How Psychedelics Could Enhance Sexual Intimacy

Recent research from Imperial College London, published in Nature Scientific Reports, offers compelling insights into how psychedelics might improve sexual functioning for months after a single experience. This study represents the first known scientific examination of psychedelics’ impact on sexual well-being, aligning closely with key concepts explored in my book... Unfolding Eros: A Journey into Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy.

I assert that sexual dysfunction can often be addressed by enhancing neurochemical familiarity with serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. Psychedelic-assisted therapy, by modulating these neurochemicals, holds the potential for repairing intimacy. The new research provides empirical support for this claim, revealing that psychedelics may positively influence sexual function and satisfaction, offering therapeutic benefits beyond traditional treatments.

Long-Lasting Improvements in Sexual Function

The study gathered responses from nearly 300 individuals, combining participants using psychedelics for recreational or ceremonial purposes with those enrolled in a clinical trial assessing psilocybin for depression. Findings revealed that participants reported improvements across various areas of sexual function for up to six months after their psychedelic experience. These included:

• Enhanced sexual pleasure and arousal

• Greater attraction to partners

• Increased satisfaction with one’s appearance

• Improved communication and connection with partners

• Viewing sex as a more spiritual experience

As described in the study, even participants treated with psilocybin for depression noted significant improvements in sexual arousal and satisfaction. In contrast, those taking a standard SSRI antidepressant experienced decreased sexual functioning, a common side effect of these medications.

Connecting Neurochemistry and Intimacy

In Unfolding Eros, neurochemical dynamics are explored as essential elements for healthy sexual intimacy. Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD interact with serotonin receptors, particularly 5-HT2A, which is believed to increase the release of oxytocin and dopamine. These neurochemicals are vital for bonding, emotional connection, and pleasure. The study supports this association by showing sustained improvements in sexual well-being following psychedelic experiences.

Rather than creating hypersexuality, as some might fear, the study indicates that psychedelics transform how individuals perceive and relate to sexual experiences. This shift aligns with Unfolding Eros' emphasis on the role of psychedelics in reducing psychological defenses and fostering vulnerability, which are critical for meaningful intimacy.

Implications for Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy

The findings suggest promising applications for psychedelic-assisted sex therapy (PAST), a concept deeply explored in Unfolding Eros. Psychedelics seem to encourage emotional openness, dismantle self-limiting beliefs, and enhance neuroplasticity, allowing individuals to rewire their responses to intimacy. For couples struggling with emotional disconnect, trauma-related sexual dysfunction, or anxiety, PAST could offer transformative outcomes.

Furthermore, the study hints at psychedelics' ability to bypass common barriers to sexual intimacy posed by traditional antidepressants. For clients dealing with depression, where sexual dysfunction often leads to medication non-adherence, psychedelics might represent a treatment that nurtures both mental health and intimate relationships.

Caution and Future Directions

While the results are encouraging, the researchers note that these findings come from controlled environments with psychological support. Psychedelics' potential to heal and enhance intimacy should not prompt self-medication. As Unfolding Eros describes, ethical frameworks, proper training, and legal considerations are critical when integrating these substances into therapeutic practices.

This pioneering research validates what many clinicians and individuals have observed anecdotally: psychedelics may offer a pathway to sexual healing and deeper intimacy. The overlap between these findings and the concepts presented in Unfolding Eros strengthens the argument for further exploration of PAST. As the field evolves, more research will be essential in developing safe, effective protocols that honor human intimacy's neurochemical and emotional complexities.

References:

Barba, T., Giribaldi, B., Erritzoe, D., & Carhart-Harris, R. (2024). Psychedelics and sexual functioning: A mixed-methods study. Scientific Reports, 14, Article 49817. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-49817-4

External to Internal Spiritual Authority

The Comfort of Tradition

Growing up in a conservative religious environment like Mormonism provided me with a sense of structure and security. The belief that a higher power controlled my life offered comfort, balancing grace with the responsibilities of devotion. Life’s biggest questions had answers, and the weight of uncertainty was lessened by the belief that someone else held the reins. In retrospect, I now understand this to be a natural stage of human development—that involves relying on external sources for guidance and safety.

A Shift in Spiritual Understanding

As I grew older, my need for external spiritual authority began to wane. My faith transition led me to question who Jesus was to me. While I still revere the historical figure and Christian values, my expectations of him as a Savior shifted. It felt as though Jesus “died,” not in the literal or traditional sense, but because he could no longer fulfill the role of an all-powerful figure who could rescue me from life’s difficulties. This was a jarring realization and a step toward understanding that the strength I sought resided within me, not in a figure outside myself.

Facing Life Without External Rescue

Without the comforting belief in an external divine rescuer, I’ve been forced to confront the consequences of my actions head-on. When I experience anxiety or sadness, there’s no longer a religious framework to hold me up or provide relief. Instead, I’ve learned to turn inward, tapping into my internal strength. This shift has been challenging, as it means taking full responsibility for my actions and their impact on others and myself. The loss of an external “reset” for human failures can be painful, yet it raises the question of whether such a resolution is truly necessary—or even possible.

