PSD2002 · Introduction to psychedelic therapies

Overview

In recent years, clinical psychedelic research has shown remarkable promise in mental health treatment. Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) integrates psychoactive compounds (e.g., psilocybin, MDMA) with psychotherapy. Research suggests PAT could have substantial impact, demonstrating promising safety and efficacy for conditions like depression, PTSD, and substance-use disorders. Psychedelic approaches to treatment have a rich history, and the field has expanded rapidly in recent years. Guided by national and international leaders and experienced practitioners in PAT, you will explore clinical research methods, findings, and compelling accounts from those who have facilitated or experienced PAT. Key topics include stages of PAT delivery, screening and safety protocols, ethical practice, and the intersection between pharmacology, altered consciousness, and mental illness. You will examine a range of psychedelic compounds, models of care, therapist training, patient groups, controversies, and debates. Developed by the nation-leading Clinical Psychedelic Lab, this exciting unit features flexible and engaging delivery. By the end of this unit, you will have a strong understanding of the fundamentals of psychedelic therapies, and be prepared for further studies. You may also be interested in this unit: https://handbook.monash.edu/2025/units/PSD2001 For more information, visit www.monash.edu/psychedelics Note: on its own, this unit does not provide sufficient training to work as a psychedelic therapist.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain the fundamental principles of psychedelic-assisted therapy
2. Describe and apply the therapeutic processes of psychedelic-assisted therapy
3. Recognise the therapeutic models and mechanisms in psychedelic-assisted therapy
4. Determine the main components of risk management and the safety measures unique to psychedelic-assisted therapy
5. Analyse the various psychedelic substances in the context of their therapeutic applications
6. Identify the core therapist competencies essential to psychedelic-assisted therapy

Workload

Total duration: 12 weeks Number of hours: 12hr/week Contact time: 6hr/week (2 x 3 hr teaching sessions: seminars and/or workshops) Self-Directed study: 6 hr/week Total time commitment: 144 hours

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.