Digital program to prepare for psychedelic experiences using meditation or music
Digital Intervention for Psychedelic Preparation (DIPP): A Randomised Controlled Feasibility Trial Comparing Meditation and Music-Based Programs in Healthy Volunteers.
This study is testing a 21-day digital program using either meditation or music to help healthy people prepare for a psilocybin experience and see how it affects their journey.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University College, London Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London) |
| Trial ID | NCT06815653 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled feasibility trial evaluates the Digital Intervention for Psychedelic Preparation (DIPP), a 21-day self-guided program aimed at preparing healthy individuals for psychedelic experiences. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a meditation-based intervention or a music-based control condition, both following identical program structures. After the preparation period, participants will undergo a supervised psilocybin session, with follow-up assessments to evaluate feasibility and adherence to the program. The study aims to explore the impact of psychological preparation on the outcomes of psychedelic experiences.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 21-65 with limited prior psychedelic use and minimal meditation experience.
Not a fit: Patients with current or past psychiatric diagnoses or significant prior psychedelic experience may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the therapeutic potential of psychedelics by establishing effective preparation methods that improve psychological outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been explored, structured preparation protocols like this are relatively novel and have not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Aged 21-65 years. Limited psychedelic use (0-5 sessions involving a high/full dose, defined as producing noticeable psychoactive effects beyond microdosing; none in the past 6 months). Minimal meditation experience (≤10 sessions exceeding 30 minutes; no retreats or regular practice). Native English speaking. Normal or corrected-to-normal colour vision. Able and willing to provide informed consent. Able to engage with all study requirements, including in-person and remote sessions. UK resident registered with a primary care practice. Agree to allow research team contact with primary/secondary care teams if needed. Access to mobile smartphone. Exclusion Criteria: Current or past psychiatric diagnosis (e.g., depression, anxiety) unless in clear remission for at least 5 years and assessed as low-risk. Current or past psychotic or bipolar disorder diagnosis. First degree relative with psychotic or bipolar disorder diagnosis. Current or past behaviours, including attempts, planning or intention. Medically significant physical health conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, epilepsy, migraines, focal scalp sensitivity, or any condition posing a safety risk). Use of medications interacting with psilocybin (e.g., antipsychotics, SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, mood stabilisers). Psychoactive drug use within 30 days (except nicotine or caffeine). Pregnancy, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Participation in a drug trial within 6 months. MRI contraindications (e.g., metal implants, pacemakers, severe claustrophobia).
Where this trial is running
London
- University College London — London, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jeremy I Skipper
- Email: dipp-project@ucl.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7679 2000
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.