Workshop: Contrasting Tools for the Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and SUD: Prolonged Exposure and MDMA-Assisted Therapy-Workshop: Contrasting Tools for the Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and SUD: Prolonged Exposure and MDMA-Assisted Therapy

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discusses integrated trauma treatment with a substance-using population, focusing on prolonged exposure therapy and MDMA-assisted therapy. The speakers highlight the impact of PTSD and substance use disorders on individuals and the prevalence of co-occurring disorders. They explain prolonged exposure therapy's rationale and process, emphasizing its effectiveness but acknowledging the high dropout rate. They then delve into the use of MDMA-assisted therapy, discussing its potential benefits and the unique psychotherapeutic approach involved. The preparation and dosing process are explained, along with the therapeutic container used. The speakers emphasize the need for novel interventions and the potential of MDMA-assisted therapy to become a prescribable medication.<br /><br />The video also explores the specifics of MDMA-assisted therapy. Participants are given music and eye shades to help them focus internally and access traumatic memories during sessions that can last up to eight hours. The therapy involves revisiting the index trauma in a safe environment to make sense of it. The therapist-patient relationship is crucial, and touch may be used to facilitate catharsis while maintaining boundaries. The video discusses the potential toxicity and addictive liabilities of MDMA but notes lower rates compared to stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine. There is evidence of cognitive impairment and neurotoxicity with chronic use, but attributing these effects solely to MDMA is challenging. The speaker mentions MAPS' research on MDMA-assisted therapy and highlights promising results from phase II studies, leading to FDA breakthrough status in 2017. Phase III study results, currently being analyzed, could potentially lead to FDA approval of MDMA as a prescribed medication for PTSD. The video briefly touches on an open-label study exploring the therapy for alcohol use disorder, showing some reductions in drinking. The challenges in scaling up the therapy, concerns about commercialization, and the importance of strict boundaries and oversight to prevent harm are also discussed.

Keywords

integrated trauma treatment

prolonged exposure therapy

MDMA-assisted therapy

PTSD

substance use disorders

co-occurring disorders

effectiveness

therapeutic container

psychotherapeutic approach

MAPS research

FDA approval

alcohol use disorder

harm prevention

	The content on this site is intended solely to inform and educate medical professionals. This site shall not be used for medical advice and is not a substitute for the advice or treatment of a qualified medical professional.		400 Massasoit Avenue Suite 108 East Providence, RI 02914 cmecpd@aaap.org Privacy	About Advocacy Membership Fellowship Education and Resources Training Events