Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is undergoing extensive research for its potential as a treatment for various mental health conditions. One of the primary reasons for this is, amidst America’s current mental health epidemic, psilocybin has demonstrated an ability to provide relief for depression, anxiety, fear of death and more.
Traditional methods of treatment such as pharmaceuticals and psychotherapy are not as effective as patients need them to be and it’s changing the narrative around how we approach mental health.
A psilocybin-assisted therapy protocol is a therapeutic process in which an individual receives controlled doses of psilocybin. Let’s dive a little deeper into psilocybin, its history, and the science behind this compound that could revolutionize how we approach mental health.
Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound that’s naturally occurring in over 200 kinds of mushrooms, and what gives these mushrooms their “magic” nickname. When in the body, psilocybin is quickly metabolized into a compound known as psilocin, which reacts with serotonin receptors to produce mind-altering effects similar to those of DMT, Ayahuasca, LSD, and other psychedelic compounds.
Some evidence suggests psilocybin mushrooms have had us in their consciousness-enhancing orbit since 10,000 B.C.E! Psilocybin has been used by ancient civilizations throughout time – and grows freely in a range of climates.
Psilocybin mushrooms were often thought of as a tool for communicating with the gods in ancient and advanced societies. Central America is home to a variety of intriguing indigenous artwork that honors mushrooms as a way to speak with the divine. The names of these mushrooms further provide a glimpse into the extent of their significance. The Nahuatl language, spoken by the Mayan and Aztec, referred to psilocybin as Teonanácatl, which translates to “flesh of the gods.”
Mushrooms are also prominently represented in ancient Egyptian art. Because mushrooms do not sprout from seeds, it was believed that the god Osiris embedded them into the earth. This story resulted in psilocybin having the nickname “food of the gods.” Because they were believed to be divine, only the priesthood and upper class could consume them.
Despite its prevalent use in some ancient cultures to produce spiritual experiences, psilocybin is currently listed as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule I drugs, which include heroin and LSD, are claimed to have a high potential for abuse and serve no legitimate medical purpose in the United States.
According to a study performed by drug harm experts, psilocybin has an incredibly low potential for abuse (the lowest of all illegal drugs) and should be reevaluated and recategorized, if not legalized at the federal level considering all the promising research and data pointing to their efficacy in treating mental health issues. Many cities across the USA have voted to decriminalize and legalize psilocybin and other plant-based medicines.
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Studies to date have shown that psilocybin therapy is effective at treating treatment-resistant depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and other mental health problems. Psilocybin has also been shown to reduce fear and anxiety in people with terminal cancer. Not only does psilocybin have a higher efficacy rate than pharmaceuticals, but there are also no side effects or dangers of addiction
When taking psilocybin in therapeutic doses, users report experiencing mystical experiences, time distortion, altered perception, mental and visual hallucinations, and euphoria. Having profound experiences like these can challenge many people’s sense of reality. This can sometimes be uncomfortable, but the result is usually reported as being incredibly positive by users.
Many report experiencing death of the ego, a sense of “oneness” and feeling connected to everything, being overtaken by or full of love, being comfortable with death/dying, making contact with loved ones that have passed on, and so much more. All these experiences tend to lead the user to seeing things from a new perspective, healing emotional traumas on some level, and freeing them from negative mental conditions such as depression and anxiety.
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Deep within the brain’s cortex lies a thin sheet of neurons called the claustrum. The origin of its name comes from the Latin word for ‘hidden or secluded.’ The claustrum’s true function remains hidden from scientists, with researchers speculating about its many possibilities. Francis Crick, the founder of DNA discovery, believed that the claustrum was the seat of consciousness and what controls the ego.
What is not hidden is the fact that the claustrum contains many receptors that are targeted by psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD. Researchers as Johns Hopkins Medicine performed brain scans, comparing the scans of people on psilocybin versus a placebo. The scans of psilocybin users showed less activity in the claustrum, which means the part of the brain that is believed to be responsible for task switching and attention setting was turned down while affected by the psychedelic compound. Researchers confirmed that this correlates with what many psychedelic users report, including the feeling of oneness or connectedness to everyone and everything and a dissolution of the ego.
In addition, brain scan studies indicate that depression seems to activate brain circuits associated with negative feelings and deactivate circuits associated with positive feelings. Psilocybin appears to provide coherence and return the system to balance.
Researchers believe it is the combination of these effects, including profound hallucinatory and mystical experiences, that create long-lasting and profound changes in those using psilocybin therapeutically.
There has been a recent surge in the US with people microdosing psilocybin. Microdosing means you take a fraction of a normal dose, so you experience certain benefits like increased focus and elevated mood, but without experiencing any of the psychedelic effects. For example, people taking a recreational dose of psilocybin would take somewhere around 3.5 grams. A microdose is considered anywhere between .15-.4 grams. Everyone is different, as is each strain of mushroom, so most people need to experiment with what dose works best for them. It’s a fine line between microdosing and feeling trippy, as most who microdose will discover!
