Latest news with #PsychedelicScience
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Ketamine may work by 'flattening the brain's hierarchies,' brain scans suggest
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. DENVER—A single dose of ketamine may subtly reshape how different regions of the brain communicate, a new study suggests. The research, presented June 19 at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference, is one of the first to investigate ketamine's impact on neuroplasticity — the ability to adapt to experiences by forming new connections and pathways — in the brains of living people. The findings have not been peer-reviewed yet. In recent years, clinical trials have demonstrated ketamine's effectiveness in treating depression within a few hours of a single dose. Animal studies suggest that ketamine almost immediately spurs the growth of new dendritic spines — tiny protrusions that form synapses, the connections between brain cells. But it's been hard to pin down how ketamine works in living humans. To answer that question, the researchers scanned the brains of 11 men using multiple techniques and then administered an intravenous dose of ketamine. One group of the people was re-scanned 24 hours after getting the single dose of the drug, and the other group was scanned again seven days later. Related: 1 psychedelic psilocybin dose eases depression for years, study reveals Normally, the brain processes sensory information via lower-level networks and then feeds that "up the chain" to higher-level networks that orchestrate larger brain processes. Higher level networks also send feedback to lower-order networks, but communication between high and low level networks is less than that within specific networks. In the new study, scientists used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), which measures blood flow to different brain regions, to reveal how brain activity changed after treatment. When fMRI activity levels appear synchronized, it can imply the distinct areas are "communicating" with one another. Typically, regions that are part of a network consistently fire together when the brain is performing specific tasks or is in a certain mental state. After the participants took ketamine, however, activity in specific networks seemed to be desynchronized. The researchers also found an increase in communication between a higher-order network, the default mode network (DMN), and lower-order, sensory networks, such as the somatomotor network, which is linked to the perception of the physical self and bodily sensations. This means that brain regions usually involved in basic sensory processing started communicating more directly and extensively with higher-level regions responsible for complex thought and "orchestrating" brain processes. "Usually there is more segregation between these higher order and lower order networks," Claudio Agnorelli, a neuroscientist at the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London, told Live Science. "But after the ketamine, this hierarchy is kind of collapsed." The DMN is responsible for "mental time travel," or planning and daydreaming, rather than staying focused on particular tasks in the present. An overactive DMN has been linked to depression and rumination. The researchers also used positron emission tomography (PET) scans to measure levels of a protein called SV2A, which plays a role in the release of brain signaling molecules. Higher SV2A levels are thought to indicate more connections between brain cells, Agnorelli said. Although the researchers didn't identify a clear trend in global SVA2 levels after ketamine administration, one brain region tied to the DMN did show clear changes: the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). The PCC is part of the DMN, and it seems to orchestrate the flow of information in the brain. After ketamine administration, the PCC played a smaller role in orchestrating communication across the brain, even as synaptic connections increased within the PCC. RELATED STORIES —FDA approves ketamine-like nasal spray for depression — here's everything you need to know —'Hyper-synchronized' brain waves may explain why different psychedelics have similar effects, rat study reveals —How does ketamine work as an antidepressant? It's complicated. The finding of increased synaptic density in the DMN suggests ketamine isn't just creating new synapses — it's fundamentally reorganizing how brain networks communicate, Sam Mandel, CEO and co-founder of Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles, told Live Science in an email. "The 'flattening of cortical hierarchy' could explain why patients often report feeling less trapped in rigid thought patterns after treatment." The authors cautioned that their results are preliminary. The study had just 11 participants, all of whom were men with no underlying conditions, and there was no placebo group for comparison. Moreover, the imaging methods the team used are still being validated as reliable markers of brain changes. The study does, however, help bridge the gap between what is known about ketamine's impact on animals and how it may act in humans, Agnorelli said. "While we've long understood from animal studies that ketamine promotes neuroplasticity, actually visualizing these synaptic changes in living human brains using a PET tracer is a new development," Mandel said.
