PT563 – Why Psychedelic Research is Booming: Current Trends and Hurdles, with Floris Wolswijk
Nov 8, 2024
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Floris Wolswijk, a senior project manager at Delphi and founder of Blossom, explores the booming field of psychedelic research. He discusses the rapid growth of studies, the cultural context in the Netherlands where psilocybin truffles are legal, and the importance of real-world evidence in shaping public perception. Wolswijk delves into the economic implications of psychedelics, including future insurance conversations, and the potential of integrating psychedelics with coaching for mental health treatment, emphasizing harm reduction and ethical guidelines.
Floris Wolswijk's work with Blossom reflects the exponential growth of psychedelic research, with over 2,200 indexed studies enhancing accessibility and knowledge.
The podcast emphasizes the distinction between clinical trials and real-world applications of psychedelics, advocating for the insights from underground practices to inform clinical standards.
Wolswijk envisions a future where psychedelics are integrated into mainstream medical practices, promoting broader societal acceptance and fostering deeper connections among individuals.
Deep dives
Personal Journey and Transition
The host shares his personal journey on the podcast, marking the final episode with deep reflections on his experiences interviewing remarkable individuals in the field of psychedelics. He expresses gratitude for the opportunity to disseminate valuable information globally and acknowledges the impact the podcast has had on his life. Transitioning from the podcast, he plans to return to his roots as a licensed clinical social worker while expanding his psychotherapy practice, offering harm reduction and integration support for psychedelic users. This change highlights his commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals exploring psychedelics.
Floris Voltzweig and Blossom
Floris Voltzweig is introduced as a notable figure in the psychedelic space, known for his work with Blossom, where he systematically summarizes and disseminates extensive research on psychedelics. He has indexed over 2,200 research papers, providing a valuable free resource for individuals and organizations interested in the field. Alongside his research efforts, Floris also engages in consultancy work with Delphi, focusing on helping organizations navigate and succeed in the psychedelic landscape. The conversation delves into the significance of accessibility, ensuring that psychedelic knowledge reaches a wider audience.
Real-World Applications and Trends
A discussion on the differences between clinical trials and real-world applications of psychedelics highlights the importance of understanding how these substances interact with users outside of controlled environments. Floris emphasizes the wealth of knowledge from underground practices and recreational use of psychedelics that can inform future clinical standards. He shares insights into the rapid growth of research institutions dedicated to psychedelics, reflecting a societal shift towards acceptance and exploration of these substances. Additionally, the discussion touches on the various challenges and opportunities faced by individuals working at the intersection of research and real-world experiences.
The Role of Integration and Coaching
Floris describes his coaching practice in the Netherlands, where he combines preparation and integration support for individuals using psychedelics. He highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment and emphasizes the distinction between coaching and therapy, focusing on individuals who may not require intensive clinical intervention. This approach allows for personalized guidance as clients navigate their experiences and integrate insights into their daily lives. By operating within the legal framework of the Netherlands, Floris offers a unique service that leverages the benefits of psychedelics while prioritizing safety and ethical practices.
Psychedelics and Societal Change
Looking towards the future, Floris expresses hope for the integration of psychedelics into mainstream medical practices, envisioning a world where they are recognized as viable treatment options. He notes a growing acceptance of psychedelics in various cultural contexts, suggesting that the normalization of these substances could lead to broader societal benefits. The conversation emphasizes the potential for psychedelics to foster deeper connections, enhancing individuals' engagement with their environment and contributing to collective well-being. This transformation reflects a paradigm shift in mental health treatment and personal growth, bridging ancient practices with contemporary therapeutic needs.
Advancements in Research and Implementation
Floris discusses the ongoing advancements in psychedelic research, including the exploration of novel compounds and therapies aimed at varying mental health conditions. He elaborates on the challenges of conducting rigorous clinical trials while ensuring safety and efficacy in real-world settings. The importance of collaboration between researchers and practitioners is emphasized, highlighting the shared goal of making psychedelic therapies accessible to a broader population. As the field evolves, the integration of findings from research with practical applications will be crucial in developing best practices and guidelines for future use.
In this episode, David interviews Floris Wolswijk: senior project manager at Delphi; co-founder of FLO coaching; and founder of Blossom, an online informational hub collecting psychedelic courses, trials, companies, and over 2000 categorized research articles.
When Wolswijk began Blossom, he was barely able to fill a weekly newsletter, and now he’s adding a new study nearly every day, perfectly illustrating the exponential growth in psychedelic research. He talks about why so much research is happening (and why more isn’t), the trends he’s seen, the benefit in research changing people’s minds, and what he hopes for in the future. What can the research community learn from existing real world evidence, and how can retreat centers and underground communities contribute?
He also discusses:
What culture is like in the Netherlands, where psilocybin truffles are legal
Drug development and the possibilities of adjusting existing molecules
What we can learn from the Lykos and FDA situation
The economics of psychedelics and how insurance will likely be the next big conversation
His work with FLO coaching, and how coaching, acceptance and commitment therapy, and psilocybin can work together