Episode 23: Psychedelic Assisted Therapy

About this episode

This episode explores the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and its implications for mental health treatment.

Episode Overview This episode explores the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and how substances once heavily stigmatized are now being studied and used as treatments for mental health conditions. The conversation breaks down what these therapies are, how they work, and where the science is headed. Why Now? The “Psychedelic Renaissance” Early research in the 1960s–70s paused due to policy and stigma Resurgence began around 2010 Drivers of renewed interest: Stronger scientific evidence, Increased public awareness (media, podcasts, documentaries), Greater accessibility of research information. Who Might Benefit? People with: Treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, Addiction challenges Potential broader use: Early intervention, Preventative mental health care, Improving overall well-being (future direction) Key Benefits Highlighted Can increase psychological flexibility Helps people get “unstuck” May uncover root causes of distress Provides a sense of hope when other treatments fail Challenges & Considerations Access remains limited and expensive Requires trained professionals and structured support Not effective for everyone Ethical concern: ensuring equitable access…

People in this episode

Host: Jessica Samuels

Topics covered

• psychedelic-assisted therapy
• mental health
• treatment-resistant depression
• PTSD
• addiction
• ethical considerations
• future of therapy

Keywords

• psychedelic therapy
• mental health
• treatment-resistant depression
• PTSD
• addiction
• psychological flexibility
• ethical concerns

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CMHA Kelowna

Places: 1960s–70s, 2010

More episodes of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health

• Episode 27: Bridging the Gap: Bringing Foundry to the Westside · May 27, 2026 · 13 min
• Episode 26: Mental Health in South Asian Communities · May 13, 2026 · 28 min
• Episode 25: Rising Housing Costs & Mental Health · April 29, 2026 · 25 min
• Episode 24: Substance Use and Addiction: The Recovery Journey · April 15, 2026 · 34 min
• Episode 22: Complex Grief: Finding a Way Forward · March 17, 2026 · 24 min
• Episode 21: Relationships, Money, & Mental Health · December 10, 2025 · 14 min