VIMHS

People First Radio

VIMHS

  • An update on the first psychedelic assisted therapy cohort at an accredited Canadian University

An update on the first psychedelic assisted therapy cohort at an accredited Canadian University

Saturday 7th January 2023

Discover the latest on VIU's Psychedelic Assisted Therapy program with Shannon Dames, including early successes and industry challenges.
16 minutes
Informative
Empowering
Hopeful
Thought-provoking
Engaging

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People First Radio
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VIMHS
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Psychedelic Therapy at VIU: A New Frontier in Mental Health

Those numbers you just talked about were very large in terms of the improvement. What we're typically seeing is most first line mental health treatments are working for to of the population.
Imagine a world where mental health treatments extend beyond traditional methods. That's the vision behind Vancouver Island University's Psychedelic Assisted Therapy program. In this episode of People First Radio, Shannon Dames, the program chair, shares an update on their groundbreaking initiative that welcomed its first cohort in September 2022. Dames dives into the collaboration with Roots to Thrive, a non-profit healthcare group that's been pioneering group-based therapy to address trauma and foster resilience.
The early results are promising, especially given that conventional mental health treatments only work for about half of the population. This program is not just about administering psychedelics; it's about building a solid foundation for future therapists who can offer holistic care. But it's not all smooth sailing. Dames points out the hurdles in accessing psychedelic-assisted therapy and the ongoing debate between commercialization and collaboration in the industry.
These challenges highlight the need for a patient-centered approach that prioritizes the well-being of individuals over profit. Whether you're curious about new mental health treatments or interested in the future of psychedelic therapy, this episode offers a compelling look into how innovative approaches can make a difference. Tune in to hear how VIU's program is paving the way for a more inclusive and effective mental health care system.