Associated Press
a day ago
- Health
- Associated Press
Colorado's First Licensed Psilocybin Manufacturer, Psylutions, Showcases Breakthrough Therapies at Psychedelic Science
Explore Precision-Grown Psilocybin Solutions for Healing Centers at Booth #1106 'I'm here because I've experienced the healing effects of this medicine. Now we're delivering that same possibility through effective products that help people reclaim their lives.'— Rhonda DeSantis, founder of Psylutions DENVER, CO, UNITED STATES, June 19, 2025 / / -- Psylutions, Colorado's first licensed cultivator and manufacturer of psilocybin, is bringing its next-generation therapies to Psychedelic Science 2025, the leading global gathering for psychedelic research and innovation. Visit Booth #1106 to meet the Psylutions team and explore high-potency, lab-verified psilocybin cultivated for clinical healing, chronic pain, trauma relief, and daily mental wellness. Psylutions partners with healing centers and serves as a resource to help interested parties connect with the right licensed facilitators and healing centers throughout Colorado. 'I had a profound life-changing experience on low-dose psilocybin,' said Rhonda DeSantis, founder of Psylutions. 'I'm here because I've experienced the healing effects of this medicine. Now we're delivering that same possibility through precisely dosed, verified, effective products that support mental health and help people reclaim their lives.' Psylutions combines natural healing powers with scientific precision to provide licensed healing centers with regulated medicines. Under the mission of producing the purest and most potent strains available, Psylutions products are curated to support safe and effective mushroom products tailored to individuals' specific needs. Psylutions' mushroom-based products leverage the long-recognized therapeutic properties of psilocybin found to support mental health and chronic pain management, including: Support for Neurological Health: Compounds like psilocybin and psilocin have shown promise in supporting neurological health by interacting with serotonin in the brain. This potential to enhance neuroplasticity can be beneficial for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders that are potentially altered when the brain is able to adapt and reorganize itself. Chronic Pain Management: For those suffering with chronic pain, psilocybin has been found to affect pain perception and potentially reduce the intensity and frequency of episodes. These effects could be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to manage conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and other chronic pain disorders. Mental Wellness: One of the most profound benefits of psychedelic mushrooms is the reported improvement in overall mental wellness experienced by many users. Individuals often report greater emotional clarity, reduced stress, and an enhanced sense of well-being. These effects are thought to be attributed to the mushroom's ability to promote the release of neurochemicals that could foster positive mood and emotional balance. 'We've built a facility that meets the highest possible standards,' DeSantis added. 'Triple HEPA filtration, mitigated contamination risk, and optimized growing environments. We're setting the bar for what regulated psychedelic medicine should look like.' For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Shawna Seldon McGregor at 917-971-7852 or [email protected]. Psylutions: Precise. Verified. Effective Psilocybin Solutions. Psylutions is Colorado's first state-licensed cultivator and manufacturer of psilocybin mushrooms, serving licensed healing centers, clinicians, and researchers with precision-grown, lab-verified psychedelic therapies. Psylutions combines scientific excellence with a deep commitment to healing. With a growing portfolio of high-potency strains, Psylutions is setting a new standard for safety, purity, and purpose in the regulated psychedelics industry. Learn more at Shawna Seldon McGregor Maverick Public Relations + +1 9179717852 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Associated Press
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Sound, Spirit, and Celebration: Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Lead the Musical Heartbeat of Psychedelic Science 2025
• Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity Session at PS2025 Explores the Role of Sound in Emotional Integration, Brainwave Regulation, and Therapeutic Breakthroughs • Reggie Watts, Flying Lotus, Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Live Performances and Events Bring the Healing Power of Music to Life Beyond the Convention Center DENVER, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science, the premier global gathering for psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has unveiled an inspiring lineup of musical visionaries headlining both the keynote stage and immersive live events at Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) in Denver, Colorado. Keynote: Sound, Frequencies, and Emotional Alchemy Grammy-nominated artist and sound healing innovator Maejor (Brandon Green) and rapper and activist Vic Mensa will join forces in a powerful keynote session titled Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity. On Wednesday, June 18 (2:30–3:15 PM MDT) in the Bluebird Ballroom 1A – these artists will explore how sound becomes medicine and melody a tool for transformation. Maejor—known for mastering albums at 432 Hz—shares how scientifically tuned music fosters deep harmony and Vic Mensa will speak to how medicine journeys have influenced his music, activism, and sense of ancestral connection. 