Psilocybin is the safest drug known, safer than alcohol, cannabis and tobacco. It is non- addictive. If taken in a safe setting and under the right guidance by medical professionals it holds very little risk. There are however contradictions, as described on my website.

Due to the proven positive results of psychedelic assisted therapy, the legal landscape around psychedelic assisted therapy is improving fast. In most European countries, psilocybin and ketamine assisted therapy are already legal for certified psychologists such as me.

In June 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US granted "Breakthrough Therapy" designation to MDMA-assisted and psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for several disorders. This designation is meant to expedite the development and review process of these treatments due to their potential significant benefits over existing treatments.

Ketamine has been legally used in the U.S. for decades as an anesthetic. More recently, it's been used off-label to treat depression. In 2019, the FDA approved a nasal spray called Spravato (esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression. Esketamine is a stereoisomer of ketamine.

The FDA is expected to fully approve usage mid 2024, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) is expected to follow suit.

As of my last update in January 2022, the United States has seen a surge in interest and research into the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic substances. There has been particular interest in compounds such as psilocybin (found in certain mushrooms), MDMA, and ketamine. Here's a brief overview of the status of psychedelic-assisted therapy in the U.S. up to that time:

FDA Designations for MDMA and Psilocybin: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted "Breakthrough Therapy" designation to MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and to psilocybin therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD). This designation is meant to expedite the development and review process of these treatments due to their potential significant benefits over existing treatments.

Ketamine and Esketamine: Ketamine has been legally used in the U.S. for decades as an anesthetic. More recently, it's been used off-label to treat depression. In 2019, the FDA approved a nasal spray called Spravato (esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression. Esketamine is a stereoisomer of ketamine.

State and Local Initiatives: Some states and cities have taken steps to decriminalize or deprioritize the prosecution of psychedelic substances. For instance:

Oregon: In November 2020, Oregon voters passed Measure 109, which allows for the regulated medical use of psilocybin. Additionally, Measure 110 decriminalized the possession of small amounts of many drugs, including psychedelics.

Washington, D.C.: In November 2020, voters in the District of Columbia passed Initiative 81, which decriminalized plant-based psychedelics.

Other cities, including Denver, Colorado, and Santa Cruz and Oakland in California, have passed similar measures decriminalizing or deprioritizing prosecution for the possession and use of psychedelics.

Research Institutions: There's a significant increase in research into the therapeutic potentials of psychedelics. Notable institutions like Johns Hopkins University have established centers dedicated to psychedelic research.

However, it's worth noting that despite these advancements, many psychedelics remain Schedule I controlled substances at the federal level, which means they are still illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess without a specific license.

For the most recent and up-to-date information, I'd recommend checking the FDA's website, the websites of organizations dedicated to psychedelic research and advocacy, or more recent news articles

I ask that you cancel your appointment 24 hours before the scheduled meeting, after that I will charge the full amount of our session.

For expats there is a possibility of reimbursement, contact your health insurance to check if this applies to you. For my Dutch clients, I am working together with another private practice, through them there might be a possibility for reimbursement. You would need a referenace