What Is Psychedelic Therapy?

For those facing deep emotional wounds, psychedelic therapy is emerging as a promising, science-backed approach to recovery. But what exactly is it, and how could it fit into your treatment journey for depression, PTSD, or substance use disorder?

Here, we explore how this therapeutic tool works, the conditions it may help treat, and what to consider before starting.

What Is Psychedelic Therapy?

Psychedelic therapy combines psychological support with the use of psychedelic substances to promote emotional breakthroughs, healing, and long-term wellness. Unlike recreational use, psychedelic therapy is not only highly structured but also supervised by trained professionals in a safe, clinical setting.

In typical psychedelic-assisted therapy work, clients undergo preparation sessions before the treatment, followed by guided experiences and integration or processing sessions afterwards.

Common Psychedelics Used in Therapy

Several psychedelic compounds are currently used in therapeutic settings under strict medical supervision. Here are three of the most common:

• Ketamine: While not traditionally classified as a psychedelic, ketamine can produce psychedelic-like effects. In therapeutic settings, it’s administered in carefully controlled doses—sometimes with mild perceptual changes—to help treat conditions ranging from anxiety and PTSD to chronic pain.
• Psilocybin: Still under research in clinical trials, psilocybin (or “magic mushrooms”) has shown promise in treatment-resistant depression and anxiety.
• MDMA: MDMA, also known as ecstasy, has been effectively used to treat PTSD in advanced clinical trials. That means it could be especially effective for trauma survivors, including military veterans.

While each substance works differently, the goal is the same: to reduce emotional barriers, unlock new perspectives, and help you process trauma in safer, more supportive ways.

Psychedelic Therapy for Depression

For those living with depression who have been let down by traditional medications, psychedelic therapy can be life-changing. Ketamine and psilocybin may help “reset” certain brain patterns, allowing for new ways of thinking and processing emotions. In a two-site randomized controlled trial for IV ketamine, it was found that a single session led to rapid antidepressant effects within 24 hours.

In a trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine, a single 25mg dose of psilocybin (with supportive psychotherapy) significantly reduced depression in treatment-resistant clients.

Overall, clients often report feeling less burdened by negative thoughts and better able to engage in talk therapy after psychedelic-assisted sessions. Combined with Healthy U’s supportive programs, this type of therapy could jumpstart deep, lasting transformation.

Psychedelic Therapy for PTSD

PTSD is complex, and for many survivors, conventional treatments fall short. Psychedelic-assisted therapy, particularly with MDMA, offers a new path. This approach can help you revisit traumatic experiences while reducing fear.

A pivotal study showed that MDMA-assisted therapy reduced PTSD severity more than a placebo with therapy. In fact, 86.5% achieved clinically meaningful benefit, and 71.2% no longer met PTSD criteria by the end of the study.

Important Considerations

Psychedelic therapy shows great promise, but as is the case with any treatment, it’s not right for everyone. Possible side effects can include dissociation, feeling emotionally overwhelmed during sessions, and anxiety. If you have a history of psychosis or bipolar disorder, or certain heart conditions, psychedelic-assisted therapy may not be the right fit for you.

We take the time to not only understand your symptoms and goals but also your complete medical and mental health history before customizing your treatment plan. And because we’re in-network with most major insurance providers, our programs are both accessible and affordable.

Start Your Healing Journey

While psychedelic therapy may not be the right starting point for everyone, for the right client, it can be a powerful catalyst for lasting change. Connect with us to learn more about psychedelic-assisted therapy, what treatments are right for you, and to start your healing journey.