Scotland has opened its first clinic dedicated to psychedelic therapies, marking a significant development in the field of mental health treatment. The Eulas Psychedelic Clinic, located in Edinburgh, offers a variety of treatments aimed at addressing mental health conditions that have been resistant to traditional methods. This clinic combines evidence-based psychedelic therapies with holistic wellness programs, providing a new option for those seeking relief from conditions such as depression and anxiety. Among the treatments offered at Eulas are ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, virtual reality (VR) therapy, breathwork, and stroboscopic light therapy. In the future, the clinic plans to expand its services to include MDMA-assisted therapy, pending ongoing research and regulatory approval.

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is one of the key treatments offered at Eulas. This therapy combines the administration of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, with psychotherapy. Ketamine is given to the patient under the supervision of medical professionals in a controlled environment, where its effects can be safely monitored. The drug acts on the brain’s glutamate system, which is different from the serotonin system targeted by traditional antidepressants. This unique mechanism allows ketamine to provide rapid relief from depressive symptoms, often within hours or days, compared to the weeks or months typical of conventional treatments.

During a KAP session, the patient undergoes a series of steps, beginning with an assessment to determine suitability for the therapy. Once cleared, the patient attends preparation sessions to set intentions and understand the process. The actual dosing session involves the administration of ketamine, during which a therapist guides the patient through the experience, helping them explore their emotions and thoughts. Following the dosing session, integration sessions help the patient process and make sense of their experience, translating insights gained into long-term coping strategies.

Additional treatment options offered at Eulas

Virtual Reality Therapy (VRT)- this innovative approach offers an immersive experience designed to help patients confront and overcome fears, anxieties, and other mental health challenges. The therapy creates customized virtual environments tailored to the needs of each patient. This method has shown promise in helping individuals manage conditions like phobias and PTSD, providing a safe space to work through difficult emotions and situations.

Breathwork Therapy – is also available at the clinic, focusing on controlled breathing techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. This non-drug-induced approach to achieving altered states of consciousness has been used in various forms of therapy and wellness practices for centuries. At Eulas, it is integrated into their broader therapeutic approach, helping patients achieve a sense of calm and emotional balance.

Stroboscopic Light Therapy- utilizes rhythmic light patterns to stimulate brain activity and promote positive neural connections. This therapy aims to enhance cognitive function, regulate mood, and improve emotional well-being. While still relatively new, stroboscopic light therapy is being explored for its potential benefits in mental health treatment.

Future therapies and expansion

The Eula’s founder, John Gillen, stated that ‘…we believe in the revolutionary potential of psychedelic medicine to unlock profound healing and personal growth. Our commitment is to deliver compassionate, safe care to those grappling with mental health challenges…We are steadfast in our dedication to making our effective mental health treatments accessible. Our aspiration is for these therapies to be recognized by the NHS in the future, broadening patient access.” This is illustrated by the clinic’s plans to broaden its treatment offerings to include therapies for alcoholism, a condition that is frequently associated with persistent or untreated depression. This expansion will be put in place next year after the company’s phase three study is completed.

Looking ahead, other offerings that could make their way to Scotland include MDMA-assisted therapy, particularly for the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. MDMA, also known as ecstasy, has shown potential in clinical trials for helping patients process traumatic memories and emotions. However, this treatment is still under investigation, and its availability at clinics like Eulas will depend on the outcomes of ongoing research and regulatory approval.

The legal status of psychedelic therapy in the UK is currently limited. Ketamine is classified as a Schedule 2 drug, allowing it to be used in a medical setting under strict conditions. This legal framework permits the use of ketamine in clinical settings like Eulas, but other psychedelics remain off-limits until further research and potential changes in the law. Psychedelics such as psilocybin and MDMA are classified as Schedule 1 drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, meaning they are considered to have no therapeutic value and are illegal to possess or supply. However, the Innovative Licensing and Access Pathway (ILAP) Innovation Passport has been granted to the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) to use MDMA as an adjunct to therapy for PTSD in the United Kingdom, so legalization could be possible by the end of this year, following FDA approval.

A growing interest and potential future of psychedelic therapies

Despite the restrictions and legislation, there is growing interest in the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies to treat a range of mental health conditions. Recent studies have highlighted the ability of psychedelics to promote neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This process is thought to be one of the reasons why psychedelics can have such profound and lasting effects on mental health.

The opening of the Eulas clinic represents a new chapter in mental health treatment in Scotland, providing new options for those struggling with mental health conditions that have not responded to traditional treatments. While the legal landscape around psychedelic therapy remains restrictive, the success of clinics like Eulas could pave the way for broader acceptance and availability of these treatments in the future.