Date of Award
Spring 5-17-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies
Major
Clinical Mental Health Counselling
First Advisor
Leticia Prieto-Alvarez
Abstract
The use of psychedelics has been shown promising efficacy surrounding treatment-resistant mental health diagnoses, as well as improving quality of life for those not suffering from mental health conditions. Additionally, music has been seen as a significant part of psychedelic research, both by music therapists and other allied health professionals alike. This literature review explores the current research surrounding music therapy and psychedelic approaches, as well as the areas in which they intersect. The current review focuses on Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and self-concept, delving into the perceptions of both music and psychedelic therapy as emerging treatment options for these diagnoses. Ultimately, the intersection of these two mediums is under-researched despite showing beneficial and significant overlap in uses. Recommendations moving forward include more rigorous research standards and integrating other forms of music therapy into psychedelic-based approaches.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Harper-Hague, Sophia, "Sense, Drugs, and Rock 'n' Roll: A Critical Review of Music and Psychedelic Literature" (2025). Expressive Therapies Theses. 30.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_therapies_theses/30
