Post: The Power of the Group in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

Key points

Most patients treated with psychedelic-assisted therapies feel an increased sense of connectivity.

Group therapy can be transformative but is underutilized in psychedelic-assisted therapy practice.

By Betsy Jenkins, LCPC

In recent years, there has been much debate about the role of traditional therapy in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Some argue that the medicines are the primary agents of change, needing only minimal support from a therapist or facilitator. Others argue that the therapist plays a pivotal role in treatment efficacy and safety. As therapists, we are with patients throughout their entire journey—from preparing them before they take the drug, to being there during their dosing session, and then helping them integrate their experience afterwards. By creating a safe and comfortable environment, and providing a supportive and engaged presence, the therapist can and does have a significant impact on the outcome.

I believe the therapy element of this treatment is as important as the psychedelic compound.

The supportive presence, so necessary in psychedelic-assisted therapy, can be enhanced in a group setting. As humans, we are often driven by a quest for meaning and a need to bond with others. Psychedelics bring out a strong sense of love and connectivity and feelings of unity and peace—so being together with others having similar experiences should be helpful. However, most existing protocols for psychedelic-assisted therapies call for one-on-one patient-therapist sessions. Throughout my career , I have seen the power of group therapy and believe it can be useful in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Group therapy in cancer care

Prior to becoming a psychedelic therapist, I provided therapy and counseling to a wide range of patients, including those with cancer, and saw firsthand the transformative impact group therapy can have.

I have helped to establish a number of groups for cancer patients to support each other and share experiences. There is always some initial skepticism, and individuals naturally may have reservations about being in group situations. But these are usually overcome, and what blooms is love and support.People with similar experiences bond deeply and quickly. Cancer can be isolating, particularly for older people, and a group brings people together. When […]

The Power of the Group in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy