Australia’s psychedelic experiment: reflections from a psychiatrist clinical researcher

Abstract

Background

Despite a limited evidence base to inform clinicians, Australia has adopted a national approach in rescheduling psilocybin and MDMA as clinical therapies for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), respectively.

Purpose

This paper explores clinical research domains warranting further investigation through outlining the reflections of a clinical-academic psychiatrist involved in psychedelic trial work.

Results

Eight domains were found to warrant further research investigation including: efficacy, safety (including combining with psychotropics), psychotherapy models, psychological support, therapeutic touch, set/setting and examination of naturalistic data.

Conclusions

The clinical availability of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) gives greater impetus for careful research studies, informing treatment and improving patient outcomes.