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Neuroplastic Paths to Peace:
What the Research Says About Psilocybin
Why Veterans Are Turning to Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has begun supporting research into psilocybin- and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD in veterans. This represents a monumental shift in clinical attitudes toward psychedelic therapies.
VA Resource: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – PTSD Research
Clinical Evidence: MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD
In Phase II clinical trials:
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61% of participants no longer met PTSD criteria two months post-treatment
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68% maintained remission at the 12-month mark
These numbers highlight the potential of psychedelic compounds to enable trauma recovery when paired with guided therapy.
Source: MAPS MDMA-Assisted Therapy Trial Summary (Wikipedia)
Psilocybin’s Brain-Level Benefits
In laboratory models, psilocybin has been shown to:
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Enhance fear extinction
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Promote neuroplasticity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex
What does “enhance fear extinction” mean?
It refers to the brain’s ability to unlearn a fear response. When trauma wires the brain to associate certain memories, places, or feelings with danger — even long after the danger is gone — those fear loops can persist.
Psilocybin appears to help disrupt those loops, allowing the brain to form new, safer connections and release old fear-based patterns. It’s not about forgetting trauma, but remembering without reliving it.
This supports its use in trauma therapy, helping patients reprocess and release rigid fear-based memories.
Source: Neuroscience News – Psilocybin and Neuroplasticity
Ongoing Clinical Trials Focused on PTSD
Several major studies are currently underway:
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Psi PS Trial: Psilocybin for veterans and first responders with PTSD & Alcohol Use Disorder
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Co-therapy studies: Combining MDMA + psilocybin for enhanced trauma relief
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Two-dose psychotherapy models: Exploring treatment-resistant PTSD in veterans
Clinical Trial Listings:
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NCT06989957
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NCT06853912
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NCT05554094
Psilocybin and the Brain’s Default Mode Network
Research suggests psilocybin can temporarily disrupt the default mode network (DMN) — a set of brain structures associated with ego, self-narrative, and looping trauma.
Disruption of this network allows for:
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Greater psychological flexibility
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Emotional reprocessing
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Fresh perspective on old trauma patterns
Source: Overview of Psilocybin Therapy (Johns Hopkins)
Anti-inflammatory & Neuroprotective Effects
Emerging research shows psilocybin may also:
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Reduce neuroinflammation
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Lower oxidative stress
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Support gut–brain axis balance
These properties suggest its potential for holistic trauma healing that integrates both emotional and biological pathways.
Sources:
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Wikipedia – Psilocybin
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New York Post – Psilocybin Research
Microdosing: Caution and Curiosity
Microdosing has entered the mainstream as a possible tool for:
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Mood regulation
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Creativity
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Trauma support in daily life
However, conclusive evidence is still limited. Early studies are underway, but results vary widely.
Additional Sources:
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Associated Press – Microdosing Studies
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EatingWell – Microdosing Overview
Disclaimer & Transparency Statement
The information presented in this section is for educational and informational purposes only. All research cited here is sourced from publicly accessible, peer-reviewed, or governmental studies. Myco Maestro does not claim ownership over this research, and no original studies were conducted by Myco Maestro or its affiliates. This content is intended to promote thoughtful inquiry and accessibility, not to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Myco Maestro does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
What about CPTSD?
Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is increasingly recognized as distinct from PTSD, often arising from long-term or repeated trauma. At present, there is very little direct scientific research on psilocybin for CPTSD. Most studies focus on PTSD more generally, though some observational reports suggest potential.
That said, for many, human, lived experience becomes the deciding factor. Both of us at Myco Maestro carry lifelong trauma histories — the kind of wounds that, on paper, people “don’t come back from.” Yet through care, patience, and the wise use of these sacred mushrooms, we have found real, steadfast healing. We are walking proof that recovery is highly possible with the right care, consideration, an open mind, and an open heart.
We also want to be transparent: every journey is unique. If choosing to macro-dose, we strongly encourage working with a trusted medicine man, shaman, or experienced guide. Micro-dosing can also offer a safe, slow, and gentle path toward integration for those who prefer a gradual approach. Both are valid, and both are honored. We thank you for taking the time to read this article. Mush love<3
The information shared here reflects both scientific research and our own lived experiences. It is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Psilocybin remains a controlled substance in many areas and should only be used where it is legal and safe to do so. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about treatment. If exploring psilocybin, do so with care, proper preparation, and ideally under the guidance of a trusted and experienced facilitator.