A group facilitation model for psilocybin therapy, developed for an FDA-approved Phase 1 to 2 clinical trial, draws on anthropological studies of ritual, specifically rites of passage, to structure a secular retreat for people with metastatic cancer experiencing anxiety or depression. The model uses three phases: separation (preparation), liminal (psilocybin dosing session), and reincorporation (integration). Ritual functions psychologically to support emotional regulation and meaning-making, and communally to embed individual experience in shared intention and care. This is the first FDA-approved clinical trial of a secular ritual-based group facilitation model for psychedelic therapy with empirically demonstrated safety and efficacy outcomes.
A second experience of group retreat psilocybin therapy appears safe and feasible for people with metastatic cancer who did not fully benefit from a first session. In a small study of 13 partial responders, the protocol was modified with a higher initial dose (35 mg), an optional 10 mg booster, and no requirement to taper antidepressants. Seven participants received the booster. Anxiety and depression scores improved substantially, with 69% of participants scoring below the clinical threshold at follow-up. The proportion reporting a complete mystical experience rose from 38% after the first session to 77% after the second, without more challenging experiences. Social support and group cohesion also improved and were maintained at 24 weeks.