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Author name: OPEN Foundation

First Patient Included Marks Major Milestone in EU-Funded Clinical Trial

Amsterdam, Netherlands, August 11, 2025 — PsyPal has reached a major milestone with the inclusion of its first patient in the multi-site clinical trial investigating psilocybin therapy for psychological and existential distress in people with progressive, life-limiting illnesses. The first patient has been included at University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Netherlands, one of four specialised clinical centres participating in this unprecedented, EU-funded initiative.

“This is a historic step. After many months of preparation, we are thrilled to begin working directly with patients.” – Prof. Dr. Robert Schoevers, head of psychiatry at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) and principal investigator of PsyPal.

Funded by the European Union and coordinated by UMCG in the Netherlands, PsyPal is the first European Union-funded multi-site clinical trial on psilocybin therapy. Specifically, the trial will explore whether psilocybin, administered in a supportive psychotherapeutic context, can help reduce depression, anxiety, and improve quality of life in individuals living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or advanced and atypical parkinsonian disorders (APD).

“Too many people in need of palliative care endure overwhelming psychological and existential distress that conventional treatments often fail to address.” – Stephan Tap (UMCG), clinical trial manager.

“By combining psychotherapy with a novel compound like psilocybin, we hope to offer support that extends beyond symptom relief, into the deeply human realms of connection, meaning, and peace.” – Ulf Bremberg (Osmond Labs), project manager.

Each clinical site focuses on one of the four targeted conditions:

  • COPD – University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Netherlands
  • APD – Champalimaud Foundation, Portugal
  • MS – National Institute of Mental Health, Czech Republic
  • ALS – University of Copenhagen and Bispebjerg Hospital, Denmark

The trial will eventually involve over 100 patients across Europe, each undergoing two therapy sessions with either a therapeutic dose (high-dose) of psilocybin or a non-therapeutic dose (low-dose) in a controlled clinical setting. This is the first time a psychedelic substance is being studied in a clinical trial targeting patients who have palliative care needs, other than for cancer, in Europe. Therefore, the first patient included in the PsyPal study marks the beginning of a new chapter in European mental healthcare research.

The study medication (psilocybin) and the entire supply chain process are fully supported by Avextra Pharma, a German research-oriented biotech company dedicated to researching and developing plant-based medicines. In collaboration with Avextra, the PsyPal consortium is dedicated to advancing the clinical understanding, accessibility, and evidence of psilocybin therapy for patients with significant needs across Europe.

Stay informed – Sign up for the PsyPal newsletter to stay informed about patient recruitment, study progress, and more.

Disclaimer – PsyPal is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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Germany’s Landmark Compassionate Use Program for Psilocybin: A New Wave for Psychedelic Medicine in Europe

In a bold move for European mental health care, Germany has become the first country in the EU to approve psilocybin therapy for patients with treatment-resistant depression outside of clinical trials!
This decision, made under a compassionate use framework, marks a significant step forward in the responsible integration of psychedelic-assisted therapies into mainstream medicine.

Psilocybin is a naturally-occurring compound found in certain species of mushrooms, now being explored for its therapeutic potential in mental health care.

Addressing Unmet Needs in Depression Treatment

Depression remains one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in Germany and worldwide. While many patients benefit from existing treatments, many individuals with major depressive disorder do not respond adequately to standard antidepressant therapies and are classified as having treatment-resistant depression. For these patients, the lack of effective options can be devastating, underscoring the urgent need for innovative approaches.

Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated psilocybin’s promise in alleviating symptoms of treatment-resistant depression, with some patients experiencing rapid and sustained improvements. Until now, access to psilocybin therapy in Europe has been limited to clinical trials or, in rare cases, special authorizations in countries like Switzerland.

Germany’s Compassionate Use Program: Structure and Safeguard

The new program, approved by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM), allows psilocybin therapy to be administered at two specialized centers: the Central Institute for Mental Health (CIMH) in Mannheim and the OVID Clinic Berlin. Both institutions are recognized leaders in the field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, with experienced teams led by Prof. Dr. Gerhard Gründer and Dr. Andrea Jungaberle, respectively.

Key Features of the Program

  • Strict Eligibility Criteria: The program is exclusively for adult patients who have not responded to at least two standard antidepressants at adequate doses and durations. Patients must also demonstrate that participation in a clinical trial is not possible.
  • Medically Supervised Setting: Psilocybin therapy is delivered in a highly structured environment, with intensive preparation, administration, and aftercare. Each dosing session is monitored by two trained healthcare professionals, including at least one physician, to ensure patient safety.
  • Repeat Dosing and Flexibility: The protocol allows for repeat dosing in cases of non-response or to maintain therapeutic effects, providing a degree of flexibility not always seen in clinical trials.
  • Insurance Coverage and Accessibility: Psilocybin is provided free of charge by Filament Health, a Canadian company specializing in natural psychedelic medicines. The overall treatment is integrated into psychiatric care and is expected to be covered by German health insurance, reducing financial barriers for patients.
  • Data Collection and Research: The program emphasizes rigorous data collection, including psychometric assessments and, at CIMH, neuroimaging studies. This real-world evidence will complement ongoing clinical trials and inform future policy and practice.

