It’s not just the psychedelic that heals—it’s the context, the care, and the meaning we make of it.
In this episode of Unravel, I’m joined by Andrew Penn—psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychedelic researcher, and co-founder of Open Nurses. Together, we explore the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and how substances like MDMA and psilocybin are being studied for their potential to transform treatment for PTSD, depression, and beyond.
We dive into the neuroscience of trauma, the cultural evolution of psychedelics, and the essential role of integration. Andrew offers grounded insight into what these medicines can—and can’t—do, cutting through the hype to highlight why safety, preparation, and skilled support are non-negotiable in this work.
Episode Highlights:
- The promise and limitations of MDMA and psilocybin in trauma healing
- How PTSD impacts the nervous system and window of tolerance
- Why integration is the heart of psychedelic therapy—not an afterthought
- The cultural history and ethical complexity of Western psychedelic use
- The neuroscience of rumination, depression, and neural “resets”
- What professionals and seekers alike need to know before engaging
🔗 Connect with Andrew Penn:
🌐 Website: openurses.org
📄 Article: Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies – American Journal of Nursing
💫 Stay Connected:
🌿 Follow the show: @elaineclark_
📩 Email: info@elaineclark.ca
🎧 Subscribe on Apple, Spotify & iHeartRadio
🌐 Explore more: www.elaineclark.ca
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