Psychedelic Science and Medicine from Coursera

Explore the science and therapeutic potential of psychedelics in this course led by experts from the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. You'll learn about the history of psychedelic use, the neuroscience underlying their effects, and the latest clinical trials evaluating their therapeutic potential. Gain insights into their risks and benefits, ethical considerations like informed consent, and ongoing challenges in the field.

This course equips learners to critically assess scientific findings, moving beyond hype to understand the evidence. Whether you're interested in the neurobiological mechanisms of psychedelics, their role in mental health treatment, or broader societal impacts, this course provides a comprehensive and evidence-based foundation. Perfect for students, professionals, or anyone curious about this emerging area of science, the course offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and practical implications for medicine and beyond.

What's inside

Syllabus

History, Context, and Definitions

In this module, we will get oriented. What is a psychedelic anyway? How have they been used historically? When did research begin and what is happening now? To address these questions and more, we will discuss psychedelic history, contexts, and definitions.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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Led by experts from the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, which is at the forefront of research in this field

Equips learners to critically assess scientific findings, moving beyond hype to understand the evidence, which is crucial in a rapidly evolving field

Examines ethical considerations like informed consent, integration, and psychedelic exceptionalism, which are vital for responsible engagement with psychedelics

Explores the neuroscience underlying the effects of psychedelics on the brain, which provides a deeper understanding of their mechanisms of action

Focuses on clinical trial research that is currently happening around the world, offering insights into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics

Discusses the risks of psychedelics in recreational and research settings, which is important for making informed decisions about their use

Reviews summary

In-depth scientific look at psychedelics

According to learners, this course offers a highly informative and scientifically grounded exploration of psychedelic science and medicine. Students frequently praise the exceptional expertise of the Johns Hopkins instructors and their ability to cover a broad range of topics, from historical context to cutting-edge clinical trials and ethical considerations. While the material can be dense and complex, many find the course provides a robust foundation and is a valuable resource for understanding this rapidly evolving field.

Content can be dense and complex.

"Some modules, particularly on neuroscience, were quite dense and required significant focus."

"It's not a lightweight course; expect to engage with complex biological and clinical information."

"Requires a willingness to tackle challenging concepts, but it's manageable with effort."

Provides a strong base for further learning.

"This course is an excellent starting point for anyone serious about understanding the field."

"It provides a solid foundation upon which further, more specialized knowledge can be built."

"I feel much better equipped to read research papers and discuss the topic intelligently after this course."

Focuses on research and evidence.

"It delivered on its promise to provide an evidence-based look, moving beyond sensationalism."

"The deep dive into neuroscience and mechanisms was fascinating and well-explained."

"Helped me develop a critical eye for assessing scientific findings in this area."

Covers historical, scientific, and ethical aspects.

"I appreciated the breadth of topics covered, from the history to neuroscience to ethical debates."

"Provides a holistic view of the subject, connecting science, medicine, and societal context."

"The course structure logically builds understanding across different facets of psychedelic science."

Taught by leading experts in the field.

"The lecturers from Johns Hopkins are top-notch; their knowledge and experience are evident throughout the course."

"Learning directly from experts involved in the research was incredibly valuable and insightful."

"The caliber of the instructors made this course stand out. Their authority on the subject is undeniable."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Psychedelic Science and Medicine with these activities:

Review Basic Neuroscience Concepts

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Reinforce foundational neuroscience knowledge to better understand the mechanisms of psychedelic action in the brain.

Browse courses on Neurotransmitters

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Review key concepts in neuroscience textbooks or online resources.
Complete practice quizzes on brain anatomy and function.
Summarize the roles of major neurotransmitters.

Read 'How to Change Your Mind' by Michael Pollan

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Gain a broader understanding of the cultural and scientific context of psychedelics through a popular science book.

View How to Change Your Mind on Amazon

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Read the book 'How to Change Your Mind'.
Take notes on key themes and arguments.
Reflect on the book's insights in relation to the course content.

