Psychedelic Therapies: Balancing Clinical Benefits, Risks & Training Needs

In this ADAA 2026 conference presentation, Berra Yazar-Klosinski, PhD (ADAA member), Jill Emanuele, PhD (ADAA member), Jonathan Schettino, PhD (ADAA member), Azin Bekhrad, MD, Kari Gregory, LPC (ADAA member), discussed the current state of psychedelic-assisted therapy, including emerging research, clinical applications, training pathways, and important considerations for mental health professionals. Interest in psychedelic-assisted therapies has grown rapidly as researchers explore new treatment options for conditions such as PTSD and treatment-resistant depression.

The presenters reviewed evidence related to compounds such as psilocybin and MDMA, explored similarities and differences between psychedelic-assisted therapies and traditional evidence-based treatments, and addressed ongoing questions surrounding safety, effectiveness, regulation, and clinician training. Attendees gained practical insights into navigating this rapidly evolving area of mental health care and research.

Recorded by Vumedi in partnership with ADAA.