Drug policy is slowly beginning to shift across the world: MDMA and psilocybin are now legal under specialist prescription in Australia, and increasing parts of the USA are decriminalising and medicalising certain psychedelic substances for the treatment of a range of psychological difficulties. For now though, the vast majority of psychedelics remain firmly illegal in the UK, outwith clinical trials.

There are a number of private clinics in the UK providing ketamine therapy. These tend to be expensive and it is sensible to research them fully to explore whether or not the treatment model includes psychological support.

It is possible to find clinical trials that are recruiting participants by searching through university research departments or by entering key terms at clinicaltrials.gov.

It is also possible to seek legal experiences abroad with retreat organisations like the Psychedelic Health Professionals’ Network, Numinous Ways, Alalaho, and Synthesis. It is always advisable to research such organisations beforehand to explore the levels of support provided.

Harm reduction is an approach that seeks to reduce the risks that can occur through use of a substance. It is a pragmatic philosophy that takes into account that not everyone wants or is able to ‘just say no.’ Harm reduction recognises human rights and dignity, allowing adults to make informed choices about their own health and wellbeing.

Psychedelic harm reduction is an approach that aims to reduce the risks that can occur with psychedelic use and maximise the potential benefits. It involves education on substances and their effects, advice around preparatory practices and safer use, and support with integrating the experience.

Just say know!

• Talk to you about your reasons for considering a psychedelic experience and what you hope to gain from it

• Provide up-to-date advice from the field of clinical psychedelic research about medication interactions

• Discuss the potential risks and benefits for you (if I don’t think it’s a good idea, I’ll tell you this and explain why)

• Recommend preparatory practices that can help you to maximise the likelihood of a meaningful, therapeutic experience

• Meet with you after your experience to talk about what happened, talk through any challenging aspects, and support you in making the most of any insights gained

• Help with or advise on any aspects of the sourcing or growing of psychedelic medicines

• Recommend that you take a psychedelic for any particular problem or diagnosis

• Be there for support while you are on a psychedelic (or any other drug, for that matter)