Psilocybin Facilitation Services
Exploring Inner Healing Journeys
Delivering Psilocybin Facilitation in Southern Oregon
Becca Parker, Certified Psilocybin Facilitator, RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Midwife, Nutritionist
BECCA'S CURATED RESOURCES
Welcome to the Resources page of Becca Parker’s website for psilocybin facilitation! Here, you'll find essential information with legal details, useful links, and access to additional research materials. Whether you're looking for legal guidance, FAQs, or further studies on psilocybin, this page offers a broad list of resources to support your journey. Explore everything from regulatory updates to expert insights, helping you stay informed and empowered throughout your experience.
DISCLAIMER:
All information on this website does not, & is not intended to constitute medical advice. All information, content & materials available on this site are for general informational, and educational purposes only.
LEGALITIES
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS USE OF PSILOCYBIN LEGAL? Psilocybin is legally available in a limited number of locations, often with restrictions or under specific therapeutic guidelines. Here are the key places where it is allowed: 1. Oregon, USA: In 2020, Oregon became the first U.S. state to legalize psilocybin for therapeutic use in supervised settings. Licensed facilitators in Oregon provide guided psilocybin sessions, primarily to help with mental health conditions, although some cities in the state are considering local bans. 2. Colorado, USA: Colorado decriminalized psilocybin in 2022, allowing adults to use it for personal use and facilitating its use in controlled settings. However, retail sales remain prohibited. 3. Australia: As of 2023, Australia has legalized the medical use of psilocybin and MDMA for specific mental health conditions, including PTSD, allowing it to be prescribed by qualified psychiatrists. 4. Canada: In Alberta, psilocybin has been approved for therapeutic use in drug-assisted psychotherapy as of early 2023, though only under specific regulations. Canada also allows for the limited medical use of psilocybin in cases approved by Health Canada. 5. Countries with Decriminalized Use: Some countries, such as Brazil, Jamaica, and the Netherlands, have decriminalized psilocybin, with places like Jamaica and the Netherlands offering "psilocybin retreats" where the substance can be used in guided sessions. Other U.S. cities (e.g., Denver, Oakland, and Seattle) have also decriminalized psilocybin at the municipal level, which generally means law enforcement deprioritizes prosecuting its use but does not allow for legal sales or distribution.
PORTUGAL'S DECRIMINALIZATION OF DRUGS & THE PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACT Portugal’s approach to drug policy, which involves the decriminalization of all drugs since 2001, has shown promising results for public health, particularly in reducing the mental health crisis and improving individual well-being. This policy shift reframed drug use as a health issue rather than a criminal matter. People found with small quantities of drugs face no legal penalties and are instead directed to health and social services. This reform has helped reduce the stigma surrounding drug use, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of prosecution. Portugal’s strategy combined decriminalization with increased access to harm reduction and treatment services, such as clean needle exchanges, low-threshold methadone therapy, and expanded mental health support. This comprehensive approach has led to a decline in drug addiction rates, a drop in drug-related deaths (remaining well below the European average), and a reduction in the social costs associated with drug misuse. Overall, the approach has also improved the relationship between communities and law enforcement, as people are more likely to engage with health services instead of the criminal justice system. Recent policy updates in Portugal include decriminalizing the possession of synthetic drugs like LSD and MDMA, which has further supported harm reduction by prioritizing health over punitive measures. Experts note that this progressive stance allows for better health monitoring and even supports potential medical research on psychedelics, which could help address mental health issues by providing legal pathways for scientific exploration of their therapeutic benefits. These efforts have not increased drug use but have contributed to Portugal’s image as a model for harm reduction and mental health-focused drug policy worldwide. The outcomes support that a public health-centered approach to drug policy can effectively reduce addiction, improve mental health outcomes, and reduce the societal impacts of drug misuse. Sources: UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics End the War on Drugs
