This thesis aimed to explore psychological interventions and support options, including psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for neurodivergent individuals with mental health conditions. As many as 80% of neurodivergent individuals experience various mental health challenges at some point in their lives. As such, this topic was important to address in research due to the rise in neurodivergent diagnoses such as autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), and the clinical need to adequately support this population in which depression, anxiety, and other mental health difficulties often co-occur.
Section one presents a systematic review and meta-ethnography which aimed to synthesise qualitative literature examining psychological interventions/support options, from the perspectives of autistic individuals and those with ADHD. Twenty-five papers met eligibility criteria for inclusion. The findings are presented and discussed, in this section. The findings highlight key factors influencing intervention experiences, detailing important aspects that are helpful or hindering for this population. Clinicians and service providers are advised to consider the findings in order to meet the needs of this population, and shape service development.
Section two presents an empirical study which aimed to explore the lived experience perspectives of receiving psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for depression and/or anxiety, among neurodivergent individuals. Participants (n=9) were recruited online and interviewed about their experiences. Data were analysed, using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Findings are presented and discussed, in this section. The findings highlight what was important for participants when accessing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, in the context of managing their depression and/or anxiety. Further research should investigate neurodivergent experiences of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy with randomised controlled trials. Clinicians are advised to be aware of the findings when providing support of any kind to neurodivergent individuals.
Section three presents a critical appraisal, discussing connections between the meta-ethnography and research paper. It includes reflections, quality assessments, clinical implications, and directions for future research.