2023/05/31 by Roman Palitsky, Deanna M. Kaplan, Caroline Peacock +5 · 1 voice · 5 citations
Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics · Psychology · #Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis #Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs #Psychedelics and Drug Studies
paper · doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.1554
openalex publication_date 2023/05/31 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/22
Importance: Mounting evidence supports the role of spiritual, existential, religious, and theological components in mediating psychedelic-assisted therapy, yet integration of these elements into the clinical setting is lagging. Observations: Although psychedelic-assisted therapy commonly produces spiritually, existentially, religiously, or theologically relevant experiences for patients, these have not been systematically integrated into the psychotherapies that accompany therapeutic uses of psychedelics. As a key feature and potential mediator of therapeutic effects, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies should include these topics in the treatment model. Research across multiple diagnostic targets and treatment contexts suggests that spiritually integrated psychotherapies are effective, feasible, and produce add-on benefits in spiritually, existentially, religiously, and theologically relevant outcomes, which are particularly germane to psychedelics. Established standards in spiritually integrated psychotherapy may be fruitfully applied to psychedelic-assisted therapy. Objectives for spiritually, existentially, religiously, and theologically integrated psychedelic-assisted therapy based on these standards and informed by considerations specific to psychedelics are recommended. Conclusions and Relevance: Spiritual, existential, religious, and theological topics' integration in psychedelic-assisted therapy is needed to ensure culturally competent, evidence-based treatment aligned with the highest standards of clinical care. Neglecting to address these topics can detract from cultural competence, contribute to risks for patients, and potentially undermine treatment success.