Home-based psilocybin treatment: A proposed pathway to access

By Rev

The Entheology Project’s aim to research pathways for accessing psilocybin can be broadly categorized into two approaches: home use with telemedicine support and standardized dosing, and supervised use by a therapist or western practitioner in person. Here, we outline the pros and cons of each, and suggest pathways that may become popular as demand grows.

1. Home Use with Telemedicine Support and Standardized Dosing

Pros:

• Privacy and comfort: Users can consume psilocybin in a familiar environment, reducing anxiety or discomfort.
• Cost-effective: Remote guidance typically involves lower costs than in-person therapy sessions.
• Personalized setting: Users can control the setting and experience, tailoring it to their preferences.
• Professional guidance: Telemedicine allows users to access professional support remotely, potentially reducing the risks associated with unsupervised use.
• Standardized dosing: Providing standardized doses can help mitigate the risk of improper dosage and potential adverse effects.

Cons:

• Limited hands-on support: Remote guidance may not provide the same level of support as in-person supervision in case of emergencies or complications.
• Legal restrictions: Psilocybin remains a controlled substance in many jurisdictions, and home use may be illegal or regulated even with telemedicine support and standardized dosing.

Pathways for home use with telemedicine support and standardized dosing:

a) Online platforms: Develop an online platform that provides standardized doses of psilocybin, along with telemedicine support from trained professionals to ensure a safe and positive experience.

b) Partnerships with telehealth providers: Collaborate with existing telehealth providers to offer specialized services for psilocybin users, including standardized dosing and remote guidance.

2. Supervised Use with a Therapist or Western Practitioner In Person

Pros:

• Expert support: In-person supervision provides hands-on guidance and immediate assistance in case of complications or emergencies.
• Controlled environment: A professional setting can help ensure a safe and supportive atmosphere for the psilocybin experience.
• Standardized dosing: Professionals can provide appropriate doses based on individual needs, further reducing risks associated with improper dosage.

Cons:

• Higher cost: In-person therapy sessions may be more expensive than home use with telemedicine support.
• Limited privacy: Some users may feel uncomfortable or anxious in an unfamiliar setting, potentially affecting their experience.

Pathways for supervised use by a therapist or western practitioner:

a) Specialized clinics: Establish dedicated psilocybin therapy centers with trained professionals to provide a safe and supportive environment for users.

b) Integration with existing mental health services: Integrate psilocybin-assisted therapy into existing mental health practices to offer a wider range of treatment options for patients.

As demand for psilocybin access grows, the popularity of these pathways will likely depend on factors such as cost, convenience, and the evolving legal landscape.