Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy for Depression

(PPP Trial)

This trial tests a therapy that combines psilocybin, a substance found in certain mushrooms, with two different therapy styles to help people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Researchers aim to determine if aligning the therapy style with personal preference—either music-focused or mindfulness-focused—enhances treatment effectiveness. Participants will experience both therapy styles in separate sessions to compare outcomes. Ideal participants are adults who have not found relief from at least two traditional antidepressant treatments and are currently receiving psychiatric care. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.

Yes, you may need to stop certain medications, especially those that interact with psilocybin, like trazodone or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. It's important to discuss your current medications with the study team to see if any changes are needed.

Studies have shown that psilocybin-assisted therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated by participants. Research combining psilocybin with mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has found significant improvements in depression without serious side effects. Participants reported feeling better and experiencing fewer depressive symptoms after treatment.

In music-centered psilocybin therapy, studies also support its safety. A review of research highlighted how music can enhance the therapy experience. It helped participants explore their emotions more deeply, contributing to the therapy's safety and effectiveness.

Researchers are excited about psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for depression because it offers a unique approach compared to traditional antidepressants like SSRIs and therapy. Unlike these standard treatments, psilocybin works by targeting serotonin receptors in the brain, potentially leading to rapid and profound changes in mood and perception. This compound, derived from certain types of mushrooms, may offer faster relief from depressive symptoms, with effects sometimes noticeable after just one or two sessions. Additionally, psilocybin's potential to facilitate deep psychological insights during therapy could provide long-lasting benefits, setting it apart from typical medications that often require daily use.

Research shows that therapy using psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, can greatly improve depression symptoms. In this trial, participants will receive either mindfulness-centered psilocybin-assisted therapy or music-centered psilocybin-assisted therapy. Previous studies have shown that people who took psilocybin along with mindfulness exercises experienced more relief from depression than those using other methods. Another study found that music can enhance the positive effects of psilocybin on mood. These findings suggest that combining psilocybin with mindfulness or music can be effective. Additionally, psilocybin has eased major depression symptoms for at least a month after treatment. Overall, promising evidence indicates that psilocybin therapy can help people with depression that hasn't responded to other treatments.¹²³⁴⁵