LEGALITIES Oregon Psilocybin Services Ballot Measure 109 ( now codified as ORS 475A) passed on Nov 11,2020, and it directed the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to license and regulate the manufacturing, testing, transportation , delivery, sale and purchase of psilocybin products. oregon.gov. * Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) is housed within the Oregon Health Authority Public health Divisions's Center for Health Protection. To read a summary of their recent work, please see the OPS2023 Year in Review. * The National Defense Authorization Act: Legislation was passed to research the use of psilocybin to treat PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in active duty service members as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA. 12-22-23
RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE * National Sexual Abuse Hotline 1-800-656-4673. rainn.org Available 24 hours. * Forum- The Mighty. Themighty,com. A free online health community . Available 24/7. * Project LETS. ProjectLETS.org. Offers spaces for trauma survivors to share their stories and resources.Peer led. * Survivorsforum.womensaid.org.uk
RESEARCH
SAFETY Psilocybin, the active compound in certain species of psychedelic mushrooms, has been increasingly studied for its therapeutic potential and safety profile. Below are a few key scientific studies focusing on the safety and potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin: 1. Griffiths et al. (2006): Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance Journal: Psychopharmacology Summary: This study assessed the safety and psychological effects of psilocybin in healthy volunteers. Participants reported significant mystical-type experiences with positive long-term psychological benefits. No severe adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: Psilocybin was found to be safe in a controlled setting, with the potential for long-lasting psychological benefits when used responsibly. Link: Griffiths et al., 2006 2. Carhart-Harris et al. (2016): Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study Journal: The Lancet Psychiatry Summary: This clinical study explored the use of psilocybin in patients with treatment-resistant depression. After receiving two doses of psilocybin, participants showed significant improvements in depressive symptoms, some lasting up to 3 months. Conclusion: The study found that psilocybin was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events, supporting its potential as a treatment for depression. Link: Carhart-Harris et al., 2016 3. Johnson et al. (2014): Safety and efficacy of psilocybin in treating anxiety in patients with advanced-stage cancer Journal: Journal of Psychopharmacology Summary: This study evaluated psilocybin’s efficacy in reducing anxiety and depression in cancer patients. Results showed significant reductions in anxiety and depression following a single dose, with effects lasting several weeks to months. Conclusion: Psilocybin was found to be safe with manageable side effects, making it a promising option for palliative care. Link: Johnson et al., 2014 4. Griffiths et al. (2018): Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial Journal: Journal of Psychopharmacology Summary: This randomized, double-blind study assessed the effects of psilocybin on patients with life-threatening cancer. Patients experienced significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and existential distress after receiving psilocybin. Conclusion: Psilocybin was deemed safe in the short and long term, offering substantial improvements in mental health conditions related to cancer. Link: Griffiths et al., 2018 5. Nichols (2016): Psychedelics Journal: Pharmacological Reviews Summary: This review article covers the pharmacology, effects, and safety of psychedelics, including psilocybin. It highlights the low toxicity, lack of dependence potential, and the relatively safe profile of psilocybin when used in controlled environments. Conclusion: Psilocybin is considered safe for research and therapeutic use under medical supervision. Link: Nichols, 2016 6. Ross et al. (2016): Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial Journal: Journal of Psychopharmacology Summary: This trial involved patients with life-threatening cancer who were administered psilocybin to address anxiety and depression. The results showed significant improvements in both anxiety and depression, with sustained effects. Conclusion: Psilocybin was well-tolerated and produced rapid and sustained improvements in psychological well-being. Link: Ross et al., 2016 These studies generally support the conclusion that psilocybin is safe when administered in controlled, supervised environments, with promising therapeutic potential for treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and existential distress, particularly in life-threatening situations