A Patient-Centered, Decentralized Approach

One of the most innovative aspects of Germany’s program is its decentralized decision-making process. Unlike similar schemes in Switzerland and Canada, where each patient requires regulatory approval, Germany empowers licensed psychiatrists at the participating sites to determine eligibility. This streamlines access and reduces bureaucratic delays, while maintaining high medical and ethical standards.

Stakeholders and Collaborative Efforts

The program is the result of collaboration among several key stakeholders:

  • Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM): The national regulator overseeing the program’s compliance and safety.
  • CIMH Mannheim and OVID Clinic Berlin: The two authorized treatment centers, both with deep expertise in psychedelic therapies.
  • Filament Health: The supplier of the naturally derived psilocybin drug candidate (PEX010), supporting the program’s rollout.
  • MIND Foundation: Affiliated with the OVID Clinic, the MIND Foundation promotes responsible psychedelic integration and provides training for therapists through its Augmented Psychotherapy Training (APT) program.

Europe and the Global Context: How Does Germany Compare?

Germany’s decision places it at the forefront of psychedelic medicine in Europe. While Switzerland has allowed compassionate use of psychedelics since 2014, its system requires case-by-case regulatory approval, which can be slow and administratively burdensome. In 2024, Swiss authorities granted 322 psilocybin authorizations, but demand continues to outpace supply.

Canada’s Special Access Program also permits exceptional use of psilocybin, but approval rates have declined, and patients often face significant costs and logistical hurdles. Australia and New Zealand have established pre-approval pathways, but patient numbers remain small and access is limited.

Germany’s approach stands out for its streamlined access, integration into standard psychiatric care, and commitment to generating real-world data. By covering treatment costs through health insurance and providing the drug free of charge, Germany is setting a new standard for accessibility and patient-centered care.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its promise, the program faces challenges. For example, capacity is limited: No more than 100 patients are expected to be treated in the first year. However, the framework allows for future expansion if resources permit. Demand is anticipated to far exceed supply, reflecting the urgent need for new depression treatments.

Full regulatory approval for psilocybin in Germany and the EU is still several years away. However, the compassionate use program is expected to provide valuable real-world evidence to support future policy decisions and the broader integration of psychedelic therapies into mental health care.

By fostering collaboration among clinicians, researchers, regulators, and patient advocates, Germany is not only expanding access for those in urgent need but also contributing to the global evidence base for psychedelic medicine. As the field continues to evolve, Germany’s experience will offer valuable lessons for other countries seeking to balance innovation, safety, and accessibility in the treatment of mental health conditions.

Author: Gustaf Palm

Germany’s Landmark Compassionate Use Program for Psilocybin: A New Wave for Psychedelic Medicine in Europe Read More »

In Memory of Amanda Feilding (1942–2025): Honouring a Psychedelic Pioneer

On the evening of 22nd May, 2025, psychedelic research pioneer and elder, Amanda Feilding passed away

Amanda Feilding was the visionary founder and director of The Beckley Foundation, a UK-based nonprofit impulsing psychedelic research, educating the public about the healing potentials of these substances, and driving international drug policy reform. Beckley’s impact was largely driven by Amanda’s singular vision. Amanda was known for her strong personality, quixotic mind, and an idiosyncratic combination of British aristocracy and psychedelic sensibilities. She was strongly motivated by psychedelics’ ability to positively drive human evolution, and the senselessness of the drug war. At the end of this post, you can find an exclusive interview by OPEN Foundation with Amanda Feilding.

Amanda Feilding presenting at the Interdisciplinary Conference on Psychedelic Research (ICPR)

As she expressed in the foreword to Ergot Alkaloids, reflecting on the prohibition of LSD, “Sadly, the human animal’s remarkable potential for brilliance has time and again been equaled by its potential for blindness.”

Amanda was a strong advocate for drug policy reform, often speaking of the “tragedy of prohibition” and the importance of having drug policy based on scientific evidence rather than misinformation and political agendas. Her trailblazing efforts have served to reopen doors to psychedelic research, overturning decades of unscientific and politically motivated global drug policies. 

Realising that the most effective way in overcoming the taboo and stigma around psychedelics was through conducting high quality scientific research. Over the years, through the Beckley Foundation, Amanda spearheaded numerous influential research collaborations that have shaped psychedelic science as we know it. 