Some of the benefits of microdosing include:
Unlike other forms of therapy, psilocybin therapy is not based on traditional talk therapy or medication; rather, it is based on the idea that by experiencing the powerful perception shifts that psilocybin can provide, patients can confront their fears and traumas with a therapist present, and ultimately overcome them to be totally freed from them.
Psilocybin therapy is performed in a controlled and very comfortable setting and can last several hours. During therapy, the person takes psilocybin and conveys their experience to the therapist. The therapist then helps the person to understand why they may be experiencing certain things, correlating them with past events or trauma.
Because psilocybin allows for a “window of opportunity” with relaxed defenses and elevated sense of connectedness, the user is more easily able to process memories and emotions that would otherwise produce more resistance, or more guarded or stress response.
If everything goes well with the FDA approval process, Psilocybin Therapy will be available to treat treatment-resistant depression, substance abuse, and major depressive disorder by January of 2023, specifically in Oregon to start.
In conclusion, psilocybin therapy, in addition to other psychedelic medicines, are extremely promising and wildly beneficial. Not only do they offer a new way to treat mental health disorders, but they also help people (re)connect with their emotions and provide a highly effective alternative to traditional Western medicine.
Many of the patients we treat arrive mentally, emotionally, and physically drained from their conditions, yet remain hopeful. We are excited and so very grateful to be able to offer psychedelic therapies that will result in not just the alleviation of symptoms for so many, but total wellness and transformation. Contact us today to get started!
Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy, as it’s defined by clinical trials, “combines the pharmacological effects of psilocybin with psychological support.”
Some of the earliest studies with psilocybin treatment in some of the preeminent academic centers have shown signs that this substance could be an effective and safe medicine for those suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, end of life fear, and various other mental health issues when it is administered alongside professional psychological support.
“At this point, the data suggest that the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin therapy are real, and of potential medical and public health significance.” – Matthew W. Johnson, Roland R. Griffiths, Peter S. Hendricks, & Jack E. Henningfield
“This is the largest controlled study of psilocybin to date. The results of the study are clinically reassuring and support further development of psilocybin as a treatment for patients with mental health problems that haven’t improved with conventional therapy, such as treatment-resistant depression.” – James Rucker NIHR Clinician Scientist
“Nearly one in fifteen people in the US experiences an episode of major depression each year*, significantly lowering their ability to function at work, to enjoy life, and to live out their full life potential. At Usona, our goal is to contribute to well-being by demonstrating the safety and efficacy of psilocybin as a treatment for depression. This goal fuels us to carry out research of the highest standard, with an aim toward FDA approval for a treatment that could change lives.” — Malynn Utzinger MD, Co-Founder & Director of Integrative Medicine
A typical session lasts around eight hours. However, therapists and researchers have often opted to leave a significant amount of time in between each session. Also, it’s important to note that if one is taking a microdose a session will take far less time to complete.
The clinical trials have often started out with therapists talking with patients in order to build trust and a sense of calm before any drugs are administered. Some standard medical preparation might include the completion of a medical history questionnaire as well as offering some key information about the mushroom itself. When the time comes, the patient will receive a pre-prescribed and controlled dose of psilocybin. While experiencing the effects of the mushroom, the patient will talk to the therapist about what they’re feeling.
With only a few clinical trials having been conducted, it’s tough to say for certain what patients will feel during a psilocybin assisted psychotherapy session. However, there is some reporting regarding specific cases.
For example, a MAPS study testing the efficacy and safety of Psilocybin Assisted Psychotherapy in managing anxiety reported that the therapy was expected to produce feelings of depersonalization and derealization along with some rapid positive changes in mood and visual perception.
Because psilocybin-assisted therapy is still undergoing clinical trials, the exact cost of this treatment isn’t known. If approved by the FDA, it’s safe to assume that it will cost significantly more than traditional treatments. Even after it’s approved, it will take a considerable amount of time before it’s widely available. This gives the first established psilocybin clinics the ability to charge more.
The infancy of research into psilocybin therapy makes it difficult to say if this treatment will be eligible for insurance coverage for PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse disorder and more. Of course, psilocybin therapy will first have to be approved by the FDA before insurance companies can offer coverage.
Currently, there’s simply not enough information out there regarding Psilocybin Assisted Psychotherapy to answer this question accurately. It’s always advisable to talk with your primary care physician or mental health professional when undergoing new treatments, especially when you’re already receiving other treatments.
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Grounded in decades of extensive training with shamans, yogis, and spiritual teachers, Yvé
leverages her innate ability to channel the quantum field to provide profound insight and
transformation for her clientele. Her work is deeply influenced by her daily meditation practice, esoteric research, quantum mechanics, and J.R.R. Tolkien… only partially a joke!
