About this episode

Melissa Lavasani and Jay Kopelman discuss psychedelic policy and its implications for veterans in Washington, DC.

Melissa Lavasani & Jay Kopelman join our podcast to discuss how psychedelic policy is actually moving in Washington, DC. Lavasani leads Psychedelic Medicine Coalition , a DC-based advocacy organization focused on educating federal officials and advancing legislation around psychedelic medicine. Kopelman is CEO of Mission Within Foundation , which provides scholarships for veterans and first responders seeking psychedelic-assisted therapy retreats, often outside the United States . The conversation centers on veterans, the VA , and why that system may be the first realistic federal pathway for psychedelic care. Early Themes Lavasani describes PMC's work on Capitol Hill , including hosting events that bring lawmakers, staffers, and advocates into the same room. Her focus is steady engagement. In DC, progress often happens through repeated conversations, not headlines. Kopelman shares his background as a Marine and how his own psychedelic-assisted therapy experience led him to Mission Within. The foundation has funded more than 250 scholarships for veterans and first responders seeking treatment for PTSD, mild traumatic brain injury, depression, and addiction. They connect this work…

People in this episode

Guests: Melissa Lavasani, Jay Kopelman

Topics covered

• psychedelic policy
• veterans
• psychedelic medicine
• advocacy
• mental health
• legislation

Keywords

• psychedelics
• veterans
• PTSD
• legislation
• mental health
• advocacy
• psychedelic therapy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Psychedelic Medicine Coalition, Mission Within Foundation, VA

Places: Washington, DC, United States

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