Psychedelic-augmented psychotherapy for overcoming traumatic dissociation: A review of neuroscientific and phenomenological evidence
European Journal of Trauma & Dissociation June 1, 2024 Ansgar Rougemont-Bücking, F. Guenot, V. Salamin et al.
Psychedelic-augmented psychotherapy (PAP) is a promising approach for treating traumatic dissociation. This review combines empirical findings with observations of patients' phenomenological experiences during PAP and relates them to the 'structural dissociation model,' which posits an emotional part and an apparently normal part of the personality. Three pathogenic dynamics in complexly traumatized patients are considered: phobic avoidance of traumatic memories, contextualization deficit, and traumatic attachment. By re-evaluating phenomenological experiences alongside neurobiological mechanisms, PAP offers a deeper understanding and therapeutic resolution of traumatic dissociation, potentially improving treatment for many trauma-related disorders.