Psilocybin Therapy

What is Psilocybin Therapy?

Psilocybin therapy is an emerging area in mental health care that involves the use of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in specific mushroom species. In clinical settings, psilocybin is administered in controlled doses alongside structured psychotherapy to help individuals explore thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that may promote healing and psychological growth.

At Envision Mind Care in Edmonton, psilocybin therapy is available only through Health Canada’s Special Access Program (SAP) for individuals who meet eligibility criteria. This federal program permits access to otherwise restricted therapies when conventional treatments have failed, and when there is sufficient clinical justification.

Our clinical team supports patients in navigating this application process. If approved, treatment is provided by licensed professionals under strict medical and ethical oversight.

Psilocybin Therapy Access at Our Clinic

Envision Mind Care provides psilocybin-assisted therapy only in cases approved through the Health Canada SAP, such as for individuals with:

  • Treatment-resistant depression

  • PTSD

  • End-of-life anxiety or existential distress

  • Psychological distress associated with serious illness

All treatments are administered within a medically supervised setting, led by experienced clinicians, and aligned with regulatory and ethical standards.

Disclaimer

This page is intended for informational purposes only. Psilocybin is a controlled substance in Canada and is not approved for general clinical use. Envision Mind Care offers access only through Health Canada’s Special Access Program for individuals who meet strict eligibility criteria. All services are delivered under the supervision of qualified professionals in compliance with federal guidelines.

What the Research Says:

Clinical Potential of Psilocybin

While psilocybin remains investigational in Canada, a growing number of clinical studies suggest that it may offer meaningful therapeutic benefits in specific mental health conditions.

A landmark 2016 study by Griffiths et al. at Johns Hopkins University found that psilocybin therapy significantly reduced depression and anxiety symptoms in patients with life-threatening cancer, with sustained effects lasting up to six months. Participants also reported improved outlook, mood, and quality of life.

A 2023 CANMAT Task Force report (Rosenblat et al.) reviewed the evidence base for serotonergic psychedelic treatments in major depressive disorder. This report highlighted that:

  • Small-scale randomized controlled trials have shown psilocybin combined with psychotherapy to be more effective than waitlist controls

  • The combination was comparable in efficacy and safety to traditional treatments like escitalopram with supportive therapy

  • Psilocybin demonstrated specific promise in treatment-resistant depression and depression related to serious illness, classified as Level 3 evidence

These findings are encouraging but also underscore the need for more large-scale trials. Currently, psilocybin remains a non-standard, carefully regulated option for very specific cases.

References:

  1. Griffiths et al. (2016) Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial

  2. Joshua D Rosenblat et al. (2023) The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Task Force Report: Serotonergic Psychedelic Treatments for Major Depressive Disorder

FAQ and Additional Questions

  • Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in Canada. This means it is not legal for general use or self-administration. However, in specific cases where a patient has a serious or treatment-resistant condition, Health Canada may grant access to psilocybin therapy through the Special Access Program (SAP). Envision Mind Care offers psilocybin treatment only under this regulated framework.

  • The Special Access Program allows healthcare providers to request access to restricted or unapproved treatments for patients with serious or treatment-resistant conditions when conventional therapies have failed. If you are assessed as a potential candidate, our team can support your application and work with Health Canada to seek approval. Access is granted on a case-by-case basis, and treatment can only proceed once Health Canada has formally authorized it.

  • The duration of psilocybin treatment varies depending on the individual and the specific treatment plan. Generally, a single psilocybin session can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours. The total number of sessions needed will depend on your condition and response to the therapy. It is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate duration for your specific situation.

  • After a session, most individuals need time to rest and reflect, as the experience can be emotionally and physically intense. Recovery time can range from several hours to a full day, depending on the individual. This integration period is a crucial part of the therapeutic process.

  • Due to its status as a controlled substance in Canada, psilocybin therapy is only accessible through the SAP. A referral from a physician is required to determine your eligibility, assess medical risks, and begin the application process with Health Canada.

  • Research has shown encouraging results for conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and end-of-life anxiety. However, outcomes vary by person and condition. Psilocybin therapy is still considered investigational, and eligibility must be determined on a case-by-case basis with your healthcare provider.

  • This depends on the type of medication. Some psychiatric or neurological medications may interact with psilocybin. It is essential to review your current medications with a prescribing physician before starting treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.

  • Psilocybin therapy may not be appropriate for individuals with certain conditions, such as a history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. It may also not be recommended for those with certain heart conditions or a significant history of substance misuse. Eligibility is determined by a medical professional during the assessment process.