Rediscovering Power Within

As a psychotherapist, I’ve found that the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model reflects much of this journey inward. IFS teaches that we all have a core “Self” capable of healing and loving the different parts of our psyche. It’s a concept that mirrors what traditional religions often attribute to an external divine force. In my spiritual journey, I’ve seen this internal power as immutable—something we all possess but may overlook if we remain focused on external sources. While these ideas can be unsettling for those who find comfort in traditional beliefs, I cannot return to my former way of thinking. Today, I believe that the Divine, if it exists, wants us to embrace our internal authority and stand firm in our power grounded in love and curiosity.

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If you find this topic interesting, I recommend Leaving the Saints: How I Lost the Mormons and Found My Faith, or The Dark Night of the Soul.

Where Access to the PAST is Healing: Enhancing Your Capacity to Live in the Present

I recently collaborated with a colleague, Alexandria Jones, who wrote an extensive article on Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy (PAST). Drawing from her insightful work, I wanted to share some important aspects here, highlighting the therapeutic potential of combining psychedelics with sex therapy to support sexual healing and well-being.

What is Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy and its History?

Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy (PAST) is an innovative approach combining psychedelic medicine with sex therapy to support sexual healing. It involves using substances like MDMA, psilocybin, LSD, or ketamine in a safe, trauma-informed environment under the guidance of a licensed mental health provider and certified sex therapist. These therapists create a consented, supportive space to help clients navigate their sexual healing journey.

The roots of PAST can be traced back to ancient practices like Tantra, which originated in the Hindu framework around the first millennium CE. Tantra's meditative and ritual practices, emphasizing sacred sexuality and spiritual connection, laid the foundation for integrating psychedelics with therapeutic practices. Today, PAST distinguishes itself by requiring a clear therapeutic framework, ensuring consent, boundaries, and a respectful therapist-client relationship.

Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy Techniques, Approaches, and Uses

Researchers and therapists are exploring the potential of psychedelic medicine to address sexual difficulties and enhance intimacy. Various therapeutic approaches can be interwoven into the psychedelic therapy journey, whether in preparation, the medicine experience, or integration phases.

In my book, "Unfolding Eros - A Journey into Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy," I explore how psychedelics can be integrated into sex therapy. The combining traditional therapeutic approaches with the unique properties of psychedelics to support sexual healing has great potential.

Benefits: Who Can PAST Help?

PAST can benefit a wide range of individuals, offering healing for various sexual and relational issues. Here are some issues PAST can address:

• Sexual communication and relationship difficulties

• Intimacy and connection issues

• Low or inhibited sexual desire

• Sexual dysfunction

• Religious trauma

• Couples' desire discrepancy

• Premature ejaculation

• Erectile dysfunction

• Arousal and orgasm difficulties

• Intimacy after infidelity or addiction

• Concerns about pornography usage

• Exploring LGBTQ issues

• Alternative lifestyles, swinging, and open relationships

• Polyamory, kink, and fetishes

• BDSM challenges

• Male and female sexual health

• Pain during sex (Vaginismus, Dyspareunia)

• Sexual trauma

• Sex after pregnancy or cancer

• Sexual issues related to infertility treatments

Effectiveness

While specific research on PAST is limited, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. For instance, recent MDMA trials have shown significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, which is promising for survivors of sexual trauma. These studies indicate that psychedelics can alter the brain's response to traumatic memories, enhance emotional regulation, and foster self-compassion and empathy.

Research also suggests that psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin have potential in treating anxiety and depression, common among individuals experiencing sexual dysfunction or trauma. These findings highlight the transformative potential of psychedelics in addressing complex emotional and psychological issues.

How is it Different from Traditional Psychedelic Therapy?

PAST integrates elements that traditional psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy may overlook. It emphasizes a holistic approach, incorporating nature-based practices, decolonizing perspectives, somatic and body-centered methods, and a strong focus on consent and boundaries. The community-based and family systems approach of PAST also distinguishes it from more conventional therapeutic models.

In PAST, the therapeutic relationship involves open dialogue about sexual energy, boundaries, and consent, ensuring a safe and respectful space for clients to explore their sexual healing.

How to Get Started as a Client

To begin your journey with PAST, seek out a psychedelic-assisted sex therapy provider who is also a certified sex therapist who offers integration with medicine journeys. If local providers are unavailable, consider traveling to a provider or consulting a certified sex therapist for support.

Finding the right clinician involves screening and asking questions to ensure they have the necessary expertise and experience. It's essential to find a therapist who understands the unique challenges and dynamics of PAST.

Becoming Psychedelic Sex Therapy Informed

For clinicians interested in PAST, Alexandria and I agree, it's very important to understand the scope of practice and know when to refer clients to a specialist. Collaboration with local holistic sex therapists and continuous education are vital for providing the best care.

Why Do We Need a Curriculum for Sex Therapists to be Trained and Become More Informed?

Developing a curriculum for PAST is essential as it prepares therapists to work safely and effectively with clients in this unique modality. Such training should cover psychedelic therapy foundations, sex therapy basics, integration of both practices, clinical skills, ethical considerations, and ongoing professional development.

A well-rounded curriculum ensures therapists are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation needed to incorporate psychedelics into sex therapy practices safely. This comprehensive approach will enhance the field and support therapists in providing effective, transformative care for their clients.

For more information on PAST and resources, visit my colleague at Rooted Healing Sanctuary.