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Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy is an emerging area of practice that combines two components: the neurochemical effects produced by psychedelics and the reflective, grounding work of psychotherapy. Early research suggests that this pairing may help ease emotional distress, shift entrenched patterns, and create space for new perspectives that can feel difficult to reach through other means.
Psychedelics have been used in medical and research contexts for more than fifty years. At lower doses, they can temporarily alter a person’s state of consciousness—often described as calm, open, or reflective. Many individuals find that this state allows them to explore memories, emotions, or internal experiences with more compassion and less defensiveness.
In published studies and structured clinical programs, Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy sessions are conducted in controlled environments with medical professionals overseeing the psychedelic component and trained therapists guiding preparation and integration. The overall process is intentional, paced, and designed with psychological safety at its core.
Chronic stress, trauma, and persistent depressive or anxious cycles can make life feel rigid or stuck, even after multiple treatment attempts. Research suggests that psychedelics may temporarily increase neuroplasticity, briefly creating conditions in which the brain is more open to forming new pathways and perspectives.
During this period, people often notice shifts such as:
The integration phase—therapy that takes place after the psychedelic session—is considered essential. It helps individuals understand their experiences and translate insights into practical changes. This integration-focused process is one of the core elements distinguishing Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy from the use of psychedelics without therapeutic support.
Although Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy continues to develop, research findings have accumulated steadily. Studies have reported:
Across the literature, researchers frequently note that combining psychedelics with structured psychotherapy may enhance and extend treatment benefits compared to psychedelics alone. Current studies continue to examine long-term outcomes, dosing approaches, and the enduring role of integration work.
People often consider Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy when:
Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy is not appropriate for everyone. Determining whether it is a safe fit requires careful screening by qualified medical and mental-health professionals.
Clinicians at the Behavioural Wellness Clinic have extensive experience in the therapeutic work that supports high-quality Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy models, including:
This expertise allows the team to support individuals who are receiving psychedelics-based care elsewhere by providing the preparation and integration components that are central to the therapeutic process.
If you’re ready to explore a new path toward healing and relief, we’re here to walk with you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discover how PAP can support your mental health journey.
We’ll help you take the next step—at your pace, with care.
Disclaimer
Ketamine is by prescription only. The Behavioural Wellness Clinic does not prescribe ketamine onsite. Our clinic is also involved in an approved research study involving ketamine.
Calabrese, L. (2019). Titrated Serial Ketamine Infusions Stop Outpatient Suicidality and Avert ER Visits and Hospitalizations. International Journal of Psychiatry Research, 2(6), 1-12. http://scivisionpub.com/pdfs/titrated-serial-ketamine-infusions-stop-outpatient-suicidality-and-avert-er-visits-and-hospitalizations-918.pdf
Sanacora, G., Frye, M. A., McDonald, W., Mathew, S. J., Turner M. S., Schatzberg, A. F., Summergrad, P., Nemeroff C. B., American Psychiatric Association (APA) Council of Research Task Force on Novel Biomarkers and Treatments. (2017). A Consensus Statement on the Use of Ketamine in the Treatment of Mood Disorders. JAMA Psychiatry, 74(4), 399-405. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.0080.