'Music is a universal language. It resonates deeply, brings people together, and creates space for healing and self-discovery. That is why we use it as a bridge, not just to inspire but to share resources, support community, and spark curiosity. This keynote features some of the most visionary artists of our time, showing how music can be a catalyst for healing and radical creativity. And beyond the stage, the energy continues throughout the week as Denver becomes a living soundscape, with performances by Flying Lotus, Reggie Watts, Vic Mensa, and more.' — Devon Phillips, Community & Partnerships Officer More Music, More Magic Across Denver But the magic doesn't stop at the Colorado Convention Center. Throughout the week, Denver transforms into a vibrant soundscape with unforgettable performances and immersive events: Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come basis. About Psychedelic Science Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPS Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACT [email protected]
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sound, Spirit, and Celebration: Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Lead the Musical Heartbeat of Psychedelic Science 2025
• Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity Session at PS2025 Explores the Role of Sound in Emotional Integration, Brainwave Regulation, and Therapeutic Breakthroughs • Reggie Watts, Flying Lotus, Maejor, Jim James, and Vic Mensa Live Performances and Events Bring the Healing Power of Music to Life Beyond the Convention Center DENVER, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science, the premier global gathering for psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has unveiled an inspiring lineup of musical visionaries headlining both the keynote stage and immersive live events at Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) in Denver, Colorado. Keynote: Sound, Frequencies, and Emotional AlchemyGrammy-nominated artist and sound healing innovator Maejor (Brandon Green) and rapper and activist Vic Mensa will join forces in a powerful keynote session titled Music Is the Bridge: Frequencies, Visions, Creativity. On Wednesday, June 18 (2:30–3:15 PM MDT) in the Bluebird Ballroom 1A – these artists will explore how sound becomes medicine and melody a tool for transformation. Maejor—known for mastering albums at 432 Hz—shares how scientifically tuned music fosters deep harmony and Vic Mensa will speak to how medicine journeys have influenced his music, activism, and sense of ancestral connection. 'Music is a universal language. It resonates deeply, brings people together, and creates space for healing and self-discovery. That is why we use it as a bridge, not just to inspire but to share resources, support community, and spark curiosity. This keynote features some of the most visionary artists of our time, showing how music can be a catalyst for healing and radical creativity. And beyond the stage, the energy continues throughout the week as Denver becomes a living soundscape, with performances by Flying Lotus, Reggie Watts, Vic Mensa, and more.'—Devon Phillips, Community & Partnerships Officer More Music, More Magic Across DenverBut the magic doesn't stop at the Colorado Convention Center. Throughout the week, Denver transforms into a vibrant soundscape with unforgettable performances and immersive events: MAPS Psychedelic Science Kickoff Party with Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live, and Jim James and Vic Mensa DJ Sets: My Morning Jacket's Jim James and Vic Mensa will both host special DJ sets, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening ahead of Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live at the Mission Ballroom on Tuesday, June 17. Presented by Good Trip Studios, producers of Have a Good Trip on Netflix, this kickoff promises an electrifying fusion of music, art, and community. Tandava with Poranguí & Savej: Join Tandava Retreats on Tuesday, June 17, at Cervantes for a night of tribal rhythms, global healing sounds, and comedy by Dennis Walker (the Mycopreneur). Good Trip Presents: Conversation + Listening Party with Vic Mensa (Wednesday, June 18 at The PORTAL Dome): An intimate, 360° experience with music, film, and deep conversation. Join rapper and activist Vic Mensa for a Q&A and listening session, blending beats and dialogue in the immersive PORTAL Dome. Moderated by Donick Cary (Have a Good Trip, The Simpsons). Blind Melon with Ridgeliners Live at Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom (Thursday, June 19): Experience an unforgettable night of alternative rock as Blind Melon brings their neo-psychedelic sound to Denver's Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom on Thursday, June 19. Known for their 1993 hit "No Rain," Blind Melon continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of rock and soulful melodies. Good Trip Presents: Conversation, Q&A, and Listening Party of My Morning Jacket's New Album 'Is' with Jim James (Friday, June 20 at The PORTAL Dome) invites you to an intimate, 360° experience that blends music, film, and deep conversation. Join My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James for a Q&A and exclusive listening session for the band's new album, 'is' in the immersive PORTAL Dome. Moderated by Donick Cary (Have a Good Trip, The Simpsons). LSZEE: LSDREAM & CloZee Live at Mission Ballroom (June 19–22): A bass-fueled collaboration that fuses psychedelic rhythms and global beats for an auditory adventure. Ecstatic Dance Denver (Sunday Morning Dance Party – Sober, Safe, and Sacred): No booze. No cell phones. No small talk. Just pure movement with Denver's top EDM DJs. Other highlights include immersive series like Shroomski Melt, Queer Magic 2, and more community gatherings. Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come Psychedelic SciencePsychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPSFounded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACTmedia@