Write a Summary of a Clinical Trial

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Deepen understanding of clinical trial methodology and findings by summarizing a relevant research paper.

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Select a clinical trial related to psychedelic therapy.
Read the research paper carefully.
Write a concise summary of the study's methods, results, and conclusions.

Four other activities

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Review 'The Doors of Perception' by Aldous Huxley

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Explore the subjective experience of psychedelics through a classic literary work.

View Melania on Amazon

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Read 'The Doors of Perception'.
Reflect on Huxley's descriptions of altered perception.
Compare his experiences to scientific findings discussed in the course.

Create a Presentation on Ethical Considerations

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Solidify understanding of ethical issues by preparing and delivering a presentation on informed consent, integration, or other relevant topics.

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Choose an ethical issue related to psychedelic use.
Research the topic thoroughly.
Prepare a presentation outlining the key considerations and potential solutions.
Practice delivering the presentation.

Design a Psychedelic Integration Program

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Apply course knowledge to develop a practical integration program for individuals undergoing psychedelic therapy.

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Research best practices for psychedelic integration.
Identify key components of an effective integration program.
Develop a detailed plan outlining the program's structure, activities, and resources.

Volunteer at a Mental Health Organization

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the mental health field by volunteering at a relevant organization.

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Identify mental health organizations in your area.
Contact the organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in volunteer activities and reflect on your experiences.

Career center

Learners who complete Psychedelic Science and Medicine will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Research Scientist

Research scientists design and conduct experiments to investigate various scientific questions. The course equips scientists with a comprehensive and evidence based foundation that allows them to assess scientific findings critically. In particular, the module on 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' will prove exceedingly helpful, with its focus on clinical trial research that is currently happening around the world. The course is perfect for students, research professionals, or anyone who is curious about this emerging area of science, offering a unique opportunity to engage with cutting edge research and practical implications for medicine and beyond.

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Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. This course helps psychiatrists interested in innovative therapeutic approaches build their knowledge base. The modules on 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' and 'Neuroscience and Mechanisms' are particularly relevant, as they cover clinical trial research in psychiatry and the neurobiological effects of psychedelics. Understanding the ethical considerations and potential risks and benefits, as discussed in the course, is vital for psychiatrists considering incorporating psychedelic assisted therapies into their practice.

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Addiction Psychiatrist

Addiction psychiatrists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders and related mental health conditions. Addiction psychiatrists may want to stay up to date on promising new psychiatric treatments. The module on 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' specifically addresses psychedelic research in psychiatry, including trials involving substance use disorder. Furthermore, the course helps addiction psychiatrists consider a wider range of therapeutic options and offer well informed support to their clients.

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Neuroscientist

Neuroscientists study the nervous system, including the brain, to understand its structure, function, and disorders. This course is highly relevant as the module on 'Neuroscience and Mechanisms' specifically explores the effects of psychedelics on the brain. This module helps neuroscientists understand how these molecules create these experiences, as well as the impact of psychedelics on the brain. Given the increasing interest in psychedelics' potential to treat mental health conditions, this course helps neuroscientists stay at the forefront of cutting edge research.

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Drug Development Scientist

Drug development scientists research and develop new medications, often working in pharmaceutical companies or research institutions. This course helps scientists interested in psychedelic compounds. The modules on 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' and 'Neuroscience and Mechanisms' are highly relevant, providing insights into the clinical applications and neurobiological effects of these substances. Furthermore, understanding the ethical and societal considerations surrounding psychedelics, as discussed in the course, helps drug development scientists navigate the complexities of bringing these compounds to market.

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Mental Health Counselor

Mental health counselors offer therapeutic support to individuals and groups dealing with emotional and psychological challenges. The course's exploration of psychedelics' therapeutic potential for mental health conditions helps build a foundation for counselors interested in innovative treatment approaches. Specifically, the modules on 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' directly address psychedelic research in psychiatry, focusing on disorders such as depression, substance use disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder. Understanding the ethical considerations, including informed consent and integration discussed in the course, is also paramount for any mental health counselor, especially when considering alternative therapies.

