Measure 109 and Psilocybin Services: What Therapists Need to Know

Oregon's Psilocybin Services (voted in via Measure 109) are now open to the public and thousands of people per year will soon be seeking these services for relief from mental health problems. In addition, many more are already seeking treatment in the underground. All therapists in Oregon will soon be working with clients who are seeking or have sought psilocybin experiences for mental health and other reasons. Thus, it is imperative that all who work in mental health care in Oregon are familiar with at least the basics of how psilocybin works, how to help clients make good decisions about whether to utilize these services, and how to talk to them after they have received services. This workshop will orient therapists to the overall structure of psilocybin services in Oregon and describe how it is comprised of various parts such as service centers, facilitators, and growers. Presenters will identify similarities and differences between psilocybin services and the model of psilocybin-assisted therapy that has emerged in recent clinical trials. Harm reduction approaches will be used to identify how to talk to clients about their decisions to use psilocybin and how to provide therapeutic support before and after a psilocybin session. Workshop participants will be better informed as to the potential risks and benefits of psilocybin use, as well as in having conversations with clients who are considering accessing psilocybin services.