Frontiers in Psychology
July 13, 2021
Sascha Thal, Stephen Bright, Jason M. Sharbanee et al.
39 citations
This narrative review, the first in a series on appropriate conduct in substance-assisted psychotherapy (SAPT), outlines preconditions and theoretical knowledge valuable for therapeutic practice. It discusses ethical considerations and the spiritual emphasis of SAPT approaches, and summarizes current methods, models, and concepts of psychological mechanisms and therapeutic effects. Similarities between models and potential mediators for therapeutic effects are highlighted. The review argues that the therapeutic effect of SAPT may be mediated by intra- and interpersonal variables within the therapeutic context rather than specific therapeutic models per se. It provides a basis for developing future investigations, therapeutic models, and training programs, while discussing limitations and future directions.
Journal of Humanistic Psychology
May 3, 2023
Sascha Thal, Michelle Wieberneit, Jason M. Sharbanee et al.
6 citations
A systematized review of 82 sources examined best therapeutic practices during administration sessions with serotonergic psychedelics and entactogens as adjuncts to psychotherapy. Information about substances, dosages, number of sessions, common client issues, types of experiences, music, and therapeutic conduct was summarized and compared. The effects of different therapeutic models, methods, techniques, and complex interventions on outcomes have not been rigorously investigated. Most available evidence was anecdotal, limiting conclusive statements about appropriate therapeutic conduct. Essential components of therapeutic interventions remain largely tentative, necessitating systematic investigation.
Harm Reduct J
October 3, 2025
Carissa Dutton, Emily North, Ylona Chun Tie et al.
1 citation
Psychedelic use in naturalistic settings in Australia is increasing, and while physical risks are low, psychological risks are higher in uncontrolled environments. A scoping review of 27 papers found that users employ several harm reduction strategies, categorized into three themes: before use, during the experience, and after (integration). Strategies are influenced by motivation for use, social setting, and dosage. Only four intervention-based studies were identified, highlighting a need for more evaluated interventions. Challenges include low uptake of drug checking services and low trust in government institutions. Further research should consider differing user motivations and promote benefit enhancement alongside risk reduction.
Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy
December 26, 2023
Sascha Thal, Paris Baker, Jonathon Marinis et al.
1 citation
Serotonergic psychedelics and entactogens are being studied as adjuncts in substance-assisted psychotherapy (SAPT) for various disorders. SAPT includes three phases: preparation, administration, and integration, where insights from the psychedelic experience are applied to everyday life. A systematised review of 75 publications found that the effects of different therapeutic approaches for integration sessions on outcomes have not been rigorously investigated. Most available evidence lacks empirical data, limiting conclusions about appropriate frameworks. Current clinical studies mostly draw from the humanistic–experiential tradition. Although integration is considered crucial for safe SAPT, there is insufficient evidence to suggest any therapy type is effective for guiding integration sessions.