity and facilitating remission​​.

MDMA therapy typically includes several preparatory psychotherapy sessions, followed by MDMA administration in a therapeutic setting. Patients participate in additional psychotherapy sessions post-administration to integrate their experiences. The process is designed to help patients process traumatic memories with reduced emotional distress.

4. Ayahuasca:

Ayahuasca is a traditional Amazonian brew containing DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) and an MAOI (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor). It is known for inducing profound psychological and spiritual experiences. According to Mackey KM, Anderson JK, Williams BE, et al., ayahuasca use may be associated with short-term reductions in depression symptoms and suicidality​​.

Ayahuasca is administered in a ceremonial or therapeutic setting, often under the guidance of experienced facilitators or shamans. Preparatory and integration sessions usually accompany the experience to help the individual process and understand the intense experiences and insights gained.

5. DMT (Dimethyltryptamine):

DMT is a powerful psychedelic compound that induces intense, short-lasting experiences of altered consciousness. DMT is explored for its potential to provide rapid and profound psychological breakthroughs​​. Research by Andrea Alamia, Christopher Timmermann, David J Nutt, Rufin VanRullen, and Robin L Carhart-Harris (2020) has shown that DMT significantly alters cortical traveling waves, impacting brain function similarly to visual stimulation​​.

DMT is typically administered in a controlled environment, often via inhalation. Trained professionals closely monitor the experience, and patients are supported through preparatory and integration phases to ensure the safe and effective use of the substance.

6. Ketamine:

Ketamine is an unusual type of psychedelic drug — called a dissociative — that has surged in popularity. It reliably produces pain control, forgetfulness, intoxication, disassociation, and euphoria, effects that underlie its medical and recreational uses. Originally derived from PCP, or “angel dust,” ketamine has been used in hospitals and veterinary clinics as an anesthetic for decades. More recently, it has been widely used for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) — severe depression that has not improved with several other therapies, including people experiencing suicidal thoughts. Ketamine has shown efficacy in treating major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression​​. As Dr. Peter Grinspoon notes, esketamine (Spravato), a prescription version of ketamine, was approved by the FDA in 2019 for hard-to-treat depression, demonstrating significant decreases in depression scores and sustained remission over 16 weeks​​.

Ketamine therapy involves the administration of the drug in a medical setting, often through intravenous infusion or nasal spray. The sessions are supervised by healthcare professionals, and the patient typically undergoes multiple sessions over a specified period. Integration therapy is also used to help the patient incorporate the experiences into their daily life. Outpatient ketamine clinics have become popular, providing treatments in a fee-for-service arrangement, although the safety and regulation of these clinics vary​​.

It’s also worth mentioning that research into other psychedelic substances, such as LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) by the former Harvard professor Timothy Leary as well as ayahuasca, and ibogaine, is ongoing, although their use in clinical settings may be more limited or regulated due to legal restrictions or safety considerations. According to Jamie Peters, a neuroscientist at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, ‘most’ of what is known about psychedelic therapy is still theory. 

What are the Benefits of Psychedelic Therapy in Addiction Treatment?

Psychedelic therapy has shown several benefits in the context of addiction treatment. Here are some of the potential advantages:

1. Enhanced Self-Awareness

Psychedelic therapy can facilitate deep introspection and self-reflection, allowing individuals to gain a better understanding of their addictive patterns, underlying motivations, and emotional struggles. This increased self-awareness can be pivotal in breaking free from destructive behaviors.

2. Emotional Healing

Psychedelic substances have been reported to elicit profound emotional experiences and help individuals process and heal unresolved emotional wounds, trauma, or grief that may contribute to addictive behaviors. This emotional healing can create a foundation for long-lasting recovery.

3. Insight and Perspective Shifts

Psychedelic experiences often lead to shifts in perception, allowing individuals to view their lives, relationships, and addiction from new perspectives. This fresh outlook can open up possibilities for change, foster personal growth, and support the development of healthier habits and coping mechanisms.

4. Breaking Patterns and Habits

Psychedelic therapy can disrupt ingrained thought patterns, behaviors, and cognitive rigidity associated with addiction. It can provide individuals with an opportunity to break free from negative thought loops, self-defeating beliefs, and habitual patterns that perpetuate addictive behaviors.

5. Increased Motivation for Change

Psychedelic experiences have been reported to evoke a sense of motivation, purpose, and commitment to personal transformation. This heightened motivation can support individuals in making positive changes, adopting healthier lifestyles, and sustaining recovery efforts.

