Music's essential role during psychedelic therapy
June 1, 2021 Alexander Jeffrey Kahn, Florence Ierardi
Music plays a central role in psychedelic therapy by structuring the experience, eliciting emotion, facilitating meaning-making, stimulating imagery, providing continuity, and supporting peak experiences. Clients who have positive experiences with music often show higher therapeutic outcomes. Despite its widespread use, little research has examined how music supports psychedelic therapy. Interviews with clinicians and a music therapist trained in the Bonny Method of Imagery and Music reveal that adapting music to individual needs may improve outcomes. Music therapists' skills could be vital during psychedelic sessions and follow-up integration. The paper explores future collaboration between music therapists and clinicians.