Giving Consent to the Ineffable

Giving Consent to the Ineffable

15 February 2024 | Daniel Villiger
A psychedelic renaissance is occurring in mental healthcare, with growing interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). While clinical trials show promise, ethical concerns remain, particularly regarding informed consent. The transformative nature of PAT raises questions about whether patients can truly understand its effects and make rational decisions. This paper argues that patients often have sufficient knowledge to give informed consent because they seek to change their negative status quo and recognize PAT as an effective means to do so. Despite the unpredictability of psychedelic experiences, patients can understand the transformative nature of PAT and make value-aligned choices. The paper examines the ethical implications of PAT, emphasizing the need for comprehensive informed consent processes that address the unique aspects of psychedelic experiences, such as their ineffability and potential for personal transformation. It also highlights the importance of scientific evidence and patient testimony in helping patients understand the therapeutic effects of PAT. The paper concludes that informed consent to PAT is possible, as patients can rationally choose to undergo treatment based on their understanding of its potential benefits and risks. The discussion also addresses the practical implications for the informed consent process, emphasizing the need for clear communication about the transformative nature of PAT and its therapeutic effects. Overall, the paper argues that informed consent to PAT is possible, as patients can make rational decisions based on their understanding of the treatment's potential benefits and risks.A psychedelic renaissance is occurring in mental healthcare, with growing interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). While clinical trials show promise, ethical concerns remain, particularly regarding informed consent. The transformative nature of PAT raises questions about whether patients can truly understand its effects and make rational decisions. This paper argues that patients often have sufficient knowledge to give informed consent because they seek to change their negative status quo and recognize PAT as an effective means to do so. Despite the unpredictability of psychedelic experiences, patients can understand the transformative nature of PAT and make value-aligned choices. The paper examines the ethical implications of PAT, emphasizing the need for comprehensive informed consent processes that address the unique aspects of psychedelic experiences, such as their ineffability and potential for personal transformation. It also highlights the importance of scientific evidence and patient testimony in helping patients understand the therapeutic effects of PAT. The paper concludes that informed consent to PAT is possible, as patients can rationally choose to undergo treatment based on their understanding of its potential benefits and risks. The discussion also addresses the practical implications for the informed consent process, emphasizing the need for clear communication about the transformative nature of PAT and its therapeutic effects. Overall, the paper argues that informed consent to PAT is possible, as patients can make rational decisions based on their understanding of the treatment's potential benefits and risks.
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