On the need for metaphysics in psychedelic therapy and research

Area of Science:

• Philosophy of Mind
• Psychotherapy Research
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Psychedelic-assisted therapy is an emerging treatment modality.
• Metaphysical experiences are common during psychedelic use.
• Current therapeutic models may not fully address the metaphysical nature of these experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the integration of metaphysics into psychedelic therapy.
• To introduce a novel schema, the "Metaphysics Matrix," and a questionnaire (MMQ) for evaluating metaphysical experiences.
• To explore the potential benefits of incorporating philosophical frameworks into psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of metaphysics, mysticism, and psychedelic experiences.
• Presentation of the "Metaphysics Matrix" schema.
• Introduction of the Metaphysics Matrix Questionnaire (MMQ) for quantitative measurement.

Main Results:

• Metaphysics, distinct from mysticism, offers a rational framework for understanding psychedelic experiences.
• The "Metaphysics Matrix" and MMQ provide tools for therapeutic integration and research.
• Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can serve as a bridge between philosophical inquiry and scientific practice.

Conclusions:

• Integrating metaphysics into psychedelic therapy offers potential benefits for patients.
• The proposed tools facilitate a deeper understanding and evaluation of psychedelic-induced metaphysical experiences.
• A fusion of philosophy and science holds promise for advancing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.