Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

 

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) is a developing area of mental health care that is drawing growing interest around the world. It is being researched and, in some settings, carefully introduced for trauma, PTSD, treatment-resistant depression, end-of-life distress, and a range of other mental health challenges. It is not a standalone fix and it is not right for everyone. For some people, though, it can open up new ways of working with experiences that have felt stuck for a long time.

 

In July 2023, Australia became one of the first countries in the world to allow specially authorised psychiatrists to prescribe MDMA for PTSD and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, within strict medical and therapeutic frameworks (Therapeutic Goods Administration).

 

My Training and Role

 

I am currently completing advanced training in this area, including study with the Psychedelia Institute of Australia and with MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) in Italy. I hope to begin offering Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy support services later this year, working alongside trained colleagues and authorised prescribing psychiatrists.

 

I am not an authorised prescriber of psychedelic medicines, and I do not prescribe or administer them. My role sits in the psychological support that surrounds treatment, as part of a multidisciplinary care team. I help you prepare beforehand, hold space to process the emotions and insights that arise, and support you to bring what you learn back into everyday life.

 

This work is grounded in trauma-informed care, nervous system safety, and a steady therapeutic relationship. I offer psycho-education, preparation sessions, integration therapy, and harm-reduction support, so you can move through this process with clarity, intention, and care.

 

Whether you are exploring psychedelic-assisted therapy through an authorised healthcare provider, or simply want grounded support alongside your own journey, you are welcome here.

 

The Three Stages of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

 

Preparation

 

Preparation is an essential part of the work. Together we explore your intentions, your history, your emotional readiness, and any fears or questions that come up. This stage is about building safety and clarity, and laying a strong foundation for what lies ahead.

 

Dosing Support

 

Dosing sessions are conducted under the care of authorised medical professionals and prescribing psychiatrists. During this stage, people may reach deeper emotional material, unresolved trauma, and new perspectives, within a supported and carefully held environment. I do not prescribe or administer psychedelic medicines. Where appropriate, I work collaboratively as part of the broader therapeutic team around your care.

 

Integration

 

Integration is where the experience gets woven into ordinary life, and for many people it is where the most meaningful shifts take hold. These sessions focus on making sense of what came up, understanding the insights you gained, and gently carrying them into your relationships, your emotional patterns, and your day-to-day. Integration can continue over time, as new layers of understanding emerge.

 

Access, Funding and Rebates

 

For now, Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Australia is still relatively limited and can be expensive. The treatment is intensive, it involves a multidisciplinary care team, and there is no broad Medicare funding for the dosing component. Some private treatment programs can run into many thousands of dollars across a full course of care.

 

Access pathways and funding supports are continuing to evolve. Depending on your circumstances, some parts of your therapeutic support may be eligible for:

 

- Private health insurance rebates, depending on your fund and level of cover

- Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) funding pathways for eligible veterans

- Possible NDIS therapeutic supports connected to preparation and integration work

 

Since November 2025, DVA also funds psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy itself for eligible veterans. This applies to Gold and White Card holders who meet strict criteria, where treatment is delivered by an authorised psychiatrist and approved in advance, and it is not a first-line treatment. Conversations about broader access and funding across Australia are ongoing.

 

I know the financial side of this work can feel overwhelming. Part of my role is helping you find safe, ethical, and realistic pathways of support as you navigate this emerging area of care.

 

A Gentle Note

 

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy is not a quick fix, and it is not appropriate for everyone. Thoughtful preparation, professional guidance, and ongoing integration are essential to safe and ethical care. What I offer is a grounded, relational, and supportive space to hold you through it, whatever your path looks like.