Episode 31 explores the sacred role of nursing in psychedelic-assisted therapy with Wendy Marussich, co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses (OPENurses). Wendy shares her unique journey from evolutionary ecologist to oncology nurse to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and discusses why nurses are uniquely suited for psychedelic work.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Wendy's unconventional path from PhD biologist to oncology nurse, driven by a desire for more meaningful, heart-centered work that could make a tangible difference in people's lives
• How nurses' training in grounded presence, "non-awkward touch," and crisis management translates perfectly to psychedelic support work—from holding space during difficult journeys to recognizing when someone needs medical intervention
• The critical importance of discussing consent and boundaries around touch before a session, including practical techniques like testing different types of touch beforehand and using "imaginal touch" when physical contact isn't desired
• The mission of OPENurses: Creating professional support, education, and ethical standards for nurses working in psychedelic therapy, while advocating for full inclusion of nurses in this emerging field
• Why having a nurse in the room automatically increases safety as they can authoritatively reassure patients about medical status in a way that truly lands, especially in altered states when perception is heightened
• Pathways for nurses interested in psychedelic work, including ketamine training programs, experiential learning, and the importance of doing your own inner work before supporting others

Resources Mentioned:

• Open Nurses (Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses): https://www.opennurses.org
• Open Nurses YouTube Channel: Monthly interview series with nurses working in psychedelic spaces: https://www.youtube.com/@OPENurses
• Open Nurses Facebook Group: Community support and networking: https://www.facebook.com/OPENurses
• The Microdose Newsletter: Free newsletter from UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics - https://psychedelics.berkeley.edu/about-the-microdose/
• PRATI (Psychedelic Research and Training Institute): Ketamine training program in Colorado - https://pratigroup.org
• Polaris Insight Center: Psychedelic therapy training - https://www.polarisinsight.com
• Zendo Project: Peer support for people having difficult psychedelic experiences at festivals - https://zendoproject.org
• Kay Parley's Article: "Supporting the Patient on LSD Day" - American Journal of Nursing, 1964

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