ADDICTION WHAT WOULD BE THE IMPACT OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION ON A PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY? Combining alcohol with psilocybin is discouraged due to potential negative effects on both the physical and psychological aspects of a psilocybin journey. Here’s a breakdown of some potential impacts: 1. Increased Physical Risks •Dehydration: Both alcohol and psilocybin can lead to dehydration, which can increase discomfort and negatively impact the journey. •Nausea and Vomiting: Alcohol can intensify nausea, which is an occasional side effect of psilocybin. This combination may lead to vomiting, dizziness, and overall physical discomfort. •Reduced Coordination: Alcohol impairs motor skills and balance, which, when combined with the altered perception from psilocybin, can increase the risk of accidents or injuries. 2. Blunting of the Psychedelic Experience •Reduced Intensity of Effects: Alcohol can dull the psychedelic experience by interfering with the clarity and intensity of psilocybin's effects. Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, which might counteract the heightened awareness and insights often associated with psilocybin. •Lowered Emotional Insight: Psilocybin often facilitates deep introspection, emotional openness, and self-reflection, which alcohol can diminish. Alcohol can make it more difficult to fully engage with the emotional aspects of the journey, potentially reducing therapeutic or introspective value. 3. Increased Risk of a "Bad Trip" •Anxiety and Confusion: Alcohol may increase feelings of confusion, disorientation, or even panic during a psilocybin experience. The interaction can lead to a loss of mental clarity, making it harder to process or understand the intense visual or emotional experiences that psilocybin may produce. •Negative Emotional Reactions: Alcohol can lead to emotional volatility or impulsivity, which, when paired with the profound insights or hallucinations from psilocybin, may increase the likelihood of negative emotional responses or challenging thoughts. 4. Impairment of Therapeutic Potential •Disruption of Set and Setting: Psilocybin journeys rely on a positive mindset and safe, controlled environment (often called “set and setting”) for maximum therapeutic benefit. Alcohol can disrupt this by impairing judgment, increasing impulsivity, and creating a sense of instability, which can undermine the therapeutic value of the experience. •Reduced Memory Retention: Alcohol affects memory retention, and some people report not remembering parts of the psilocybin experience if they were drinking. This can lead to a fragmented or incomplete recollection of the journey, limiting the ability to integrate insights after the experience. Summary In general, combining alcohol with psilocybin is not recommended. It can lead to increased physical discomfort, heightened emotional risk, and a reduction in the depth and clarity of the psilocybin experience. For those considering psilocybin for therapeutic or personal growth purposes, avoiding alcohol is suggested to maximize safety and the potential benefits of the journey. What would be the impact of alcohol consumption on seratonin receptors during a psilocybin journey ? Alcohol and psilocybin interact with serotonin receptors in different ways, and consuming alcohol during a psilocybin experience can interfere with psilocybin’s effects on serotonin pathways. Here’s how each substance affects serotonin receptors and what happens when they’re combined: 1. Psilocybin’s Action on Serotonin Receptors •Psilocybin primarily acts on the 5-HT2A receptors, a subtype of serotonin receptors associated with perception, mood, and cognition. When psilocybin binds to these receptors, it induces the characteristic effects of a psychedelic experience, including altered perception, emotional insights, and sometimes profound euphoria or empathy. •Psilocybin also affects 5-HT1A receptors, which can produce calming and anxiolytic effects. These effects contribute to the reflective and open mental state that psilocybin typically induces. 2. Alcohol’s Impact on Serotonin Pathways •Alcohol affects serotonin indirectly by initially increasing its release, but chronic or high doses of alcohol can lead to serotonin depletion in the brain over time. This effect is associated with alcohol’s depressant properties and its role in influencing mood and relaxation. •Alcohol doesn’t bind directly to serotonin receptors the way psilocybin does but alters serotonin signaling, which can lead to fluctuations in mood and affect mental clarity. 