Notably, she co-founded the Beckley/Imperial Psychedelic Research Programme with Professor David Nutt, producing groundbreaking brain imaging studies on LSD and psilocybin with Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris. She partnered with Maastricht University to explore microdosing, with Johns Hopkins University to investigate psilocybin for smoking cessation, and with University and King’s College London to examine cannabis’ mental health effects. Her Beckley/Brazil collaboration focused on psychedelics and neuroplasticity and newer studies began exploring the effect of microdosing LSD for Alzheimer’s, alongside countless other groundbreaking research projects and publications shaped by her distinctive vision and influence. Moreover, countless individuals in the field, at some point in their lives, worked as Amanda’s personal assistant, before going on to become psychedelic researchers in their own right.

In a recent letter published on the Beckley Foundation’s website, Amanda shared that she had been undergoing immunotherapy treatment against liver cancer for the past several months, deciding that it was time to shift her focus away from her life’s work and instead enjoy her precious time with friends and family.

She wrote, “It is 60 years since I first tried LSD and discovered the extraordinary potential psychedelics have to help individuals and society. It struck me then that these were a ‘gift of the gods’ that could expand one’s vision and understanding of reality. And what an exciting journey I have been on ever since! I feel immeasurable gratitude towards all the people who have inspired me, collaborated with me, and supported me up the long and winding path that has slowly led us all to today’s psychedelic renaissance.”

No doubt, the pivotal work Amanda spearheaded and the legacy she leaves in her wake will ripple out for generations to come, not in the least through the many Beckley spin-offs that have emerged over the last couple of years. Whether through the continuation of research, deepening our understanding of the neuroscience of consciousness, or shifting perceptions around psychedelics and their many benefits, her influence will live on through the work of all of us in this space.

Psychedelics are the fruits of the gods – Interview with Amanda Feilding

* Feature image source: https://www.pharmaceutical-technology.com/features/amanda-feilding-medical-cannabis-psychedellics-reform/

Amanda Feilding, Houman Farzin and ICPR conference volunteers

In Memory of Amanda Feilding (1942–2025): Honouring a Psychedelic Pioneer Read More »

The Global Psychedelic Survey 2025: A Study of International Naturalistic Psychedelic Use

Psychedelic users hold experiences that are valuable to the development of policies and practices that can improve safe access to these substances for both medical and non-medical applications. These individual experiences with altered states are deeply personal and often of great impact and importance to those who experience them, and the use of psychedelics can vary from region to region, culture to culture, and from one person to the next.

“Real world” experiences of psychedelic use in non-clinical settings have contributed to the academic and medical community. Using the knowledge of the global psychedelic community can help reduce the harms and maximize the potential outcomes of psychedelic use.

It is with all of this in mind that our team at the Michigan Psychedelic Center (University of Michigan) developed the Global Psychedelic Survey 2025 (GPS 2025), which is a broad, multilingual community-based study of psychedelic consumers around the world. GPS 2025 is the second evolution of this study, following the Global Psychedelic Survey 2023 (GPS 2023; 20+ academic collaborators and 10 academic publications), and was borne from the Canadian Psychedelic Survey 2022 (CPS 2022; 12 academic collaborators and 5 publications).

However, both GPS 2023 and CPS 2022 suffered from a significant limitation: they were only available in English. Although GPS 2023 received over 6300 responses from over 85 countries, it was ultimately a survey of anglophone psychedelic consumers around the globe, and we were determined to broaden the diversity of respondents for 2025. We could not have imagined just how fruitful that effort would be!

As a result of an international collaboration between a consortium of >70 academics and committed individuals around the globe, GPS 2025 will be available in over 15 different languages, ensuring a much more diverse and inclusive respondent cohort. Furthermore, thanks to the support of psychedelic NGOs like MAPS, ICEERS, OPEN Foundation, the Global Psychedelic Society, Psychedelicare.EU, PAREA, the Psychedelic Institute of Australia and so many others in distributing the survey, between May 1-16th psychedelic consumers all over the world will have an opportunity to shape the future of psychedelic research by sharing their experiences with psychedelic substances. Nonetheless, we are still looking for collaborators to help us distribute the survey, so if you, your institution or organization can help, please contact GPS 2025 Primary Investigator Dr. Philippe Lucas at plucasyyj@gmail.com.

For 2025, we’ve also updated the design of the survey, which now includes a comprehensive examination of potential acute and long-term harms, queries on psychedelics and pregnancy, a section specific to Indigenous respondents designed by Indigenous academic collaborators, a questionnaire on entity contact, and even a longitudinal component since we aim to conduct this survey biennially in order to assess the impact of ongoing global legal, regulatory and sociocultural changes on psychedelic access and use over time.

We’ve launched a website to provide additional information on this remarkable effort at www.gps2025.com. Here you will find a list of academic and community-based collaborators, along with past publications from GPS 2023 that cover a broad scope of topics ranging from global trends in microdosing, to the impact of psychedelics on the use of other substances, to the use of psychedelics in the treatment of chronic pain.

