Latest news with #TheCenterOrigin
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Psychedelic centers create a danger to kids and exacerbate Colorado's mental health crisis
(Stock photo) Now that the state of Colorado has issued its first license for the operation of a 'natural medicine business,' the public must not be misled into believing that psychedelic drugs are safe or effective. These drugs — and the for-profit businesses that sell them — threaten to harm children and exacerbate Colorado's mental health crisis. Despite the issuance of the state license, these substances remain illegal at the federal level. This is similar to how marijuana is illegal at the federal level even though its growth and sale are tolerated at the state level. Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule 1 substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical benefit. Notably, the Food and Drug Administration has not approved psilocybin for the treatment of any condition. While psychedelic facilitators may be operating within a state-licensed facility, it is important to remember that they are not qualified medical professionals. If a veteran with PTSD wants to receive evidence-based treatment, they can meet with a licensed clinical psychologist who has a bachelor's degree, a doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D.), and experience as a postdoc. In comparison, Colorado Newsline reported that 'anyone 21 or older who has a high school diploma or equivalent and has met the state's training requirements can become a psilocybin facilitator.' SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Not surprisingly, a for-profit industry has emerged to train individuals to act as psilocybin facilitators, costing between $7,000 to $11,000. Compared to the years of education and training for medical professionals, psychedelic facilitators only need '150 hours of coursework, 40 hours of supervised practicum, and 50 hours of consultation across six months while the student provides natural medicine facilitation under a training license.' This industry is focused on profits, not public health. A single session at The Center Origin, the Denver-based center that received the first state license, is expected to cost $3,500. This has concerning implications for health equity, given that those with the most severe mental health issues would likely be the least able to afford this potential treatment. It will also contribute to growth in the illicit market, which can vastly undercut these prices, as seen in Oregon. Vulnerable patients may end up paying thousands of dollars for an unapproved treatment that ultimately worsens their condition. The National Institute on Drug Abuse warned that 'people who take psilocybin may also feel intense emotions ranging from bliss to terror and may have physical side effects such as increased heart rate or nausea.' Many will experience a bad trip. Policymakers must take steps to protect consumers from the potential harms of this substance. Similar to how the state implemented prevention campaigns for marijuana and tobacco, it should roll out a campaign about psilocybin, which discourages use and educates people about risks. Colorado's policy has misled people into believing that psychedelics are safe and effective. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that Oregon and Colorado are the two states with the highest rates of hallucinogen use — and their rates are nearly double the national average. What sets these two states apart? They are the only two that legalized psychedelics. Despite supposed age limits for adults within these licensed facilities, these policy reforms are already having consequences for our kids. Which are the two states with the highest rates of hallucinogen use among 12–17-year-olds? Oregon and Colorado, again. Having led the fight against Proposition 122 in 2022 and seen the same trend play out with marijuana, I predicted that this industry-ballot measure would fail to protect our kids. While there will soon be a flurry of pro-psychedelics articles across the Centennial State, readers — and potential consumers — must know that these substances are not real medicines. And they will not be provided by real medical professionals. Far from promoting public health, the new state-licensed psilocybin centers may exacerbate the mental health crisis. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The Center Origin Becomes the First Licensed Psychedelic Healing Center in Colorado
Pioneering the Future of Psychedelic Therapy in the State DENVER, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Center Origin proudly announces its official licensure as the first psychedelic healing center in the state of Colorado. This milestone marks a historic moment in the advancement of accessible, emerging psychedelic-assisted services following the passage of Proposition 122, which decriminalized psilocybin and paved the way for regulated therapeutic use. The Center Origin is dedicated to offering safe, guided psychedelic experiences facilitated by trained professionals in a controlled and supportive environment. With a mission to provide transformative growth, the center will serve individuals seeking relief from conditions such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and end-of-life distress, among other mental health challenges. Additionally, The Center Origin recognizes that psychedelic experiences can be profoundly beneficial beyond clinical needs, offering services for individuals seeking self-expansion, self-actualization, and personal growth. "We are honored to lead the way in bringing regulated psychedelic services to Colorado," said Elizabeth Cooke, Co-Founder and CEO of The Center Origin. "This licensure represents not only a major step forward in mental health treatment and individual and community healing, but also a commitment to safety, education, and responsible care for those exploring the therapeutic and transformative potential of psychedelics." The Center Origin's services include preparation, guided administration, and integration as well as microdosing support to ensure a comprehensive and ethical healing process. Additionally, The Center Origin's Co-Founder and Clinical Director, Mikki Vogt, LPC LAC NMCF, in partnership with several DORA-approved didactic training programs, has designed and developed a practicum training program, making The Center Origin a premier Colorado-based practicum site. Her clinical programs also include consultation services to Facilitators in Training and those seeking ongoing professional development. In addition, the center offers monthly professional case conferences, a variety of ongoing provider trainings for continued professional development, and a referral network of facilitators for clients to choose from. As part of the Center Origin's value of psychedelic community, events such as weekly integration circles, a psychedelic book club, and mycology classes are available for both clients and facilitators to participate. Mikki Vogt also provides educational presentations to community organizations and medical and mental health practices providing an overview of Colorado's regulated model and a deep dive into the various ways to integrate these approaches into the healthcare continuum. Committed to accessibility and convenience, The Center Origin provides comprehensive in-house support to facilitators working with center clients and offers basic room rental services for facilitators bringing their own clients. The center is fully equipped with essential facilitator tools, equipment, and resources to ensure a seamless therapeutic process. Additionally, clients are provided with thoughtfully crafted comfort items, including food and drinks, personalized gifts, and small luxuries to enhance their journey. Every aspect of the space has been designed with intention, ensuring an optimal and supportive environment from start to finish. The center operates with strict adherence to state regulations and prioritizes client and provider safety and well-being in every aspect of care. With this licensure, The Center Origin is positioned as a leader in the emerging field of psychedelic services and therapy, fostering a new era of holistic health care in Colorado and beyond. For media inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact: Elizabeth CookeCo-Founder and CEOThe Center Origin303.284.4246info@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE The Center Origin, LLC
