Combining Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD with 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA): A Case Example.
Anne C Wagner, Michael C Mithoefer, Ann T Mithoefer, Candice M Monson
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs 2019 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2019.1589028 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Pilot study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 2 |
| Population | One couple with PTSD and a severe trauma history, participating in a pilot trial combining CBCT and MDMA |
| Interventions | Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT) MDMA |
| Topics | MDMA PTSD |
| Keywords | Cbt PTSD Treatment Couples therapy MDMA Therapy |
| Citations | 92 |
| Key findings | Combining CBCT for PTSD with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy can produce reductions in PTSD symptoms and improvements in relationship satisfaction. |
Abstract
Treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have evolved significantly in the past 35 years. From what was historically viewed as a pervasive, intractable condition have emerged multiple evidence-based intervention options. These treatments, predominantly cognitive behavioral in orientation, provide significant symptom improvement in 50-60% of recipients. The treatment of PTSD with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy using a supportive, non-directive approach has yielded promising results. It is unknown, however, how different therapeutic modalities could impact or improve outcomes. Therefore, to capitalize on the strengths of both approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT) was combined with MDMA in a small pilot trial. The current article provides a case study of one couple involved in the trial, chosen to provide a demographically representative example of the study participants and a case with a severe trauma history, to offer a detailed account of the methodology and choices made to integrate CBCT and MDMA, as well as an account of their experience through the treatment and their treatment gains. This article offers a description of the combination of CBCT for PTSD and MDMA, and demonstrates that it can produce reductions in PTSD symptoms and improvements in relationship satisfaction.
Comparable studies
Other case reports and case series on MDMA for PTSD, most cited first.