Module 6

Psychedelic Neurobiology And Pharmacology

Module Description

When working with psychedelic medicines in the context of psychedelic-assisted therapy, it is important to understand what is happening in our clients’ bodies when we sit with them in Medicine Sessions in order to be able to distinguish normal reactions to medicines and problematic adverse effects (in some cases warranting a call to the attending nurse or physician). Health professionals also need to be able to understand the link between the medicine’s effect on the brain and the downstream consequences on thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. As a result, we will begin the course by learning about some foundational concepts of neurobiology and pharmacology. While these are both very large domains of knowledge, we will focus on some key concepts to provide some important context to themes discussed later in the course.

Module Description

When working with psychedelic medicines in the context of psychedelic-assisted therapy, it is important to understand what is happening in our clients’ bodies when we sit with them in Medicine Sessions in order to be able to distinguish normal reactions to medicines and problematic adverse effects (in some cases warranting a call to the attending nurse or physician). Health professionals also need to be able to understand the link between the medicine’s effect on the brain and the downstream consequences on thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. As a result, we will begin the course by learning about some foundational concepts of neurobiology and pharmacology. While these are both very large domains of knowledge, we will focus on some key concepts to provide some important context to themes discussed later in the course.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

  • Describe the role of neurotransmitters in the body and brain.

  • Explain the difference between pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

  • Explain the general mechanism of action of traditional pharmacopsychotherapy.

  • Define the various categories of psychotropic substances within the context of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

  • Distinguish between an effect and a side effect for the purposes of client education.

  • Compare the differences and similarities between psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine for the purposes of psychedelic-assisted therapy.