What it is
Psychedelic-assisted therapy pairs a substance such as psilocybin, MDMA or ketamine with psychotherapy, mainly for depression, PTSD and anxiety that haven't improved with other treatment. It includes preparation sessions, a supervised dosing session with trained therapists present and integration sessions afterward to make sense of the experience.
Researchers think these medicines may open a window of emotional openness and brain flexibility that therapy can build on. Ketamine is available off-label through specialized clinics. Psilocybin is offered mainly through clinical trials and, in a few states, new regulated programs, and MDMA therapy through clinical trials.
What happens at a visit
- Careful screening of your health, medicines and mental health history.
- Preparation sessions to set intentions and build trust.
- A dosing session in a calm clinical setting, with therapists present throughout.
- Psilocybin or MDMA sessions often last 6 to 8 hours, with music and eyeshades.
- Strong emotions, memories or insights may come up.
- Several integration sessions afterward to process the experience.
Who it is for
- People with depression or PTSD that hasn't improved with other treatment
- People facing distress related to a serious illness
- People ready to commit to preparation and integration work
- Adults who have been carefully screened, in a supervised setting
- People looking for deeper psychological and spiritual work
Evidence and safety
Clinical trials of psilocybin for depression and MDMA for PTSD have shown promising results, though the research is still developing. With careful screening and supervision, physical risks are generally low, but heart rate and blood pressure can rise and difficult experiences can happen. People who are pregnant, have heart conditions, have a personal or family history of psychosis or bipolar disorder, or take medicines such as antidepressants need careful evaluation first. This is supervised medical care, not recreational use.
How Gabriel helps
Finds
The right practitioner near youQualified practices close to you, with the exact service checked before anything is booked.
Books
The visit, start to finishOn the practice's booking page, by phone or by email. Gabriel texts you the time.
Pays
From your budget on Gabriel CareEligible care is paid up to 100% at Gabriel Network practices and up to 50% elsewhere, on Emerald, Sapphire and Onyx.
Common questions
How much does Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy cost?
Typically $1,500 to $5,000 for full treatment, depending on the practice and the city.
Does Gabriel Care cover Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy?
Eligible care in a covered category is paid from your monthly budget on Emerald, Sapphire and Onyx: up to 100% at Gabriel Network practices and up to 50% elsewhere. Ask Gabriel and it checks before you book.
Can Gabriel book a visit for me?
Yes, with a free account. Tell Gabriel where you are and when you are free. Gabriel finds a qualified practitioner, books the visit and texts you the time. If a practice cannot be booked automatically, your care team takes it from there.
This page is general information, not medical advice. A licensed practitioner decides what care is right for you. Gabriel membership is not health insurance.