Building Systems of Trust
At ATMA CENA, we understand that conversations around psychedelics as healing modalities are evolving, especially with regard to the legal landscape. Psychedelics have been shown to offer immense benefits for mental health well-being, spiritual growth, and personal reflection. We are dedicated to supporting the safe, responsible access and use of psychedelics and – unfortunately – the path to making them accessible to more people is complex. Modern-day accessibility requires navigating a landscape shaped by medical, legal, and regulatory rules. We were inspired recently by a Q&A hosted by Tricycle Day with Larry Norris, Activist & Founder.
Decriminalization vs. Legalization vs. Medicalization: what’s the difference?
In a world where we don’t regulate natural elements like air, water (though this one’s nearly up for debate), or sunlight, it seems strange to think we need laws around plants and fungi that have been used by indigenous cultures for centuries. But due to the Controlled Substances Act, psychedelics like psilocybin mushrooms and ayahuasca, were categorized as Schedule 1 substances—labeled as having no accepted medical use or therapeutic value—despite a lack of scientific backing for this classification. The law itself was politically motivated, which left natural, healing substances largely out of safe reach for many.
This is where the distinctions come in:
- Medicalization involves proving a substance’s medical value through extensive research and regulatory approval, often placing it in the hands of pharmaceutical companies. While this approach has potential to bring psychedelics into our medical system, it comes with challenges, like skyrocketing costs (this is what is happening in Australia now), limited access, and a heavy focus on isolating specific molecules rather than embracing the holistic effects of the entire plant (or fungus).
- Legalization aims to permit regulated use, but in a way that is likely to impose significant barriers. These barriers include costs and regulatory “red tape”, making accessing treatment an arduous process that few are likely to take on.
- Decriminalization uniquely allows wider access to safe, evidence-based mental health treatments. It removes the criminal penalties associated with the cultivation, sharing, and personal use of psychedelics, while allowing for medical, religious, and community-based practices. It provides a more inclusive framework where individuals, indigenous healers, and communities can engage with these substances without the fear of legal repercussions or the burden of costly licensing.
At ATMA CENA, we are actively advocating for legalization, while resonating deeply with decriminalization. It’s not just about removing the legal or financial barriers; it’s about creating a safe space for people to explore consciousness, heal, and integrate these powerful experiences into their lives without the interference of restrictive and often profit-driven regulations. It’s about building trust and creating systems that prioritize safe, informed access. Psychedelics, when used responsibly, have shown to be powerful tools for healing trauma, alleviating depression and anxiety, and fostering deep personal transformation. Our role is to ensure that individuals who seek these treatments can do so in a supportive, controlled environments that value both scientific rigour and the holistic benefits of these substances.
Why we resonate with decriminalization of psychedelics
At its core, decriminalization is about equity. It’s about acknowledging that psychedelics are exceptional tools for healing and personal growth, and they should be accessible to anyone who feels called to explore them. By moving away from a model that criminalizes natural substances, we can create more inclusive, community-oriented opportunities for healing.
Decriminalization also protects indigenous wisdom and traditions. By removing the need for expensive permits or complex regulations, practitioners rooted in ancient knowledge can share their teachings and experiences without having to go through expensive training programs or pay fees to the government. It empowers communities to manage their own healing processes and allows individuals to reconnect with nature and the sacred practices that have been part of human history for thousands of years. Our work with Siksika First Nation Communities underlines the power of integrative mental health practices that embrace both the sacred and the scientific.
Common concerns
Many argue that decriminalization would throw open the doors to nefarious actors, putting those in need at even greater risk. We travel this path with great caution, leaning into legalization as a means to an end – but ultimately we believe communities are capable of self-regulating when given the chance, and those who do good work will naturally rise to the top, while those who act with harmful intentions will fade out.
Others fear that decriminalization could lead to the destruction of natural resources. However, we believe that reconnecting people with nature—rather than isolating them from it—will lead to greater stewardship and care for our environment. After all, many of the challenges we face as a society, such as depression and disconnection, stem from our separation from the natural world.
Finally, there are concerns about public health and safety. But in places where psychedelics have been decriminalized, there hasn’t been a rise in negative health outcomes. Instead, the open conversation around psychedelics has led to better support systems. Imagine a world where someone experiencing a challenging trip could approach a police officer and be connected with someone who can help guide them through the experience, rather than being criminalized. This kind of compassionate, community-based support is the future we envision at ATMA CENA.
Advocacy
At ATMA CENA our advocacy work focuses on pushing for evidence-based reforms that prioritize patient well-being, equitable access, and community involvement.
We are actively collaborating with regulatory bodies, First Nation Communities, Corporate organizations, Third party insurers and advocacy groups to share information and build trust. Those seeking help have the right to do so in environments that are safe, professionally regulated, and grounded in both scientific and spiritual understanding.
The inclusion of psychedelic-assisted therapy in current provincial insurance plans and government policy statements is representing a shift in mental health treatment paradigm. Legalization would empower us to scale our services, train more practitioners, and expand access to underserved populations who would benefit most from these therapies. At the heart of our advocacy is our belief that everyone should have the opportunity to explore these transformative treatments in a safe environment without fear of legal repercussions or financial hardship.
Looking Ahead
This is a cultural shift. It’s about creating a world where people have the freedom to explore consciousness, heal, and reconnect with their true selves. At ATMA CENA, we are excited about the future of psychedelics in Canada and beyond. We believe that decriminalization and legalization are steps toward a broader understanding and acceptance of these powerful tools.
We are proud to be part of this movement. Our commitment to holistic care, informed by both modern science and ancient wisdom, makes us uniquely positioned to help guide individuals on their journey to wellness, whether through psychedelic therapy, rTMS, or integrative approaches. Together, we can create a world where healing is accessible, inclusive, and deeply connected to the natural world.
Let’s continue to advocate for a future where psychedelics are no longer seen as dangerous substances, but as essential tools to be used responsibly for personal growth, healing, and transformation.