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Contributions of the compassionate care approach to psychedelic-assisted therapies in hospice and palliative care

A. C. Garcia, Myla Chistie Araujo Custodio Bonifácio, L. O. Maia

Progress in Palliative Care July 3, 2024 DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2024.2374602 (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Review Peer reviewed
Topics End-of-life distress Psychedelic-assisted therapy
Key findings Compassionate care is a vital factor for positive outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy within hospice and palliative care.

Abstract

The scientific community's interest in psychedelic-assisted therapies (PAT) as a potential new therapeutic modality is growing, as evidence suggests that their use has a significant impact on the outcomes of patients with various conditions, including those with serious illnesses. In the context of PAT, the interpersonal bond established between patient and therapist is a vital factor for the positive results of this therapeutic approach. The aim of this article is to discuss the importance of these professionals adopting a compassionate care approach in the context of PAT in hospice and palliative care. This study starts with a brief review of the current literature on the therapeutic potential of PAT for people with serious diseases. Next, the definition of compassion and compassionate care in healthcare will be explored. Based on what the literature points out regarding the essential competencies for psychedelic therapists, it will address how compassionate care can contribute to the application of PAT in the hospice and palliative care context. Finally, the article will present implications for the research and practice of compassionate care in PAT, especially directed at people in hospice and palliative care.

Comparable studies

Other narrative reviews on end-of-life distress, most cited first.

Study Year Design Participants
Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in the Context of Serious Illness. Palliative care clinicians and patients 2022 Review
The Potential of Psychedelics for End of Life and Palliative Care. Patients with life-threatening diagnoses 2022 Review
Psilocybin in Palliative Care: An Update. Palliative care patients 2023 Review
Psychedelic medicines for end-of-life care: Pipeline clinical trial review 2022. People with terminal illnesses experiencing depression, anxiety, or existential distress 2023 Scoping review n = 25
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for existential distress: practical considerations for therapeutic application—a review 2024 Narrative review

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