VETS is seeking Vietnam-era veterans to participate in a fully funded psilocybin retreat taking place abroad from June 21–26, 2026.

This opportunity is designed specifically for veterans who continue to navigate the lasting effects of service-related trauma and are interested in exploring an innovative treatment option in a professionally supported setting.

Selected participants will join a small cohort of Vietnam veterans for a guided psilocybin retreat outside the U.S. The experience will also be documented in a mini-documentary designed to raise awareness about the long-term challenges Vietnam veterans continue to face and the emerging treatment options being explored to support them.

Why VETS Is Creating This Cohort

Many Vietnam veterans continue to face significant mental health challenges decades after their service.

Nearly 500,000 Vietnam veterans are estimated to experience PTSD today, and many still face barriers to accessing effective mental health care. At the same time, growing research suggests psychedelic treatments may offer meaningful support for individuals navigating trauma-related conditions.

VETS created this dedicated cohort to provide selected Vietnam veterans with access to a promising emerging treatment option while raising awareness about the long-term challenges their generation continues to face.

Documentary Participation Requirement

As part of this program, all participants must be willing to have their experience documented for a mini-documentary project focused on the long-term challenges Vietnam veterans continue to face and the treatment options being explored to support them.

Participants selected for this cohort will be filmed before, during, and after the retreat by a trauma-informed film team.

The documentary will be used by VETS for mission-driven educational and awareness efforts aimed at:

  • Raising awareness about the challenges Vietnam veterans continue to face
  • Reducing stigma surrounding mental health and treatment-seeking
  • Inspiring greater understanding of emerging treatment options
  • Honoring the strength and resilience of Vietnam-era veterans

All documentary content will be owned and managed by VETS.

What This Opportunity Includes 

Selected participants will receive a fully funded psilocybin retreat experience taking place June 21–26, 2026, in a professionally supported setting outside the U.S. (location will be shared with applicants). This six-day experience is designed to foster healing in a structured, supportive environment.

The retreat includes

  • Roundtrip travel outside the U.S.
  • Six-day accommodations at a retreat center
  • Two guided psilocybin sessions in a supportive group setting
  • Guided preparation activities
  • Breathwork and meditation
  • Movement and wellness practices
  • Group integration circles
  • One-on-one coaching sessions before and after retreat
  • Ongoing access to VETS’ veteran support community

Medical Screening and Eligibility

Participation is subject to medical screening and provider approval.

Because psilocybin may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, psychiatric histories, or medication regimens, all applicants must complete a screening process prior to acceptance.

Potential areas the retreat center medical staff will review include:

  • Cardiac health
  • Blood pressure and ECG/EKG findings
  • Medication interactions
  • Neurological history
  • Psychiatric history
  • General medical fitness for participation

How to Apply

Vietnam-era veterans interested in participating in this fully funded psilocybin retreat are encouraged to submit an application for consideration.

Applicants will be reviewed based on medical eligibility, readiness for participation, and overall fit for the program. Not all applicants will qualify. Selected individuals will be contacted with next steps for screening and retreat preparation.

Application Deadline: Friday, April 24

Apply Here:

https://vetsolutions.org/special-circumstances-application/

Questions? Contact:
Lori Camper, PhD
VETS Program Director
lori@vetsolutions.org