Exploring Psilocybin: Working With the Mushroom for Healing

This course offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to psilocybin and its therapeutic, spiritual, and cultural significance. Grounded in evidence-based research and framed through a harm reduction lens, the course is divided into six key sections:

1. What is Psilocybin?
An overview of psilocybin and its active compounds, how it interacts with the brain and body, and what to expect from the psychedelic experience. This section also covers various species of psilocybin-containing mushrooms and their characteristics.

2. Cultural & Indigenous History
A deep dive into the sacred and ceremonial use of psilocybin mushrooms in Indigenous traditions, particularly among Mesoamerican cultures. This module explores historical suppression and recent cultural re-emergence, emphasizing the importance of cultural respect, reciprocity, and ethical engagement with sacred plant medicines.

3. Medical vs. Recreational Use
An exploration of the distinctions between clinical, ceremonial, and recreational uses of psilocybin. This section highlights how setting, intention, and support greatly influence outcomes and emphasizes the importance of integration for lasting change.

4. Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy
An overview of current scientific research on psilocybin’s potential in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, and end-of-life distress. Participants will learn about ongoing clinical trials and how psilocybin is being incorporated into modern therapeutic models.

5. Preparation for Psilocybin Work
Guidance on how to prepare for a psilocybin experience safely and intentionally. Topics include mindset, environment, dosage, navigating challenging experiences, and post-experience integration strategies. Harm reduction principles are woven throughout.

6. Resources & Next Steps
The course concludes by offering tools for further exploration—recommended reading, integration communities, ethical sourcing, and additional educational opportunities. Emphasis is placed on continued self-reflection, community support, and responsible engagement with this powerful medicine.

Whether you’re considering psilocybin for personal healing, insight, or curiosity, this course offers a respectful and well-rounded foundation to begin your journey with awareness and care.