Psychedelic Psychopharmacology

The course Psychedelic Psychopharmacology is designed for healthcare professionals, graduate students, researchers, or the general public with an interest in the biological responses that influence the efficacy and safety of psychedelic therapy. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will engage in a reading and study group that will provide a comprehensive overview of the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, pharmacogenomics, and neuroscience of psychedelics.

Readings will include academic literature on several types of psychedelics, including psilocybin, ayahuasca, MDMA, and ketamine, and discussions will be led by a group leader. Weekly participation is required, and the format of each session will include a short review of each paper and group discussions on the topic.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to describe the pharmacokinetic properties of various psychedelics, explain how their pharmacodynamics affect clinical and serological biomarkers, and discuss their effects on neural network function. This knowledge will help healthcare professionals incorporate the tools and practices offered in this program in ways that are beneficial to their clients or patients.

This course was given each quarter and qualifies for 15 continuing education (CE) hours.