Developing Psycheedelic-Assisted Therapies: Implications for Nursing Practice

Abstract

Background: Research into psychedelic-assisted therapy shows remarkable effectiveness in addressing mental health issues, addictions, and distress related to end-of-life experiences. This resurgence of interest in psychedelics marks a significant shift in the treatment of complex human conditions and has important implications for nursing knowledge, advocacy, and practice around the world. Objective: This article aims to explore the current state of knowledge in the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and the practice implications for nurses. Methods: A scoping review of the literature was undertaken with a focus on mental health, addictions, and palliative care indications. Commentaries, syntheses, and reviews from the last 20 years were included, as well as all relevant primary study results. We then explored what is known about the nurse’s past and present role in this field. Results: The nurse’s role in psychedelic-assisted therapy and research has been hitherto mostly invisible and thus remains under-explored and undefined. The profession is ideally positioned, however, to contribute to the future of this promising field. Conclusion: As advocates for safe, ethical, and interdisciplinary practice, nurses can lead the development of psychedelic- assisted therapy practice, ethics, research, advocacy, policy, and education. This article provides guidance and support for prescient nursing leadership in these areas.