Micro-dosing psychedelics as a plausible adjunct to psychosexual and couple’s therapy: a qualitative insight

Abstract

Background: Research has predominated among the therapeutic application of psychedelics for varied psychopathologies and yet remains limited when supporting sexual behaviour intimacy among couples; particularly those who micro-dose. Method: Using semi-structured interviews, this qualitative study explored the micro-dosing sexual experiences of four partnered men and women aged 20–35 years. Interviews examined the effect of micro-dosing on confidence, openness, sexuality, inhibition and perceived relationship satisfaction. Results: Thematic analysis identified three key narratives: increased sexual self-efficacy; sexual exploration; and heightened relationship satisfaction. From the participant’s perspective, the use of micro-dosing psychedelics had a positive effect on sexual and physical well-being by reducing stress and performance-related anxiety. This, in turn, elevated sexual desire, exploration, communication and enhanced sensory and sexual experience, thus potentially supporting emotional and physical connection. In terms of erectile functioning and orgasm, participants attributed this to being micro-dose and psychedelic choice dependent. Whilst higher doses of MDMA hindered sexual functioning this did not negatively impact the emotional and sensory experiences. Conclusion: These findings point to micro-dosing psychedelics as offering a potentially beneficial adjunct to psychosexual and couple’s therapy; potentiating relationship and sexual satisfaction. Further research might wish to gravitate quantitatively towards a larger and varied micro-dosing populace in supporting sexual self-efficacy and intimacy.

Keywords:

• Psychedelics
• micro-dosing
• sex and couple therapy
• relationship satisfaction
• sexual wellbeing
• thematic analysis

Disclosure statement

There is no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lucy Jacobs

Lucy Jacobs is a graduate psychology student from London Metropolitan University. She is interested in sex and sexuality and will be commencing postgraduate studies in psychological IAPT therapies.

Samantha Banbury

Dr. Sam Banbury is a reader in Psychology and a course leader for a BSc (hons) in counselling at London Metropolitan University. Her research areas are varied and include sexology and substance misuse. She is a trainee psychosexual and couple counsellor and is pursuing a health psychology doctorate to support the development of sex research and RCT interventions.

Joanne Lusher

Professor Joanne Lusher is a Director (People) and Professor of Psychology at Regent’s University London. She is both a Chartered and Registered Health Psychologist. She is also a Chartered Scientist and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Professor Lusher’s research outputs include publications in over 85 international and peer-reviewed journals and books. Her most recent scholarly activity involves membership of the Mental Health and Wellness Study Group that seeks to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the financial, medical, psychological, and social wellbeing of individuals across the globe.