(RE-)CONCILING DOMAINS: THE CLINIC AND THE CHURCH

Abstract: The scene of psychedelic healing is at odds with a duality between two domains: the
clinic and the church. The reconciliation and mutual integration of these two domains can provide the possibility of a more holistic approach to healing with psychedelics. Despite the possibility of this reconciliation, many remain confused or at odds with how to think about or articulate the possibility of both science and religion being involved in psychedelic healing. Within the past years of development in discourse about psychedelics, parties within each domain have advocated for both exclusivist compartmentalization and for mutual integration of their knowledge, methods, and goals. This polarization is exemplified through a debate in contemporary psychedelic research concerning the inclusion or exclusion of ‘mysticism’ and mystical concepts from psychedelic therapy and research. This talk will analyze this debate and its conclusions to gather insight on what work must be done to assuage the apprehensions from both parties. To then approach the problems presented by the debate, a series of suggestions presented by various authors will be explored. These solutions include ways to increase ontological flexibility in the research and clinical domain to appropriately account for patient experiences, as well as ways to approach spiritual and religious aspects of psychotherapy. To conclude, a prospective framework based on the debate and the variety of positions discussed, will be proposed concerning how to (re)-conciliate the domains of the clinic and the church. Due to the limited scope of research covered in this talk, the framework is mainly focused on guidelines for clinical psychedelic practitioners approaching religiosity in clinical settings. This obviously leaves out questions for how religious psychedelic practitioners should approach potential health and clinical issues in religious or ceremonial settings.

Bio: William Aylward is a future graduate student in the Department of Religions and Cultures at Concordia University in Montreal, where he has recently graduated with a B.A. in Philosophy. William’s M.A Thesis will investigate the reception and influence of Advaita Vedanta in the work of Aldous Huxley. His academic interests include philosophy, mainly epistemology and metaphysics, and religious studies, especially surrounding the influence and reception of Hinduism and Buddhism in the West. The intersections of philosophy, religion, and science have always been an important part of his philosophical reflections. As a person with respect for psychedelics and having grown through and out of his teens during the psychedelic renaissance, William has had an eager and curious eye on many different areas of professional discourse surrounding psychedelics over the past years.

SOFT FOCUS: TRANSPERSONAL GROWTH FOR SOCIETY THROUGH CAIM

Abstract: The only constant is change, and the systems and values we live by today often leave little room for profound transpersonal healing and societal growth. Despite our increased knowledge, modern society faces persistent social problems, treating symptoms without addressing the root causes of trauma. This presentation explores how integrating transpersonal disciplines with psychedelic, complementary, alternative, and integrative medicines can foster individual and societal healing. By embracing indigenous traditions alongside modern scientific understanding, we can bridge communities and fields, creating new paradigms that promote holistic and equitable healing. This approach not only transforms personal well-being but also reshapes broader societal structures such as capitalism, religion, and philosophy. We will delve into the historical context of psychedelic medicine, highlighting its roots in indigenous rituals and the resurgence of scientific interest. Personal testimonies and scientific studies will illustrate the potential for psychedelics to treat mental health conditions and facilitate Transpersonal Growth. The presentation will also address the challenges and opportunities in this field. Ultimately, this talk aims to inspire a collaborative effort towards a more holistic and equitable society, leveraging the power of Transpersonal Work with psychedelic and earth-based medicines to heal individuals and transform communities.

Bio: Foxie-Malik is a force of nature—a whirlwind of creativity, resilience, and unyielding advocacy. Born and raised in the colorful chaos of South Los Angeles, Foxie’s journey as a proud queer, non-binary individual is a testament to the power of authenticity. Currently dazzling the academic world as an honors student at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), Foxie transitioned from Long Beach City College (LBCC) with grace and flair. With over a decade of experience strutting their stuff as the fabulous drag queen performer Foxie Adjuia, they’ve turned the stage into a platform for liberation, resilience, and healing. Foxie’s life hasn’t been all sequins and spotlights; they’ve faced significant challenges but emerged stronger and more determined than ever. At the conference, Foxie will ceremonially guide attendees on integrating transpersonal disciplines with psychedelic, complementary, alternative, and integrative medicines, promising an enlightening and entertaining experience. Foxie-Malik continues to shine brightly, using their talents and experiences to inspire and uplift everyone they encounter.

