Summer 2024
Theoretical Foundations of Psychedelic Therapy

This 6-week reading and study group that meets weekly on Zoom for 90 minutes is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the foundation of concepts, models, and ideas that contextualize current models of Psychedelic Therapy. Through the examination and discussion of relevant literature, the course will explore the profound effects psychedelic states have on mental health. The readings focus specifically on the psychological mechanisms activated during psychedelic therapy. From the historical evolution and paradigm shifts in psychiatric research to the nuanced psychological processes underpinning therapy with substances like MDMA, Ayahuasca, and Psilocybin, participants will explore a breadth of perspectives. Key areas of study include the impact of set and setting, the mediation of psychological flexibility on therapy outcomes, and the transformative potential of awe experiences within therapeutic settings.We aim to equip participants with a nuanced understanding of how these processes contribute to the therapeutic efficacy of psychedelics, setting a solid foundation for both research and practice. Attendees should expect to dedicate time outside of the live meeting to read two articles each week in preparation for the live group sessions, including the first class. 

A limited number of Diversity Fund scholarships are available, please complete this application, in addition to the course application.

• At the end of the study group, the participant will be able to:
• Explain the development, methodologies, and outcomes of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy across different substances and therapeutic models, integrating knowledge from historical uses to modern psychological processes and patient experiences
• Explain the historical evolution and current implications of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy as a paradigm shift in psychiatric research
• Compare the psychological processes involved in treating depression using psychedelics in traditional and clinical research settings
• Describe the early use of MDMA in psychotherapy and the impact on current protocols
• Assess the Clinical use of Grofs’ model of spiritual emergency in current treatment settings
• Evaluate the role of psychological flexibility in psychedelic therapy and its impact on depression and anxiety through research
• Identify the placebo effect in psychedelic therapy and the significance of set and setting
• Describe the concept of awe as a mechanism in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and its emotional, moral, and spiritual dimensions
• Describe the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of psychological processes in psychedelic therapy, focusing on the roles of set, setting, psychological flexibility, and the experience of awe in enhancing therapeutic outcomes

• Fluence International, Inc. is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Fluence maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
• Fluence International, Inc. is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors. #MHC-0232.
• Fluence International, Inc. is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0674.
• Fluence International, Inc. is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0167.
• The Department’s approval of a provider of continuing education does not constitute the Department’s endorsement of the content, positions or practices that may be addressed in any specific continuing education course offered by the approved provider.
• For questions about receiving your CE Certificate or Certificate of Attendance, contact Drew Ribadeneyra, drew@fluencetraining.com.