Psychedelics on the Couch

A resurgence of research on psychedelics for common mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictions, is rapidly shifting emerging practices in mental health care. Psychoactive substances, including MDMA and psilocybin, received breakthrough treatment status from the Food and Drug Administration, with MDMA expected to be available by prescription in the next year or two. Colorado recently legalized and decriminalized psilocybin mushrooms. Certain plant medicines, such as ayahuasca and ibogaine, have long histories of use and are also being investigated in clinical trials. Ketamine assisted psychotherapy is already being offered across the country for depression and suicidality. Opportunities for mental health and healing professionals to offer their skills within a new practice model of psychedelic-assisted therapy will increase exponentially over the next decade.

This introductory workshop for mental health and healing professionals 1) unpacks our  political and socio-cultural baggage around psychedelics as drugs and medicines, 2) provides frameworks…