Importantly, the budget for this study is under $60,000 USD, highlighting with a high level of coordination and collaboration, large, high impact community-based observational studies can be conducted quickly and for a reasonable cost. It’s an incredible honor to work with so many international psychedelic consumers, NGOs and academics to expand the understanding of “real world” psychedelic use around the globe, and starting at midnight on May 1st, we invite you all to please take a moment to go to bit.ly/GPS2025-survey and help inform the future of global psychedelic policy!

Authors: Philippe Lucas, Jacob S. Aday, Daniel J. Kruger, Stephanie Lake

GPS 2025

The Global Psychedelic Survey 2025: A Study of International Naturalistic Psychedelic Use Read More »

The Role of Psychedelics in Palliative Care: Real-World Cases – Dr. Houman Farzin, M.D.

Introduction to Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Palliative Care

Psychedelic-assisted therapy is emerging as a transformative approach in palliative care, offering new hope for patients facing the profound challenges of advanced cancer and end-of-life distress. In his presentation at the ICPR 2024, Dr. Houman Farzin, MD, a palliative care physician and clinical faculty member at McGill University, provided insights into the evolving field of psychedelic therapy, specifically focusing on its application in advanced cancer care. Drawing from real-world case studies in Montreal, Canada, Dr. Farzin highlighted the therapeutic potential of psilocybin and MDMA in alleviating physical and psychological suffering, offering a compelling vision for the future of palliative care.

Recording of ICPR 2024 talk. Discover more recordings here.

about Dr. Houman Farzin: Pioneer in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy and Palliative Care

Dr. Houman Farzin, M.D. is a leading physician specializing in psychedelic-assisted therapies, nutrition, and lifestyle modification to address trauma, existential distress, and enhance overall well-being. As an attending physician in the Division of Palliative Care at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal, Dr. Farzin integrates emerging treatments and digital health technologies with mindfulness, music, and psychedelic medicine to improve quality of life and alleviate suffering across all life stages.

A lecturer at McGill University Medical School, Dr. Farzin also contributes to the McGill Programs in Whole Person Care, where he teaches resilience and Mindful Medical Practice to future physicians. His extensive training includes expertise in MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine therapies, and he has been instrumental in organizing Quebec’s first psilocybin therapy training programs.

Dr. Farzin’s research focuses on the societal views of psilocybin therapy for existential distress and innovative treatments for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. His contributions to the field are further exemplified by his role as a site physician for MAPPUSX, a study on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. He is also a co-founder of injoy (formerly Phyla), a digital health tool utilizing AI to connect diet, lifestyle, and microbiome health.

Passionate about indigenous cultures and altered states of consciousness, Dr. Farzin’s work is deeply informed by Eastern philosophies and his anthropological studies of ancient practices. His commitment to advancing psychedelic therapies in mainstream healthcare continues to inspire confidence in their potential to transform palliative care and mental health treatment.

Case Studies: Real-World Applications of Psychedelic Therapy

Dr. Farzin’s presentation at ICPR 2024 was grounded in the real-world application of psychedelic therapies, illustrating their profound impact on patients with advanced cancer. His work highlights the effectiveness of individual and group therapy sessions, tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Case 1: Floran’s Journey with Psilocybin Therapy

One of the most compelling cases involved a patient named Floran, who underwent psilocybin-assisted therapy as part of her treatment for advanced cancer. Her first session, which involved a five-gram dose of psilocybin mushrooms, was characterized by intense emotions and a confrontation with deep-seated fears. However, it also opened up new pathways to healing, as depicted in a drawing she created afterward, illustrating her experience of moving from darkness to vibrant colors.

Case 2: A Retired Nurse Finds Peace

Another case involved a retired nurse in her seventies, suffering from advanced cancer and severe anxiety. Despite her reliance on multiple medications, the psilocybin session had a profound impact, providing her with a sense of peace and acceptance that had eluded her for years. Months after the session, she reported a transformative change in her outlook on life, illustrating the long-term benefits of psychedelic therapy.

Case 3: Rediscovering Poetry Through Psychedelic Therapy

A younger cancer patient rediscovered her love for poetry during her psilocybin-assisted therapy. The experience allowed her to reconnect with her inner child, a part of herself suppressed due to the trauma of her illness. This reconnection empowered her to express her emotions and creativity in ways that had previously been inaccessible.

The Importance of Somatic Awareness and the Mind-Body Connection

A critical component of Dr. Farzin’s approach to psychedelic therapy is the emphasis on somatic awareness—the recognition and processing of emotions and trauma stored in the body. This concept, supported by experts like Dr. Gabor Maté, posits that trauma can manifest as physical ailments, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. In psychedelic therapy, patients explore these bodily sensations to access and resolve deep-seated emotional issues.

