Psilocybin Therapy and the Rise of Existential Medicine

Psilocybin therapy is presented here as an evolving area of mental health research, with attention to both its therapeutic promise and its limitations. The course explains what psilocybin is, how it is being investigated for conditions such as substance use disorder and treatment-resistant depression, and why it is drawing renewed scientific interest. It also outlines the structure of clinical psilocybin studies, including screening, preparatory sessions, intention-setting, dosing in supervised environments, and placebo-controlled study design. The content is framed for readers interested in psychedelic research, psychotherapy, and the practical realities of clinical use. The course is a fit for learners seeking a clear overview of psilocybin-assisted therapy rather than step-by-step personal guidance. It is based on an interview with Dr. Charles Grob, a psychedelic researcher and professor of psychiatry and pediatrics at UCLA School of Medicine.