Reflections from the Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference
Reflections from the Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference
By Emily Webb Olsen, LPC
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference, hosted by MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies)—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing psychedelic research and education. As someone who has worked in the trauma field since 2011, I’ve explored a variety of therapeutic models to support my clients' healing. While many of these approaches have been incredibly effective, I remain committed to staying curious and open to new ways of helping people heal.
After an immersive week of learning, listening, and reflection, I can confidently say that psychedelic-assisted therapy has the potential to be profoundly life-changing for some individuals. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but in the right circumstances—with proper preparation, support, and integration—it can be a powerful tool. I’m still processing a lot of what I learned, but I wanted to share a few early takeaways from the experience:
1. Honoring Indigenous Wisdom
While most people have heard of Psilocybin (magic mushrooms) and Ayahuasca, the world of plant medicine is far more expansive—and deeply rooted in Indigenous cultures. One of the most powerful workshops I attended featured Indigenous American leaders speaking about the harm caused when sacred medicines are used without consent, understanding or honoring their cultural context.
These medicines are not just tools—they are central to the survival and identity of many Indigenous communities. If you're interested in learning more or supporting Indigenous-led efforts to protect these medicines, I encourage you to check out:
True healing must include collective healing. We can’t separate our personal growth from the wellbeing of the communities and traditions that made this work possible.
2. Effectiveness vs. Side Effects
One major question I’m sitting with is: Are the benefits of psychedelic therapy worth the potential risks or side effects? One study presented at the conference used the Swiss Psychedelic Side Effects Inventory to track outcomes. It found that negative side effects were often influenced by context—such as being in a safe, supportive environment versus an unsupervised recreational setting. It also concluded more studies need to be done.
Notably, Psilocybin was associated with the fewest long-term side effects (measured one month post-experience). Pre-session relaxation practices were also shown to significantly improve outcomes. This reinforces what many of us in trauma work already know: the nervous system's readiness matters.
Read More on the Side Effects HERE
If you’re looking for more overall information on Psilocybin Psychedelic Research click HERE.
3. Psychedelics & Substance Use Recovery
In Southwest Virginia and beyond, the effects of the opioid epidemic are still deeply felt. Several studies highlighted the potential of psychedelics like Ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT in treating substance use disorders. The results were promising—but these substances come with serious risks, especially for those with cardiovascular issues, and must be administered with extreme care under medical supervision.
For communities struggling with addiction, this could represent a hopeful path forward—but it must be approached responsibly and ethically.
To learn more about Ibogaine and it’s possible impact on the Appalachian Region click HERE
4. The Importance of Integration
Here in Virginia, Ketamine remains the only legal psychedelic currently available for therapeutic use. There are several providers in the Roanoke area offering ketamine-assisted therapy, but what stood out to me most is how critical integration work is in this process.
Without thoughtful, ongoing integration, a psychedelic experience may just feel like an intense or interesting event—without leading to lasting change. It’s in the weeks and months after, through intentional reflection, processing, and action, that real healing unfolds. In my opinion, this is true of all therapy: insight is only the beginning. Change happens through continued support and integration.
5. Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy & End-of-Life Care
One of the most moving areas of exploration at the conference was the role of psychedelic-assisted therapy in end-of-life care and support for individuals facing terminal illness. In the U.S., we often struggle to talk about death. In the mental health field, discussing end-of-life thoughts is frequently met with immediate clinical concern—safety plans, risk assessments, and protocols. While safety is vital, I can say with confidence from my 15 years of experience that these approaches alone are often insufficient.
People facing death need a place to speak freely—without fear, judgment, or clinical panic. Our discomfort with death can prevent clients from going to the emotional depths they need to access. Several panels addressed this topic, including a powerful session featuring a group of women living with breast cancer who had participated in psychedelic group work. They shared how the experience helped them shift their relationship with life, illness, and death itself.
They also emphasized the importance of integration and how to navigate life emotionally and spiritually after receiving a terminal diagnosis. This kind of work offers another path to healing—not just for the body, but for the mind, heart, and soul.
If you are personally struggling with thoughts of suicide or hopelessness, it’s incredibly important to talk with a trained mental health provider. Psychedelic therapy is not a replacement for care—but it may one day be an important piece of the broader picture.
If you are looking for Cancer Survivor Psychedelic Resources click HERE
Final Thoughts
While I’m new to the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy, I’m not new to trauma. What I witnessed and learned at the Psychedelic Science Conference was eye-opening and affirming. These medicines—when approached with respect, safety, and intention—have the potential to deepen the healing work many of us are already doing.
I’m continuing to learn and reflect, and I’d love to connect if you're curious about any of these topics. Please don’t hesitate to reach out or stay in touch if you’d like to talk more about the conference or the future of psychedelic therapy in trauma work.
Emily Webb Olsen, LPC
Big Oak Wellness
**If you’d like to schedule an appointment to work with Emily, please click HERE.
If you’re interested in speaking with Emily, please email at emily@big-oak-wellness.com.
