Does the substance matter more than your mindset? A new study from PIPS researchers finds that psilocybin, MDMA, and cannabis differ, but psychological context predicted up to 58% of mystical experiences, compared to less than 10% for the substance alone.

A new study of 856 licensed clinicians reveals differences in how social workers, psychiatrists, and psychologists view psychedelic-assisted therapy. Psychologists showed the most support, while social workers expressed more reservations. Learn what these differences mean for the future of PAT.

A new national survey reveals sobering rates of physical and sexual violence during psychedelic use: 1 in 10 people reported harm, with 7.5% experiencing physical violence and 7.2% forced sexual advances. Researchers identify higher-risk groups and call for harm reduction tailored to psychedelic contexts.

Should psychedelic facilitators have personal experience with the medicines they guide? A new qualitative study gathers insights from 38 experts with over 15 years of experience, revealing strong support for lived experience, ethical concerns about mandating it, and a clear call for more research.

PIPS now offers psilocybin-assisted therapy in Oregon with licensed clinicians, providing structured preparation, supervised sessions, and evidence-based integration. We've started taking referrals. Learn how our three-phase approach can support anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.

A first-of-its-kind study from PIPS researchers introduces the Touch Outcomes Measurement Inventory (TOMI), a new self-report tool designed to assess client perceptions of touch in MDMA-assisted therapy. Learn how this measure aims to balance therapeutic benefits with ethical safety.

A new study from PIPS researchers finds that ayahuasca ceremonies produced lasting improvements in psychological flexibility, cognitive reappraisal, and mood, with gains sustained three months later. Learn how ayahuasca may facilitate enduring emotional healing.

A new qualitative study gathers expert perspectives on psychedelic care standards, revealing urgent needs for safety oversight, culturally responsive care, community-based support, and navigating legal gray areas. Learn what must change to make psychedelic services safer and more inclusive.

We are thrilled to announce that PIPS Director of Research, Jason Luoma, Ph.D., has been recognized among the top 2% of researchers worldwide in Elsevier's 2024 analysis—placing him among the most influential scientists in his field. This recognition reflects the scientific rigor and impact of the work happening at PIPS every day.

A new pilot study from PIPS researchers found that group-administered psilocybin in a retreat setting produced lasting improvements in cognitive defusion, valued living, and self-compassion, with gains sustained at two weeks and six months. Learn how psychedelics may enhance psychological flexibility.

2025 was a landmark year for PIPS: we completed our MDMA-assisted therapy trial for social anxiety disorder (SAMATI), launched psilocybin-assisted therapy services in Oregon, published seven peer-reviewed studies, and seeded a new nonprofit, Northwest Psychedelic Services. Read the full year in review.

Why should cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT, DBT, and ACT) serve as the default framework for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy? A new review argues these evidence-based approaches offer empirical support, cultural sensitivity, and a focus on psychological flexibility, making them uniquely suited to prepare, guide, and integrate psychedelic experiences in clinical practice.

A new survey of U.S. clinical psychologists reveals cautious optimism about psychedelic-assisted therapy, but also significant concerns about psychiatric risks, neurocognitive effects, and lingering stigma. 84% agree psychedelics deserve more research, yet most admit lacking a clear understanding of PAT. Learn what's needed to bridge the gap.

A new model proposes pairing MDMA with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to create a structured, evidence-informed approach to PTSD treatment. The three-phase process integrates ACT principles into preparation, medicine sessions, and integration—focusing on psychological flexibility, expectancy violation, and values-based action to help clients move toward meaningful lives even in the presence of trauma.

Social Anxiety Disorder affects nearly 13% of people in the US. New research from PIPS explores whether MDMA-assisted therapy could offer a breakthrough treatment option.