3. Interaction Between Alcohol and Psilocybin on Serotonin Receptors •Dampened Psychedelic Effects: Alcohol’s interference with serotonin signaling can dull psilocybin’s effects on 5-HT2A receptors, potentially blunting the clarity, emotional openness, and insights associated with a psilocybin journey. •Mood Instability: Alcohol may disrupt serotonin balance, leading to emotional volatility or mood swings during the psilocybin experience. This could heighten the risk of anxiety, confusion, or paranoia, increasing the likelihood of a challenging experience. •Reduced Neuroplasticity: Psilocybin’s effects on serotonin receptors are linked to increases in neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. Alcohol, especially in higher amounts, can counteract this by impairing neuronal health and plasticity, potentially diminishing the cognitive benefits typically associated with psilocybin experiences. 4. Increased Risk of Serotonin Imbalance and Serotonin Syndrome •Although rare, high levels of serotonin activation from both alcohol (in certain individuals) and psilocybin may theoretically increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition caused by excessive serotonin activity. This risk is more common with other serotonergic drugs, but it’s worth considering when combining any substances that influence serotonin. Summary Alcohol consumption during a psilocybin journey can interfere with psilocybin’s action on serotonin receptors, dampening the psychedelic effects and potentially causing emotional volatility and cognitive impairment. Additionally, alcohol’s indirect impact on serotonin pathways may reduce the neuroplasticity benefits associated with psilocybin, limiting its therapeutic potential. For these reasons, it’s recommended to avoid alcohol when using psilocybin to maximize safety and positive outcomes. What is the optimal clearance time between ingestion of alcohol and psilocybin? The optimal clearance time between consuming alcohol and taking psilocybin depends on factors like the amount of alcohol consumed, individual metabolism, and the desired effects of psilocybin. However, as a general guideline, it is advisable to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after drinking alcohol before taking psilocybin to ensure minimal interaction and allow your body to fully process the alcohol. Here’s why this timeframe is recommended: 1. Alcohol Clearance and Metabolism •On average, the liver metabolizes one standard drink per hour. After moderate drinking (1 The optimal clearance time between alcohol and psilocybin ingestion is generally 24 to 48 hours, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and individual factors such as metabolism. This time frame allows for most, if not all, of the alcohol to be processed by the body and reduces the likelihood of adverse interactions. Here’s a breakdown of why this is important: 1. Metabolism of Alcohol •The liver typically metabolizes one standard drink per hour, but this rate can vary. After drinking more than 2–3 standard drinks, it may take up to 12 hours or more for your body to eliminate all alcohol from your bloodstream. •For moderate or heavy drinking, waiting a full 24 hours is ideal. After binge drinking, a 48-hour window is safer to ensure no residual effects from alcohol remain. 2. Mental and Emotional State •Alcohol can impair judgment, mood stability, and cognitive function. Allowing at least 24 hours gives your brain and body time to recover fully from these effects, which is essential for an optimal psilocybin experience, as psilocybin requires a clear and stable mental state. 3. Avoiding Potential Physical and Chemical Interactions •Alcohol can interfere with the serotonin system and nervous system activity, potentially impacting psilocybin's effects. Waiting 24 to 48 hours helps prevent any residual alcohol from altering psilocybin's interaction with serotonin receptors. Summary For a safe and effective psilocybin experience, a 24- to 48-hour clearance period after drinking alcohol is recommended. This allows for physical recovery, mental clarity, and the reduction of any potential interactions between alcohol and psilocybin
SELF EXPLORATION A psilocybin journey can be a powerful tool for self-exploration by promoting deeper introspection and emotional release. A psilocybin journey facilitated by a trained facilitator often allows for a more profound connection to oneself, leading to insights into personal challenges, relationships, or life direction. With the right mindset and preparation, and by integrating these insights afterward, people can use psilocybin to foster emotional healing, spiritual growth, and self-discovery.
END OF LIFE END OF LIFE PSYCHEDELIC CARE EOLPC.org Their mission is to create the environment where the safe use of psychedelic medicine is accessible and affordable for anyone faced with a life-threatening illness. End of Life Choices.org One of the choices is through a program called "Delivering Oneself" for those who do not meet the requirements for Death With Dignity. (Those qualifications are to be an OR resident, 21 years of age or older, have a terminal diagnosis with 6 months of life to live or less, and can self-administer the 4 drugs utilized. "Delivering Oneself" is a legal program.
