Psilocybin therapy sessions for PTSD are mostly silent, study finds
New research indicates that psilocybin treatment for PTSD involves very little talking. Instead of traditional psychotherapy, data suggests patients benefit most from the quiet, unobtrusive presence of support staff.
A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology reveals that during high-dose psilocybin sessions for PTSD, participants and support staff mostly remain silent. Psilocybin, a compound in "magic" mushrooms, is being researched as a treatment for mental health issues like PTSD, which stems from traumatic events. Clinical trials typically involve controlled administration by trained staff, but there's a misconception that patients receive talk therapy while under the drug's influence.
Guy M. Goodwin, from Compass Pathways, clarifies that the treatment is more about the drug's effect than traditional psychotherapy. The research team examined data from a trial with 22 adults diagnosed with PTSD. After receiving a 25mg dose of COMP360 psilocybin, participants mostly stayed silent, with silence making up 78% of the time during the administration phase.
This silent approach contrasts with preparation and follow-up sessions, where speaking occurred more frequently. Participants and staff reported that the quiet method was effective and impactful.
Written by urgent.news from PsyPost's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
