TDNet Discover

Background: Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remain among the most common mental health conditions in the United States, with limited progress in pharmacologic innovation since the introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Psychedelic-assisted therapy has re-emerged as a potential alternative for treatmentresistant psychiatric disorders. However, the perceptions of physician assistants (PAs) and PA students toward psychedelics remain unexamined. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the attitudes, biases, and knowledge of PA students and certified PAs regarding psychedelic-assisted therapy and its potential use in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed nationwide to licensed PAs and PA students using SurveyMonkey from April 15 to May 19, 2025. Participants completed 15 close-ended questions assessing their knowledge and opinions on psychedelic use. Responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in Intellectus software, with significance set at p < .05. Results: Of 591 respondents, 532 completed the survey (396 PA students, 136 certified PAs). PA students who reported higher psychedelic knowledge expressed greater support for clinical research and therapeutic use, with significantly lower perceptions of risk (p < .05). Conversely, certified PAs with higher self-reported knowledge were more cautious, expressing greater concern about psychiatric and cognitive risks and stronger support for recreational illegality and Schedule I classification (p < .05). Conclusion: Knowledge level and professional status influenced attitudes toward psychedelicassisted therapy. PA students demonstrated more openness to its therapeutic potential, while certified PAs maintained greater caution, likely reflecting clinical experience and legal v awareness. Expanding evidence-based education on psychedelic medicine may help align professional perspectives with emerging research and prepare providers for future integration into psychiatric care.