WHEN DEEPER AND MORE EXTENSIVE WORK IS NEEDED When deeper or more extensive work is needed or wanted to heal trauma- Journey to Completion http://www.journeytocompletion.com/ offers an advanced process that combines psycho-therapeutic techniques with Jungian Depth Psychology to address "Shadow Work" Integration. It follows a powerful ancient pathway through the unconscious to break cycles of pain and retrieve creativity, then leads you back home to a deeper, more complete sense of self. Led by Norma Burton, who has studied with wisdom keepers around the world, the process blends sacred knowledge from the North, East, South, and West- the sacred four directions. Norma holds a M. Div in Psychology of Religion, MS, PhD, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, in Comparative Religions, Post Graduate studies in Somatic Psychology at SBGI. journeytocompletion.com.
CREATIVITY RESEARCH STUDIES ON THE USE OF PSILOCYBIN FOR CREATIVITY ChatGPT said: Research on psilocybin’s effects on creativity is relatively new, but several studies indicate that it may enhance creative thinking by altering brain activity and perception. Here are some notable studies and their findings: 1. Maastricht University – Effects of Microdosing on Creativity •Study: “Exploring the Acute and Long-Term Effects of Psilocybin on Creativity” •Reference: Prochazkova, L., et al. (2018). Psychopharmacology, 235(12), 3401-3413. •Findings: This study investigated the effects of microdosing psilocybin on divergent and convergent thinking, both of which are key components of creativity. Divergent thinking is associated with generating multiple solutions, while convergent thinking focuses on narrowing down to a single solution. Researchers found that microdosing psilocybin improved divergent thinking, suggesting enhanced originality and flexibility in thought. Convergent thinking was unaffected, suggesting that microdosing may support creative ideation without impairing problem-solving focus. 2. Imperial College London – Brain Connectivity and Creativity •Study: “Increased Brain Connectivity under Psilocybin and the Associated Boost in Creativity” •Reference: Carhart-Harris, R. L., et al. (2014). Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111(23), 8874-8879. •Findings: Researchers used fMRI to study psilocybin’s effects on brain connectivity and found that it temporarily enhances connectivity between different brain regions, particularly in the default mode network (DMN). Increased connectivity may lead to more fluid and flexible thought processes, allowing for new ideas and perspectives, which are crucial to creative thinking. Participants also reported a heightened sense of openness and emotional sensitivity, which are often associated with creativity. 3. University of Leiden – Microdosing and Creative Problem Solving •Study: “Psychedelic Microdosing and Enhancement of Creative Problem Solving” •Reference: Kuypers, K. P. C., et al. (2016). Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 1472. •Findings: This study focused on the effects of microdosing on creativity in a controlled setting. It found that psilocybin microdoses improved participants’ ability to think outside the box, particularly on tasks requiring unconventional solutions. Participants reported feeling more open-minded and less bound to rigid thought patterns, which enhanced their problem-solving abilities. These results suggest that even low doses of psilocybin may enhance creativity by enabling more flexible thinking. 4. University of California, Davis – Psilocybin’s Effect on Openness and Creative Thinking •Study: “Psilocybin-Induced Changes in Personality and Implications for Creativity” •Reference: MacLean, K. A., et al. (2011). Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(11), 1453-1461. •Findings: This longitudinal study observed that a single high-dose psilocybin session led to lasting increases in “openness,” a personality trait associated with creativity, curiosity, and imagination. Notably, these changes in openness persisted for over a year in many participants, suggesting that psilocybin may have long-term impacts on creative thinking by fostering openness to new ideas and experiences. 5. Experimental Studies on Flow States and Creativity •Study: “Exploring the Effects of Psychedelics on Flow and Creative Output” •Reference: Barrett, F. S., et al. (2020). Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 575509. •Findings: This study explored the relationship between psilocybin, flow states, and creativity. Psilocybin was found to increase the likelihood of experiencing flow—a mental state of deep immersion and focus, which is often linked to peak creative performance. Enhanced flow states can lead to more productive creative output and a stronger connection to the creative process, suggesting that psilocybin might facilitate both artistic and problem-solving creativity. Mechanisms Behind Psilocybin’s Effect on Creativity Several mechanisms have been proposed for psilocybin’s effects on creativity: •Enhanced Brain Connectivity: Psilocybin increases connectivity across different brain regions, promoting novel connections and associative thinking, both of which are critical to creative thought. •Reduced Default Mode Network Activity: Psilocybin reduces DMN activity, allowing people to think beyond self-referential or habitual patterns, potentially leading to more expansive and novel ideas. •Increased Openness: By enhancing openness, psilocybin helps individuals explore ideas they might otherwise dismiss, encouraging curiosity and innovative thinking. Summary Although research is in its early stages, studies indicate that psilocybin may enhance creativity by promoting flexible thinking, increasing openness, and enhancing the brain’s ability to form new connections. Further research is needed to establish standardized protocols, understand the optimal dosages, and explore the potential applications for creativity in professional and artistic contexts.
