"Honoring Beautiful Connections": LGBTQA+ Perspectives on Providing Safe and Inclusive Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

Abstract

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) is a rapidly growing therapeutic approach that to date has rarely considered the nuanced needs of LGBTQA+ individuals. This study explores what LGBTQA+ individuals consider important for healthcare providers (HCPs) to consider when providing PAT. A global sample of LGBTQA+ individuals aged 18+ who had experience using a classic psychedelic compound at least once in a non-microdose manner were recruited into an online survey. Of 130 responses, 43 provided qualitative data relevant for the present study. Data were analyzed using an inductive reflexive thematic approach and three themes were developed. Theme 1 "Reflect on Your Biases and Learn the Language" described how HCPs should learn about LGBTQA+ issues to build trust and ensure safety during preparation sessions. Theme 2 "Identity and the Return from Universal Consciousness" described how HCPs should adopt a flexible, client-led approach when supporting identity exploration. Theme 3 "The Art of Being-There"described how HCPs should thoughtfully modulate their presence during clients' psychedelic experiences. These findings offer nuanced insights into enhancing the development of PAT protocols tailored for clients from LGBTQA+ communities, underscoring the need for care that acknowledges the variety of experiences and needs of LGBTQA+ individuals.

Keywords: LGBTQIA+; Psychedelics; acceptability; affirming care; intervention design; qualitative; therapy.