Supporting Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for Mental Health Clinicians
Description
Many forms of psychedelic-assisted therapy are currently being recognized as having potential for personal growth and enhancement, spiritual development and as treatments for specific mental health conditions. Clinical research shows the value of carefully structured psychedelic experiences. Some psychedelic therapies are currently legal, while others are on their way to FDA approval. Many psychedelic substances are still considered illegal while some states have decriminalized their use.
This course helps mental health clinicians understand the value of psychedelic therapies in mental health treatment and personal and spiritual growth, and helps them navigate the legal and ethical terrain. This course is not designed to train clinicians how to be psychedelic guides. Rather, it is designed to develop competence in supporting clients who are considering the use of psychedelic-assisted therapies or already using them.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Name three important ethical considerations when counseling clients on the use of psychedelic assisted therapy.
- Describe the potential harm and benefits of using psychedelic assisted therapy.
- Name four features of mystical experience that frequently emerge during psychedelic sessions.
- Name five mental health conditions that are currently being researched and treated in psychedelic clinical trials.
- Describe three strategies for assisting clients with integrating psychedelic experiences or psychedelic assisted therapy.
Board Accreditation
MN Board of Social Work
3.0 CEUs (CEP-275)
Guest Instructor Info
Dr. Patty Hlava holds a doctorate in transpersonal psychology from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. In addition to her background in clinical mental health counseling and supervision as a LMFT, she has certifications as a meditation instructor, Ayurveda wellness counselor, and intrinsic coach.
Dr. John Elfers is the Director of the Dissertation Office and Core Faculty at Sofia University. He holds a doctorate in transpersonal psychology from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. He is certified in EMDR and a trainer in MBSR.
