The bar for state and federal funding of psychedelic research is rising in the wake of historic passing of the Texas Ibogaine Initiative (SB2308 ), which secured $100 million in state and private funds for ibogaine research.

Thanks to the recent passage of SB5263 , Washington State is developing a robust legal framework for Washington residents over the age of 21 to access psilocybin services.

With it comes a clinical trial designed specifically for U.S. veterans.

Under the team and supervision of addiction psychiatrist Dr. Nathan Sackett, this psilocybin therapy study (NCT06853912) is now open for enrollment to a small cohort of veterans with unique health issues.

WHAT THE STUDY INVOLVES

This clinical trial is evaluating the effect of a single dose of psilocybin, administered in a safe and supportive environment, on veterans who have both PTSD and issues using alcohol.

Participants will receive:

  • Preparation sessions with trained clinicians to build trust and prepare for the psychedelic experience.
  • A single psilocybin or placebo dose administered in a controlled clinical setting.
  • Integration sessions post-treatment to help process and make meaning of the experience.

This is a placebo-controlled study, meaning participants are randomly assigned to either the psilocybin group or the placebo group. But here’s the important part: everyone gets access to psilocybin eventually. Those who start in the placebo group will be given psilocybin treatment during a second “extension phase.”

WHO CAN APPLY?

This study is open to:

  • U.S. veterans or first responders
  • Who have symptoms of PTSD
  • AND are experiencing challenges with alcohol use

You do not need to live in Washington state to qualify, but it helps to be within commuting distance of the University of Washington in Seattle, since participation will require many visits over a 6-8 month period.

IS IT A PAID STUDY?

Yes. Participants who complete the full study will be reimbursed $425-$550 for their time and participation.

READY TO LEARN MORE OR APPLY?

To take the first step, complete the online pre-screening form at the University of Washington’s NTAP site: Click here to begin pre-screening and check your eligibility

WHY THIS MATTERS

Psychedelic research is at a tipping point. Despite the challenges posed by the substances’ federal Schedule 1 status, there are more clinical trials underway today than ever before. In fact, a search for “psychedelic” on ClinicalTrials.gov now yields over 680 studies; a testament to the growing interest in these powerful therapies.

For veterans who have felt failed by conventional treatments, this new trial offers another avenue for trying these valuable therapies

About John Clifton, M.D., VETS Director of Research

John M. Clifton, M.D. holds a B.A. in neuroscience from Vanderbilt University and earned his M.D. from The University of Maryland School of Medicine. He developed his early research and clinical skills at the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research where he supported and co-authored several clinical trials and epidemiological studies. He then went on to complete medical school where he conducted additional original psychedelic research. From psychedelic experiences to mind-body approaches for chronic pain recovery, John continues to support a wide variety of individuals in their healing processes using evidence based coaching techniques. He currently resides in Baltimore, MD.