MAPS - conflict resolution, couples therapy, and more… exciting research projects in 2024
The regular MAPS email which came out on December 29 discusses MAPS research projects for 2024. They include:
- MDMA-assisted Couples Therapy
Before MDMA was criminalized, and even before its popularity on the dancefloor, MDMA was first used as an adjunct to couples therapy. MAPS is building a multi-pronged approach to exploring this work, first developing a qualitative study in collaboration with allies, to understand the potential role of MDMA in couples therapy.
- Psychedelic Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
MAPS is committed to continuing to explore how psychedelics can be helpful in conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Building on our qualitative study interviewing Palestinians and Israelis who drink ayahuasca together, we are now developing a protocol and metrics to study psychedelics as conflict resolution tools in an interventional study.
- Marijuana for Symptoms of PTSD
Though many states have medical cannabis programs, whole-plant marijuana is still not an FDA-approved medication. FDA approval could lead to insurance and VA coverage, so MAPS is working on the only vaporized whole-plant marijuana study with the goal of FDA approval, funded by a $12 million grant received from the state of Michigan
- Psychedelics and the Criminal Legal System Literature Review and Study
Many people experience significant trauma from interactions with the American Criminal Legal system, including but not limited to incarceration. Additionally, a majority of people who are incarcerated have experienced childhood trauma. MAPS has drafted a literature review and mapped out a project and study plan to explore the possibility of psychedelic-assisted processes for formerly incarcerated people and other people impacted by the War on Drugs and the broader criminal legal system. For more psychedelic news and research, visit the psychedelic health professional network homepage.