Perceptions and attitudes towards psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy among health professionals, patients, and the public: A systematic review
Alesha Wells, Merciana Fernandes, Lisa Reynolds
Journal of Psychedelic Studies February 5, 2024 DOI: 10.1556/2054.2023.00294 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Systematic review Longitudinal Cross-sectional Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 29 |
| Population | Studies of health professionals, patients, and the public |
| Topics | Psychedelic-assisted therapy |
| Keywords | Perception Psychotherapist Systematic review Health professionals Public health Medline |
| Citations | 37 |
| Key findings | Knowledge of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is low across all three stakeholder groups, but there is mixed to positive belief in its therapeutic potential and strong endorsement of further research. |
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Scientific interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been experiencing significant growth. Understanding the perceptions of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy (PAP) among health professional, patients, and the public is essential to guide future research objectives, trial protocols, and identify any barriers to future implementation.
Methods: A comprehensive search of the databases (Medline, EMBASE, PSYCHinfo, SCOPUS, and Web of Science) was conducted on the 29th of November, 2022. This review included cross-sectional, longitudinal, and quasi-experimental studies published in peer-reviewed journals exploring perceptions of PAP among the three stakeholder groups. Studies were limited to English-language and the years 2012–2022. The protocol and review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.
Results: The sample consisted of 29 studies, including n = 17 health professional, n = 6 patients, and n = 6 public. Broadly, knowledge of PAP was low among all three stakeholder groups. There was mixed to positive belief in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, with male gender, younger age, and personal psychedelic experience/knowledge being key predictors of more favourable views. The majority of findings reported strong endorsement of further research. Consistent themes were identified surrounding concerns about legal status, funding, access, side-effects, and implementation.
Conclusion: The evaluated research indicates a need for further research that will provide clarity about safety and elucidate how PAP may be implemented in public health settings. Further education of health professionals and the public should be a priority.