Dr. Chris Stauffer talks about his research investigating the use of group-administered psilocybin and MDMA. The advantages of group administration are discussed, including the opportunity to increase social connection and deepen capacities to be vulnerable with others. Dr. Stauffer also highlights how group psychedelic-assisted therapy needs to be adapted to the identities of the participants, sharing about his experiences in working with the veteran population and a study with transgender and gender non-conforming participants. Chris also discusses his work on oxytocin and how that influences the way the thinks about increased social connection as a process of change involved in psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Mentioned in the show:

Rat Park Study: https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/what-does-rat-park-teach-us-about-addiction

MDMA and Critical Periods: https://hub.jhu.edu/2019/04/04/mdma-opens-critical-period-for-social-behavior/

https://www.chrisstauffermd.com/