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As psychedelic-assisted therapy gains traction in popular culture and through policy reforms, Queering Psychedelics: From Oppression to Liberation in Psychedelic Medicine aims to foster accessibility and diversity in psychedelic science, practice, and discourse. 

SANTA FE, N.M. — After years in hiding, psychedelics are finally coming out of the closet and being absorbed into the “mainstream,” but what does this mean for marginalized and queer communities? A book edited by Alex Belser, PhD, Clancy Cavnar, PsyD and Beatriz Cauiby Labate, PhD, highlights the importance of addressing and dismantling sexist, heteronormative, transphobic, and homophobic forms of oppression in the psychedelic community, laying the groundwork for an inclusive future.

Queering Psychedelics: From Oppression to Liberation in Psychedelic Medicine, published in December 2022 by Synergetic Press, grapples with how modern psychedelic research might address the unique needs and traumas of sexual and gender minorities—populations that can suffer from challenging mental health conditions brought on by social exclusion, pathologization, criminalization, and stigmatization.

Featuring a broad range of perspectives from queer academic researchers, LGBTQIA+ clinicians, indigenous and transgender advocates, each of the 38 essays from some of the contemporary movement’s most influential leaders presents insights into cultural heritages and historical contexts, implications for research and clinical work, and discussions of the healing potential of psychedelic medicine.

Queering Psychedelics performs an absolutely vital task in analyzing the perils and promise of psychedelic medicine and experiences for LGBTQIA+ people and communities.”

Hannah McLane MD, MA, MPH, Founder, SoundMind Institute

Queering Psychedelics performs an absolutely vital task in analyzing the perils and promise of psychedelic medicine and experiences for LGBTQIA+ people and communities,” Hannah McLane MD, MA, MPH, Founder, SoundMind Institute wrote. “The in-depth, multifaceted approach brought by its many talented contributors serves to expand the horizon of what is possible in this rapidly evolving field. There is wisdom for everyone to learn in this approach towards liberation.”

Praise for Queering Psychedelics

“We are happily trippin’ on this timely, informative, exciting book, which offers hope, inspiration and wisdom for a better future– for everyone. Read here now!” — Annie Sprinkle & Beth Stephens, Authors of Assuming the Ecosexual Position—the Earth as Lover

“From treating addiction with psychedelic therapy to uncovering the terrifying history of psychedelic-assisted conversion therapy, these shining stars and psychonauts are taking down heteronorms, homophobia, transphobia and plain old sexism. Here’s to liberation for all!” — Julie Holland, MD, Author of GOOD CHEMISTRY: The Science of Connection, From Soul to Psychedelics

Cover of Queering Psychedelics: From Oppression to Liberation in Psychedelic Medicine

Book publication details:

Queering Psychedelics: From Oppression to Liberation in Psychedelic Medicine 

Edited by: Alex Belser, PhD, Clancy Cavnar, PsyD, & Beatriz Cauiby Labate, PhD

Publication Date: 12/06/2022

PAGES:  256  

TRIM: 6 x 9

ISBN PB: 9781957869032  

PB RETAIL:  $21.95

ISBN EB:  9781957869049

EB RETAIL:  $10.99


About Synergetic Press: For over 35 years as an independent publisher, our mission has been to promote mindful discussion of humankind’s present and future lives. We publish unique and paradigm-shifting ideas in subjects such as ecology, sustainability, psychedelics, consciousness, and cultural studies that inspire both individual and social change. For more information visit synergeticpress.com.

Contact: [email protected]


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Wednesday, June 9th, 2021 from 12-1:30pm PST REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT HERE There is growing enthusiasm in Jewish communities about possible ancient use and modern applications of plant medicine in Jewish spiritual development.  Psychedelic Judaism introduce new potential modes of  healing...