A Responsible Path
to Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Comprehensive training for the next generation of skilled, ethical, and responsible psychedelic therapists. Grounded in science. Rooted in practice.
Bringing together highly experienced professionals with decades of expertise in providing and researching psychedelic therapy, ADEPT is a unique training programme specially designed to equip participants with the core competencies needed to become highly skilled and responsible psychedelic therapists.
ADEPT combines theoretical learning through case studies, lectures and tutoring with hands-on training through mentorship, role play and supervised learning therapy. This comprehensive approach fully equips participants to safely, ethically, and competently integrate psychedelic-assisted therapy in mental healthcare.
Programme Overview
Start Date
May 1, 2025
Programme Length
24 Months
Format
Hybrid
The ADEPT program spans two years and is delivered in a hybrid format, combining the flexibility of online lectures and tutor groups with the deep learning made possible through immersive in-person meetings. ADEPT contains ten 4-week online modules, five in-person meetings, and three multi-day experientials.
- Online modules teach a wide variety of topics, always touching on ethics and integration of theory into practice. Somatic and contemplative practices are taught throughout.
- In-persons focus on applied learning, community building, and practice. These take place a central location in the Netherlands.
- Experiential workshops provide opportunities to both facilitate and undergo self-experiences with psilocybin-containing truffles, under the supervision of clinical experts.
The first year includes seven online modules, three day-long in-person trainings, and one 3-day experiential. The second year includes three modules, two day-long in-persons, and two five-day experientials.
Learning Goals, Modules & Formats
Learning Goals
Master Core Therapeutic Practices
Develop a deep understanding of core practices in psycholytic, psychedelic-assisted therapies and MDMA-assisted therapy, contextualized within historical, cultural, and ethical frameworks.
Enhance Client-Centered Guidance
Develop expertise in guiding clients through pre-session preparation, session support, and post-experience integration, using a client-centered approach and an integrative therapeutic process.
Understand Pharmacology and Neurobiology
Gain in-depth knowledge of the pharmacological and neurobiological actions of classical and atypical psychedelics, including mechanisms of action and potential side effects.
Ensure Patient Safety
Cultivate skills to perform comprehensive health screenings, identify contraindications, and develop risk mitigation strategies, ensuring the highest safety standards for clients throughout their therapeutic journeys.
Integrate Indigenous Wisdom
Understand traditional and indigenous practices with psychedelics, and integrate these insights into a culturally attuned therapeutic framework that respects diversity and inclusivity.
Navigate Ethical Complexities
Learn how to navigate complex ethical issues in PAT, such as informed consent, therapeutic touch, and others, to maintain integrity and client-centered care.
Cultivate Mindful Presence
Cultivate the ability to be fully present, utilizing mindfulness, somatic practices, and self-reflection to maintain a centered and empathic therapeutic approach.
Gain Practical Experience
Gain hands-on experience in PAT sessions using both non-substance and substance-based modalities, under the supervision of highly experienced facilitators.
Engage with Research
Engage in critical analysis of the latest research findings on psychedelic-assisted therapy to differentiate between realistic outcomes and limitations.
Module overview
Orientation, core competencies and key concepts
Module 1
Welcoming module, introducing the program’s cyclical structure of theory, practice, ethics, and integration. Focuses on building a supportive learning community, exploring core principles of psychedelic-assisted therapy, competencies, ethics, legal considerations, and fostering professional growth.
Historical and critical perspectives on psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy
Module 2
Module 2 explores the history and diversity of human psychedelic use, from ancient practices to modern therapeutic applications, emphasizing how historical insights inform contemporary psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) practices with ethical and inclusive approaches.
Neurobiology and psychopharmacology of psychedelics
Module 3
Module 3 explores the scientific foundations of PAT, including pharmacology, neurobiology, and dosing. Participants critically evaluate research limitations, address hype and expectations, and gain insights into integrating scientific evidence into clinical practice with a nuanced and reflective approach.
