Expanding Clinical Interventions in Georgia: Psychedelic Therapy and Veteran Mental Health Funding
In June 2024, we founded the Georgia Association for Psychedelic Therapy, Inc. (GAPT), with a mission to expand the range of safe, evidence-based clinical interventions for mental health in the state of Georgia. We are thrilled to learn about Emory University’s ongoing contributions to the field of psychedelic research and its potential impact on mental health treatment. According to a recent report by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, a bipartisan panel of Georgia lawmakers has recently recommended allocating up to $5 million to study the effects of psilocybin, MDMA, and other psychedelics on mental health treatments for veterans with PTSD.
The Need for Innovation in Mental Health Treatment
PTSD can be a persistent and debilitating condition for many veterans, and while conventional treatments are available they may not be effective for all individuals. Symptoms like severe anxiety, nightmares, and difficulty concentrating can impact daily life. While existing treatments are available, researchers including those at Emory University are studying whether psychedelics when combined with psychotherapy may provide additional therapeutic benefits.
State Sen. Josh McLaurin expressed the urgency of finding better options for veterans, stating:
“Veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress and brain injuries have very few reliable options for treatment. A growing body of research shows that psychedelics — when administered carefully in clinical settings — may be a total game changer.”
Emory University’s Role in Psychedelic Research
An important aspect of this initiative is the potential for Emory University and other accredited research institutions to study psychedelics in a controlled and clinical setting.
Sen. Chuck Payne, chair of the Senate Study Committee on Veterans, Mental Health, and Housing, emphasized that this recommendation is focused on research rather than immediate treatment approval:
“We were careful not to suggest the approval of any treatments, but rather to suggest that universities and other accredited organizations be allowed to further study this emerging therapy field.”
Why We Support this Initiative
At the Georgia Association for Psychedelic Therapy, Inc., we support Emory’s research and recognize the importance of scientific studies in assessing potential mental health treatments. Our mission is to expand access to evidence-based mental health care in Georgia, and we remain committed to monitoring developments in psychedelic research and policy.
This initiative provides an opportunity to look at psychedelic-assisted therapies within a clinical framework. GAPT will continue working with Georgia-based institutions to support research, engage in policy discussions, and our goal is to contribute to the establishment of certification processes that prioritize compliance and patient safety.
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