New research in psychedelic therapy shows clinician-patient bond may matter most
A recent study published in the journal PLOS ONE links the relationship between the therapist and the study participant participating in psychedelic-assisted therapy with reducing depression for up to one year. Researchers analyzed data from a 2021 clinical trial that found psilocybin (magic mushrooms) combined with psychotherapy in adults was effective at treating major depressive disorder.
“What persisted the most was the connection between the therapeutic alliance and long-term outcomes, which indicates the importance of a strong relationship,” said lead author Adam Levin, a psychiatry and behavioral health resident in The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
