Psychedelic therapies

Psychedelic-assisted therapies are therapeutic approaches that incorporate the controlled and guided use of psychedelic substances as part of a psychotherapeutic intervention. These therapies have gained interest in recent years due to some studies suggesting that psychedelics may have beneficial effects on mental health in specific clinical settings. It is important to note that the use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes should be carried out under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals and in controlled environments.

These psychedelic substances are often administered in a guided psychotherapy setting, where patients are prepared before the session, the session itself is supervised, and post-session follow-up is provided to integrate the experiences. These approaches are often called “psychedelic-assisted therapies” or “psychedelic psychotherapy.”

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These psychedelic psychotherapies are distinguished from classic psychotherapies by certain key elements listed below and the result of the psychotropic action of the molecules. It is important to note that research on this topic is still ongoing, and the use of psychedelic substances for therapeutic purposes is regulated and occurs under professional supervision. Here are some distinctive aspects of psychedelic psychotherapy compared to classic psychotherapies:

1.     Altered Consciousness: Psychedelic substances alter the state of consciousness significantly, inducing psychedelic experiences. This can allow individuals to experience altered states of consciousness that can facilitate the exploration of deep thoughts, emotions, and memories.

2.     Deep Introspection: Psychedelic sessions can promote deep introspection and allow individuals to explore aspects of their psyche that are usually inaccessible. This can lead to an increased understanding of oneself, one's motivations and thought patterns.

3.     Emotional Connectivity : Certain psychedelic substances, such as MDMA, are known for their ability to increase emotional and empathic connectivity. This can promote open and authentic communication between therapist and patient, thereby facilitating the therapeutic process.

4.     Mystical or Spiritual Experience: Some individuals report mystical or spiritual experiences during psychedelic sessions, which can positively influence their perspective on life, death and the meaning of existence.

5.     Emotional Release : Psychedelics can facilitate emotional release, allowing individuals to process past trauma, overcome emotional blockages, and promote psychological healing.

6.     Lasting Effect: It has been suggested that even a single session of psychedelic psychotherapy can have lasting effects on emotional and mental well-being. The results of some studies suggest that these effects may persist over the long term.

7.     Working with the Unconscious: Psychedelics can facilitate access to deeper layers of the unconscious, allowing one to explore aspects of oneself that may be difficult to reach with more traditional psychotherapy methods.

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Apparently revolutionary, the risks exist and require great attention because the consequences can be multiple and require preparation, both the patient and the psychotherapist:

1.     Psychological Risks:

o   Intense Experiences: Psychedelic sessions can induce intense psychedelic experiences, including visions, strong emotions, and alterations in consciousness. Some people may find these experiences confusing or frightening.

o   Psychotic Decompensation: In some people predisposed to psychotic disorders, the use of psychedelics may trigger or worsen psychotic states.

2.     Physical Risks:

o   Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to certain psychedelic substances, which can lead to serious reactions.

o   Cardiovascular Issues: Some psychedelics can affect the cardiovascular system, which can be problematic for people with pre-existing heart conditions.

3.     Risks Related to the Context:

o   Unsafe Environment: An unsafe environment can contribute to unpleasant experiences or risky behaviors during the session.

o   Lack of Support: Lack of adequate support, such as that of a qualified therapist, can worsen the risks of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.

4.     Legal and Ethical Risks:

o   Legality: The use of some psychedelic substances may be illegal in some jurisdictions, putting people at legal risk.

5.     Potential Dependence:

o   Risk of Dependence: Although physical dependence is rare with many psychedelic substances, there are concerns about the potential for psychological dependence (and not physiological as with what qualifies as a drug) in some cases.

6.     Drugs interactions :

Interactions with Other Medications: Psychedelics can interact with other medications the person is taking, possibly causing side effects.