Clinical evidence: risks, processes, outcomes
Module 4
Module 4 explores therapeutic mechanisms and applications of psychedelics, focusing on factors like emotional breakthroughs, mystical experiences, and connectedness. It addresses risks, challenges, and adverse effects, emphasizing integrative care frameworks for navigating the multidimensional nature of PAT.
Models, modalities, and paradigms of (psycho)therapy in PAT
Module 5
This module focuses on integrating psychedelics into mental health care, emphasising the application of diverse evidence-based psychotherapeutic frameworks in preparation, session facilitation, and integration. It explores relational dynamics, somatic practices, existential meaning-making, and valuable insights from indigenous traditions and personal psychedelic experiences.
The arc of psychedelic-assisted therapy: preparation
Module 6
Module 6 focuses on preparing patients for PAT, covering indications, contraindications, and best practices for safe sessions. Participants learn psychological screening, risk mitigation, informed consent, and the importance of building a strong therapeutic alliance.
Understanding and working with non-ordinary states of consciousness
Module 7
This module explores non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSC) induced by psychedelics, addressing personal, transpersonal, and interpersonal dimensions, as well as unique (counter)transference issues in PAT. It highlights the role of ritual and community in contextualizing NOSC.
The arc of psychedelic-assisted therapy: session
Module 8
Module 8 focuses on supporting patients during and after psychedelic-assisted sessions, emphasizing safety, empathy, and managing challenges. Participants learn session dynamics, handling intense experiences, and implementing culturally sensitive care. It provides frameworks for patient support, aftercare, and therapist self-care.
The arc of psychedelic-assisted therapy: integration
Module 9
Module 9 focuses on the integration phase, addressing intrapersonal, interpersonal, and transpersonal dimensions. Participants learn techniques to navigate post-session challenges, support meaning-making, and provide care tailored to diverse needs, emphasizing infrastructures for long-term integration in clinical and community contexts.
The science and art of group therapy with psychedelics
Module 10
The final module delves into group therapy in psychedelic applications, focusing on boundaries, group dynamics, and ethical considerations. It highlights best practices for safety, supervision, and accessible care, emphasizing ongoing education, accountability, reflexivity, and inclusivity in therapy.
Formats
Monthly Q&A
Monthly two-hour curated live Q&A sessions with core and guest faculty.
Weekly classes
Weekly 2-hour lectures, followed by 2-hour live work groups guided by qualified tutors.
In-person meetings
5 full-day in-person meetings at a central location in the Netherlands. Virtual participation is not available for these sessions. Attendance is mandatory.
Three experiential workshops
One 3-day and two 5-day experientials. Participants take patient & therapist roles in a learning therapy context, using legal psilocybin-containing truffles.
10 online modules
On demand lectures, specially designed for the ADEPT curriculum on select relevant topics (see Modules tab), covering Theory, Practice, Ethics & Integration
Supplementary materials
Curated articles, book chapters, and videos.
Scroll up for LEarning goals, modules & formats
Click to expand & learn more.
Eligibility criteria
- Licensed mental health professionals (e.g., psychotherapists, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, medical doctors with psychotherapy training)
- BIG registration or equivalent to licensed professionals
- ≥3 years experience providing psychotherapy or mental health care
- Comprehension of academic English
- Minimum age: 25 years
- Minimum BA/BSc
- Professionals with other relevant backgrounds may be considered (e.g. psychiatric nurse, nurse practitioner, mental health or palliative nurse)
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Unlock the Potential to Transform Lives
Immerse yourself to gain the tools to guide others through profound healing and personal growth journeys.
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Embody Ethical Excellence and Cultural Awareness
Develop a therapeutic practice that respects diversity, inclusivity, and ethical integrity. Navigate complex challenges with confidence, integrating contemplative, somatic, and indigenous practices , and traditional wisdom to create meaningful connections.
