Introduction to psychedelic research & therapy

• Online
• 13th Nov '25 11.00 am – 1.00 pm

There are currently around 100 studies underway across the globe, exploring the use of psychedelic substances in mental health treatment. These studies examine different psychedelic substances and their specific impact on various psychological conditions—most notably depression, but also trauma, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders and end-of-life care. Australia has legalised the clinical use of two psychedelic substances, and Switzerland similarly permits the regulated use of two compounds. Some US states have also introduced legal frameworks for certain psychedelics.

In parallel, approximately 200 training programmes worldwide now offer some kind of training in psychedelic-assisted therapies, all varying in length and depth. At the New School for Psychotherapy and Counselling (NSPC), several doctoral dissertations have focused on psychedelic experiences and their therapeutic potential. Clearly, interest in this field is growing rapidly.

This workshop offers an overview of why and how psychedelic research is being conducted. It will explore the unique and often idiosyncratic nature of psychedelic experiences, consider potential risks and raise questions about emerging standards in psychedelic therapy. There will also be space to reflect on the transpersonal dimensions of these experiences and how such altered states might contribute to help with conditions such as depression, trauma, eating disorders, addiction and palliative care.

Dr. Werner Kierski has been a tutor, marker, and doctoral supervisor at the New School for Psychotherapy and Counselling (NSPC) for several years, and has also taught at a number of other leading universities. He is a highly specialised psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in diverse clinical settings as well as in private practice. His work centres on complex cases where severe mental health challenges, such as severe trauma, treatment-resistant depression and fear of healing, intersects with deep existential concerns.

Werner is one of a small number of therapists in the UK trained in the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), an integrative approach that draws on deep existential themes whilst adding a range of experiential techniques to help establish safety in both body and mind.

For the past two years, he has been involved in clinical research investigating two psychedelic compounds as potential relief for treatment-resistant depression. His role has included assessing the work of fellow therapists and medical professionals engaged in psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Outside of psychotherapy, Werner spent six formative years working with wolves. This profound experience deepened his understanding of anxiety, survival, communication and resilience.