Associated Press
30-05-2025
- General
- Associated Press
Legislators, Advocates, Lawyers, and Organizers Take the Stage during Policy Track at Psychedelic Science 2025 to Shape the Future of Psychedelic Reform
DENVER, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the last year, we've seen the first-ever FDA review of psychedelic-assisted therapy and state legislatures debating—and passing—bills to create legal access across the country. As momentum for psychedelic policy reform continues to grow, Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) will convene the world's leading voices to reflect on lessons learned, assess today's political landscape, and chart a course for just, compassionate, and responsible psychedelic policy. Hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), this global conference takes place June 16–20, 2025, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. Psychedelic Science is the largest psychedelic conference in the world — and this year, its Policy Track stands out as one of the most dynamic forums to discuss the urgent need to create legal access to psychedelic substances, drive drug law reforms, and the transition away from criminalization. Despite the challenges of the last two years, the field of psychedelic policy reform is more dynamic than ever, and it is imperative that it builds toward a future where psychedelic therapies are responsibly integrated into society in a way that repairs, instead of reinforces, cracks in existing social and political systems. In 2023, we set the groundwork — this year, the Policy track is about weaving together modern evidence, traditional practices, and practical approaches in service of a stronger safety net and more responsible ecosystem. These conversations are about more than just the law — they are about community, healing, and justice. Our speakers will offer technical expertise alongside essential wisdom on how we can change the world without leaving these values behind. — Ismail L. Ali, J.D., Interim MAPS Co-Executive Director From high-ranking government officials to grassroots organizers, speakers on PS2025's Policy Track will highlight the rapidly evolving intersection of psychedelic research, public opinion, and the law. For policymakers, lawyers, researchers, activists, clergy, Tribal and Indigenous leadership, and community advocates shaping the future of the psychedelic landscape, Psychedelic Science 2025's Policy track offers: The overarching theme of the Policy Track is 'Psychedelic Policy at a Crossroads – Law, Liberty, and Global Change.' It examines how psychedelic research and advocacy are reshaping law and society from multiple angles: Sessions include: Behind the Scenes of Getting Congress Behind Psychedelic Research – As multipartisan momentum builds in Congress, this session spotlights the groundbreaking work of the Congressional Psychedelics Advancing Clinical Treatments (PACT) Caucus and the recently introduced VA bill to establish psychedelic research centers. Join Melissa Lavasani (Founder, Psychedelic Medicine Coalition) and Amy Rising (Air Force Veteran) as they discuss their work to drive progress in Congress, why the PACT Caucus was created, and how several years of careful listening and relationship-building have led to federal support for psychedelic-assisted therapies. From Right to Try to Rescheduling: Legal Battles to Expand Psychedelic Access – Groundbreaking public-interest litigation has catalyzed drug policy reform from the beginning. In this session, pioneering drug policy reform advocate Ethan Nadelmann (Founder, Drug Policy Alliance), and renowned attorneys Kathryn Tucker (Special Counsel, Emerge Law Group) and Shane Pennington (Counsel, Vicente LLP) share updates on high-profile lawsuits aimed at forcing the DEA to ease federal restrictions on research and access to care. The discussion will illuminate how strategic court challenges are pushing the boundaries of current law — and potentially opening new pathways for psychedelic-assisted care through the judiciary. The National Psychedelic Landscape: An Overview of Past, Current, and Future Policy Reform – Over the past 18 months, lawmakers in dozens of states have introduced psychedelic legislation, but why do some bills succeed while others stall? Led by Sam Chapman (of Toolbox Strategies; formerly the Executive Director of Healing Advocacy Fund), this session analyzes the political and practical lessons from psychedelic policy efforts across the country. Chapman will break down which state programs are gaining traction (and why), which have faltered, and who the key players are in advancing or obstructing reform. By distilling trends from dozens of bills — from modest research committees to ambitious regulated access programs — this presentation will point to the possibility of a unified national strategy to advance psychedelic access in diverse political climates. Legislative Success in New Mexico: How It Happened – In a historic move, New Mexico became the first state to pass a regulated access program for psychedelic therapy through its legislature in 2025. This session brings together key players behind the effort – Senator Jeff Steinborn (D-NM), Dominick Zurlo (Division Director, Medical Cannabis Program, New Mexico's Department of Health), and Adele Getty (Advocate and Director, Limina Foundation) – to share the untold story of how diverse stakeholders came together to shape and pass this precedent-setting legislation. Attendees will gain behind-the-scenes insight into coalition building, evidence-based education, implementation strategies