Blog
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Exploring the Therapeutic Role of Ayahuasca: A Focus on Psychological Flexibility
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.
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Building Safer Psychedelic Services: What Experts Say About Setting Standards of Care
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.
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PIPS Director of Research Jason Luoma Named Among Top 2% of Global Researchers
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 w
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Exploring the Impact of Group-Administered Psilocybin on Psychological Flexibility
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 flexibilit
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PIPS 2025 Year in Review: Advancing Psychedelic Science Through Research, Training, & Clinical Innovation
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 revi
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Cognitive-Behavioral Approaches in Psychedelic Psychotherapy: A New Paradigm for Clinical Practice
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 suite
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New Study Compares Attitudes Toward Psychedelic Therapy Across Mental Health Disciplines
Explore the latest insights and research on psychedelic-assisted therapy, including psilocybin and MDMA treatments, at The Portland Institute for Psychedelic Science.
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Attitudes Toward Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Insights From U.S. Psychologists
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
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A Structured Approach to Psychedelic Therapy: Combining MDMA and ACT for PTSD
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, expectanc
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Exploring MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder: A Promising New Approach
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.
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The Healing Power of Self-Compassion: New Insights From MDMA-Assisted Therapy Research
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has garnered significant attention in recent years for its potential to treat a range of mental health conditions, particularly depression. As research continues to explore the mechanisms behind these therapies, the Psychological Flexibility Model (PFM) has emerged
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The Psychological Flexibility Model: Enhancing Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) has garnered significant attention in recent years for its potential to treat a range of mental health conditions, particularly depression. As research continues to explore the mechanisms behind these therapies, the Psychological Flexibility Model (PFM) has emerged
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Unpacking the Potential of MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder
Recent research suggests that MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) might offer a novel and effective treatment for those struggling with social anxiety. A team of researchers, including Jason Luoma PhD, Kati Lear PhD, and Brian Pilecki PhD from Portland Psychotherapy, explores the potential processes of
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The Role of Group-Administered Psilocybin in Enhancing Psychological Flexibility
As the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) continues to evolve, researchers are increasingly interested in understanding the underlying processes that contribute to its therapeutic effects. A recent pilot study conducted by a team of researchers from Portland Psychotherapy, including Brian P
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The Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin: Current Research and Future Possibilities
Psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushroom species, has been used in traditional practices for centuries. In recent decades, scientific interest in its therapeutic potential has surged, with prestigious research institutions conducting rigorous studies to understand its possible benefits for v
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Understanding Psilocybin Service Centers: Oregon's New Frontier in Psychedelic Services
As Oregon pioneers the first state-regulated psilocybin program in the United States, psilocybin service centers are emerging as essential spaces for supported adult use of psilocybin. Understanding what these centers are—and aren't—is crucial for anyone considering psilocybin services.
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Understanding the Role of Psilocybin Facilitators in Oregon's Legal Framework
Oregon made history by becoming the first U.S. state to legalize supported adult use of psilocybin. As this groundbreaking program unfolds, it's crucial to understand the role of psilocybin facilitators—the professionals at the heart of these services.
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Navigating the Complex Legal Landscape of Psilocybin in Oregon and Beyond
The conversation around psilocybin is evolving rapidly. Understanding the current legal framework is crucial for anyone interested in accessing psilocybin services safely and legally.
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Safety First: Understanding Risk Factors and Assessment for Psilocybin Services
When considering psilocybin services in Oregon, safety should always be the top priority. At the Portland Institute for Psychedelic Science (PIPS), we've developed a comprehensive assessment process to help ensure our clients' safety and well-being.
