Altered states of consciousness therapy
John D. Mcpeake, Bruce P. Kennedy, Sharon M. Gordon
Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment 1991 DOI: 10.1016/0740-5472(91)90030-e (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Altered States of Consciousness Therapy (ASCT) |
| Topics | Altered states of consciousness |
| Keywords | Consciousness Psychotherapist |
| Citations | 32 |
| Key points | Argues that substance-dependent populations pursue altered states of consciousness destructively, and that treatment programs fail to address this motive, contributing to relapse; proposes an Altered States of Consciousness Therapy program. |
Abstract
Attaining altered states of consciousness is described as a basic human motive. The substance dependent population is distinguished from other populations because they pursue these states destructively by inappropriate use of alcohol and drugs. Despite a body of literature supporting the benefits of altered states of consciousness, alcohol and drug rehabilitation treatment programs fail to address this motive because of social disapproval, means-end confusion, and inadequate staff training. The authors maintain that Alcoholics Anonymous directs its members toward an altered state of consciousness called a spiritual awakening, which replaces the self-destructive pursuit of substance induced "highs." Failure to address patients' need for alternative methods of achieving altered states of consciousness is presented as part of the reason for relapse. An Altered States of Consciousness Therapy (ASCT) program is described that can be used to teach patients to consciously manipulate affect and cognition to achieve a new consciousness.