TRAUMA WHAT ARE THE STUDIES ON THE USE OF PSILOCYBIN FOR TRAUMA? Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, has garnered significant interest in recent years for its potential therapeutic applications, including the treatment of trauma-related conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While much of the research on psilocybin has focused on its efficacy in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction, emerging studies suggest promising avenues for its use in addressing trauma. Below is an overview of key scientific studies and findings related to the use of psilocybin for trauma: 1. Psilocybin and Emotional Processing in Trauma Study: Carhart-Harris et al. (2016) Title: "Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study" Findings: While primarily focused on depression, this study highlighted psilocybin's ability to enhance emotional processing and reduce rumination, which are critical factors in trauma recovery. Participants reported significant improvements in mood and emotional flexibility, suggesting potential benefits for trauma-related emotional dysregulation. 2. Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for PTSD Study: Garcia-Romeu et al. (2019) Title: "Psilocybin-occasioned mystical experiences in the treatment of tobacco addiction" Relevance to Trauma: Although centered on addiction, the study demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy could induce profound psychological experiences that facilitate behavioral change. These mechanisms are relevant for trauma treatment, where altering entrenched patterns of thought and behavior is essential. 3. Mechanisms of Action Relevant to Trauma Treatment Research Overview: Studies have explored how psilocybin interacts with the brain's serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, leading to increased neuroplasticity and connectivity between different brain regions. This enhanced connectivity may allow individuals to reprocess traumatic memories and integrate them in a healthier manner. Additionally, psilocybin-induced mystical experiences can foster a sense of interconnectedness and reduce fear responses, which are beneficial in trauma therapy. 4. Clinical Trials and Ongoing Research Ongoing Study: Institution: Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research Focus: Investigating the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy in various mental health conditions, including trauma-related disorders. Preliminary results indicate that psilocybin can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals with trauma histories, though specific studies on PTSD are still in progress. Ongoing Study: Institution: Imperial College London Focus: Exploring the potential of psilocybin to enhance psychotherapy for PTSD by facilitating emotional breakthroughs and reducing avoidance behaviors. 5. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Review: Pollan et al. (2022) Title: "Psychedelics and Mental Health: A Review of Current Evidence" Findings: This review synthesized data from multiple studies, concluding that psychedelics like psilocybin show promise in treating various mental health conditions, including those related to trauma. The authors call for more targeted research to fully understand psilocybin's efficacy and safety in trauma populations. 6. Safety and Ethical Considerations Study: Johnson et al. (2008) Title: "Human hallucinogen research: guidelines for safety" Findings: Emphasizes the importance of controlled environments and professional guidance when using psilocybin therapeutically, especially for individuals with trauma histories who may be more susceptible to adverse psychological reactions. Conclusion and Future Directions While the body of research specifically targeting psilocybin's use in trauma treatment is still developing, existing studies provide a foundational understanding of its potential benefits. Psilocybin-assisted therapy may offer a novel approach to trauma by facilitating emotional processing, enhancing neuroplasticity, and promoting psychological insights. However, more rigorous, trauma-focused clinical trials are necessary to establish efficacy, optimal dosing protocols, and safety profiles. Key Considerations for Future Research: Population Specificity: Focusing on individuals diagnosed with PTSD or complex trauma. Longitudinal Studies: Assessing the long-term effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy on trauma symptoms. Integration with Psychotherapy: Exploring how psilocybin can be effectively combined with existing therapeutic modalities for trauma. Safety Protocols: Ensuring robust safety measures to support individuals during and after psilocybin experiences. As regulatory landscapes evolve and the stigma surrounding psychedelics diminishes, it is anticipated that research on psilocybin for trauma will expand, potentially offering new hope for individuals struggling with the enduring impacts of traumatic experiences.
