Trial aims to address the significant psychological burdens and trauma these professionals have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A clinical trial evaluating the potential of psilocybin-assisted therapy to treat major depressive disorder in front-line mental-health professionals has received approval from the Health Research Ethics Board of Alberta and Health Canada.
The Phase II trial, conducted by ATMA Journey Centers Inc., a Canadian company focused on psychedelic-assisted therapy solutions, will assess the efficacy of psilocybin therapy administered in both group and individual settings for mental-health workers suffering from depression.
The trial aims to address the significant psychological burdens and trauma these professionals have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, often prioritizing patient care over their own mental well-being.
ATMA’s protocol will allow for psilocybin sessions to take place either individually or in group settings. The company suggests the group approach may facilitate psychological safety, promote empathy and cooperation and aid in psychological integration and self-regulation.
This trial will take place at three sites: ATMA’s psychedelic therapy clinics in Calgary and London, and Qi Integrated Health in Vancouver. Participants must be front-line mental-health professionals who have completed an approved psychedelic-assisted therapy training program.