This open-label interventional trial (n=12) explored the feasibility of offering psilocybin therapy in a group setting to patients with cancer. The study aimed to decrease the therapist-to-subject ratio, implementing a 1:1 ratio with a group size of six patients.
Open-label pilot of group psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for 12 patients with cancer and comorbid depressive disorders; two cohorts of six with interim safety review between cohorts.
Intervention comprises seven group therapy sessions (three 2-hour preparatory sessions, one 8-hour psilocybin dosing session, three 2-hour integration sessions). Primary outcomes focus on feasibility and safety; secondary outcomes include depressive symptoms and existential distress.
All participants receive psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy with preparatory and integration sessions.
8-hour group psilocybin session; dose per protocol (not specified in registry fragment).
This open-label study (n=12) investigates the potential of psilocybin-assisted group therapy (PAT) in cancer patients suffering from depression. Participants underwent preparatory sessions, a high-dose (25mg) psilocybin group session, and integration sessions over three weeks, with clinical outcomes measured at baseline, two weeks, and 26 weeks post-intervention. Results show significant decreases in depression symptoms and no serious adverse events, suggesting safety, feasibility, and possible efficacy of the therapy.