The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is expanding its social work curriculum to include psychedelic-assisted therapy, reflecting a growing national interest in innovative mental health treatments.
Starting this fall, the Thompson School of Social Work and Public Health will introduce class sessions on the therapeutic use of psychedelics, led by Michael DeMattos, chair of the Bachelor of Social Work program.
“Social workers provide the bulk of mental health services in the U.S.,” said DeMattos. “It is important that they effectively respond to those they serve using a full range of tools that are evidence-based and culturally informed. With proper safety measures, we are better positioned to help those suffering the most.”
Psychedelic-assisted therapy combines the controlled use of substances such as psilocybin, MDMA, or ketamine with structured psychotherapy. Research indicates potential benefits in treating depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and addiction, particularly in cases resistant to conventional treatments.
DeMattos recently participated in the University Psychedelic Education Program, a national initiative hosted by the Usona Institute in Wisconsin. The program brought together more than 60 faculty from 30 universities to explore the science, ethics, and social implications of psychedelic-assisted therapy.
“For the last thirty years, psychedelics have been stigmatized despite earlier research supporting their therapeutic use,” DeMattos said. “Now, with a new wave of research, we are seeing their potential. I had the opportunity to learn directly from researchers conducting these studies—a real insider’s view.”
This fall, DeMattos will incorporate psychedelic content into his advanced practice course and is developing a dedicated course in the future. By integrating this emerging field into its curriculum, the Thompson School aims to equip social work students and other helping professionals with knowledge and skills aligned with evolving practices in mental health care.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
The Doctor’s Office Unveils EXOMIND Brain Stimulation for Depression Treatment
Insurance: A Mental Health Professional’s Guide to Online Therapy
Online Therapy for Children: Why Video Alone Isn’t Enough and What Works Better