For instance, during a session, a patient might experience intense physical sensations, which are then explored as manifestations of underlying trauma. By addressing these sensations directly, patients often access emotions and memories that are not readily available in their normal state of consciousness. This process aids in the release of stored trauma and fosters a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection, crucial for holistic healing.

The Evolution of Psychedelic Therapy in Canada

Psychedelic-assisted therapy has a complex history, marked by periods of intense research interest followed by decades of legal and cultural suppression. In Canada, psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, was banned in 1974, closely following the United States’ regulatory actions. However, a significant shift occurred in 2020 when an advocacy campaign led by four terminally ill patients resulted in legal exemptions for psilocybin use under Section 56 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

This legal breakthrough marked the beginning of a new era in Canadian healthcare, enabling patients facing end-of-life distress to access psilocybin-assisted therapy. The initial exemptions allowed patients to source psilocybin from the black market, setting a precedent that has since expanded into the Special Access Program (SAP), allowing broader clinical use under regulated conditions.

Dr. Farzin’s involvement with TheraPsil, a Canadian nonprofit dedicated to advancing legal access to psilocybin therapy, underscores the collaborative effort required to integrate these treatments into mainstream healthcare. The inclusion of psilocybin and MDMA in the SAP represents a significant milestone, enabling healthcare practitioners to apply for the use of these substances on a case-by-case basis for patients who do not respond to conventional treatments.

Psypal, The First EU-Funded Multi-Site Clinical Study into Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

The EU marked a significant step forward in integrating psychedelic-assisted therapies into mainstream palliative care practices as it granted Psypal, a multi-site clinical study into psychedelic-assisted therapy, over €6.5 million. PsyPal aims to study the use of psilocybin in treating psychological distress in patients with progressive, incurable illnesses requiring palliative care. It consists of a European consortium of 19 partners, including the OPEN Foundation learn more.

Ethical Considerations and the Future of Psychedelic Therapy in Palliative Care

While the benefits of psychedelic therapy are increasingly recognized, the field is not without its ethical challenges. Dr. Farzin addresses these concerns by acknowledging the complexities of offering these treatments to vulnerable populations. One primary ethical consideration is the potential for these therapies to alter a patient’s perception of their illness and treatment choices, particularly in the context of end-of-life care.

Some may argue that providing psilocybin or MDMA therapy to terminally ill patients could influence their decisions regarding medical aid in dying (MAID). However, as Dr. Farzin notes, the goal of psychedelic therapy is not to steer patients away from MAID but to offer them additional tools for coping with their illness. In some cases, patients may still choose MAID after undergoing psychedelic therapy, but with a greater sense of peace and acceptance.

Conclusion: A New Paradigm in Palliative Care

Dr. Houman Farzin’s work represents a significant step forward in integrating psychedelic therapies into mainstream healthcare, particularly in palliative care. His pioneering efforts in Canada demonstrate the profound impact these therapies can have on patients facing the challenges of advanced cancer and end-of-life distress. By combining rigorous scientific research with compassionate patient care, Dr. Farzin is helping to pave the way for a new paradigm in palliative care—one that embraces the transformative potential of psychedelics to heal the body, mind, and spirit.

As the field of psychedelic therapy continues to evolve, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers must collaborate to ensure that these treatments are accessible, ethical, and grounded in the best available evidence. Through innovation and teamwork, the potential for psychedelics to revolutionize palliative care is immense, offering new hope and healing to those who need it most.

Access recording to “Psychedelics in palliative Care” online event

Members of the OPEN community platform have access to all previous online events organized by the OPEN Foundation.

The Role of Psychedelics in Palliative Care: Real-World Cases – Dr. Houman Farzin, M.D. Read More »

Interdisciplinary conference on psychedelic research / iCPR 2024 6 – 8 June / Save the date!

The OPEN Foundation is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated 6th edition of the Interdisciplinary Conference on Psychedelic Research – Europe’s leading academic gathering dedicated to advancing psychedelic research and therapies.

After our hugely successful conference in 2022, we are returning to the prestigious Philharmonie Theatre in Haarlem (right next to Amsterdam).

ICPR provides a unique opportunity to get up to speed with the latest findings in psychedelic research. From clinical research and therapeutic paradigms to neuroscience, neurobiology and pharmacology, to consciousness and mysticism research, to anthropology, historical research, philosophy, social science and humanities studies, plus much more… 

ICPR 2022 aftermovie

ICPR conference takes place only once every two years, don’t miss out in June 6th to June 8th, 2024!

pre ICPR 2024 events, june 5th

Choose your event the day before ICPR

PAthways to access one-day summit

Potential FDA approval of MDMA-assisted therapy and growing evidence supporting psychedelic therapies, makes 2024 stand as a pivotal year for psychedelic medicine.

The Pathways to Access Summit (Paths) is a full-day add-on to the ICPR, dedicated to the challenges and opportunities around the development, approval & integration of psychedelic medicines into mainstream European health care.

