Psychiatry is in a growth phase in which several psychedelic medicines have entered its arena with great promise. Of these, presently, ketamine is the only medicine that may be legally prescribed. We hypothesize that at subanesthetic doses, ketamine produces a unique spectrum of altered states, ranging from psychoactive to deep ego-dissolving experiences, that are intrinsic to ketamine’s...
Our chapter traces the origins of the psychoanalytic method back to experiences of non-ordinary states of consciousness achieved through the practice of hypnosis. Psychedelic medicines have the capacity to reveal hidden aspects of the unconscious mind that include symbolic elements and early organizational structures that correspond to Freud’s primary process thinking and which underpin...
Background: We are confronted with dire statistics that document our current mental health crisis. New treatment modalities are desperately needed to address escalating mental suffering and trauma. Psychedelic medicines are attracting increased attention in psychiatry as effective treatment for a range of conditions. The mechanisms of actions and context necessary to maximize their full healing...