MORE RESOURCES Organizations *DecriminalizeNature.org. A grassroots organization advocating for the decriminalization of entheogenic plants. *UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics * End the War on Drugs. (The war on drugs is widely reviewed as a policy failure). www.aclu.org. NAACP.org for an Exit Strategy to end the war on drugs.
Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research hopkinspsychedelic.org. The center focuses on conducting research studies on psychedelics, which includes studying the potential therapeutic benefits and efficacy of psychedelics. Their vision is to advance the scientific understanding of psychedelics and their potential for treating mental health. Coyote-Institute.org. A 501c3 that aims toward "Two-Eyed Seeing", bringing the wisdom of indigenous peoples to the modern world. "The coyote is our muse, because coyote is a powerful North American symbol for change and transformation. Coyote's job is to intervene when any system gets too rigid and inflexible, providing input to move the leading
AMAZING
RESOURCES
RECOMMENDED BOOKS: I have listed 6 books here that I feel would prepare you well emotionally for your psilocybin journey. Please seriously consider reading them. * No Bad Parts. Richard Schwartz, PhD. 2021. Dr Schwartz is the creator of Internal Family Systems, a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic model that addresses "our inner critics", the "monkey mind" with an approach that ends a constant inner struggle. It is an excellent tool in working with the critic, the sabatour, guilt & shame and is an astounding tool for preparatory work and integration of a psilocybin journey. * The Body Keeps the Score. Bessel van der Kolk, MD. 2014. A pioneering & lead researcher who has transformed our understanding of trauma and offers a bold paradigm for healing. It offers understanding about trauma that is imperative to healing. * Workbook: The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Liam Daniels, 2023 * What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience & Healing. Bruce Perry, child psychiatrist, MD & Oprah Winfrey. Shifts the conversation from "what's wrong with you to what happened to you? * LSD & the Mind of the Universe: Diamonds from Heaven. Christopher Bache, PhD. 2019. Bache chronicles his 73 LSD journeys over the course of 20 years to deepen and understand his communion with cosmic consciousness. * The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women. Ellen Bass & Laura Davis.1988. Best selling self help book for survivors of incest.
