Catharina Messell | “A Music-Therapeutic Perspective on the Role of Music in Psychedelic Therapy”
This presentation explores the role of music as an interactive therapeutic tool in psychedelic therapy, both during preparation and throughout dosing sessions. From a music-therapeutic perspective, we will examine how the inherent structures and dynamics of music can translate into therapeutic qualities and processes.
Key topics and learning objectives include:
1. A brief introduction to the method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) and an exploration of how this approach can inform music selection when curating playlists for psychedelic therapy.
2. Perspectives on how the psychedelic therapist can understand and actively engage with music as a co-therapist during psychedelic sessions.
3. A discussion on the potential therapeutic benefits of introducing a music-based altered state of consciousness as preparation for psychedelic sessions.
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Catharina Messell holds a master’s degree in music therapy and is a certified GIM therapist (Guided Imagery and Music), a depth-psychological method rooted in early psychedelic-assisted therapy. Her professional focus centers on the role of music in facilitating and enhancing altered states of consciousness, with the goal of fostering psychological flexibility and personal growth.
As a clinician, Catharina has contributed to multiple research studies in Danish somatic and psychiatric hospitals, investigating how music-induced altered states and guided imagery can help regulate anxiety, stress, pain, nausea, and mood.
Currently, she works at NOESIS, the University Clinic for Psychedelic Research in Copenhagen, Denmark, where she is involved in research on the role of music in psilocybin-assisted therapy, both as a preparatory tool and as psychological support during psilocybin sessions. She is also a lead therapist in the Quantum Trip Trial, which explores psilocybin therapy for patients with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).
The event recording (talk without the Q&A) will be emailed to those who have purchased a ticket two weeks after the event and will remain available for viewing for a month thereafter.
Local Time
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Date: Apr 14 2025
- Time: 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