TRIPPING TEENS FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE How Modern Psychedelic Rites-of-Passage Could Create More Resilient Individuals and Coherent Societies 

Abstract: Why do teens seek to change their perceptions and consciousness with psychoactive drugs? Is it simply the propensity for risk-taking and thrill-seeking? Is it our biological drive for social connection? Perhaps it is a search for self-transcendence and meaning to find inter-personal identity? Without structured development of healthy identities, unconscious overconsumption of drugs, food, and now social media become common place. When faced with the chaotic and unpredictable modern world, the emergence from childhood into adulthood is challenging at best and shocking for many. When I was a young child, I was oblivious to the local and global human legacies of ecological destruction and indigenous genocide and culturicide. Then as an adolescent I found and ate wild Liberty Cap psilocybin mushrooms and was catapulted into strange and familiar inner landscapes accompanied by ontological epiphanies. I realized the paradox of the human condition: as we hurt the environment and each other, we lose our interconnectivity with nature and community, and gain alienation and despair. How did traditional cultures collectively navigate the constant challenges of raising teenagers into adults? Rites-of-Passage are rituals that facilitate the metaphorical death of the child and the rebirth into adulthood. This process stabilized the healthy interrelationships between an individual’s psyche, the local ecosystem and their society. Conversely, modern societies lack strong connections to the local ecology and each other; such that individual and collective resilience are greatly reduced, and social cohesion and stability are compromised. The pathology of drug consumption replaces the initiation rites common in traditional cultures; and unhealthy identity development of today becomes the adult psychopathological epidemic of tomorrow. As in traditional societies, modern peoples could leverage structured initiations to encourage healthy maturation of children into adults. Modern psychedelic rights-of-passage for teens could create more resilient individuals and greater social cohesion.

Bio: My name is Christian Jacks Johnson. Growing up in the southern foothills of the Olympic Mountains my life has always been connected to forest ecology. My fascination with mushrooms stemmed from a psilocybin mushroom experience as a youth, and I became a lifelong student of mycology and psychology. I formalized this education with a B.A.S degree at The Evergreen State College, where I directed my multidisciplinary education to focus in mycology, chemistry, neurobiology and psychology. My research into the medicinal properties of the Hericium genus of fungi was a culmination of my curiosity for analytical natural products chemistry and mushroom compounds that effect the nervous system. I look forward to continuing my academic career in the psychedelic research space, with a strong interest in eco-therapeutic psychedelic interventions for adolescents. I love to hike and forage wild food, especially truffle hunting with my dog Ari. If you see me on a trail or at a psychedelic conference, make sure to say hi!

ETHER

Abstract: Diethyl ether, or more commonly referred to as just “ether” is a significant compound in the history of pharmacology and recreational drug use, despite its current lack of press. It is known for its hallucinogenic effects which come in the form of sensory and perceptual distortions, as well as providing a feeling of euphoria for users. Originally used for its medical benefits, it later became a cheap alternative to alcohol and therefore a commonly used recreational drug. This presentation will explore the medical applications of ether and debate whether it has a future in the therapeutic, anesthetic, or recreational setting. This includes the unique properties that made it a revolutionary anesthetic in the 19th century, as well as its decline in the advent of safer alternatives. Furthermore, the presentation will discuss the neurological effects of ether, including its effects on neurotransmitter systems and the central nervous system. It will focus on how dosing affects user experience as well as its potential for physical and/or its psychological dependency. Lastly, it will examine the historical impact of ether on Eastern Europe, with an emphasis on the country of Poland. This includes analyzing public opinion, government intervention, and cultural significance. Drawing from the history of this once commonly used substance can give the contemporary psychedelic space valuable insight on cultural trends and influential sociocultural dynamics that surround the drug world. It might even provide the opportunity for recreational drug users to reminisce about what is now, in many cases, an obsolete novelty drug.

Bio: Michael Miarecki is a Polish American student pursuing studies in Statistics and Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Florida. His involvement with the Students for Sensible Drug Policy organization has equipped him with experience in forming student-led coalitions focused on drug policy reform, harm reduction legislation, and psychedelic research. His interests include the history of psychoactive substance use, psychedelic neuroscience, and global drug policy. Currently, Michael is based in Warsaw, Poland, where he is collaborating with the Polish Drug Policy Network.

