Is it true that the most commonly used substances in psychedelic therapy are psilocybin (from mushrooms), MDMA (XTC), LSD, and ayahuasca?
Yes, that is largely correct — although there are a few important nuances:
This is by far the most widely used and researched psychedelic substance in therapy. In the Netherlands, psilocybin is legally offered in the form of magic truffles, under supervision in a psilocybin session. It is used for depression, trauma, addiction, and self-development. Psilocybin promotes introspection, self-insight, and emotional processing.
Although it is used recreationally as XTC, it is MDMA in a therapeutic context That's another story. It is particularly effective at PTSD, social anxiety and emotional blockages, because it promotes empathy and safety. In the Netherlands, MDMA may not be legally distributed, but MDMA therapy is sometimes offered with MDMA brought and tested by the client, under the supervision of a therapist. See, for example, the explanation on the forum about MDMA therapy.
LSD is less emotional than MDMA and less spiritual than psilocybin, but is known for deep insights and cognitive flexibility. At Triptherapie, work is done with a legal LSD analogue which has the same effect. It is particularly popular among people focused on creativity, self-exploration, and profound psychological processes.
Although ayahuasca is known worldwide, this drink is not legal in the Netherlands because of the active ingredient DMT. That is why ayahuasca is not officially used at Triptherapie. There is, however, a legal variant named psiloflora (truffles + passionflower), which has a similar spiritual and introspective effect to ayahuasca. This is offered, for example, during a psiloflora ceremony.
Yes, psilocybin, MDMA, LSD and ayahuasca are the best-known substances worldwide within psychedelic therapy. In the Netherlands, are psilocybin (via truffles) and LSD analogues legally available. MDMA and ayahuasca can only be used in specific cases or with alternatives. Each substance has unique properties, applications, and contraindications — and therefore a tailored approach is always advised via the intake procedure.
Psilocybin is at the very top of our list. After that came MDMA (analog) when it was still legal. Third was LSD, and then ketamine (analog).