In recent years, psychedelic treatment has gained significant attention in the mental health field as a potential avenue for addressing various psychological conditions. Erin Wright, a consultant, supervisor, educator, coach, and psychotherapist specializing in psychedelic integration, recently joined Dr. Carly Claney on The Relational Psych Podcast to discuss the current state of legal psychedelic treatment. This article will explore the key points from their conversation, shedding light on the history, potential benefits, and future of psychedelic treatment.
The History and Potential of Psychedelic Treatment
Psychedelic research has a long history, with the first "golden age" of research occurring in the 1950s and 1960s[1]. However, as Erin Wright explains, "until psychedelics started becoming outlawed and maybe illegal in the seventies, which was a broader war on drugs that started happening, I really think we might be doing therapy differently now if those medicines hadn't been illegal." Despite the setbacks, recent years have seen a resurgence in psychedelic research[2], particularly in the areas of PTSD, chronic depression, anxiety, and end-of-life care. Wright notes that psychedelics can be particularly helpful for "people who haven't found improvement from all other treatment interventions."
How Psychedelics Work in the Brain
Psychedelics, such as MDMA, ketamine, psilocybin, and LSD, work by affecting different receptors and networks in the brain. As Wright explains, these substances can help turn down the default mode network, allowing different parts of the brain to communicate in new ways. This process can lead to various effects, including:
- Visual or insightful experiences
- Changes in affective responses
- Altered body sensations
- Access to new ways of thinking and experiencing
By creating a sense of safety and openness, psychedelics can help individuals revisit traumatic memories or explore new perspectives without becoming overwhelmed, potentially accelerating the therapeutic process[4].
The Importance of Integration and Support
While psychedelics show promise in mental health treatment[3], Wright emphasizes the importance of integration and support. "Integration is the most important part of any psychedelic experiences because that's where really where the lasting change is going to happen for somebody," she explains. Integration can involve various activities, such as:
- Discussing experiences and insights with a therapist
- Engaging in somatic work to maintain a connection with the body
- Making lifestyle changes based on new perspectives gained during the psychedelic experience
Wright also stresses the need for trained therapists and guides to support individuals during and after psychedelic experiences, ensuring safety and maximizing therapeutic benefits.
The Bottom Line
As the conversation between Dr. Carly Claney and Erin Wright demonstrates, psychedelic treatment holds significant potential for addressing a range of mental health concerns. While the field is still navigating legal and logistical challenges, ongoing research and the development of supportive infrastructure offer hope for the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy. As Wright notes, "I think psychedelics kind of Opens a window to the change that's possible. But it's up to us to put in the work afterwards of making those changes in our life." By understanding the history, mechanisms, and importance of integration in psychedelic treatment, mental health professionals and those seeking help can make informed decisions about this promising avenue for healing and growth.
Common Questions About Psychedelic Treatment
What are the most common psychedelics being researched for mental health treatment?
The most common psychedelics being researched for mental health treatment include MDMA, psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), LSD, and ketamine. Each substance has unique properties and potential therapeutic applications.
Are psychedelics legal for mental health treatment?
Currently, most psychedelics are classified as Schedule 1 substances in the United States, meaning they are illegal for general use. However, some cities have decriminalized certain psychedelics, and research institutions can obtain special permissions to conduct clinical trials. Ketamine is legal for medical use and is being used off-label for mental health treatment.
What conditions can psychedelic treatment potentially help with?
Psychedelic treatment has shown promise in addressing a range of mental health conditions, including PTSD, chronic depression, anxiety disorders, addiction, and end-of-life distress. Research is ongoing to determine the full scope of potential applications.
Are psychedelics safe for mental health treatment?
When used in a controlled, clinical setting under the guidance of trained professionals, psychedelics have been shown to have a favorable safety profile. However, it is essential to screen for potential contraindications, such as a family history of psychosis or certain medical conditions. Proper preparation, support, and integration are crucial for ensuring safety and maximizing therapeutic benefits.
How can I access psychedelic treatment?
Currently, the most accessible way to receive psychedelic treatment is through participation in clinical trials. Websites like clinicaltrials.gov list ongoing studies that may be recruiting participants. In some areas, ketamine clinics offer legal ketamine-assisted therapy. As research progresses and laws evolve, it is hoped that psychedelic treatment will become more widely available to those who could benefit from it.
What is the role of integration in psychedelic treatment?
Integration refers to the process of making sense of and applying the insights and experiences gained during a psychedelic session. This can involve discussing the experience with a therapist, engaging in self-reflection, and making meaningful changes in one's life. Integration is considered a critical component of psychedelic treatment, as it helps to translate the profound experiences into lasting personal growth and healing.
Sources
- Doblin, Richard E et al. “The Past and Future of Psychedelic Science: An Introduction to This Issue.” Journal of psychoactive drugs vol. 51,2 (2019): 93-97. doi:10.1080/02791072.2019.1606472
- Carhart-Harris, Robin L, and Guy M Goodwin. “The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Past, Present, and Future.” Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology vol. 42,11 (2017): 2105-2113. doi:10.1038/npp.2017.84
- https://www.discovermagazine.com/mind/psychedelic-effects-on-the-brain
- https://fortune.com/well/2022/09/27/psychedelics-benefits-and-risks/