TOWARDS A UNIFIED PSYCHEDELIC WORLD: HOW PSYCHEDELIC GROUP THEORY CAN BRING WORLD PEACE

Abstract: Thanks to the power of empirical science and the grandly optimistic, psychedelic scientists and healers who have driven this research renaissance, we are now a part of a world where psychedelic therapy is mainstream. Rick Doblin promised that we are heading “towards a world of net-zero trauma by 2070” on stage at last year’s psychedelic science conference. If we really believe that is possible, then we must critically re-evaluate the culture and assumptions of the psychedelic renaissance. There are social and political causes to the meteoric rise in mental illness that need to be addressed, and these are due to the alienating values of a neo-liberal capitalist ideology. Even if psychedelic therapy is embraced by the healthcare industry, it will not bring about a true paradigm shift if it is treated as another resource commodity to be bought and sold. We need to be reminded that psychedelic use ran concomitant with progressive social and political movements of the 1960s, and that to take a psychedelic or advocate for them is an act of civil disobedience. If the renaissance is to live up to the psychedelic values of love, unity, and connection, then we must return to the radical, counter-cultural roots from which psychedelics first emerged. We need a psychedelic revolution, one grounded in radically compassionate political action that will bring forth a new form of social organization, going beyond ideology, and reflecting the healing we’ve received within ourselves. By leveraging the empathogenic ability of psychedelics to dissolve cultural, social, and political boundaries, we can steer research towards psychedelic group therapy to medicate the division between social and political groups. These experiments will serve as the prototype for a new, non-competitive, international, social ritual where we can gather to rediscover authentic, human experience, and facilitate a lasting world peace.

Bio: For my entire academic career, I have been seeking the truth. I have studied physical science, mysticism, and altered states of consciousness in hopes of coming to a clear consensus of objective reality. My permanent focus of study is on psychedelics in order to learn how they can be used as philosophical tools to answer profound existential questions. I received my bachelor’s degree in philosophy with a concentration in physics from the University of Dallas, and now I am pursuing a master’s degree in psychoactive pharmaceutical investigations at the University of Wisconsin. It is my personal goal to study how group psychedelic experiences can be used in international peace-building and how they can help humanity evolve our collective consciousness. 

PSYCHEDELIC EXPLORATIONS: HARNESSING AI FOR NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH

Abstract: Current methods for measuring psychedelic experiences have significant limitations, relying on subjective self-reporting and observer-based assessments. To address these limitations, I propose a novel approach utilizing machine learning tools to model human consciousness and replicate psychedelic experiences. The approach employs spatially embedded recurrent neural networks (RNNs) designed to simulate brain activity and integrate psychedelic effects by modulating node activity. Validation is achieved by comparing the simulated experiences with empirical data from psychedelic research studies. This innovative approach offers several benefits, including more objective and precise measurements, insights into neural mechanisms underlying psychedelic effects, and potential applications in understanding and treating mental health disorders. Moreover, it opens new paths for scientific inquiry and groundbreaking discoveries, paving the way for a deeper understanding of human consciousness and its relationship with the brain.

Bio: Victor Hernandez is a recent graduate in Neuroscience with a Master’s degree, bridging the gap between neuroscience and technology. With experience in both clinical work and research, He is passionate about harnessing computational neuroscience and technological innovations to revolutionize treatment approaches.
Victor is particularly fascinated by the potential of computational neuroscience to unravel the mysteries of brain function and drive the development of novel therapeutic interventions. He is eager to contribute to the rapidly evolving field of neuroscience, leveraging technological advancements to improve patient outcomes and enhance our understanding of the human brain. With a unique blend of clinical and research experience, Victor is thrilled to make a meaningful impact in the neuroscience community, driving innovation and progress at the intersection of brain science and technology.