6. Spiritual and Transcendent Experiences

Psychedelic therapy can facilitate mystical or transcendent experiences, often described as profound connections with oneself, others, or a higher power. These experiences can foster a sense of interconnectedness, meaning, and spiritual growth, which may be transformative in the recovery journey.

Psychedelic therapy is typically integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that may include therapy, support groups, and other evidence-based approaches. Additionally, the effectiveness of psychedelic therapy may vary for each individual, and it should always be conducted under the guidance of trained professionals in a safe and supportive environment.

What Are The Negative Side Effects and Downsides of Psychedelic Therapy?

1. LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide): Common side effects of LSD include anxiety, paranoia, and delusions during the experience. In some cases, it can lead to persistent psychosis or Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)​​.

2. Psilocybin: Psilocybin can cause transient increases in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as anxiety, fear, headache, and nausea during the experience. There is also a risk of triggering psychotic episodes in individuals with a history of mental health disorders​​.

3. MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine): MDMA is associated with potential cardiac risks, including premature ventricular contractions and other arrhythmias. Other common side effects include anxiety, irritability, restlessness, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, impaired balance, headache, muscle tension, nausea, and vomiting​​.

4. Ayahuasca: Ayahuasca is commonly associated with side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are often considered part of the cleansing process. It can also cause transient increases in heart rate and blood pressure, and there is a risk of psychological distress during the experience​​.

5. DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): DMT can cause intense, short-term changes in sensory perception and consciousness, leading to psychological distress. Physical side effects may include increased heart rate and blood pressure, and there is a risk of triggering or worsening psychiatric conditions​​.

6. Ketamine: Ketamine, used for treatment-resistant depression, can cause dissociation, intoxication, sedation, high blood pressure, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, anxiety, nausea, and vomiting. It should be avoided or used with caution in individuals with a history of psychosis, substance use disorder, or certain physical health conditions​.

What are the Other Uses of Psychedelic Therapy in Mental Health Treatment?

Psychedelic therapy has shown potential in the treatment of various mental health conditions. Here are some of the other uses of psychedelic therapy beyond addiction treatment:

1. Depression

Psychedelic therapy, particularly with substances like psilocybin or ketamine, has demonstrated promising results in alleviating symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. It can help individuals gain new perspectives, experience a temporary lifting of depressive symptoms, and facilitate emotional healing and personal growth.

2. Anxiety Disorders

Psychedelic therapy has shown potential in treating anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Substances like MDMA and psilocybin have been studied for their ability to reduce anxiety, enhance emotional resilience, and promote healing from traumatic experiences.

3. PTSD and Trauma

According to Frontiers, research on MDMA-assisted therapy has shown significant reductions in symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and improvements in overall well-being. MDMA-assisted therapy is often combined with mindfulness skills training

4. End-of-Life Distress

Psychedelic therapy has been explored as a means of providing emotional support and reducing end-of-life distress in individuals with terminal illnesses. Psilocybin-assisted therapy, in particular, has demonstrated potential in alleviating anxiety, depression, and existential distress and improving the quality of life in individuals facing life-limiting illnesses.

5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Preliminary studies suggest that psychedelic therapy, particularly with substances like psilocybin, may have therapeutic benefits for individuals with treatment-resistant OCD. Psychedelics can help disrupt rigid thought patterns and offer new perspectives on obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

6. Existential Distress and Spiritual Growth

Psychedelic therapy has been explored for its potential to address existential distress, foster a sense of meaning, and facilitate spiritual experiences. Substances like psilocybin and ayahuasca have been studied in the context of enhancing existential well-being and promoting spiritual growth.

Psychedelic therapy should always be conducted under the guidance of trained professionals in appropriate clinical or research settings.

Are There Any Possible Risks of Using Psychedelic Therapy for Addiction and Mental Health Disorders?

The Food and Drug Administration and the Drug Enforcement Administration classified psilocybin as a “breakthrough therapy” for depression in 2018 and holds promise for addiction-related issues. It’s important to be aware of potential risks which are listed below:

• Challenging Experiences: During psychedelic therapy, individuals may encounter intense psychological experiences known as “bad trips.” These episodes can bring forth anxiety, fear, or distressing emotions. While they can provide growth opportunities, they can also overwhelm individuals, especially those with a history of trauma or mental health disorders.
• Psychological Vulnerability: Psychedelic therapy can temporarily heighten psychological vulnerability, both during and after the session. This vulnerability might exacerbate existing mental health symptoms. That’s why careful screening and assessment are vital to determine if someone is suitable for this therapy.
• Unpredictable Reactions: Each person’s response to psychedelics can differ greatly. Factors like dosage, mindset, and environment can influence the effects and outcomes. However, it’s challenging to predict and control how an individual will react, introducing some uncertainty into the therapeutic process.
• Safety Concerns: Psychedelic substances can affect the body, altering heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. To ensure safety, individuals must undergo thorough medical screening. Additionally, a safe and supportive environment facilitated by trained professionals is crucial.
• Limited Legal Accessibility: The legal status of psychedelics varies across jurisdictions, limiting access to psychedelic therapy. Legal restrictions pose challenges for individuals seeking this form of treatment.