Paths takes place the day before the ICPR 2024 conference, at the same location in Haarlem.

Expert-Led Workshops

Learn directly from world-esteemed experts in psychedelic therapy by joining one of two exclusive full-day workshops at the cutting edge.

workshop 1: Psychotherapy with psychedelics
with Torsten Passie, Bill Richards & Janis Phelps

Workshop 2: psychedelic integration
with rosalind watts & Marc Aixala

Workshops take place the day before the ICPR 2024 conference.

We hope to see you at the ICPR conference 2024!

Interdisciplinary conference on psychedelic research / iCPR 2024 6 – 8 June / Save the date! Read More »

OPEN x APRA Community Meetup in Amsterdam – October edition

Get ready for an epic in-person OPEN community meetup that’s going to be more special even than our usuals! OPEN and APRA are teaming up for an evening of connections, conversations and good vibes!

On Thursday 26 October, you are very welcome to join us and

  • connect with other psychedelic enthusiasts and professionals; 
  • discuss the latest on psychedelic science, research and therapy;
  • and, of course, enjoy a fun night with us!

It’s going to be a memorable evening of mingling, sharing, and expanding our psychedelic horizons. See you there! 🌈

OPEN x APRA Community Meetup in Amsterdam – October edition Read More »

Substance, Set & Setting – An OPEN Foundation workshop

Set and Setting in Psychedelic Use

During the last week of August, the Lorentz centre at the University of Leiden hosted the Substance, Set and Setting workshop. Initiated by the Open Foundation and generously supported by the Netherlands Research Foundation (NWO) and the Improbability Foundation, more than fifty researchers and practitioners from the field of psychedelic science and therapy convened for five intensive days to discuss the entanglement of substance, set and setting. The aim of the workshop was to create new research models and guidelines to further our understanding of how non-pharmacological factors affect the psychedelic experience. To this end we used innovative and interdisciplinary research ideas and methods, and we established interactive discussions between scientist, therapists and other practitioners (e.g., organizers of retreats). The workshop brought together leading international researchers and experts from different disciplinary backgrounds to foster an exchange of ideas and best practices about whether and how set and setting can be used to ‘engineer the psychedelic experience’ and to develop best practices (e.g., related to harm minimization). The participants also attempted to integrate academic and experienced experts’ knowledge about the use of psychedelics that already exists in medical, religious, and other non-medical settings.

Open Space Technology

To encourage an active engagement between researchers from different disciplinary backgrounds (a variety of (medical) sciences, social sciences and humanities), practitioners (such as place holders, ceremony leaders, psychologists) and harm reduction and addiction and substance abuse experts, the workshop used the format of Open Space Technology. In spite of its high tech name this technique provides a pleasantly analogue and hands-on way to collect ideas, to select and focus and to collaborate in interdisciplinary teams on the agenda that was by and large determined by the participants. It was quite amazing to see how an empty wall for ideas and topics, soon transformed into a beehive of themes to discuss and evaluate. In breakout rooms these topics were discussed, according to the principle that it is okay to hop from one room to the next like bumble bees who can cross pollinate or like butterflies who can more silently absorb and transmit information at a later stage. The outcomes were synthesized using the reporting sheets from each discussion group, that were made available to all participants after the workshop.

Everything Else Matters: Film, Experiential Workshops, the Sea and Ruigoord

The workshop also included some plenary moments, such as the presentation of the findings from the Delphi study on setting conducted by the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College in London by Chloe Provoost-Morgan and Leor Roseman. We also engaged in a  presentation of the work-in-progress of the documentary on set and setting Everything Else Matters, a film co-commissioned by the OPEN foundation.Directors Kristina Kulakova, and producer Dmitry Repin presented and discussed excerpts from the film, interviewed several participants and actively worked on the film that will be presented at ICPR 2024. Ido Hartogsohn, assistant professor at Bar-Ilan University, gave a passionate keynote lecture, in which he proposed to extend the notion of set and setting to include the socio-historical context in which psychedelic experiences take place as well. Harm reduction specialist from the Dutch Jelinek and Trimbos institute shared their view and knowledge on harm reduction and several scientists presented their research and experiences either in smaller groups or on posters. 

Over the course of the week the empty offices at the Lorentz Institute started to be taken over by buzzing sounds, passionate exchanges of ideas, but also music and movements in space. In the meantime, in several experiential workshops  the idea of set and setting was put into practice: this opened up new dimensions: a breath work workshop by Katrien Franken moved participants deeply; a music workshop by Arno Adelaars and Jan Frank transformed the university room into a ceremonial space and invited participants to improvise music during breaks; Rini Hartman gave a taste of a Sante Daimo set and setting; and Andre van der Braak demonstrated different meditation techniques. All these experiences were not only important demonstrations of set and setting but contributed to the exchange and development of new ideas on set and setting.

