–submitted by Sharyn Alden
If you’ve heard of psychedelics in existing research at UW-Madison and its 10 years of clinical trials, you may know of the ever-expanding base of knowledge that is evolving.
Dr. Chantelle Thomas and Dr. Todd Kammerzelt, are building bridges of understanding of psychedelics’ use in healthcare.
Dr. Thomas explained those who seek treatment for PTSD and addiction, for example, have typically tried very hard to get help via traditional paths in the healthcare system.
Prior to psychedelic therapy, a patient goes through about 50 hours of screening, Dr. Kammerzelt said, and it is followed with numerous hours of therapy.
Experiences with psychedelics widely varies depending on factors such as a person’s environment and support system.
Dr. Thomas said, if you’re at a party, and you’ve taken the compounds, outside stimulators may be amplified. Conversely, medical therapists are geared to looking inside a person to help them on their journey to wellness.
That path can be arduous since the person may not have previously received the tools they needed.
If you missed our meeting last week, you can watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvjESk0SeIo&t=4s
Rotary Club of Madison, Wisconsin 