EXPLORING THE NEUROLOGICAL UNDERPINNINGS OF PSYCHEDELIC DRUGS’ IMPACT ON SOCIAL COGNITION

Abstract:  In a society increasingly characterized by social isolation, examining the intricacies of our social interactions becomes crucial. Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD have been linked to increased emotional empathy (the ability to feel others’ emotions), heightened emotional sensitivity, and a sense of interconnectedness. This presentation delves into the neural processes that may underlie the notable shifts in social cognition observed during psychedelic experiences. By combining recent insights from social neuroscience and psychedelic research, the presentation aims to connect cognitive and neural processes of social cognition to the effects induced by psychedelics. Specific attention is given to the Mirror Neuron System and the intriguing phenomenon of Inter-personal Neural Synchrony to explore their roles in fostering social connections in our everyday lives. I will first describe these two concepts and briefly present the experiments they are based on. Then, building on our current understanding and paradigms in social cognitive neuroscience, I will present my hypothesis on how classical and non-classical psychedelic drugs might influence these processes. Additionally, the presentation considers the potential consequences of altered states of consciousness on elements such as emotional empathy, and the dissolution of ego boundaries. Understanding the neural mechanisms at play is essential for shedding light on the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelics in mental health and gaining a deeper understanding of human consciousness.

Bio: Szabolcs (Szabi) Meszaros is a research master student at Maastricht University with a specialization in Cognitive Neuroscience. He is currently working at the Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology department to investigate the effects of LSD on social cognition and behavior. In his master’s thesis, he is analyzing EEG (electroencephalography) data collected simultaneously from two interacting subjects to explore how LSD affects communication between two brains.

USING AI IN OBSERVATIONAL PSYCHEDELIC RESEARCH

Abstract: With increasing popularity, education, and destigmatization around the use of psychedelic substances, the amount of people going through their own psychedelic journeys is growing rapidly. An immense wealth of insights as well as challenges is accumulating in the general public, while academics are struggling to keep up the pace, trying to translate the wisdom of the crowd into generalizable and verifiable findings. In this regard, the evolving capabilities and accessibility of artificial intelligence offer a promising avenue to create a new research paradigm that bridges personal narratives of psychedelic experiences with broader theories and patterns on an unprecedented scale, all while maintaining a high level of transparency. The talk will discuss the present manifestations of automation in (psychedelic) research and give an outlook on how the field might benefit from the conscious use of artificial intelligence.

Bio: Steven finished his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Maastricht University with distinction, where he conducted an observational study with Dutch ayahuasca retreat participants under the supervision of Dr. Kim van Oorsouw. Since he moved to Maastricht four years ago, he has been organizing a variety of educational and social events where people have the opportunity to learn psychedelics, altered states of consciousness, and, ultimately, themselves. Currently, he is on a quest to understand the relationship between language and consciousness, which he’s exploring through his current master’s program in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Transpersonal Psychology facilitated by Alef Trust.

TRIPPING THE SWITCH: THE ROLE OF PSYCHEDELICS IN REWRITING ADDICTIVE MEMORIES

Abstract: Addiction is often linked to problematic memory processes related to dysfunctional reward learning. Memory reconsolidation, a process where reactivated memories can be altered, offers a promising therapeutic target. For the past 30 years, research has explored ways to interfere with this memory process to treat disorders such as addiction, PTSD, and phobias, often showing significant benefits. A recent study using ketamine has demonstrated success in reducing alcohol intake by disrupting related memories. Triangulating across this and other pieces of evidence, some have suggested that classical psychedelics may also confer benefits in this context, given their plasticity-inducing effects. This presentation elaborates on this promising intervention and introduces the UNITy (Understanding Neuroplasticity Induced by Tryptamines) project at UCL. This project will assess the use of DMT, a short-acting psychedelic, to facilitate a memory reconsolidation intervention to alter harmful alcohol-reward associations in hazardous drinkers. This will be the first psychedelic-assisted memory reconsolidation intervention in humans and could provide a new pathway for treating addiction.

Bio: I am a 2nd year PhD student at University College London studying psychopharmacology and neuroimaging. My research relates to alcohol addiction; specifically, the nature of the maladaptive memories that underly it, how alcohol craving manifests in the brain, and a potential psychedelic-assisted intervention targeting alcohol-related memories. Throughout my career, I hope to assist in the development of evidence-based interventions for addiction as well as policies on harm reduction surrounding drugs.

