Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, often called "magic mushrooms." When consumed, psilocybin is converted in the body into psilocin, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perception, emotions, and consciousness.

How Psilocybin Works

• Serotonin Activation: Psilocin primarily affects the 5-HT2A serotonin receptors, increasing neural connectivity and altering thought patterns.

• Neuroplasticity: Research shows psilocybin promotes new neural connections and may help rewire maladaptive thought patterns.

• Default Mode Network (DMN) Suppression: The DMN is associated with self-referential thinking, ego, and rumination. Psilocybin temporarily reduces its activity, leading to ego dissolution, increased openness, and new perspectives.

Effects of Psilocybin

The effects vary based on dosage, mindset, and setting, but common experiences include:

Psychological Effects:

• Enhanced emotional processing (e.g., confronting trauma or deep emotions)

• Increased introspection & self-awareness

• Ego dissolution (a feeling of merging with the universe or losing the sense of self)

• Spiritual or mystical experiences

• Improved mood & connection to others

• Potential anxiety or fear at high doses (can be managed with proper guidance)

Sensory & Cognitive Effects:

• Visual & auditory hallucinations (patterns, colors, enhanced sound perception)

• Altered time perception

• Increased creativity & divergent thinking

• Synesthesia (e.g., "hearing" colors or "seeing" sounds)

Potential Benefits of Psilocybin

Clinical research suggests psilocybin may help with:

✅ Depression & Anxiety – Particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression and existential anxiety in terminally ill patients.
✅ PTSD & Trauma Processing – Can help individuals revisit trauma in a non-defensive way.
✅ Addiction Treatment – Studies show psilocybin may help with smoking cessation, alcohol dependence, and other substance use disorders.
✅ OCD & Eating Disorders – Early research suggests benefits in reducing compulsive behaviors.
✅ Personal & Spiritual Growth – Many report increased openness, connectedness, and purpose after a psilocybin experience.

Legality & Research

• Legal Status: Psilocybin remains illegal in most places, but some regions (e.g., Oregon, Colorado, Canada) have decriminalized or allowed medical use.

• FDA & Clinical Trials: Psilocybin has received Breakthrough Therapy designation for depression and is in Phase 3 clinical trials for mental health treatments.

• Research Institutions: Johns Hopkins, NYU, MAPS, and Imperial College London are leading studies on its therapeutic potential.

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy (PAT)is a form of therapy that incorporates the use of psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, to facilitate psychological healing and transformation. It is conducted in a controlled setting with trained therapists guiding the process.

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy (PAT) is being researched and used for individuals dealing with a variety of psychological and existential challenges. It may be especially beneficial for those who have not responded well to traditional therapies.

Who May Benefit from Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy?

✅ Individuals with Treatment-Resistant Mental Health Conditions

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Clinical trials show psilocybin can lead to significant reductions in depression symptoms, sometimes after just one or two sessions.

• Anxiety Disorders: Especially beneficial for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and existential distress in terminally ill patients.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Helps process trauma in a non-defensive way, potentially reducing hyperarousal and emotional numbing.

✅ People Struggling with Addiction

• Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): Research suggests psilocybin can help individuals develop healthier perspectives on substance use and reduce cravings.

• Nicotine Addiction: A Johns Hopkins study found an 80% smoking cessation rate after psilocybin treatment, far exceeding traditional methods.

• Opioid & Other Substance Dependence: Early research indicates it may help people break patterns of compulsive drug use.

✅ Those Seeking Personal Growth & Existential Exploration

• Spiritual or Mystical Experiences: Many report deep insights into their purpose, interconnectedness, and self-identity.

• Creative Blocks & Emotional Stagnation: Artists, writers, and professionals sometimes use it for breaking through creative or emotional barriers.

• Life Transitions & Loss: Can provide clarity and emotional resilience for those dealing with grief, divorce, or major life changes.

Who Should Avoid or Approach with Caution?

⚠️ Contraindications & Risks

• Schizophrenia & Psychotic Disorders: Psilocybin can potentially trigger or worsen psychosis.

• Bipolar Disorder (Manic Phases): Risk of inducing mania or destabilization.

• Heart Conditions: Psilocybin increases blood pressure and heart rate, so those with cardiovascular issues need medical screening.

• History of Severe Trauma Without Proper Support: While it can help process trauma, an unstructured or unsupported experience may be overwhelming.

Best Candidates for Psilocybin Therapy

• Open to introspective, non-ordinary states of consciousness.

• Emotionally stable enough to process difficult emotions that may arise.

• Have a trusted therapeutic container (therapist, guide, or structured retreat).

• Committed to integration practices post-session (e.g., journaling, mindfulness, therapy).