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Build Expertise with a Cutting-Edge Community
Develop a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of psychedelics under the guidance of field experts. Become part of a network of like-minded professionals committed to shaping the future of mental health care.
Core Faculty
The Core Faculty was selected for their extensive experience, diverse expertise, and leadership in psychedelic-assisted therapy, clinical research, ethics, and education. These global experts contribute to curriculum development, teaching, and mentorship, guided by integrity, professionalism, and deep therapeutic understanding.
Marc Aixalà, MSc
Licensed health psychologist, psychotherapist, and Holotropic Breathwork facilitator. With expertise in non-ordinary states of consciousness and MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, he coordinates support services at ICEERS. Marc also leads workshops, conducts research, and offers lectures on integration and psychedelic psychotherapy globally.
Michiel van Elk, PhD
Associate Professor at Leiden University, leading the PRSM Lab. With expertise in cognitive neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology of religion, he studies altered states of consciousness using diverse methods. A Fulbright scholar, Michiel published extensively and his work has appeared in major outlets like The New York Times and National Geographic.
Anja Loizaga-Velder, PhD
German-Mexican clinical psychologist and psychotherapist. Anja has over 30 years of experience working with indigenous psychedelic healing practices. She co-founded the Nierika Institute for Intercultural Medicine in Mexico, focusing on sacred plant medicine research and therapy. Anja also teaches in the Synthesis psychedelic practitioner training program.
Rosalind Watts, PsyD
Clinical psychologist and founder of ACER Integration. Developed the ACE model (Accept, Connect, Embody) for psychedelic therapy and the Watts Connectedness Scale. Former clinical lead on Imperial College London’s Psilocybin for Depression trial, she also serves on Usona Institute’s clinical advisory board.
Torsten Passie, MD, MA
Professor of Psychiatry at Hannover Medical School and Visiting Scientist at Goethe University. An expert in hallucinogenic drug research, he has studied the therapeutic potential of altered states of consciousness. A former Harvard Visiting Professor, he has authored 20 books, including The Pharmacology of LSD and The History of MDMA.
Perspectives from our Core Faculty
"The brain reset analogy make people think PAT is a passive thing. In fact, it is a deeply engaged process that requires support from trained therapists."
Rosalind Watts, PsyD
"The work of a therapist is being confronted with difficult situations everyday. Finding a place where you are taken care of as a therapist can be very helpful."
Marc Aixalà, MSc
Tuition
Advanced Education in Psychedelic Therapy 2 year Training Programme
€19550
oo
€9775 / year | Incl. 21% VAT -
Gain full competency in psychedelic-assisted therapy
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Tailored exclusive curriculum
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10 Live Q&As with core and guest faculty
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10 Online modules
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60 Live tutorials
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5x In-person day trainings*
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1x 3-Day experiential workshop - Year 1*
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2x 5-Day experiential workshop - Year 2*
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Certification by OPEN Foundation
Payment Terms
* In-persons and experiential workshops include food and accommodation. In person day trainings include food and exclude accommodation. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the facilities.
Info Events
Curious to learn more? Want to join the training? Ask us anything, meet the team, and learn more about ADEPT: Advanced Education in Psychedelic Therapy.
tuesday 28 jan 2025, 8PM CET - 60min
*By registering, you’ll be added to the priority list and notified first when enrolment opens.
TUESDAY 18 FEB 2025, 8PM CET - 60min
*By registering, you’ll be added to the priority list and notified first when enrolment opens.
