Indigenous Voices in Psychedelic Therapy: Experiential Learnings from a Community-Based Group Psychedelic Therapy...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychopharmacology
• Indigenous Studies

Background:

• Psychedelic medicines show promise for mental illness treatment.
• Integrating psychedelic therapies requires addressing colonialism and biomedical vs. Indigenous knowledge clashes.
• Culturally safe and effective delivery to diverse populations is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness and safety of group-based ketamine-assisted therapy for Indigenous participants.
• To explore participant experiences and identify areas for program improvement.
• To understand the role of Indigenous healing practices and cultural safety in psychedelic therapy.

Main Methods:

• Pilot program involving group therapy with three psychedelic ketamine sessions.
• Partnership between Roots to Thrive and Snuneymuxw First Nation.
• Thematic analysis of qualitative interviews and feedback from eight participants and two Elders.

Main Results:

• Participants reported significant benefits, alongside challenges.
• Key factors for success included Indigenous team involvement, traditional healing integration, and authentic relationships.
• Valuable insights were gained on participant motivations, barriers, and psychedelic experiences.

Conclusions:

• Ketamine-assisted therapy can be beneficial for Indigenous peoples when culturally adapted.
• Reconciliation and decolonization are essential components of psychedelic therapy.
• Further research and culturally sensitive approaches are needed for equitable psychedelic healthcare.