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RE: How to Get Involved: Navigating Your Way Through the Psychedelic Field
This post has really encouraged me to stop just being curious and dreaming about participating in psychedelic research and actually pursue it. Admittedly, I am fairly green in my studies of the substances, however my status as a clincian in a related field with a unique exploration into their applications gives me the confidence that I can make an impact. I am appreciative of the information and call to action. I am looking forward to beginning my networking journey in the hopes that someone better connected may become aware of the diversity I stand to offer. Thanks!!
I think the hardest part about getting involved is "coming out of the psychedelic closet." Since psychedelics continue to be illegal and carry a cultural taboo, it is difficult to talk about these interests, even in academic/professional circles. The research is a great place to start. Being a clinician, you definitely are in a great place and role to be an advocate for these medicines/substances! But I guess the question is, are you ready to come out to colleagues about your interests? Personally, being in graduate school with this interest has been difficult at times. Ironically, it almost cost me a practicum/intern placement, but also having some of these interests on my resume landed me an interview. I think the public and some professional fields are slowly warming up to these ideas. It is an exciting time to get involved! I respect your privacy, but also wondering where are you located? Wondering if there are any groups/meetups around your area to get involved in? That's a great first step! :)
Thanks for the support!
-Kyle
I can absolutely appreciate how difficult it can be to tell colleagues. I have found that in my small body of post graduate experience in typical applications, practicing a clinician has not been a great fit for my personal strengths. For this reason, I had not been terribly active in engaging with larger communities; I was unsure if I would continue in the field at all. All to say, I have a small professional network so few burns to bridge, if they were to be of such a mindset.
I am up near the great lakes, I have noted a few groups in Chicago, just missed an event in Madison. This decision to commit is fresh and I'm early in my journey but the clarity and enthusiasm this pursuit has provided is extraordinary. After graduating, I knew I would have to find a way back to my true goal of research, just didn't know what type of studies I would attempt to align myself with. Your considerations are much appreciated!
Highly recommend the Chicago Psychedelic Club. Forget what they are calling themselves. It a great group of professionals and really appreciate some of the work our colleagues are doing there. Here is an episode of ours with one of the founders or members, Dr. Matt Brown. http://www.psychedelicstoday.com/2017/12/12/dr-matt-brown-chicago-psychedelic-club/
That was great! I really appreciate the lead, I am going to be planning a trip to check out a Meetup soon and I'll let them know how I ended up there! Thanks!!!