Becoming "Psyched." Exploring the Viability of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for Adolescents Experiencing Mental Health and Substance Use Challenges: Risks, Benefits, and Informed Consent
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Authors
Brewer, Guy (Nat)
Issue Date
2025-03
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
adolescents , informed consent , psychedelic-assited therapy , integration , LSD , MDMA , psilocybin , psychedelic
Alternative Title
Abstract
The use of psychedelic-assisted therapy for the treatment of psychiatric illness, substance use and end-of-life crises for adult populations is well-documented in the scientific literature. Numerous randomized controlled clinical trials have been conducted over the last few decades indicating that for the most part, the use of psychedelic medicines is safe and effective with little to no evidence of risk for physical or psychological addiction. The crucial elements during the session of set and setting, and proper integration following the psychedelic session, underpin this efficacy. This raises the question as to whether adolescent populations might also benefit from these novel therapies as current approaches using psychiatric medications and psychotherapy seem to be failing these young people. This paper aims to explore the viability of psychedelic-assisted therapy for adolescents including its inherent risks and benefits, and the issue of informed consent. Lastly, this paper will conclude with two recommendations for fostering the dissemination of information that is vital for healthcare professionals, caregivers and adolescents seeking information that will lead to informed choice.
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Citation
Publisher
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess