The Research Deficit and Expert Disagreement Regarding Music Selection for Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.

Music is central to psychedelic-assisted therapy, yet only three empirical studies have directly examined which music best supports treatment. A critical review finds these studies have important limitations and their findings conflict with other publications and existing recommendations. Understanding of music guidelines has not advanced much since 1970. The paper summarizes music's common impacts during therapy, reviews current knowledge on music selection and guidelines, and suggests priorities for future research.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Prior research has determined that music plays a central role in psychedelic assisted therapy (PAT). While there is a general consensus of the importance of music during PAT, there are only three empirical studies published to date that directly investigate which type of music might best support PAT. Importantly, no review to date has critically analyzed these studies and identified the gaps. Careful examination reveals these studies have important limitations and the findings lack alignment with other publications and existing recommendations. Additionally, our understanding of guidelines seems to be not much different from when this research started in 1970. This paper summarizes the common impacts of music during PAT, reviews what we know about music selection and guidelines for PAT, and makes suggestions of priorities for future research.