Natalie Lyla Ginsberg (MAPS): The FDA, MDMA, and the Future of Psychedelic Therapy

Today, we’re exploring a critical issue facing the field of psychedelic medicine: the recent FDA rejection of MAPS’ clinical trials to reschedule MDMA for therapeutic use. This setback affects many of us committed to healing and transforming society through psychedelics.  To help us understand the impact and the path forward, I’m joined by Natalie Lila Ginsberg, a leading voice in the psychedelic field and MAPS’ Global Impact Officer. In this episode, Natalie and I discuss the importance of psychedelic therapy and her personal passion for this work. We cover the history of MDMA’s criminalization, the complexities of the FDA’s decision, and the split between MAPS and its public benefit corporation, Lycos. Natalie sheds light on why the FDA remains cautious and how psychedelic therapy may or may not fit into the Western medical model. Finally, she offers guidance for aspiring psychedelic therapists on the most valuable trainings and credentials to pursue. Natalie has led MAPS’ Policy and Advocacy Department, co-developed their Health Equity Program, and now champions the ethical integration of psychedelics into mainstream culture. Before MAPS, she was instrumental in legalizing medical cannabis in New York, and she co-founded the Jewish Psychedelic Summit. TIMESTAMPS (10:20) — What is psychedelic therapy and why is it important (17:00) — Natalie’s WHY (24:00) — Why MDMA is illegal (31:30) — Why the advisory board recommended the FDA not to deschedule  (34:00) — Why there was a split between the nonprofit MAPS and public benefit corp Lycos (41:45) — Why is the FDA so cautious (48:00) — Can psychedelic therapy ever truly fit into the Western medical model? (56:00) — Natalie’s recommendations for trainings and credentials that are worth investing in for psychedelic therapists LINKS Debunking FDA Advisory Meeting with Lauren Taus Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies – MAPS Natalie Lyla Ginsberg, M.S.W. Global Impact Officer Natalie Lyla Ginsberg (@natalielyla)