These experiential events are at least as important as the formal research and academic discussion on set and setting. Also the evening program included an experiential element. We watched a screening of Maartje Nevejans’ beautiful documentary Descending the Mountain, documenting the story of a psychedelic scientist and a Buddhist monk who develop a lifelong friendship, which was  followed by a Q&A with the director. We enjoyed a barbecue at the Dutch seaside that invited several participants to a spontaneous dive into the cool and dark water of the North Sea. On Thursday evening the group made a visit to the unique cultural green village (hidden in the Amsterdam Harbor) Ruigoord with a guided tour by one of its founders, Hans Plomp.  

And Now? Concrete Outcomes and follow-up

 Throughout the week different groups started to work on different concrete outcomes of all the encounters: one group initiated a joint white paper on substance, set and setting. Another group focused on the development of a conceptual model and theoretical framework that highlights the surplus value of bringing together the perspectives of different disciplines and practices. And a third collective started to work on concrete guidelines for different groups of practitioners and policy makers with a particular aim at harm reduction and care. In many discussions we had, it was clear that while sharing the exact same hypothesis about the necessity to bring together substance, set and setting, it was not always easy to create ways to truly collaborate in larger projects. But this is precisely where innovation is needed we should embrace complementarity and serial disciplinarity, where each discipline, according to its own method or practice, covers a part of the entire psychedelic spectrum which can then be brought together at different stages. 

While all groups are still working on concrete papers and guidelines, it was clear that the commitment of working together, sharing spaces and places, provided the foundation for the establishment of an interdisciplinary European research network for psychedelic research. We were also able to conceptualize and establish parameters of responsible and safe use of psychedelics in different contexts (medical, religious, recreational and other). Such guidelines can be implemented by policy makers and practitioners and are aimed towards providing concrete advice and recommendations related to risk reduction of psychedelic use. 

At the end of the week we had a closing circle, in which every participant shared their insights and experiences. It was heart-warming to learn how the workshop had been an invaluable experience for everyone involved. It is a unique situation to be able to devote a full week with experts for an open and free debate about set and setting. And we sincerely hope that the participants will carry this positive afterglow forward in their own work and practice!  


Reported by Patricia Pisters & Michiel van Elk (Board members OPEN Foundation)

Substance, Set & Setting – An OPEN Foundation workshop Read More »

Ketamine in the Dutch mental healthcare system

This report (only available in Dutch) describes the current state of (es)ketamine treatments within mental healthcare in the Netherlands. The report aims to contribute to an effective and safe implementation of ketamine in the Dutch mental healthcare system. The first chapter discusses the history of ketamine, its mode of action, administration forms, and its use in mental healthcare. The second chapter discusses ketamine in the Dutch healthcare system. The third chapter focuses on ketamine as an antidepressant. Chapter four discusses the risks associated with its implementation. The last chapter addresses unresolved issues and steps that can be taken in the future. In addition to studying relevant information from previous studies and reports, information was also obtained from a large number of Dutch professionals and experts in the field. Six psychiatrists, five therapists, and three scientific researchers contributed their perspectives on current ketamine treatments, identified existing challenges, and shared their visions for the future of ketamine treatment in the Netherlands. The unanswered questions are included in chapter five and serve as a starting point for further collaborations and study of outstanding issues. The report aims to provide a clear overview of registration, implementation, unresolved issues, and guidance so that the implementation of ketamine as a treatment for TRD can be realized efficiently and safely.

Click here to read the full PDF report, written by two of our interns!

Ketamine in the Dutch mental healthcare system Read More »

Goodbye ICPR 2022. Hello… ICPR 2024!

From touching talks to insightful perspectives, and profound new ways of thinking about reality to practical tips about doing therapy or research: ICPR 2022 has been an inspiring, thought-provoking, educational, and uplifting experience. Thanks to you all so much from the bottom of our hearts, whether you were a visitor, volunteer, speaker, presenter, digital visitor, or fan from afar: you made this conference what it was.

A common theme at ICPR 2020 was figuring out what is next for psychedelics and psychedelic therapy, now that their efficacy has been proven, their acceptance is broadening, and a professional ecosystem is developing. The presentations at ICPR were able to satisfy some questions with answers but mostly helped us all to develop new and better questions about the challenges we are dealing with in our own fields. 

“We can set the standard for how this is done in the future,” as MAPS director Rick Doblin asserted at the closing panel of ICPR 2022. “And I think the most important thing right now is the training of therapists,” Doblin said, constantly pushing the envelope on where this field might go. “Let people watch videos for example. But also make sure there is a clear and defined way for therapists themselves to take MDMA legally as part of their training.”

At the same time, Paul Stamets stated, we should not forget to look for knowledge outside of the rigor of scientific research and prohibitionist laws – and appreciate more that some of these substances, experiences, and knowledge have been with humanity for a very long time: “We shouldn’t ignore that millions of people have been using these substances for thousands of years,” Paul Stamets stated. 

