Jul 26, 2023 8:00:00 AM | American college of healthcare sciences The Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™ Micro-credential

Are you interested in exploring the fascinating world of psilocybin mushrooms and their potential to support mental health and well-being? The Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™ is a cutting-edge micro-credential program designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the role and current research surrounding psilocybin mushrooms.

Why Psilocybin Mushrooms?

Psilocybin mushrooms have a rich history. The use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms for spiritual, ceremonial, and therapeutic purposes can be traced to different regions around the world. One notable example of historical usage is the indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica, particularly the Aztecs and the Mayans. These cultures revered certain species of mushrooms that contained psilocybin, such as Psilocybe mexicana and Psilocybe cubensis. Archaeological evidence, such as sculptures and murals, suggests that these mushrooms played a significant role in their religious and shamanic practices. What these fungi have in common is a compound called psilocybin, which is known for its psychedelic properties. In contemporary times, psilocybin mushrooms have gained recognition for their potential therapeutic applications, particularly in supporting chronic and complex mental health issues.

Leading the Way in Education 

In November 2020, Oregon voters passed Ballot Measure 109, paving the way for the legal use of psilocybin mushrooms by trained professionals. In January of 2023, Oregon pioneered a program that allows the controlled and regulated use of these mushrooms. As part of this groundbreaking movement, the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) is proud to offer the Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™ micro-credential program. With changes being made in U.S. states such as Colorado, Washington, California, Oregon, Michigan, and Massachusetts. Alongside countries such as Australia, which are now allowing psilocybin use for specific mental health conditions beginning July 1, 2023.

Program Overview

This self-paced micro-credential program consists of four courses, each lasting approximately one hour. These courses are specifically designed to provide you with a solid foundation in the research, protocols, and best practices for incorporating psilocybin mushrooms into a holistic approach to mental health and stress management.

Dr. Glen Nagel, ND, Former ACHS Dean of Herbal Medicine

Former ACHS Dean of Herbal Medicine Dr. Glen Nagel, ND, shares, “It is an incredible time as we witness the legalization of psilocybin mushrooms as a potential natural support for anxiety, addiction, and PTSD.  This ACHS micro-credential offering gives an in-depth understanding at the use of medicinal and psychedelic mushrooms, and their use in wellness protocols."

What You'll Learn

In the ACHS Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™ micro-credential, you’ll develop a working knowledge of the following topics:

Gain an in-depth understanding of mushroom anatomy and the importance of secondary phytonutrients. Explore the intricate components that make up these fascinating organisms and learn about the vital role that secondary phytonutrients play in their overall function.

Delve into the rich historical context surrounding psilocybin mushrooms. Discover how different cultures throughout time have utilized these mushrooms for various purposes and uncover the insights gained from their profound experiences.

Explore the indications and cautions associated with the use of psilocybin mushrooms as a therapeutic tool. Learn about the potential benefits and risks involved in incorporating these mushrooms into mental health and clinical care settings.

Understand the crucial role of the trip sitter in providing a safe and supportive environment during psychedelic experiences. Familiarize yourself with the best practices and precautions that trip sitters should follow to ensure a positive and transformative journey for individuals using psilocybin mushrooms.

Acceptance of Innovative Approaches to Integrative Health

Developed in collaboration with Dr. Erica Zelfand, ND, this ACHS micro-credential highlights emerging research on the use of psilocybin to support mental health from naturopathic physicians such as Dr. Zelfand and ACHS’s own Dr. Glen Nagel as well as global health researchers and practitioners. 

From prominent medical centers such as Johns Hopkins Medicine to elite athletes such as NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, mainstream support for integrative approaches to mental health including psychedelics are reaching center stage. In June 2023, Rodgers attended a conference put on by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies where Rodgers shared his personal experiences in support of legalization in Colorado. 

Research in this area is also gaining momentum. On July 5, 2023, it was announced that COMPASS Pathways had secured funding via a term loan agreement with Hercules Capital, Inc. (NYSE: HTGC) for up to $50 million to support expanded research for treatment-resistant depression; early data is expected in the summer of 2024.

In another exciting development for the field, there’s now a medical procedure code (CPT) for psychedelic facilitation - 0820T - Continuous In-Person Monitoring and Intervention During Psychedelic Medication Therapy. The American Medical Association shares details of the new code here.

The important takeaway is that evidence-based research in this innovative area is on the rise, making this the perfect time to learn more and consider how these approaches may benefit your community within the evolving legal framework. ACHS’s Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™ micro-credential is the ideal foundational program to better understand the research and application of psilocybin science and how it can be used to support mental health.  

Program Features

This micro-credential consists of specialized module content for each topic including video lectures, presentation slides, additional resources, and a quiz to assess your knowledge and understanding. The credential is designed to accommodate your schedule and allow you to learn at your own pace, ensuring a flexible and enriching educational experience.

Disclaimer & Important Information

It is essential to note that this micro-credential program is strictly intended for educational purposes. It is not intended to qualify earners as a practitioner or psilocybin trip sitter. Moreover, the use of psilocybin mushrooms remains illegal in most states. However, Oregon is at the forefront of developing a legal use program available to trained therapists as of January 2023. Opportunities for similar programs may arise in other states in the future. 

Note, this micro-credential is for professional development and does not award academic credit. Non-credit micro-credentials are not accredited by DEAC.

Get Started

Take the first step towards becoming an Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™. Enroll in our self-paced micro-credential program today and unlock the potential of psilocybin mushrooms in supporting mental health and well-being. Join us in this exciting field as we explore the cutting-edge research and protocols that will shape the future of psychedelic wellness support.

Take the Next Step:

• Learn more about ACHS's Integrative Psilocybin Mushroom Specialist™ Micro-Credential 
• Browse all Micro-credentials 
• Speak with an advisor 

^Sources:

¹Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). (2023a, May 8). MDMA and psilocybin. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/mdma-and-psilocybin