(PNM-42) Use of psychedelic drugs as an adjunct in couples psychotherapy and sex therapy

A systematic review of 11 publications found that research on psychedelics as adjuvants in couples therapy and sex therapy is scarce but highlights four themes: drug effects, protocol characteristics, therapeutic effects and prognosis, and regulatory and training considerations. The authors suggest psychedelics may moderate mood and affective, volitional, and cognitive processes relevant to these therapies. They describe a very favorable prognosis, especially for cases unresponsive to traditional treatment, but emphasize the need for adequate clinical protocol, proper training, and a transdisciplinary team.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Despite clinical investigations with psychedelics for severe cases of mood disorders and PTSD and current research suggesting such applicability, research on their application in couples therapy and sex therapy is scarce. The objective of this systematic review was to highlight these drugs as adjuvants for such patients. Literature research was conducted using the terms “couple’s therapy” or “sexual therapy” and “psychedelic” on Google Scholar (9 articles), RefSeek (11 articles), PubMed (0 articles), and CAPES Journals (0 articles) databases. Duplicated results and articles that did not directly address the use of psychedelics and their impact on sexual behavior or their use in couples’ psychotherapy or sex therapy were excluded. Eleven publications were found, including three clinical trials and two qualitative investigations with psychedelic users regarding their perception of the impact on sexual behavior and intimate relationships. A previous systematic review of clinical trials discussing the potential use of drugs in couples’ psychotherapy, as well as theoretical essays on the use of psychedelic drugs as adjuvants in couples’ psychotherapy (four articles) and sex therapy (one article) were identified. Reviewed works highlight four main themes: a) drugs effects; b) relevant characteristics for a psychedelic-assisted couples psychotherapy protocol; c) expected therapeutic effects and prognosis; and d) relevant aspects to be considered for regulation and professional training. Authors suggest moderating effects on mood and affective, volitional, and cognitive processes relevant to patients in couples’ psychotherapy and sex therapy. They also describe a very favorable prognosis, especially in cases unresponsive to traditional pharmacological treatment. However, they emphasize the importance of adequate clinical protocol, training competences properly and having a transdisciplinary team for assisted psychotherapies. No conflict.