Exploring Cultural Competence, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: A Phenomenological...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Clinical Psychology
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Minority populations, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), are underrepresented in psychedelic therapy research.
• Existing research often overlooks the impact of cultural background, socioeconomic status, and systemic inequities on treatment outcomes.
• Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) shows promise, but its accessibility and efficacy across diverse populations require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively explore the experiences of a culturally diverse, low-income sample undergoing ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
• To identify key themes related to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the KAP treatment context.
• To understand the relevance of culture, stigma, and financial resources to treatment effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological qualitative study involving 15 participants from diverse ethnic/racial backgrounds and LGBTQIA+ identities.
• Semi-structured interviews conducted post-ketamine session, post-integration session, and one month later.
• Inquiries focused on pre-treatment state, set and setting, preparation, experiences, barriers, stigma, cultural relevance, and KAP's impact.

Main Results:

• Four major themes emerged: Insufficient Financial Resources, Race/Ethnicity/LGBTQIA+ identity, Stigma, and Culture/Ritual.
• Participants' experiences were significantly shaped by their socioeconomic status, cultural backgrounds, and experiences with stigma.
• The salience of cultural factors and rituals in the KAP experience was a prominent finding.

Conclusions:

• Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is experienced differently across diverse populations, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive approaches.
• Treatment planning and outcome research for KAP must integrate considerations of race, ethnicity, LGBTQIA+ identity, socioeconomic status, stigma, and cultural rituals.
• Future research should prioritize inclusivity and address systemic barriers to psychedelic-assisted therapies for underserved communities.