On this episode of Webdelics, host Scott Mason sits down with renowned psychologist and psychedelic researcher Alex Belser for an honest, eye-opening conversation about the complex relationship between psychedelics and the LGBTQ community. Alex dives into the often-overlooked—and sometimes troubling—history of psychedelic-assisted conversion therapy, revealing how these powerful substances have been used both to oppress and to heal. Together, Scott and Alex explore the risks when psychedelics are administered with harmful intent, and unpack how set, setting, and a clinician’s philosophy can profoundly shape outcomes for queer and trans people.

Alex shares stories from his own journey, highlights the legacy of conversion therapy in medical and psychedelic spaces, and offers hope for the future through affirming approaches like Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for queer folks. This episode is a candid look at both the “rainbow skeletons in the closet” of psychedelics and the potential for liberation and self-acceptance they hold—when used with compassion and awareness. If you care about inclusion, history, and healing, or if you’re just curious about the intersection of psychedelics and marginalized communities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

00:00 Introduction

04:53 Psychedelics and Identity Exploration

07:39 Psychedelics: Healing and Harm Potential

11:07 Psychedelics, Integration, and Transformation

13:48 Psychedelics for LGBTQ Conversion

17:49 Stan Grof, LSD, and Transpersonal Debate

20:18 Trauma, Conversion Therapy, and Faith

25:27 Queerness in Healing and Psychedelics

27:53 Psychedelics, Gender, and Identity

30:14 Challenging Gender Stereotypes in Practice

33:53 Shame, Identity, and Self-Acceptance

37:14 Trauma and Survival Among Homeless

42:46 Locally Owned Healing, Not Franchises

45:34 Intent Matters in Healing

50:14 Conclusion

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