Psychedelic-assisted therapy and neurostimulation represent converging approaches to modulating dysfunctional brain circuits in treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. This Perspective outlines shared mechanisms involving neuroplasticity and network reconfiguration, and examines ethical, regulatory, and infrastructural barriers to their translation. Bridging neuroscience, psychiatry, and...
Background and objective: Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide and affect all age groups. Current pharmacological treatments, such as selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s) and benzodiazepines, have limitations in terms of adverse effects and efficacy, which highlights the need for alternative therapies. Serotonergic psychedelics have...
Abstract Paradoxically, psychedelics have long been used as models of both psychosis and therapy. After proposing mystical experiences as a link between these models for lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), we aimed to extend and refine this framework for N,N -Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). In a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study, 25 healthy participants received DMT (60mg)...
This chapter introduces six foundational principles that support a therapeutic approach to psychedelic integration: mindfulness, unconditional positive regard, curiosity, systemic thinking, and the belief that the client is the expert and already possesses the inner resources that they need to heal. Through personal reflections, clinical stories, and spiritual insight, I hope to reframe therapy...
In Chapter 9 , I explore the integration phase of psychedelic-assisted therapy, highlighting its crucial role in translating psychedelic experiences into lasting personal transformation. Integration is the active process of incorporating the insights and emotional breakthroughs from psychedelic journeys into everyday life. The chapter emphasizes the need for structured therapeutic practices...
In this chapter, I will dive into the preparatory phase, a vital component of psychedelic-assisted therapy, emphasizing its role in creating the optimal conditions for a meaningful therapeutic outcome. I will talk about how the therapist, acting as a guide, adopts a directive yet empowering role to facilitate client readiness through the use of specific practices and an intentional preparation...
This chapter explores how foundational therapeutic principles take shape in the room. Presence becomes mindfulness. Love expresses itself by turning toward pain and setting clear boundaries. Curiosity shows up as a way of utilizing what the client brings. Trust in the client is reflected in how we work—with their words, their breath and the subconscious. Rather than offering scripted...
This study examines psychedelic integration among Brazilian users by validating a Brazilian Portuguese version of the Psychedelic Integration Scales (PIS), developed through translation and cultural adaptation to ensure relevance and applicability within the Brazilian sociocultural context. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1379 participants recruited online. Confirmatory Factor...
Emerging research in contemplative science and psychedelic neuroscience suggests that deeply entrenched patterns of selfhood and cognition—often associated with mental disorders like depression—can be profoundly altered through both meditative practice and pharmacological intervention. This paper presents a neuroconstructivist framework for understanding how deep meditation and dissociative...
May 16, 2026Karthikaa Menon, Khushi Gupta, Smriti Sethi
This chapter examines emerging trends in psycho-oncology by exploring the connection between the mind and the body, the role of the immune system and specific biological markers. Through a review of literature on the role of biomarkers, specifically IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1ra, this review paper aims to understand how these substances can be used to understand the progression of cancer, potential...