Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy: Considerations for Developing an Effective, Ethical and Culturally Appreciative Practice
Loading...
Authors
Race, Sarah
Issue Date
2025-05-05
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
psilocybin , psilocybin-assisted therapy , cultural appreciation , Indigenous knowledge , psychedelic ethics , decolonization , Two-Eyed Seeing , Maria Sabina , set and setting , underground practitioners , therapist competence
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone explores the emerging field of psilocybin-assisted therapy through a critical, ethical, and culturally appreciative lens. While clinical research increasingly supports psilocybin's efficacy in treating conditions like depression, PTSD, and addiction, the commodification of this traditionally sacred medicine raises complex questions. Drawing from current literature, Indigenous scholarship, and personal reflection, this paper examines the ethical responsibilities of therapists, the risks of cultural appropriation, and the urgent need for inclusive and decolonized practices in psychedelic therapy. It highlights the historical misuse of Indigenous knowledge, such as the unauthorized sharing of Mazatec healer María Sabina's sacred mushroom practices, and advocates for respectful integration of Indigenous frameworks. The paper concludes with practical recommendations for therapists, researchers, and institutions emphasizing collaboration with Indigenous communities, honoring underground practitioners, and adopting culturally grounded models such as Two-Eyed Seeing. Ultimately, this work calls for a shift toward more equitable, relational, and spiritually aware approaches to psilocybin-assisted therapy.
Description
Citation
Publisher
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess