The Medicine

How Psilocybin Works

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring compound found in certain mushrooms that grow around the world.

For thousands of years, psilocybin-containing mushrooms have been used in Indigenous and other ancient traditions for healing, learning, and spiritual connection. Today, some individuals seek psilocybin experiences for personal growth, deeper insight, and support for mental and emotional well-being.

In the body, psilocybin is converted into psilocin, the active compound responsible for its psychoactive effects and much of its therapeutic potential. Psilocin interacts with serotonin pathways in the brain and may temporarily increase neuroplasticity—the brain’s capacity to form new connections. This potential “critical period” or “window of change” can support adaptive shifts such as releasing emotional burdens, reframing perspectives, and integrating insights that may contribute to lasting improvements for people navigating a range of mental health challenges.

Psilocybin is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for general medical use. However, a growing body of research suggests it may have therapeutic potential for certain conditions, including major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, existential distress, and alcohol or substance use disorders. Some individuals report meaningful benefits after a single experience, while others may require a series of sessions to support more sustained outcomes.

Although more research is needed to fully understand psilocybin’s medical applications, early clinical studies—including randomized controlled trials—have shown promising results. Based on preliminary evidence, the FDA has granted psilocybin “Breakthrough Therapy” designation for specific investigational uses to help accelerate research and evaluation.

In Colorado, certain natural medicines have been authorized for supervised use in regulated settings for personal exploration and, in some cases, to support wellbeing for individuals experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma-related challenges, and other mental health concerns where current scientific literature indicates potential safety and benefit.

Mindful Elevation Natural Medicine Healing Center is a licensed Colorado Natural Medicine Healing Center (NMHC #00044), authorized as a legal site for the administration of natural medicine services. The center provides space for licensed facilitators who offer preparation, guided experiences, and integration support.

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Mindful Elevation Inspiration

  • Dr. Robin-Carhart Harris


    Professor of Psychiatry and Director of Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College of London:

    “Psychedelics can treat depression by activating powerful brain states that have evolved in humans to catalyse deep psychological change. When these “hyper-plastic” states are combined with a nurturing environmental context, defensive habits of mind and behaviour can undergo a healthy, potentially enduring revision.”

  • A man with short dark hair and light skin, wearing a dark blazer and checked shirt, standing outdoors with a blurred cityscape background.

    Dr. Andrew Huberman


    Professor of Neurobiology and Ophthalmology at the Stanford School of Medicine:

    “Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to experience. It’s a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. During the psilocybin journey, people have the opportunity to learn new relationships between different sensory and emotional states. Those new relationships seem to persist long after the psychedelic journey is finished.”

  • Dr. Rosalind Watts


    Psychologist and Clinical lead Psychedelic Researcher at the Imperial College of London’s Psilocybin for Depression Trials:

    “Psychedelics give us the adventure. The opportunity for the deep adventure of healing and connection.”