Effectiveness of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy (PAT)

Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating mental health conditions, often leading to rapid and long-lasting improvements after just one or two sessions. Research from institutions like Johns Hopkins, NYU, Imperial College London, and MAPS supports its therapeutic potential, especially for treatment-resistant conditions.

1. Depression & Anxiety

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

• A 2020 Johns Hopkins study found that 67% of participants with moderate to severe depression were in remission one week after treatment.

• At a one-month follow-up, 71% showed a significant reduction in symptoms, far exceeding traditional antidepressants.

Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)

• Compass Pathways' Phase 2 clinical trial (2021) found that a single high dose (25mg) of psilocybin led to significant reductions in depression for over 50% of patients after 3 weeks.

• 29% were in remission after 12 weeks, outperforming standard treatments.

Anxiety & Existential Distress (e.g., End-of-Life Anxiety)

• 80% of terminally ill patients in a NYU and Johns Hopkins study experienced a significant reduction in anxiety and depression after a single session.

• Effects lasted at least 6 months, often leading to improved emotional well-being and acceptance of mortality.

2. PTSD & Trauma Processing

While MDMA-assisted therapy is currently the primary psychedelic treatment for PTSD, early research suggests psilocybin may also be effective:

• Increased emotional openness allows patients to process trauma with less reactivity.

• Neuroplasticity and reconsolidation effects may help rewrite traumatic memories.

• Ongoing studies are investigating its use for PTSD in veterans and first responders.

3. Addiction Treatment

Smoking Cessation

• A 2014 Johns Hopkins study found 80% of participants quit smoking after two psilocybin sessions—far exceeding traditional methods.

• A follow-up study showed 60% remained smoke-free after 16 months.

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

• A 2022 study from NYU found that 83% of participants significantly reduced alcohol consumption after psilocybin therapy.

• 48% were completely abstinent at a 36-week follow-up, compared to 24% in the control group.

Opioid & Cocaine Addiction

• Early research suggests psilocybin may help rewire compulsive drug-seeking behaviors and increase self-efficacyin overcoming addiction.

• A 2022 study on opioid dependence found significant reductions in cravings and relapse rates.

4. OCD & Eating Disorders

• Psilocybin may reduce compulsive behaviors by disrupting rigid thought patterns.

• Ongoing clinical trials at Johns Hopkins and Imperial College are testing psilocybin for OCD and anorexia nervosa.

How Long Do the Effects Last?

One of the most remarkable aspects of psilocybin therapy is its long-lasting impact:

• Unlike SSRIs, which require daily use, one or two psilocybin sessions can produce lasting benefits for months or even years.

• Brain scans show psilocybin increases neuroplasticity and resets maladaptive thought patterns.

• Follow-up studies report that many participants continue to experience improved mood, reduced anxiety, and greater life satisfaction over a year later.

How Effective Is It Compared to Traditional Therapy?

ConditionTraditional Treatment Success RatePsilocybin-Assisted Therapy Success RateDepression20–40% (SSRIs)60–70% (Psilocybin)Anxiety (EOL distress)40–50% (Benzodiazepines)80%+ (Psilocybin)PTSD40–60% (CBT, SSRIs)TBD (Ongoing studies)Smoking Cessation30% (Nicotine replacement therapy)80% (Psilocybin)Alcohol Addiction20–30% (12-step, meds)48%+ (Psilocybin)

Summary: Is Psilocybin Therapy Effective?

✅ YES, especially for:

• Treatment-resistant depression & anxiety

• End-of-life distress

• Addiction (smoking, alcohol, opioids)

• Possibly PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders (ongoing research)

📌 Why is it so effective?

• Targets the root cause of distress rather than just managing symptoms.

• Lasting benefits after 1–2 sessions, unlike daily medications.

• Promotes neuroplasticity, helping the brain break free from rigid patterns.

• Enhances emotional processing, allowing patients to face trauma without suppression.

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy (PAT) at Zadaka Psychotherapy can expect each of these phases:

1. Initial Consultation & Screening

Before beginning psilocybin therapy, clients will likely undergo a thorough assessment to determine whether they are a good fit. This may include:

✅ Medical & Psychological History: Screening for contraindications (e.g., psychosis, certain medications, heart conditions).
✅ Current Mental Health & Intentions: Discussing goals, past therapy experiences, and readiness for psychedelic work.
✅ Education on Psilocybin: What to expect, potential risks, and how it fits within the therapeutic process.

If psilocybin is not a good fit, alternative therapeutic approaches may be recommended.

