Colorado is now the second state to legalize psychedelic therapy, but the city of Colorado Springs is facing a clash between conservative leaders and some of its 90,000 veterans who advocate for the treatment of PTSD. This comes as the state begins to implement its 2022 voter-approved measure to legalize psilocybin therapy.
Following the state's legalization, companies and individuals can now apply for licenses to administer psilocybin. However, actual treatment availability is still several months away. This move positions Colorado alongside Oregon in legalizing the therapy, while the drug remains federally illegal and under strict restrictions in most other states.
Despite the state law preventing complete bans, several conservative cities in Colorado, including Colorado Springs, are preemptively imposing limitations on the locations of "healing centers" that provide the therapy. The Colorado Springs City Council recently voted to extend state-mandated proximity restrictions for these centers, drawing strong objections from veterans who view it as a critical resource.
At the city council meeting, veteran Lane Belone spoke of the therapy's benefit to him. He argued that such restrictions would lead to longer waiting lists and limited access. This highlights how veterans have emerged as significant advocates for psychedelic therapy, setting it apart from other contentious drug policy discussions.
Councilmember David Leinweber, a staunch opponent of marijuana, expressed support for psilocybin therapy, underscoring a distinction between the two substances. It highlights how veterans have garnered conservative support, differentiating it from broader discussions around drug policies.
Despite the support from veterans, the Colorado Springs City Council ultimately passed the proposed restrictions. While research on psilocybin and similar substances has shown promise for treating mental health conditions, including PTSD, depression and alcoholism, concerns regarding potential risks and lack of FDA approval persist.
Concerns have been raised by experts, such as Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, a Columbia University professor. He noted the potential for misleading information and cost exploitation, as well as cases where it can exacerbate existing conditions. In Oregon, where psilocybin therapy is already available, costs can reach $2,000 per session.
While some city leaders, including veteran Council President Randy Helms, acknowledge the potential value of the therapy, they emphasize the need for strict regulations and testing. Other concerns from city council include FDA not approving psilocybin and the rejection of MDMA for PTSD treatment, while research and clinical trials for both drugs are ongoing.
Advocates like Taylor West, executive director of the Healing Advocacy Fund, emphasize the need for alternative treatment options in the current mental health crisis. They argue that psychedelic therapy offers an option to those for whom traditional treatments have not been successful. Belone, who shared his experience of personal transformation through psychedelic therapy, underscores the potential for such treatments to help individuals, especially veterans, better manage their mental health.
