Disclosed: Conflicts of Interest in the Psychedelics Ecosystem

In recent years, a growing number of observers have raised concerns about conflicts of interests in the growing psychedelics industry. Beginning with a discussion of cases that have prompted calls for conflict of interest reform in psychedelics research and treatment, this panel will examine what it means to say that a therapist, researcher, or donor has a conflict of interest and clarify why such conflicts are ethically concerning. The panel will explore questions about the ways in which conflict of interest can influence psychedelics research, policy, and practice standards. How might the influx of investor funding influence the type of research that is done on psychedelics? What should we make of the fact that a relatively small group of organizations, often with financial ties to for-profit entities, are influencing regulations and norms for many facets of the psychedelic landscape? When, if ever, is it ok for therapists to treat donors? Finally, the panel will address questions about how to address conflicts of interest. What does disclosure of conflicts of interest accomplish? When is disclosure insufficient and when should recusal be recommended? How can those working in psychedelics identify conflicts and what can they do to help one another appropriately respond to conflicts? Please join us for this discussion including speakers Dr. Mason Marks, who is the Florida Bar Health Law Section Professor at Florida State University College of Law, Dr. Matthew McCoy, who is is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Kylea Taylor, M.S., LMFT, who is a California licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Dr. Hannah McLane, who is the Founder of SoundMind Institute.