WORTHY DOCUMENTARIES AND MOVIES 1) Fantastic Fungi : How Mushrooms can Heal, Shift Consciousness & Save the Planet. Paul Stamets The Way of the Psychonaut. Explores the life and work of Stanislav Grof, psychiatrist & psychedelic psychotherapy pioneer. Podcast: Adventures Through The Mind. You Tube. A Psychedelic Podcast hosted by author, Jamew W Jesso. This audio & video podcast presents long-form, unedited conversations with various experts. International Center for Ethnobotanical Education Research and Service (ICEERS). ICEERS is a non profit dedicated to navigate the challenges of the globalization of traditional indigenous medicines. The Psychedelic Pharmacists Association (PPA) psychedelicpharmacist.org The leading non-profit devoted to pharmacists advancing psychedelics as medicines. They advocate education about the therapeutic use of psilocybin medicines and their place in the continuum of care. Recommended Books: * No Bad Parts. Richard Schwartz, PhD. 2021. Dr Schwartz is the creator of Internal Family Systems, a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic model that addresses "our inner critics", the "monkey mind" with an approach that ends a constant inner struggle. It is an excellent tool in working with the critic, the sabatour, guilt & shame and is an astounding tool for preparatory work and integration of a psilocybin journey. * The Body Keeps the Score. Bessel van der Kolk, MD. 2014. A pioneering & lead researcher who has transformed our understanding of trauma and offers a bold paradigm for healing. It offers understanding about trauma that is imperative to healing. * Workbook: The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Liam Daniels, 2023 * The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women. Ellen Bass & Laura Davis.1988. Best selling self help book for survivors of incest. * What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience & Healing. Bruce Perry, child psychiatrist, MD & Oprah Winfrey. Shifts the conversation from "what's wrong with you to what happened to you? * LSD & the Mind of the Universe: Diamonds from Heaven. Christopher Bache, PhD. 2019. Bache chronicles his 73 LSD journeys over the course of 20 years to deepen and understand his communion with cosmic consciousness. Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research hopkinspsychedelic.org. The center focuses on conducting research studies on psychedelics, which includes studying the potential therapeutic benefits and efficacy of psychedelics. Their vision is to advance the scientific understanding of psychedelics and their potential for treating mental health. Coyote-Institute.org. A 501c3 that aims toward "Two-Eyed Seeing", bringing the wisdom of indigenous peoples to the modern world. "The coyote is our muse, because coyote is a powerful North American symbol for change and transformation. Coyote's job is to intervene when any system gets too rigid and inflexible, providing input to move the leading non profit system toward transformation and change. Erowid Center. www.erowid.org. The Erowid Center, a non profit educational organization that provides information about psychoactive plants and chemicals. Erovid has documented legal- and illegal- substances, including their intended and adverse effects- by thousands of participants. This link is presented for free access to information and ideas. The FAX page is an attempt to prepare 1st time users of psychoactive substances. One may refer to Erowid's summary pages in the substances main vault. The Hakomi Institute hakomiinstitute.com. Hakomi combines advances in neuroscience with the gentle inward-looking practice of Mindfulness. Conferences Coyote Institute. Two-Eyed Seeing. Jan 26-28, 2025. Online & in Maine. Psychedelic Science.org. June 16-20, 2025 MAPS sponsored conference, Denver, Colo. Zendo Project www.firesideproject.org. A non-profit founded in 2022 by mental health professionals and supported by a team of volunteers that includes doctors, psychedelic therapists, nurses, social workers, healing facilitators and harm reduction experts. Incubated for 10 years at MAPS, they provide free integration support and support during psychedelic experiences. They provide free education & psychedelic peer support services to organizations and communities.
NOTE WORTHY ORGANIZATIONS Erowid Center. www.erowid.org. The Erowid Center, a non profit educational organization that provides information about psychoactive plants and chemicals. Erovid has documented legal- and illegal- substances, including their intended and adverse effects- by thousands of participants. This link is presented for free access to information and ideas. The FAX page is an attempt to prepare 1st time users of psychoactive substances. One may refer to Erowid's summary pages in the substances main vault. The Hakomi Institute hakomiinstitute.com. Hakomi combines advances in neuroscience with the gentle inward-looking practice of Mindfulness.
CONFEERENCES Coyote Institute. Two-Eyed Seeing. Jan 26-28, 2025. Online & in Maine. Psychedelic Science.org. June 16-20, 2025 MAPS sponsored conference, Denver, Colo. Horizons: Perspectives on Psychedelics. An annual conference that covers cutting edge psilocybin research. horizonspbc.com Participating in conferences that discuss the therapeutic potential and safe use of psychedelics can open up dialogue. These events often feature experts from various fields such as psychiatry, neuroscience and anthropology.
ORGANIZATIONS Zendo Project www.firesideproject.org. A non-profit founded in 2022 by mental health professionals and supported by a team of volunteers that includes doctors, psychedelic therapists, nurses, social workers, healing facilitators and harm reduction experts. Incubated for 10 years at MAPS, they provide free integration support and support during psychedelic experiences. They provide free education & psychedelic peer support services to organizations and communities. need, while keeping your layout clean.