Should Authorised Prescribers Take Psychedelics?
As psychedelic-assisted therapy becomes more widely integrated into mainstream practice, an increasingly debated question arises: Should authorised prescribers be required to personally experience these substances?
This salon will explore the complexities of this issue, not through rigid debate but through a rich, multidimensional discussion—one that acknowledges both the ethical, clinical, and philosophical tensions at play.
Key Questions We Will Explore:
Should personal experience with psychedelics be a mandatory part of training for those who prescribe or facilitate their use?
If so, what model should this take? Should there be an opt-out function for those unwilling or unable to participate?
Would an experiential understanding of these substances provide a more embodied appreciation of their profound phenomenology, leading to more responsible prescribing?
Should consumers of psychedelic therapy have access to this information—would it be relevant for informed consent? Would patients feel more trust in the process knowing their prescriber has a firsthand understanding of the medicine and its effects?
Conversely, could such a requirement introduce bias? Would personal experience interfere with the necessary objectivity required in clinical decision-making?
Could it lead to evangelism, where prescribers become overly enthusiastic proponents, potentially losing their critical stance?
Is firsthand experience even necessary, or are the existing scientific frameworks, patient narratives, and clinical training sufficient to ensure safe and effective prescribing?
Unlike our typical salon format, this session will begin with structured opening remarks presenting well-reasoned arguments from both sides. From there, we will open into a dynamic discussion, reflecting the spirit of historical salons—where colleagues could disagree passionately but productively, learning from one another rather than seeking to "win" a debate.
This is not about arriving at a single answer but rather broadening our collective perspective and refining the way we think about the role of lived experience in professional practice.
Join us for what promises to be a deeply thought-provoking exploration of one of the most contested ethical and practical questions in psychedelic-assisted therapy today.
About the Salon
This is an informal, invite-only gathering for like-minded clinicians exploring the intersection of neuroscience, therapy, and altered states of consciousness. We foster deep, candid discussions in a space that values intellectual rigour, humility, and curiosity.
Our goal is to create a supportive community where practitioners can challenge, consult, and collaborate—without pretence or dogma. Conversations often begin with psychedelics but evolve into broader, more enriching discussions.
This isn’t a clinical case conference, nor is it an esoteric free-for-all. We strike a balance between evidence-based practice and the ineffable, between rigorous thought and open-hearted exploration.
Event Details
📍 Location: West Perth office – 1121 Hay Street
🚗 Parking: Plenty of on-street parking available at this time
⏳ Time: 6 pm - 7.30 pm. Please aim to arrive on time. We have a hard stop at 7:30 PM, but late arrivals are welcome.
🥂 Food & Drinks: Feel free to bring a small plate or non-alcoholic drinks to share.
We want you to feel at home—because the best conversations happen when people feel safe, comfortable, and free to be themselves.
Invitation & Community
While invite-only, we welcome trusted attendees to vouch for new members who might bring a unique perspective. There’s no requirement to be a mental health professional—our discussions span diverse experiences, backgrounds, and skill sets. What matters is an ability to think independently and engage in nuanced, meaningful dialogue.
To stay in the loop, text 0493 081 616 to join our WhatsApp group, where we share meeting notes.
A Note on Responsible Discussion
We do not condone or support illicit or irresponsible substance use. Psychedelics may be a jumping-off point for discussion, but our focus is on thoughtful, professional, and personally enriching conversations.
Join us for an evening of insight, camaraderie, and shared responsibility in shaping the future of this space.
About Us
Niall Campbell is a psychotherapist specialising in clinical hypnosis and psychedelic integration therapy. He has worked with high-functioning adults and children with complex behavioural presentations, volunteered at Synthesis (a leading legal psychedelic retreat), and hosted The Mind Manifest podcast, interviewing international experts on consciousness and personal growth. He now focusses on executive and creative coaching, working with clients to support them to live their most rich, full and meaningful lives.
Hannah Courtauld is a clinical psychologist with experience as a chief triage psychologist at a major European psychedelic retreat. Trained in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, she integrates Jungian, somatic, and mindfulness approaches, focusing on deep emotional healing.