As Colorado begins to license psychedelic therapy centers, here’s a look at how the treatment works

Coloradans who struggle with anxiety or depression will soon have access to a different kind of treatment option. At the start of 2025, a new law took effect that opened the door to psychedelic-assisted therapy offered by licensed treatment centers in Colorado. State officials had projected April as the date these centers could begin offering therapy sessions using psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in some mushrooms. We wanted to understand what this kind of therapy entails. So in January, we reached out to Scott Shannon, founder of the Wholeness Center in Fort Collins. The center has applied for a license, and has offered psychedelic therapy in the past, following the old laws that existed until this year. Scott and other therapists who support access to psychedelics say it could change the way we treat mental health issues in Colorado. As the rollout of these treatment centers gets underway, we’re listening back to his conversation with Erin O’Toole. He began by walking her through what happens in a typical psychedelic therapy session. * * * * * Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us: [email protected] Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks! Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole Producer: Ariel Lavery Executive Producer: Brad Turner Theme music by Robbie Reverb Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.