Irene de Caso, Ph.D., is a biologist who first specialized in neurobiology and then completed a master’s of science and a doctorate in cognitive neuroscience and neuro-imaging from the University of York. A co-organizer of the 2020 Interdisciplinary Conference on Psychedelic Research and co-director of the Madrid Psychedelic Society, she lives in Madrid, Spain, where she works as a neuroscientific consultant and is studying to become a clinical psychologist.

FOREWORD
by José Carlos Bouso, Ph.D.

INTRODUCTION
Unlocking the Therapeutic Power of Psychedelics
A Mental Health Crisis
The Discovery, Prohibition, and
Rebirth of New Tools in Psychotherapy
References for Further Study

1
Understanding Neuroscience
Living Organisms: The Cell
The Neuron
Neuroplasticity
Neurotransmitters and Receptors: A Complex World
A Rich Consciousness: Senses, Thalamus, and Cerebral Cortex
The Cerebral Cortex
The Limbic System
Brain Networks and Neuroimaging Techniques
References for Further Study

2
Using Psychoactives in Therapy
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Depression—Ayahuasca and Psilocybin • Cancer or Terminal Illness Diagnosis—LSD and Psilocybin • Addictions—Psilocybin and Other Psychedelics • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)—Psilocybin

MDMA-Assisted Therapy
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Alcohol Abuse •
Social Anxiety Linked to Autism

References for Further Study

3
Within the Psychedelic Experience
The Mystical Experience
Phenomenology and Neuroimaging
Visual Effects • Synesthesia • Cognitive Effects •
Mnemonic Effects • Emotional Effects • Corporal Effects

Unveiling the Psychedelic Experience’s Transformative Potential

Summary Tables of Studies

References for Further Study

4
Psychedelic Neurobiology, Chaos, and Remodeling
Neurobiological Mechanisms of Action
Deep Cortical Layers, Chaos, and Belief Deconstruction
Neuroplasticity: Remodeling of the Mind and Brain
References for Further Study

5
MDMA: Love Enhancer, Fear Suppressor
Phenomenology of MDMA: Feeling Safe
Neurobiology of MDMA
MDMA’s Psychotherapeutic Properties
Social Anxiety • Conflict Resolution •
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

References for Further Study

6
The Future of Psychedelia
A Warning on Set, Setting, and the Wake
Future Clinical Applications
Integration into Western Society
References for Further Study

APPENDIX I

The Legal Status of Psychedelic Drugs
around the World

APPENDIX II
Glossary

Index