that brought the bill to life – along with the challenges and lessons learned for future state-level reform. Nevada's Blueprint for Psychedelic Reform: A Bipartisan Model for Cultural and Legislative Change – As psychedelic reform gains momentum, Nevada is pioneering a unique approach that could inspire other states. Kate Cotter (Executive Director, Nevada Coalition for Psychedelic Medicines), Jon Dalton (Co-Founder and President, Nevada Coalition for Psychedelic Medicines), and Diane Goldstein (a retired police lieutenant and Executive Director of Law Enforcement Action Partnership) will reveal how unlikely allies joined forces in Nevada to advance safe, regulated access to psychedelics. From forging coalitions across the political spectrum to integrating grassroots support, they'll share successes and challenges from Nevada's journey — and how to balance advocacy and education in a way that can drive reform in other states. Indigenous Leadership and Healing in the Natural Medicine Movement – Psychedelic policy is not just about science and law; it's also about honoring the cultures that have stewarded sacred medicines for generations. Regina Randall (Founder and Chair of the Alaska Entheogenic Awareness Council), along with Indigenous leaders and advocates David Karabelnikoff and Richard Porter (Executive Director, Knik Tribe) will explore the intersection of indigenous knowledge and modern psychedelic policy reform, particularly focusing on the work being done in Alaska to decriminalize entheogenic plant medicines and establish a regulated medical access framework. This session will examine the vital role of Indigenous communities in shaping policy and ensuring that psychedelic practices respect traditional teachings - even while working within the constraints of the existing political system. Keeping Young People Safer in an Increasingly Post-Prohibition World — As psychedelics emerge from the underground into mainstream awareness, how do we keep young people informed, empowered, and safe? This dynamic panel combines established experts with emerging voices to trace the evolution of psychedelic public education: from DARE to Safety First to the new Before You Trip campaign focused on Gen Z and others newly exposed to psychedelics. Vilmarie Fraguda Narloch, PsyD (Director, Sana Healing Collective) will moderate a conversation between Kristin Nash, MPH (William G. Nash Foundation; Coalition for Psychedelic Safety and Education), Marsha Rosenbaum (Director Emerita, Drug Policy Alliance), and Ronan Wood to show how the Gen-Z-focused campaign uses data to inform sensible public health policy, taking another step toward a world with evidence-based drug education that actually keeps young people safer. Spiritual Gatekeeping: Navigating Faith and Law in Psychedelic Practice – What does it take to secure legal protection for sacred psychedelic practice? This session offers a first-hand look at the fight for religious exemptions, led by two lawyers at the forefront of this issue. Bob Jesse will moderate a panel with Taylor Loyden, whose client just received the first-ever exemption through the DEA's administrative process, and Martha Hartney, whose client settled with the federal government to secure its own religious rights just last year. These experts will unpack the current legal landscape under RFRA, draw on their direct experience working with the DEA and courts on behalf of psychedelic churches, and illuminate the precedents, pitfalls, and evolving policies that shape the landscape today. Going Forward: Challenging Misconceptions, Introducing Nuance, and Changing Public Opinion – Great ideas don't succeed on merit alone — winning public support is critical. In this data-driven session, researchers unveil fresh polling on American attitudes toward psychedelics and how strategic messaging can dispel stigma. Communication experts Matthew Goldberg, Ph.D. (Yale University) and Abel Gustafson, Ph.D. (University of Cincinnati) will present new survey findings showing what Americans really think about psychedelic therapy, where misconceptions run deepest, and which narratives are breaking through. They'll highlight which stories and statistics change minds, which demographics are most persuadable, and how advocacy groups can capitalize on shifting state by state. This session intends to offer attendees insights to build public support and momentum for policy change in their own context. Taking Responsibility through Restoration, Liberation, and 'Righter' Relationship – How can we participate in cultural renewal and collective liberation, even in the political sphere? Listen to two movement leaders answer this question by reflecting on their ongoing practice of weaving traditional ethical frameworks into psychedelic policy and the mainstream psychedelic community. Robert 'Roman' Haferd and Ariel Clark — seasoned lawyers of color and founding board members of the Psychedelic Bar Association — will report back from years of 'sensemaking' with dozens of BIPOC and Native land-based communities, reflect on the legal and ontological complexities of the psychedelic ecosystem, and invite the audience members to ask how existing systems can be utilized to center respect and responsibility toward our human and more-than-human relatives — including sacred plants. Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come basis. About Psychedelic Science Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; and community activities including art, music, and mindfulness. We are proud to have offered over a thousand scholarships to support broad participation across the community. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPS Founded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACT [email protected]
