Glossary: Psychedelic Medicine

An emerging field that integrates clinical assessment with genetics, pharmacogenomics, neuroimaging, biomarkers, and environmental factors to individualize psychiatric diagnosis, treatment selection, and prognosis.

A theory proposing that the brain continuously generates predictions about incoming sensory information and updates those predictions based on new experience.

The collaborative process of assessing readiness, establishing goals, providing education, building rapport, and addressing medical, psychological, and practical considerations before a psychedelic or other consciousness-altering experience.

The structured clinical process preceding a psychedelic session that includes screening, informed consent, therapeutic alliance, intention setting, psychoeducation, safety planning, and development of coping strategies.

The active metabolite of psilocybin that readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts primarily as a partial agonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Psilocin is responsible for the psychoactive effects of psilocybin-containing mushrooms.

A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in over 200 species of mushrooms. After ingestion, psilocybin is rapidly converted to psilocin, the active metabolite responsible for its psychoactive effects. Psilocybin is being investigated for depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and end-of-life distress.

Evaluation of current and past mental health history, psychiatric diagnoses, trauma history, substance use, medications, and psychological readiness to determine treatment suitability.

A compound that promotes structural and functional neural plasticity.

A condition involving impaired reality testing that may include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, or severely disorganized behavior.

An ethical commitment to mutual respect, responsibility, and giving back to individuals and communities who contribute knowledge, healing practices, or research participation.

The understanding that all beings—including humans, animals, plants, waters, ancestors, and the land—exist within interconnected relationships that carry mutual responsibilities and obligations.

A condition that increases risk but does not necessarily preclude treatment. Clinical judgment, consultation, and additional monitoring may be appropriate.

A sticky plant secretion composed of terpenes and other compounds that protects the plant from injury and infection and is commonly used in incense, perfumes, and traditional medicines.

A culturally recognized process marking a significant life transition, often involving separation, liminality, and reintegration into the community with a new identity or role.

A repeated sequence of intentional actions that carries symbolic meaning. Rituals may be religious, cultural, therapeutic, or personal and often provide psychological structure, predictability, and opportunities for healing and transformation.