🏥 Psychedelic Therapy Protocols
Evidence-based protocols for psychedelic-assisted therapy including detailed session structures, dosing guidelines, and therapeutic frameworks for various conditions.
Protocol Overview
Evidence-Based
All protocols are derived from peer-reviewed clinical trials and established therapeutic frameworks used in research settings.
Safety-First
Comprehensive screening, preparation, and support systems ensure participant safety throughout the therapeutic process.
Condition-Specific
Tailored approaches for depression, PTSD, anxiety, addiction, and end-of-life distress with specific modifications.
Standard Protocol Structure
Screening
Medical and psychological assessment, contraindication review, informed consent
Preparation
2-3 sessions building rapport, setting intentions, teaching coping skills
Dosing Session
6-8 hour medicine session with trained therapists in supportive setting
Integration
Multiple sessions processing experience and implementing insights
Follow-up
Long-term support, outcome assessment, and maintenance care
Condition-Specific Protocols
Treatment-Resistant Depression
PTSD
End-of-Life Anxiety
Alcohol Use Disorder
Session Structure Details
Preparation Session
Medicine Session
Integration Session
Therapeutic Elements
Music Program
Carefully curated playlist following the experience arc: onset, ascent, peak, descent, return.
Eyeshades
Worn during most of the session to encourage internal focus and reduce external distraction.
Comfortable Setting
Living room-like environment with comfortable couch, blankets, and calming décor.
Two Therapists
Male-female dyad provides balanced support and safety throughout the session.
Supportive Touch
Consented hand-holding or gentle touch during difficult moments provides grounding.
Minimal Talking
Therapists speak only when necessary, allowing the experience to unfold naturally.
Vital Monitoring
Regular blood pressure, heart rate checks ensure physical safety throughout.
Inner Guidance
"Trust, let go, be open" - core instructions that guide the participant's approach.
Dosing Guidelines
Psilocybin Dosing in Clinical Trials
Clinical research uses synthetic psilocybin in precise doses. The table shows commonly used doses and their effects in therapeutic settings.
| Dose Level | Amount | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Placebo-like | 1mg | No perceptual effects, control condition |
| Low | 10mg | Mild effects, enhanced mood, some visuals |
| Moderate | 20mg | Notable effects, emotional processing |
| High | 25mg | Standard therapeutic dose, mystical experiences |
| Very High | 30-40mg | Intense experience, used in some trials |
Dose-Response Relationship
Very High (30-40mg)
Profound mystical experiences, ego dissolution
High (25mg)
Standard therapeutic dose, deep insights
Moderate (20mg)
Emotional processing, meaningful experience
Low (10mg)
Mild enhancement, subtle effects
Placebo (1mg)
Control condition, no psychedelic effects
Safety Protocols
Comprehensive Screening
Medical history, psychiatric evaluation, ECG, blood work, and thorough contraindication assessment before enrollment.
Exclusion Criteria
Personal or family history of psychosis, current suicidal ideation, uncontrolled hypertension, certain medications.
24/7 Support Line
Research participants have access to study staff around the clock for any concerns or difficulties.
Emergency Medications
Benzodiazepines and other rescue medications available if needed, though rarely used.
Medical Proximity
Sessions conducted in or near medical facilities with emergency response capabilities.
Ongoing Assessment
Regular safety monitoring throughout the trial with adverse event tracking and reporting.
Research Evidence
Depression Response
Showed clinically significant response at 4-week follow-up (COMPASS Pathways)
PTSD Remission
No longer met PTSD criteria after MDMA-assisted therapy (MAPS Phase 3)
Alcohol Reduction
Reduction in heavy drinking days vs active placebo (NYU study)
Anxiety Relief
Sustained decreases in cancer-related anxiety at 6 months (Johns Hopkins)