MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD: A Thematic Analysis of Transformation in Combat Veterans

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychological effect of military combat. However, little empirical research has been done to highlight specific complications and needs in treating this population, and even less has been done using the psychedelic drug MDMA. This study used the qualitative research method of thematic analysis to explore the lived experiences of combat veterans engaged in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. This study reviewed video, as well as narrative data from MDMA psychotherapy sessions. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the transcribed audio data. The specific primary aim of the present study was to investigate the following research question: What is the lived experience of combat veterans in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy sessions, and how can this experience be understood through a psychotherapeutic perspective on well-being? Exploration of psychoanalytic and transpersonal aspects of the psychotherapy process are highlighted in their facilitation of healing in combat veterans.