Yvé’s advocacy for Divine Neutrality inspired her exploration into the transformative potential of Ketamine therapy. She delights in her role as a Tryp Guide, where she creates and holds sacred space, promoting transformation through this unique modality. Graced with an amazing partner and soul community, Yvé is humbled and honored to share her life’s purpose with you.
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Will has spent his life seeking truth and exploring the limits of what is possible. This has led him to many extreme experiences—Marine Corps combat veteran, US Army Airborne and Ranger schools, wilderness adventure racing, high altitude mountaineering, ultra-endurance events, holistic healing modalities, psychedelics, and coaching.
Will is a Co-Active Certified Professional Coach and a High Flow Performance Coach. He specializes in integrative psychedelic coaching and facilitating psychedelic experiences. He is relentless in his passion to explore life’s magnificence. It’s an ongoing journey and one he would be honored to share with you as a Tryp Guide.
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While everyone has a different path to happiness, the majority of people encounter comparable experiences along the way. Examples include honesty, kindness, compassion, generosity, concern for oneself, others, and nature; respect for life; a desire to make a good difference; and many more.
Steve’s involvement, acceptance, and advocacy of the use of entheogenic substances as sacraments for direct spiritual experiences is what has inspired him to work hard to create peace and harmony in both his own life and the lives of those around him.
Steve has made a commitment to rejuvenating his own spiritual life using humanist resources and a humanist perspective. With an emphasis on the mysticism of the unitive experience and the practical use of entheogenic rituals for learning about and developing human consciousness to create a direct connection to the Divine within, Steve has been studying and using a variety of transformational tools. Each has acted as a catalyst in his own consciousness, resulting in profoundly life-altering experiences that have gradually revealed Steve’s true self and pointed him in the direction of his true purpose in life.
Steve’s desire to be of service to others by coaching, mentoring, and guiding them through a shamanic methodology and the practical use of entheogenic rituals is the driving force behind his life’s work, passions, and interests.
Steve loves sharing the knowledge he has gained using many entheogenic sacraments and transformational tools that can help spark a shift in consciousness and result in a profound realization of one’s true nature. Steve also firmly endorses both the idea of cognitive liberty (the right to direct one’s own consciousness) and the safe and appropriate use of entheogenic sacraments for a direct spiritual experience.
Steve has put a lot of effort into learning about and developing the best techniques as a practitioner and guide to provide the right guidance, proper preparation, safe navigation, and holistic integration into the sacred work he performs, and he remains dedicated to his work through practice, mentorship, and study.
There is a prayer in Sanskrit, one of the oldest recorded languages dating back 7000–8000 years, that says, “Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu.” This means: “May all beings everywhere be happy and free. May the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and that freedom for all.” This is a truth Steve lives by every day.
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Megan is passionate about holding a sacred space for others to explore healing connections between the mind, body, breath, and spirit. As a plant energy practitioner, essential oils specialist, and yoga teacher, she wholeheartedly believes in an individualized approach to health and the power of curating personalized integrative self-healing practices of your own. Megan creates space for others to explore the therapeutic benefits of psychedelic medicines, both from a physiological and metaphysical standpoint, while inspiring others remembrance of their divine beauty, purpose, and gifts. Through the art of intention, peaceful presence, and loving awareness she hopes to welcome you more deeply into accessing your innate power to heal from within.
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From a young age, Joel sought happiness in competitive sports, business, and relationships. Each accomplishment came with a fleeting sense of fulfillment causing another repeat of the same cycle. That same mysterious desire for acceptance led Joel to seek information in new and unfamiliar territories. Joel has found comfort in his study of past and current visionaries, such as Carl Jung, Dr. Richard Schwartz, Deepak Chopra, and Gabor Matè. Learning that love of oneself is the true path to peace. Joel honors medicines and substance along with meditation and self-care for the aid of self-discovery. He has found that nothing is more enjoyable than supporting others in their constant journey of growth. Healing himself and others has become his greatest gift and passion.
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Nick’s upbringing instilled in him the significance of giving, helping, and inspiring others. He understands that these invaluable gifts have the power to shift paradigms within one’s life. For him, being involved in someone’s transformative journey is a privilege. Deep within each of us lies the ability to discover peace and lasting happiness. Sometimes we just need someone to guide us along the way. Nick carries this responsibility close to his heart, knowing firsthand the vulnerability we experience when seeking help. He hopes to be a bright light throughout this magnificent adventure you are about to embark upon.