UPCOMING
Should Psychedelic Therapists Have Self-Experience? (Panel Discussion & Q&A)
🗣 Helena Aicher, PhD (Clinical Psychologist), Jolien Veraart, MD, PhD (Psychiatrist & PhD Candidate), Metten Somers, MD, PhD (Psychiatrist), Daan Keiman, MA (Educational Lead ADEPT), moderated by Ana Martins, MSc (Operational Manager ADEPT)
⏰ Wednesday 21 January, 6:30PM CET (5:30PM GMT, 12:30PM EST, 9:30AM PST)
📍Hybrid Event: In-Person at UVA & Online via Zoom
Advisory Council
The Advisory Council brings together world-renowned experts with immense collective knowledge, integrity, and experience in designing and running training programs for healthcare professionals, including psychedelic-assisted therapy. They contribute to content development, strategy, and quality control in ethics, infrastructure, and program delivery.
Robert Schoevers, MD, PhD
Professor of Psychiatry and Head of the Department at UMCG. His research focuses on mood and anxiety disorders, particularly depression, aiming to develop effective interventions by exploring neurobiological and psychological mechanisms. His work includes studying psychoplastic compounds, like ketamine and psilocybin, for treatment-resistant depression.
Janis Phelps, PhD
Founder and director of the psychedelic therapy education programme at CIIS in San Francisco. Her 2017 publication outlines best practices for training psychedelic therapists. With over 25 years of experience, she has worked as a clinical psychologist and professor in various therapeutic modalities.
Helena Aicher, PhD
Lisa Bright
Decades of experience in executive board functions and as a senior adviser to multiple pharmaceutical companies. Highly experienced in vision and strategy development with an extensive network in fundraising.
Holly Fernandez Lynch
Associate Professor of Medical Ethics and Law at the University of Pennsylvania. Lawyer and bioethicist by training, her work focuses on FDA pharmaceutical policy, clinical research ethics, and pre-approval access pathways, including around psychedelic-assisted therapies.
ADEPT is brought to you by the OPEN Foundation.
Since 2007, OPEN has fostered collaboration and education among experts in psychedelic therapy. Through its extensive network and initiatives, OPEN has become a trusted platform for connecting researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices. OPEN is committed to advancing evidence-based approaches. OPEN has centred its efforts on organising conferences, online events, workshops, and publications that have significantly contributed to the development and professionalization of the psychedelic therapy field.
ADEPT is OPEN Foundation’s most comprehensive offering yet – guided by our standing values and principles.
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Professionalism
Dedicated to continuous learning, development, and upholding therapeutic rigor. Emphasizing growth through ongoing education and reflective practice while encouraging both personal and professional development.
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Ethics
Upholding the highest standards in safety and integrity to ensure responsible, accountable and professional practice. Valuing diverse experiences and creating inclusive, respectful care.
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Care
A commitment to providing integrative, client-centered psychedelic therapy, fostering a safe and therapeutic environment.
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Connection
Fostering a sense of belonging, support, and shared purpose among practitioners and clients. Encouraging teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration to advance the field of psychedelic care and enhance collective growth.
Applications are considered as they come in. Limited spots in cohort.
“In the past decades, there has been a lack of innovation in mental health therapeutics.”
— Pia Dijkstra, Minister of Healthcare, The Netherlands at the Interdisciplinary Conference of Psychedelic Research
FAQ
Practicalities
Am I eligible to apply?
Eligibility criteria
- Licensed mental health professionals (e.g., psychotherapists, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists)
- BIG registration or equivalent to licence professionals
- ≥3 years experience providing psychotherapy or mental health care
- Comprehension of academic English
- Minimum age: 25 years
- Minimum BA/BSc
- Professionals with other backgrounds may be considered (e.g. spiritual caregiver, clinical chaplain, sociotherapist, sociaal maatschappelijk werker)
The ADEPT program is open to licensed mental health professionals, including medical doctors, psychotherapists, and clinical psychologists, with priority given to BIG-registered professionals. Ideally, applicants should have a background in psychotherapy or experience providing therapeutic care to clients, as this will support the integration of psychedelic-assisted therapy into their existing practice.
We also welcome applications from family therapists, psychiatric nurses, addiction therapists, and complementary therapists with relevant academic qualifications (minimum BA/BSc).