Foundations of Psychedelic Therapies

Foundations of Psychedelic Therapies by Monash University is a 12-week online course starting in July 2025.

  • 50 Enrolled
  • All levels
  • Last updated Jan '25
  • English
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Monash University
Course Description

The Foundations of Psychedelic Therapies course, delivered by Monash University’s Clinical Psychedelic Lab, provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). This 12-week online programme explores the therapeutic potential of psychoactive compounds, such as psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD, when combined with psychotherapy. Participants will gain insights into the clinical research, ethical considerations, and practical methodologies underpinning this innovative treatment approach. Through a combination of live sessions and asynchronous activities, students will engage with case studies, first-hand accounts from clinical trial participants, and expert instruction from experienced practitioners.

This course examines critical areas such as the stages of PAT, safety monitoring, pharmacological principles, and the interaction between altered states of consciousness and mental health conditions. It also delves into current controversies, ethical debates, and the development of care models for diverse patient groups. Designed for individuals with varying levels of familiarity with psychedelics, this course offers foundational knowledge for newcomers while providing fresh insights for professionals in the field. While it does not qualify participants to practise as psychedelic therapists, it forms part of a pathway to further specialised training.

Use code Blossom10 for a 10% discount on this course.

You will learn:

  • What is Bwiti?
  • Roles in Bwiti initiation/treatment
  • Instruments in Bwiti: ngombe, mogongo
  • What is an Nganga
    • Maboundi/Yombo
    • Maboundi/Yombo
  • Sustainability/reciprocity

You will learn:

  • History of the Fang tradition
  • Dissumba vs. Dissumba Fang
  • Ombwiri/Mbumbayano Fang
  • The kambo
  • State of Fang Bwiti in Gabon
  • Impact of Westerners coming to work with the sacred wood

You will learn:

  • History of the Missoko tradition
  • Various branches of Missoko initiation:
    • Miobe/Mioba
    • Ngonde Na Dipuma
    • Sengedia
  • The impact of logging on the tradition
  • What the future of Bwiti could look like in Gabon

You will learn:

  • History of Dissumba
  • Various branches of Dissumba initiation:
    • Abanji/Mabanji
    • Ilombo
    • Ombwiri
    • Ombudi
    • Loro
  • The ngombe (sacred harp)
  • Healing rituals involved in her tradition
  • Training to serve the wood
    • What does it involve?
    • How long does it take?

instructor-image

Tatayo

Instructor

About Instructor

Tatayo (“Fruit of the Wind”) first arrived in Gabon in 1971 at the age of 21 and became a Gabonese citizen. In 1979, he became the first white person to be initiated into the Bwiti Fang tradition in Gabon. In 1994, he was initiated into the Misokko tradition. As a guide for numerous expeditions and missions, including those of National Geographic, the BBC, and others, Tatayo is considered to have “opened the door” to westerners in Gabon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for start and finish dates/times. This course is currently being offered live and dates/times will change throughout the year.

AUD$3500

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This course includes

  • Modules 12
  • Duration 12 Weeks
  • Skills All levels
  • Language English
  • Availability Cohort
  • Certificate No

Course Tags

Foundations of Psychedelic Therapies Course Image