“Tragic Person evolved: Transforming tragedy into hope through new, alternative treatments”
Douglas Zimmerman
Psychoanalysis Self and Context December 22, 2025 DOI: 10.1080/24720038.2025.2604803 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 2 |
| Population | Individuals with OCD, ADHD, and ASD |
| Interventions | Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy relational psychoanalysis |
| Keywords | Tragedy event Criticism Action physics Field mathematics Epistemology Aesthetics |
| Key findings | Integrating relational psychoanalysis with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy facilitates profound transformative shifts in neurodivergent individuals. |
Abstract
The paper, “Tragic Person Evolved: Transforming Tragedy Into Hope Through New, Alternative Treatments” was presented at the 45th IAPSP International Conference in Rome in October of 2024. The paper explores the integration of relational psychoanalysis and alternative treatments, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, for individuals with OCD, ADHD, and ASD. Two case studies illustrate how fostering a deeply empathetic therapeutic relationship, combined with the potential neuroplasticity-enhancing effects of psychedelics, facilitates profound transformative shifts. The authors discuss the therapeutic significance of self-disclosure and mirroring, alongside the ethical considerations inherent in utilizing mind-altering substances. The findings highlight the effectiveness of integrating self-psychology principles with alternative approaches to address complex trauma and promote self-actualization in neurodivergent individuals.
Citations in the library
Cites 10
- Effects of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy on Major Depressive Disorder JAMA Psychiatry November 4, 2020
- Psychedelics Promote Structural and Functional Neural Plasticity Cell Reports June 1, 2018
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- The safety and efficacy of {+/-}3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted psychotherapy in subjects with chronic, treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder: the first randomized controlled pilot study. Journal of Psychopharmacology July 19, 2010
- Efficacy of Intravenous Ketamine for Treatment of Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder JAMA Psychiatry April 16, 2014
and 5 more in the library