Participants Panel

There was special attention for the participants of psychedelic trials, who were featured on a panel to bring a much-needed perspective to ICPR that had been missing at earlier conferences. It was the first time -as far as we know- that a panel of trial participants was featured at a psychedelic conference. 

Participants Ian Roullier and Leonie Schneider stressed the need for extensive and thorough support before and after the psychedelic experience: “set and setting, for as participants, apply before, during and after treatment. It’s not just during the medical intervention itself.”

So psychedelics give us the opportunity to radically rethink human healing, was an often-heard sentiment at ICPR: “It’s time we treat people like plants”, Pedram Dara, ICPR Manager and panel member of the participants’ trial asserted. He alluded to the care we take to change the environment of a plant when it’s not doing well – with light, water and nutrients – instead of trying to ‘fix’ the plant itself. 

Leonie Schneider underlined the need for an infrastructure and ecosystem. “Tweak the environment so that it supports them. We are not dots on a graph, we are not lab rats, we are human beings. So how do we create peer circles and support groups – a community infrastructure – going forward?”

FUTURE OF PSYCHEDELIC Therapy

Mendel Kaelen, music researcher and the CEO of Wavepaths, underlined the importance of experience as a healing agent: “We learn to walk by walking, we learn to talk by talking and we need to learn to feel safe by feeling safe” – Mendel Kaelen, CEO of Wavepaths.

Janis Phelps shared her qualms about the psychedelic experience being boxed-in too much: “I’m afraid the experience will be overmedicalized,” she said, “that we lose that sense of awe and gratitude that Roland Griffiths talked about. I don’t want to have done all this work just to the benefit of wealthy people.”

Future research was also announced and highlighted. Beckley Foundation founder and director Amanda Feilding announced a first proof-of-concept study with Basel university to study microdosing LSD in mild Alzheimer’s disease. Rick Doblin posed difficult questions around PTSD in children and proposals to explore MDMA-assisted therapy for 11-year olds.    

Roland Griffiths reflected on his own mortality and shared how he is nurturing gratitude about the mystery of life and consciousness while he walks this earth with us.

Charles Raison examined the agent of change in a psychedelic experience: are psychedelics more like psychotherapy or more like standard antidepressants ‘on steroids’? To test this, an upcoming study by Raison will administer psilocybin to sleeping participants. Will they experience a meaningful change without having conscious thoughts?

Torsten Passie reflected on his experience in psychedelic therapy: “We are not treating people. We are moderating self-healing. This is why we should guide rather than interfere with the process”, explained Torsten Passie.

Some findings

There were bigger and smaller findings about how psychedelics compare to more traditional antidepressants. Emotional blunting is a common side effect reported with antidepressants, Matthew Wall explained. And his research found that psilocybin affects emotional responsiveness less than escitalopram – as measured by the emotional faces task. In simpler terms: it found psilocybin offered a greater antidepressant effect with less downsides.

Frederike Holze presented the results of a recent study at University Hospital Basel with Peter Gasser, that a single dose of LSD correlated with a rapid, long-lasting reduction in anxiety symptoms. And that mystical experiences are correlated with longer-lasting effects.

Jennifer Schmidt presented a study that found that Methylone showed the strongest possible antidepressant effect in the forced-swim-test in rats. The study also found that methylone does not have a negative drug interaction with SSRIs, like MDMA does.

David Erritzoe found that participants who were weaned off antidepressants before taking psilocybin experienced a smaller change in depression reduction than those who were fully naive to antidepressants. David Erritzoe explained that the expectancy effect of escitalopram predicts greater efficacy than the same expectancy effect with psilocybin.

ICPR 2024!

We’ve hardly had time to catch our breath after the afterparty (and the after-after-party…) but we didn’t want to leave you with the sincere wish we can do this all again soon! The great success of ICPR 2022 means that the OPEN Foundation has a runway to organise and expand the psychedelic scientific ecosystem for the upcoming years. And it is with that confidence and love that we want to invite you to the next ICPR – now planned for 2024. Because there is much suffering in the world, the questions that psychedelics force us to ask are urgent, and there is much need to separate fact from fiction, and hype from hope, in the prospering psychedelic ecosystem.

This overview was but a snippet of the hundreds of hours we could spend on its content. But rest assured that more videos from ICPR2022 will appear over the coming weeks. Watch your email and follow us on social media to stay up to date. The community platform is where these videos will be released.

Thanks again to all the volunteers helping out, and especially the photography, video, livestream, content and social media teams! Special mention to @martin_spijker for his amazing portraits and photos.

(Now let’s all take a well-deserved nap.)

Goodbye ICPR 2022. Hello… ICPR 2024! Read More »

Microdosing Results, Limitations, & Emerging Questions: A Conversation with James Fadiman - September 9th