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Medical Science Liaison

Medical science liaisons are professionals who work for pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies, serving as a bridge between the company and healthcare providers. The 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' section of the course is crucial, covering global clinical trials focused on psychiatric disorders. The course's focus on ethical considerations like informed consent and integration equips a medical science liaison to engage in informed discussions about patient safety and treatment protocols. Understanding of the history module will allow one to appreciate the arc of development of the area.

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Psychiatric Nurse

Psychiatric nurses provide specialized care to patients with mental health conditions, often in hospitals or clinics. The course helps psychiatric nurses understand emerging psychiatric treatments. The 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' module is directly relevant, as it covers clinical trial research in psychiatry, including mental disorders like depression, substance use disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, the course addresses ethical considerations like informed consent, which is crucial for psychiatric nurses involved in administering or monitoring psychedelic assisted therapies.

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Clinical Research Coordinator

A clinical research coordinator is vital to the execution of clinical trials, ensuring they adhere to protocols and regulations. This course will equip coordinators with an understanding of the clinical trial process, as it relates to psychedelic research. The 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' section delves directly into ongoing global clinical trials, predominantly those focused on psychiatric disorders like depression, substance use disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder. Grasping the nuances of informed consent, as covered in the ethics module, is crucial for a clinical research coordinator, who is often responsible for patient communication and education within the parameters of a clinical trial.

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Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and analyze policy issues to develop recommendations for government or other organizations. The course provides a valuable foundation for policy analysts interested in the legal and social implications of psychedelics. The module on 'Ethics, Society, and the Future of Psychedelics' is particularly relevant, as it explores on going bioethical issues such as informed consent and psychedelic exceptionalism. This helps policy analysts develop informed recommendations regarding the regulation and use of psychedelics.

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Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance abuse counselors work to help individuals overcome addiction and maintain sobriety. This course may be particularly relevant given the increasing research into the use of psychedelics in treating substance use disorders. The module on 'Clinical Trials and Major Findings' highlights research in psychiatry, including trials involving substance use disorder. Understanding the potential risks and benefits of psychedelic treatments, as well as the neurobiological mechanisms discussed in the neuroscience section, helps substance abuse counselors consider a wider range of therapeutic options and offer well informed support to their clients.

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Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Regulatory affairs specialists work to ensure that pharmaceutical products meet the requirements of regulatory agencies like the Food and Drug Administration. This course may be useful for specialists working with novel medications. The 'Ethics, Society, and the Future of Psychedelics' module touches upon bioethical issues such as informed consent and exceptionalism. Such a module helps regulatory understand the nuances, and therefore the challenges, involved in the process.

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Science Writer

Science writers communicate scientific information to the public through various media, such as articles, books, and websites. This course may be useful for science writers interested in reporting on the latest developments in psychedelic research. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the history, neuroscience, clinical trials, and ethical considerations surrounding psychedelics. This helps science writers understand the science behind the headlines and communicate it accurately and effectively to their audiences.

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Public Health Educator

Public health educators develop and implement programs to promote health and prevent disease in communities. This course may be useful for public health educators interested in addressing the use and potential misuse of psychedelics. The course provides a balanced perspective on the risks and benefits of psychedelics, as well as the ethical and societal considerations surrounding their use. This helps public health educators develop informed and effective educational programs for the public.

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Neurologist

Neurologists diagnose and treat disorders of the nervous system, including the brain. For neurologists interested in the intersection of neurology and psychiatry, the course may be beneficial. The 'Neuroscience and Mechanisms' module specifically discusses the effects of psychedelics on the brain, providing insights into how these substances interact with neural pathways and influence brain function. Understanding these mechanisms can inform a neurologist's understanding of certain neurological conditions and potential treatment strategies.

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Psychedelic Science and Medicine

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

In-depth scientific look at psychedelics

Activities

Career center

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