San Francisco, CA — [March 2026] — The Chacruna Institute for Psychedelic Plant Medicines announces its upcoming course “The Science of Psychedelic Healing,” running May 12 – July 14, 2026. This online course brings together leading experts in psychiatry, neuroscience, anthropology, and psychedelic research to explore the scientific foundations of psychedelic healing.
Understanding the Science of Psychedelic Medicine
As psychedelic-assisted therapies gain attention in clinical research and mental health care, The Science of Psychedelic Healing offers students a comprehensive introduction to the mechanisms, history, and therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances.
Drawing from research in neuroscience, pharmacology, epidemiology, and clinical trials, the course explores how substances such as psilocybin, MDMA, 5-MeO-DMT, cannabis, and ayahuasca may impact health and well-being. Participants will examine topics including altered states of consciousness, psychological flexibility, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, drug interactions, integration practices, and therapeutic efficacy.
In keeping with Chacruna’s mission to bridge different knowledge systems, the course also considers how scientific research intersects with historical, recreational, and Indigenous uses of psychedelics, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in healing and culture.
Course Overview
Dates: May 12 – July 14, 2026
Format: Hybrid online course with pre-recorded lectures and live Zoom discussions
Live Sessions: Tuesdays, 10:30am–12pm PT / 1:30pm–3pm ET
Tuition: $700 USD
CE Credits: Pending approval
Scholarships: Available
Each week includes a one-hour recorded lecture followed by a live 90-minute Q&A discussion with faculty.
Faculty
The course features a distinguished group of researchers and practitioners, including Jordan Sloshower, MD, MSc; Erika Dyck, PhD; Sergio Pérez Rosal, MD; Henrique Fernandes Antunes, PhD; Sara J. Garcia Velazquez, MD; Anna (Anya) Ermakova, PhD; Fernanda Palhano-Fontes, PhD; and Lígia Duque Platero, PhD.
Together, they will guide students through current research findings, historical perspectives, and emerging clinical applications shaping the psychedelic renaissance.
About the Chacruna Institute
The Chacruna Institute for Psychedelic Plant Medicines, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization co-founded by Brazilian anthropologist Dr. Bia Labate and American psychologist Dr. Clancy Cavnar, based in Northern California and with strong ties to Brazil and Mexico. We promote reciprocity in the psychedelic community, and support the protection of sacred plants and cultural traditions. We advance psychedelic justice through curating critical conversations and uplifting the voices of women, queer people, Indigenous peoples, people of color, and the Global South in the field of psychedelic science.
Media Contact:
Lorien Chavez
Chacruna Institute
lorien@chacruna.net
415-390-6157
