Sign in Subscribe
BMC Medical Education

Further Education in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy – Experiences from Switzerland

Examining Switzerland’s training framework for psychedelic-assisted therapy and its role in ensuring safe and effective clinical implementation.

Matt Hallowes

• 2 min read
Further Education in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy – Experiences from Switzerland

Title & Introduction

  • Paper Title: Further Education in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy – Experiences from Switzerland
  • Published In: BMC Medical Education
  • Publish date: March 5, 2025
  • Authors: H.D. Aicher, F. Müller, P. Gasser
  • Objective: To examine Switzerland’s training programs for psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) and assess their effectiveness in preparing clinicians.
  • Importance: With growing interest in PAT for treatment-resistant mental health conditions, structured education is crucial to ensure safe and effective implementation.

Summary & Takeaways

Key Takeaway: Switzerland has established a comprehensive training framework for psychedelic-assisted therapy, addressing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, but demand exceeds availability.

Practical Application: Expanding training programs and establishing standardized certification processes can improve the accessibility and safety of PAT for psychiatric disorders.

Key Background Information

  • Context: Since 2014, Switzerland has allowed limited medical use of psychedelics, leading to the development of structured education programs for clinicians.
  • Hypothesis: A well-designed education framework for PAT will enhance treatment safety, ethical considerations, and therapeutic efficacy.

Methodology

  • Study Design: Review and analysis of Switzerland’s psychedelic-assisted therapy training programs.
  • Participants: Physicians and psychologists undergoing PAT training.
  • Intervention/Exposure: Three-year training program integrating theoretical coursework, hands-on experience, and supervised retreats.
  • Controls: Comparison to traditional psychiatric training programs.
  • Duration: Ongoing evaluation of training outcomes over several years.

Key Findings

Primary Outcomes:

  • Switzerland’s training program includes a balance of theory, ethical considerations, and practical psychedelic experience.
  • MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD are the primary substances used in the training context.
  • Demand for PAT training is growing rapidly, exceeding the available program capacity.

Secondary Outcomes:

  • Regulatory changes may increase the need for structured certification pathways.
  • Trainees report that experiential learning enhances their ability to guide patients through psychedelic sessions.
  • International collaboration and expansion of training options are needed to meet future demands.

Interpretation & Implications

  • Conclusion: Switzerland’s structured approach to PAT training serves as a model for other countries looking to implement similar programs.
  • Implications: Establishing global standards for PAT education will be crucial as psychedelic therapies gain wider acceptance.
  • Limitations: Limited access to training due to high demand and resource constraints.

Researchers & Publication