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Ann is a registered nurse with a passion for helping others find balance in wellness and health. After graduating with her BSN from Cleveland State University in 2013, she worked briefly as a progressive care cardiac nurse. During that time, she was trained in Usui Reiki and completed her master/teacher level training in 2014. She then devoted herself as a hospice nurse, supporting and coaching many individuals and their loved ones through the dying process. After several years, Ann transitioned her skills and desires to focus on helping individuals achieve optimal wellness with holistic therapies. She opened a small mobile IV infusion business in 2019, offering in-home infusion therapy focusing on prevention and health maintenance. She also became certified in medical aesthetics.
Her constant ambition as a nurse is in service and helping others activate their own healing for optimal wellness while living from their highest self. Her goal is to provide a calm and peaceful environment where individuals can relax into healing.
She grew up in Latrobe, Pennsylvania and has lived in sunny Arizona since 2015. She finds relaxation in the outdoors, hiking, kayaking, star-gazing and flying airplanes.
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Alisia graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings during her 12 years as a RN. Her fascination with the human brain led her to become a specialist in Deep Brain Stimulation therapy. Alisia is also an artist and has been selling her work professionally for the last 10 years. Through several difficult life events, she experienced firsthand the healing power of creative expression. Her passions reside in health, psychology, art, and human connection. She is ecstatic to be part of the Daytryp team, and grateful for the opportunity to assist with the intentional use of psychedelic medicines for healing.
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Nellietha (Nellie) has been in healthcare for 18 years. She graduated with a Bachelors in Science from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2018. She grew up in a family that prioritized alternative medicine and witnessed firsthand the profound impact natural remedies have on physical and mental health. As someone who has personally experienced the transformative effects of psychedelics, she is passionate about helping others find relief and healing through these alternative therapies. In her free time, she enjoys her animals, gardening, and being out in nature.
David Romanelli fuses ancient wellness practices with modern passions that give people accessible tools to overcome stress, focus their mind, and improve their relationships at work and home. David’s third book, Life Lessons from the Oldest and Wisest, is a reminder that countless professionals, parents, and partners have walked the earth before us. The book was inspired by his series of national events called DRINKS WITH YOUR ELDERS, that created a space for isolated elders to reengage with their community and share their life experiences with younger generations. His previous book, Happy is the New Healthy, was inspired by David’s friendship with a 111 year-old New Yorker. The book reached #1 on multiple Amazon and Apple Bestseller Lists.
Dave partnered up with Daytryp Health to create TRIPT, which is a psychedelic integration APP which is offered to all Daytryp clients.
Most recently, David was a featured voice on a new app from Calm, which brings peace of mind and healing techniques to the 1 of every 3 Americans touched by cancer. His daughter Cooper (aka SuperCooper) put leukemia in the rear view mirror and is David’s inspiration everyday to live with strength, passion, and joie de vivre. Throughout Cooper’s treatment, David found the power of psychedelic therapy as a profound way to heal the trauma and constant worry and reset to a positive path forward as parent, partner, and professional.. His 365 day platform, MEDITATE ON, compels his listeners to gain perspective on their journey and take time each day for reflection, quiet, and meditation. David has been featured in The New York Times, Food & Wine, Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek. You can learn more at www.DavidRomanelli.com
Furthermore, Dave is in charge of Daytryp Retreats, which brings people from all over the world to Phoenix, AZ for 3-4 day retreats to experience life-changing psychedelic journeys.
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Dr. Joe Tafur has dedicated his career to exploring complementary and alternative approaches to health management, particularly Amazonian plant medicines. He completed a Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship at UCSD Department of Psychiatry, and worked as a Family Physician in the US before exploring indigenous medicine in South America (SA). He helped found Nihue Rao Centro Espiritual, a traditional healing center in the Peruvian Upper Amazon, and underwent apprenticeship in Traditional Amazonian Plant Medicine and Shipibo curanderismo. In 2017, Dr. Joe founded Modern Spirit, a 501c3 nonprofit focused on demonstrating the value of spiritual healing in modern healthcare. In 2019, he and his colleagues opened the Ocotillo Center for Integrative Medicine. Dr. Tafur is also a leader in his spiritual community and leads plant medicine journeys across the continent. Joe is also a best selling author with his book, The Fellowship of the River.
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Lead Tryp Guide & Operations Manager
MSN, APRN, ANP-C, Medical Director
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Rudy Montijo lends his expertise in operations and business development consulting for Daytryp. He received his undergraduate from the University of Arizona, a master’s degree in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy training from Polaris Insight. Rudy worked under Daytryp’s founder and CEO, Chris Cohn, while operating and expanding Scottsdale Recovery Center from 2013-2014. He currently has an award-winning career in medical sales. He is a former D1 athlete, having played football at the University of Arizona. Rudy is a clinical therapist who is trained in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, actively races on the Ironman triathlon circuit, and is a certified yoga instructor. After helping others, Rudy’s greatest love is his two children, River and Savanna.
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