2. Preparation Phase

🔹 Setting Intentions – Understanding what you hope to explore or heal.
🔹 Building Trust & Safety – Establishing rapport with the therapist to ensure you feel supported.
🔹 Mindset & Expectation Management – Learning about surrendering to the experience and how to navigate difficult moments.
🔹 Guided Breathwork or Meditation – Techniques to ground yourself before and during the session.

Many people describe the preparation phase as just as important as the journey itself, as it helps set the stage for deeper healing.

3. Psilocybin Session (The Journey)

💡 Setting: The experience typically takes place in a calm, comfortable environment, with soft lighting, music, and supportive guidance.
💡 Dosage: The specific dose will depend on individual needs and experience level.
💡 Session Length: The effects last 4–6 hours, during which the therapist provides non-directive support, allowing insights to emerge naturally.
💡 Common Experiences:
✔️ Emotional release & deep introspection
✔️ Spiritual or mystical experiences
✔️ Revisiting past memories with new perspectives
✔️ Ego dissolution & connection to something greater

Many describe this experience as one of the most profound of their lives.

4. Integration Sessions (Post-Journey Therapy)

The real transformation happens in integration—translating insights into lasting change.
🔹 Processing the Experience – Discussing key moments, symbols, or emotions that emerged.
🔹 Connecting to Everyday Life – Applying new perspectives to relationships, habits, and mental health.
🔹 Mindfulness & Self-Care Practices – Meditation, journaling, creative expression, or nature-based practices may be encouraged.
🔹 Continued Support – Additional therapy sessions to deepen healing and create sustainable change.

📌 Without integration, the experience may fade like a dream—at Zadaka Psychotherapy, emphasis will be placed on structured integration for long-term healing.

5. Who is a Good Fit for Psilocybin Therapy at Zadaka?

✅ Individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or life transitions
✅ Those open to deep introspection & personal growth
✅ People seeking a psychedelic experience in a safe, professional setting
✅ Clients looking for a holistic approach to mental health, potentially integrating plant medicine with traditional therapy

🚫 Likely not recommended for those with schizophrenia, unmanaged bipolar disorder, or certain heart conditions.

What Makes Zadaka Psychotherapy’s Approach Unique?

• Holistic & Trauma-Informed Care – Considering the whole person, not just symptoms.

• Psychedelic Integration Expertise – Drawing from experience in plant medicine healing.

• A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space – Creating a container for deep work.

Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy at Zadaka Psychotherapy follows a structured three-phase approach, ensuring a safe, supportive, and transformative experience.

1. Preparation Phase (2 sessions, 50 minutes each)

Before the psilocybin journey, you will work closely with Avi to establish a safe and supportive foundation for your experience. This phase includes:
✔️ Building Safety & Trust – Creating a therapeutic container for deep inner work.
✔️ Setting Intentions – Exploring what you hope to gain or heal through the journey.
✔️ Mindfulness Practices – Developing grounding techniques to navigate the experience with presence and awareness.

💡 Why is this important? Proper preparation helps reduce anxiety, enhances the effectiveness of the journey, and ensures a deeply meaningful experience.

2. Psilocybin Experiential Phase (6–8 hours)

This is the core session, where you will ingest psilocybin in a calm, controlled, and supportive environment. The experience typically unfolds as follows:
✔️ Duration: 6–8 hours from ingestion to a feeling of being "back to self."
✔️ Setting: A comfortable, quiet space with curated music, gentle guidance, and therapeutic support.
✔️ Process: You are encouraged to relax, explore emotions, and surrender to the experience while Avi provides compassionate presence and ensures safety.
✔️ Common Effects: Expanded awareness, emotional insights, visual or sensory shifts, and deep introspection.

💡 Why is this important? Psilocybin can unlock subconscious patterns, promote emotional release, and create lasting shifts in perception and behavior.

3. Integration Phase (2 sessions, 50 minutes each)

Integration is where true transformation happens—translating insights from your journey into lasting change. During these sessions, you will:
✔️ Process Your Experience – Unpacking emotions, visions, and key themes from your journey.
✔️ Identify New Pathways of Being – Exploring how to apply these insights to daily life, relationships, and mental well-being.
✔️ Receive Therapeutic Support – Using somatic, mindfulness, or cognitive approaches to help integrate new perspectives.

💡 Why is this important? Without proper integration, psychedelic experiences can fade like a dream. This phase ensures deep, lasting impact beyond the session itself.

Cost & Payment Options

💰 Total Cost: $2,000 – $2,500 ($250/hr)
💳 Payment Plans & Sliding Scale Available – We believe in accessibility and encourage you to reach out to discuss options.

Ready to explore Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy? Contact Avi for more details or to schedule a Discovery Call!