Over a year since Oregon became the first state to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin, Oregon Health & Science University has established a set of best practices for supervised psilocybin services. The study, based on the expertise of 36 experienced facilitators, outlines a detailed approach to delivering safe and effective psilocybin therapy, hoping to guide other states as they implement similar programs.
Emphasizing a client-centered approach, the guidelines provide detailed protocols for monitoring clients before, during, and after psilocybin sessions. 22 key measures are outlined in the study for the most effective, high-quality services, including:
- Discussion of Touch Boundaries: Facilitators should discuss clients’ touch preferences before sessions, as some may find it comforting while others may not.
- Safety Checklists: Use checklists to document session details, including any medical referrals or early departures.
- Follow-Up Integration Sessions: Include follow-up sessions to help clients process their experiences and integrate insights into their daily lives.
These measures aim to ensure a safe and standardized therapeutic process to enhance the potential benefits of psilocybin therapy while mitigating any risks. Since Oregon led the way in implementing such a program, there are currently no set standards for this form of therapy. However, these newly established measures can be used to help guide other jurisdictions in creating their own protocols for a more consistent and safe application of psilocybin therapy across the country. As other states continue legalizing psilocybin therapy, this list of best practices will provide a solid foundation that prioritizes client care, consent, and confidentiality.
