Previously I have shared articles on the progression of this new approach to treating PTSD that combines pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy.

This 2021 article gives an update on the research and points to some promising possibilities for a new approach to working with PTSD/C-PTSD.

The results of the studies were encouraging. Among participants who received MDMA, 56% no longer met PTSD criteria by the end of the study and, at a 12-month follow-up, that number rose to 67%. Mean change on participants’ Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-IV) fell around 45 points. Meanwhile, 23% of participants who received the placebo did not meet criteria for PTSD by the end of the study.

It is worth noting this treatment is not available currently and will require specific training so anyone interested in the area will not be able to access this approach from their psychiatrist or psychotherapist just yet.

The below video discussion with well known psychiatrist and trauma specialist Bessel Van Der Kolk looks at the area in more detail.