Emerging Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies::

BackgroundPsychedelic-assisted therapy research is demonstrating unprecedented rates of success in treating mentalillness, addictions, and end-of-life distress. This psychedelic renaissance is a turning point in how com-plex human conditions can be treated and has implications for nursing knowledge, advocacy, and practice internationally. ObjectiveThis article aims to explore the current state of knowledge in the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and the practice implications for nurses. MethodsA scoping review of the literature was undertaken with a focus on mental health, addictions, and palliative care indications. Commentaries, syntheses, and reviews from the last 20 years were included, as well as all relevant primary study results. We then explored what is known about the nurse’s past and present role in this field. ResultsThe nurse’s role in psychedelic-assisted therapy and research has been hitherto mostly invisible and thus remains under-explored and undefined. The profession is ideally positioned, however, to contribute to the future of this promising field. ConclusionAs advocates for safe, ethical, and interdisciplinary practice, nurses can lead the development of psychedelic-assisted therapy practice, ethics, research, advocacy, policy, and education. This article provides guidance and support for prescient nursing leadership in these areas.