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Date of Award

Spring 2025

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Kaitlyn Gamber, MMS, PA-C

Abstract

At the end of 2023, results from the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Survey revealed that approximately 3.6% of the global population experiences PTSD in any given year, with an estimated 1 in 11 people diagnosed at some point in their lifetime. Current FDA-approved treatments, including trauma-focused psychotherapies, as well as pharmacotherapies such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), offer moderate efficacy. However, long-term outcomes show that most patients fail to achieve sustained clinical improvements from this treatment regimen. Without effective symptom management, individuals often face persistent cognitive and mood disturbances stemming from distorted beliefs about themselves and others, which are rooted in trauma. Comprehensive treatment plans should aim to resolve these issues and improve quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), traditionally known as a recreational drug, shows promise as an adjunct to psychotherapy for treatment-resistant PTSD.

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Psychotherapy Approach Utilizing MDMA in the Treatment of PTSD

At the end of 2023, results from the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Survey revealed that approximately 3.6% of the global population experiences PTSD in any given year, with an estimated 1 in 11 people diagnosed at some point in their lifetime. Current FDA-approved treatments, including trauma-focused psychotherapies, as well as pharmacotherapies such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), offer moderate efficacy. However, long-term outcomes show that most patients fail to achieve sustained clinical improvements from this treatment regimen. Without effective symptom management, individuals often face persistent cognitive and mood disturbances stemming from distorted beliefs about themselves and others, which are rooted in trauma. Comprehensive treatment plans should aim to resolve these issues and improve quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), traditionally known as a recreational drug, shows promise as an adjunct to psychotherapy for treatment-resistant PTSD.