Low-5 in Therapy – Early Evidence of a Safer Psychedelic Path
Preliminary findings suggest Low-5 might offer therapeutic benefits with fewer risks. This report outlines where low-dose 5-MeO-DMT shows promise in psychotherapy—and what questions remain for future.
A priority of The Pattern Project research is identifying how Low-5 (low dose 5-MeO-DMT) can be used in psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). Today, we are thrilled to release our foundational report on this very topic.
The Pattern Project Experience Survey indicates that Low-5 can elicit gentle, psychedelic effects that enhance mindfulness, emotional processing, and somatic states that users have agency over. This profile, paired with its short-lasting effects, suggests that Low-5 may offer a more accessible and cost-effective treatment option for PAT compared to longer-lasting psychedelics, such as psilocybin and MDMA.
However, several questions remain about its implementation in clinical practice. What benefits and barriers exist for psychotherapists to use this new modality? What structure should Low-5 sessions follow? While clinical trials are needed to determine its efficacy and safety, understanding the practical nuances of PAT with Low-5 is a pivotal step towards clinical adoption.
To address these questions, our team has started growing a Community of Practice with psychotherapists, healthcare providers, and PAT facilitators who are evaluating Low-5 applications for therapy. Our goal is to collaboratively develop and discover protocols and educational resources about this innovative modality, paving the way for large-scale research, regulatory advocacy, and clinical use.
Our first project from our Community of Practice involved consulting professionals in the field about their current knowledge of Low-5 in psycholytic therapy. This modality of PAT uses lower doses of psychedelics to gradually enhance psychotherapy outcomes. We summarized these consultation findings to create a foundational report for clinicians, researchers, and the public. This resource aims to stimulate discussion and awareness about Low-5, psycholytic therapy, and innovative ways to improve mental health supports.
As we present these initial findings, we emphasize our commitment to validating Low-5 protocols and theories with experts to ensure a comprehensive and accurate evidence base. Ultimately, we hope Low-5 will improve treatment access and position Canada as a leader in psychedelic health services.
-The Pattern Project Team
Interested in joining our Community of Practice? Email hello@patternproject.ca re: Community of Practice.