PSILOCYBIN, NEUROPLASTICITY, AND TREATMENT-RESISTANT DEPRESSION: A NOVEL HYPOTHETICAL CLINICAL TRIAL

Abstract: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a disease characterized by 2 or more weeks of low mood and enjoyment. The current standard of care for depression involves the administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). 30% of MDD patients present with what is known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a type of depression that renders them incapable of adequately benefitting from at least one antidepressant trial of adequate dose and duration. It is estimated that 30% of those with TRD have attempted suicide, and data shows that a single failed suicide attempt will likely be followed by further attempts on one’s life. Without adequate treatment, millions of Americans are left to grapple with mental struggles that may eventually culminate in the loss of a life. If current treatment options (such as SSRIs) are not effective in mitigating TRD symptoms, it is necessary to explore other methods of care that have not been adequately considered. In depressed patients, the brain’s default mode network presents with increased functional interconnectivity alongside dysfunction of the Executive and Salience networks. Administration of psilocybin has been found to increase global network integration, and decrease DMN interconnectivity, both of which have been correlated with a decrease in depressive symptom severity. Through decreasing interconnectivity in the DMN and increasing interconnectivity between the DMN and EN and SN, psilocybin may be able to induce a neuroplastic effect that allows for patients to “rewire” their brains, making them more receptive to therapeutic intervention. My presentation revolves around creating a hypothetical clinical trial that will employ a novel study design in an attempt to curb unblinding that is prevalent among similar trials, as well as bolster current knowledge surrounding different doses of psilocybin and their respective effects on various neuroplastic biomarkers and the severity of depressive symptoms.

Bio: I am a PharmD candidate currently attending Rutgers University who is interested in psychedelic research and the untapped therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs. My primary interests lie in neuropsychopharmacology, and I have assisted with lab work focused on stress responses in mice and their impact on the physiological structure of their brains. My hope upon receiving my PharmD is to find a place where I can combine my knowledge of treating patients with my passion for psychedelic therapy, enabling me to work on the frontlines of the freshly-emerging psychedelic medical landscape!

MDMA-ASSISTED THERAPY FOR ALCOHOL ADDICTION: RESEARCH-TO-DATE AND POTENTIAL INSIGHTS

Abstract: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) represents a major public health issue, as 14.5 million individuals above the age of 12 struggle with AUD (SAMHSA, 2019). In spite of 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and the existence of gold standard treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), 42.9% of individuals who receive treatment for AUD will experience relapse (Moos & Moos, 2006). Moreover, co-occurence with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and exposure to early traumatic experiences is considered to be a significant risk factor in the development of AUD (Najavits et al., 2022). Recent evidence suggests that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) results in significantly higher rates of sustained remission in comparison to standard psychological and pharmacological interventions (Mitchell et al., 2021). Given that PTSD and AUD may share mechanisms of intrinsic vulnerability (Maria-Rios & Morrow, 2020), there is novel interest in the potential efficacy of MDMA-AT in treating AUD. Additionally, some psychedelic-assisted therapies (i.e., psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide [LSD]) have exhibited varied but encouraging results in the treatment of AUD (Fuentes et al., 2020; van der Meer et al., 2023). In light of this, we examine existing research in conjunction with preliminary evidence from clinical trials of MDMA-AT to explore its potential benefits in regards to the treatment of AUD.

Bio: Originally from Colorado, Dan Oliver studied Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology, and Music at Rutgers University where he was one of the founding members of the Rutgers Psychedelic Society. He previously worked as a research assistant at the Rutgers-Princeton Center for Computational Cognitive Neuro-Psychiatry (CCNP), as a crisis counselor on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline through CONTACT of Mercer County, and presently works on brain-computer-interaction research at Meta. Outside of his interests in psychedelic research and drug policy, Dan deeply enjoys playing the cello, rock climbing, and backpacking in the Rockies.

DOCTOR’S ORDER: EGO DEATH (HOW MEDICINE SHOULD BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN NEUROBIOLOGY AND SUBJECTIVE EXPERIENCE IN PSYCHEDELICS)

Abstract: TBA

Bio: Aidan is a 2nd year medical student at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine who is interested in the practical applications of psychedelic therapies in neurology and psychiatry. He is enthusiastic about the medical humanities, which exposed him to anthropological research into the indigenous uses of entheogens.