Remember, these risks can be managed effectively through appropriate screening, preparation, and the guidance of qualified professionals. By considering an individual’s background, mental health, and suitability, we can ensure safety while maximizing the potential benefits of psychedelic therapy.

Can psychedelic therapy lead to psychedelic addiction?

According to the NIDA Psychedelics are generally not addictive. However, at least one psychedelic, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), can cause tolerance if the dosage is increased over time.

Psychedelic therapy, which involves the use of psychedelic substances like psilocybin, LSD, or MDMA in a controlled therapeutic setting, is generally not associated with addiction. Therapy through psychadelics should be used in the following ways to avoid addiction and gain therapuetic effectiveness according to Roland Griffiths, PhD at the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic & Consciousness Research:

1. Controlled Environment: In psychedelic therapy, substances are administered in a controlled, clinical setting under the supervision of trained professionals, which significantly reduces the risk of addictive behaviors developing.
2. Non-Addictive Nature of Psychedelics: Many psychedelics used in therapy, such as psilocybin and LSD, do not have addictive properties in the same way substances like opioids or stimulants do. They do not typically lead to physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
3. Infrequent Dosage: Psychedelic therapy usually involves a very limited number of sessions, often just a single dose or a few doses. This infrequent use is unlike the patterns seen in substance addiction.
4. Psychological Insights and Healing: Psychedelic therapy aims to facilitate deep psychological insights and healing, which can lead to a better understanding of one’s behaviors and potential substance misuse, rather than promoting addictive tendencies.
5. Regulatory Framework: The use of psychedelics in therapy is heavily regulated and is currently only legal in specific research or clinical trial settings in most regions. This regulation helps prevent misuse and potential addiction.

The risk of developing an addiction to psychedelics through psychedelic therapy is considered very low, especially due to the controlled nature of the therapeutic use, the inherent properties of these substances, and the regulatory frameworks governing their use.

When will psychedelics be approved for clinical use?

Natalie Gukasyan a Johns Hopkins assistant professor of psychiatry is “cautiously optimistic” that the Food and Drug Administration and the Drug Enforcement Administration will approve psilocybin for clinical trials an use.

Is psychedelic therapy appropriate for treating addiction?

Psychedelic therapy is an emerging area of interest in treating addiction, and recent research suggests it can be effective for certain individuals. Here are key points to consider:

1. Types of Substances Used: Psychedelic therapy for addiction often involves substances like psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), LSD, or MDMA. These substances are known for their ability to induce profound psychological experiences.
2. Mechanism of Action: Psychedelics can facilitate deep introspection and emotional breakthroughs, which can be beneficial in understanding and addressing the root causes of addictive behavior. They may help individuals break free from negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with addiction.
3. Research Evidence: Studies have shown promising results in using psychedelics to treat various forms of addiction, including alcoholism, nicotine addiction, and opioid dependence. For instance, psilocybin therapy has been used successfully to help individuals quit smoking.
4. Therapeutic Setting: Psychedelic therapy is conducted in a controlled, therapeutic setting under the supervision of trained mental health professionals. This ensures safety and supports the individual through the often intense emotional experiences that psychedelics can induce.
5. Integration with Traditional Therapies: Psychedelic therapy is typically integrated with traditional psychotherapy approaches. The insights gained during psychedelic experiences are processed and integrated in subsequent therapy sessions, enhancing the overall treatment process.
6. Not for Everyone: Psychedelic therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with a personal or family history of psychotic disorders, for example, may be at increased risk of adverse reactions.
7. Legal and Regulatory Status: The use of psychedelics is heavily regulated, and in many places, they are not legally available for therapy outside of clinical trials. This is changing as more research supports their therapeutic use, but access remains limited.

Psychedelic therapy shows potential as a treatment for addiction, but it’s important to consider the individual’s specific circumstances, the substance of addiction, and potential mental health risks. The therapy should always be conducted by qualified professionals within a legally sanctioned and clinically supervised framework.