Perceptions of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Authors: Haley Bowman, Mitch Earleywine

SUNY Campus: University at Albany

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 111

Presentation #: 63

Timeslot: Session C 1:45-2:45 PM

Abstract: This research project tests how educational materials influence individuals’ perceptions of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Previous literature indicates that educational materials shape perceptions of credibility. The hypothesis predicts that education will enhance positive perceptions. This study recruited participants from Sona systems and Prolific, with 924 individuals completing the study. The questionnaire gathered demographic information, assessed drug use history, and measured participants’ beliefs about the causes of depression. Participants then evaluated treatment credibility by responding to open-ended questions, the TAAS questionnaire, the CEQ questionnaire, and the KAP credibility questionnaire. The results indicate that education does not consistently improve perceptions of KAP. Participants provided significantly more positive spontaneous comments after exposure to the educational materials, but negative comments did not significantly decrease. Attitudes before the intervention did not differ based on beliefs about depression’s causes. However, those who attributed depression to non-biological causes expressed more positive post-intervention responses and greater confidence in treatment effectiveness. These findings clarify the role of educational materials in shaping attitudes toward mental health treatments. More importantly, they offer insight into current perceptions of KAP and highlight ways to improve educational materials to strengthen support for this treatment. Clearly, KAP will require increases in education to raise public perceptions of its credibility.