Music in Psychedelic Therapy

It’s no secret that music is very powerful and can be a major emotional influence. If someone is feeling down and listens to happy music, their mood may begin to improve. But if they decide to listen to a sad song, they will likely feel their negative emotions more deeply. When people listen to music purposefully, they could potentially begin to improve their mental health.

Because of this, music is used in many forms of modern psychiatric therapy. One of these types, psychedelic therapy, continues to rise in popularity with the increased decriminalization and legalization of certain psychedelic substances.

What Is Psychedelic Therapy?

Psychedelic therapy, which is also sometimes referred to as psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, is a type of therapy that involves consuming a hallucinogenic substance to treat a mental health diagnosis. In most cases, the use of psychedelics is usually combined with talk therapy. According to the practice of psychedelic therapy, using these substances can enhance the talk therapy process. The types of substances most commonly used in psychedelic therapy are psilocybin (magic mushrooms), DMT, ketamine, MDMA, LSD, and ayahuasca.

There are several potential benefits that can come from psychedelic therapy. Someone who participates in this type of therapy may experience positive effects such as:

• Improved sense of well-being
• Introspection
• Feelings of relaxation
• Improved mood
• Increased social connectedness
• Spiritual experiences

Psychedelic therapy is the most helpful for individuals who struggle with mental health conditions like addiction, anxiety, depression, and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

Using Music in Psychedelic Therapy

The approach to psychedelic therapy will ultimately vary based on the therapist leading the session. However, all psychedelic therapists have one common goal: to help the participant feel comfortable with them and the space they’re in. Psychedelic therapy typically consists of three stages: consultation, ingestion, and integration. Throughout the session, the therapist will monitor the participant and discuss what they are experiencing.

Most psychedelic therapists utilize music during their sessions. In fact, many sessions are even structured around music. Participants will usually put headphones on right before they ingest a psychedelic substance. Music is considered a very vital component of the psychedelic therapy process because it serves as a virtual guide throughout the session and can be a form of additional support to help participants recenter and feel calm. Listening to music during psychedelic therapy can help participants feel grounded and anchored throughout the session. Music is also able to enhance a psychedelic experience. Since music and psychedelics can both put people in touch with their emotions, they are able to enhance one another.

Is Psychedelic Therapy Right For You?

There is still a lot to learn about psychedelic therapy, but the research that currently exists is promising. While psychedelic therapy is not available in a majority of mainstream healthcare facilities, it is being utilized more by certain mental health practitioners. Many therapists, gurus, international retreats, and clinics are beginning to embrace and offer this emerging therapy.

To learn more about how psychedelic therapy could aid in the treatment of mental health conditions, contact our team of specialists at Elium Health by giving us a call at 866-552-3758.

Sources

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/psychedelic-therapy

https://www.verywellmind.com/psychedelic-therapy-how-does-it-work-5079161

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychedelic-therapy

https://www.mindbloom.com/blog/role-of-music-psychedelic-therapy

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5893695/