Psychedelics and the LGBTQ+ Community

We’re committed to highlighting the perspective of LGBTQ+ individuals in our research, education and advocacy.

Historically, the queer community has been pathologized or excluded from mainstream medicine and psychedelic research. Our work challenges that legacy. We affirm that LGBTQ+ identities are not conditions to be treated: they are powerful, valid expressions of self that deserve healing environments rooted in dignity and inclusion.

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Ayahuasca Queer Study

In 2024, we led the first-ever study exploring the therapeutic potential and risks of ceremonial ayahuasca use specifically within LGBTQ+ communities. This groundbreaking research spotlights the realities of the queer experience, offering insight into how psychedelic journeys can support identity, resilience and recovery in safe, affirming spaces.

The queer community’s complicated history with psychedelics presents an opportunity for reclamation and healing, allowing LGBTQ+ individuals to:

Groundbreaking, Queer-Centric Research

Our findings have been shared on international stages, including MAPS Psychedelic Science and the Oxford Psychedelic Society, and continue to influence how researchers, therapists and advocates approach psychedelics in the queer community. Many of our staff identify as LGBTQ+ and are personally invested in making sure psychedelic science reflects the realities of queer lives. Highlights from our queer community ayahuasca research include:

Mental Health

Significant reductions in depression and anxiety scores
Increased subjective happiness and overall well-being

Identity and Self-Acceptance

Decreased internalized homophobia and sexual identity distress
Increased self-compassion and self-esteem

Social Well-Being

Greater feelings of connectedness
Reduced loneliness
Improved relationships with others

Want to learn more about the study results? Read our blog with additional highlights from our ayahuasca research study supporting the queer community.

But There's More Work to Be Done

We’re only beginning to uncover how psychedelics can transform mental health and healing within the LGBTQ+ community. Your donation directly funds:

Research participation and data collection from LGBTQ+ individuals in supportive, affirming environments.
Scientific analysis that helps shape inclusive psychedelic medicine.
Direct community support via our Psychedelic Info Line, which offers 100% free, zero-stigma access to evidence-based education for all.
Ongoing advocacy and public education, through blogs, resources and outreach centered on queer psychedelic experiences.

Queer-Centric Blogs

Additional knowledge about the dynamics of psychedelic healing in LGBTQ+ communities

Ayahuasca Ceremonies for the LGBTQIA+ Community: A New Frontier in Healing

We conducted a groundbreaking naturalistic study with LGBTQIA+ participants attending an ayahuasca retreat in Costa Rica.

Gender Euphoria and Expanded States: Psychedelics Beyond the Binary

For many trans and nonbinary people in expanded states of consciousness, explorations of gender often become a kind of homecoming.

Trauma, Trust, and Belonging: Queer Resilience in Psychedelic Healing

For many queer and trans people, healing is also political. It means facing wounds caused by systems that were never built to protect them.

Looking for
1:1 Guidance?

We often receive calls on our Psychedelic Info Line from LGBTQ+ individuals looking for support before and after psychedelic experiences. Our team works with an awareness of intersectionality, trauma and minority stress, providing an inclusive approach to your psychedelic journey.