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Mystical Experiences as Catalysts in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy: A Case Study
Miguel Joaquim Soares Teles Couceiro1,2, Victor José da Conceição Teixeira Amorim Rodrigues1,2, Nuno Manuel Correia Torres1,2
1ISPA - Instituto Universitário de Ciências Psicológicas, Sociais e da Vida, Lisbon, Portugal.
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
|July 3, 2026
Summary
Mystical experiences during ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) may enhance therapeutic outcomes for anxiety. Higher scores on the Hood Mysticism Scale correlated with greater gains, suggesting subjective effects are important in healing.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is an emerging treatment for mental health conditions.
- Mystical-type experiences are sometimes reported during psychedelic-assisted therapies.
- The role of these subjective experiences in therapeutic outcomes remains under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential role of mystical-type experiences in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
- To examine the relationship between mystical experiences and therapeutic gains in a patient with generalized anxiety disorder and migraines.
Main Methods:
- A case study design was employed.
- A single patient with generalized anxiety disorder and migraines received four intramuscular KAP sessions.
- Outcomes were assessed using the Outcome Questionnaire-45 (OQ-45), Hood Mysticism Scale (HMS), and clinical interviews.
Main Results:
- The patient reported greater therapeutic gains following KAP sessions associated with higher Hood Mysticism Scale scores.
- The patient attributed clinical improvements to the psychological and spiritual impact of mystical experiences.
- The therapeutic relationship and integration process were highlighted as crucial components.
Conclusions:
- Mystical-type experiences may play a significant role in therapeutic change within KAP.
- Subjective effects, particularly those with spiritual or psychological impact, warrant further investigation in KAP research.
- This case highlights the importance of considering the patient's subjective experience in understanding KAP efficacy.
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