Explore the Foundations Curriculum

Explore the comprehensive curriculum of Foundations of Psychedelic Therapy, which guides you through the essential topics in psychedelic science and practice in a step-by-step manner over 13 months.

Module Overview

Orientation, core competencies and key concepts

Module 1

Module 1 introduces 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.

Hours of evidence-based learning modules

Live Q&A sessions by experts in psychedelic therapy

0 +

hours of Live-tutorial sessions with faculty

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.

Engage with Research

Engage in critical analysis of the latest research findings on psychedelic-assisted therapy to differentiate between realistic outcomes and limitations.

Applications are considered on a rolling basis. Limited spots available.

Foundations Formats

Weekly classes

Weekly 2-hour lectures, followed by 2-hour live work groups guided by qualified tutors.

10 online modules

On-demand lectures, specially designed for the Foundations curriculum on select topics, covering Theory, Practice, Ethics & Integration.

Monthly Q&A

Monthly two-hour curated live Q&A sessions with core and guest faculty.

Supplementary materials

Curated articles, book chapters, and videos.

Contact Us

Looking for more information? We’re here to help.
Check out the FAQ section or reach out to us at foundations@open-foundation.org, and the team will get back to you as soon as possible.