What Psychedelics Are Offered in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic-assisted therapy is gaining more attention than ever — but many people aren’t sure which substances are actually available in a legal, therapeutic setting.
The truth is: the list is shorter than most people expect.
Right now, in most parts of the U.S., ketamine is the only psychedelic currently approved for therapeutic use. Other substances are in the pipeline — but each has its own legal status and timeline for availability.
Ketamine: The Only Psychedelic Legally Available in Therapy Sessions in California (For Now)
Ketamine is approved by the FDA as an anesthetic, but for over a decade it’s been used “off-label” to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.
In a therapeutic context, ketamine can be offered in psychedelic-assisted therapy sessions to support deeper emotional processing, nervous system regulation, and a shift in perspective that can open the door to meaningful change.
I currently offer ketamine-assisted therapy for clients in California, working with both psychedelic doses (to create immersive altered-state experiences) and psycholytic doses (lower doses that pair well with talk therapy or EMDR).
MDMA: Delayed FDA Approval
MDMA was expected to be the next psychedelic medicine available for therapeutic use in the U.S. However, late last year, its path to FDA approval was delayed after significant challenges with the approval process.
While MDMA-assisted therapy has shown promising results in clinical trials for PTSD, it is not yet available outside of research settings.
Psilocybin: Legal in Oregon and Colorado
Psilocybin — the active compound in “magic mushrooms” — has been legalized for supervised use in Oregon and Colorado.
This means that in those states, trained and licensed facilitators can offer psilocybin-assisted therapy in a safe, structured setting.
I’m actively completing the necessary steps to offer psilocybin-assisted therapy in these states next year — adding another powerful option for clients seeking deep, transformative work.
Choosing the Right Path for You
Psychedelic-assisted therapy isn’t about chasing an experience — it’s about creating the right conditions for healing and integration.
In my practice, whether I’m working online or in person in Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel Valley, San Luis Obispo, or Big Sur, the focus is on safety, preparation, and integration so that the experience leads to lasting change.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical treatment. Psychedelics should only be used in legal, supervised contexts. Always consult with a licensed provider in your state for personalized care.
