Medicine- Assisted Therapy
Coming Soon!
Medicine-assisted therapy is a structured psychological pathway in which a prescribed medicine session is integrated into ongoing therapy. The medicine is not used as a stand-alone intervention. Psychological preparation and integration remain central to the process.
In Australia, psilocybin and MDMA may only be prescribed under the Authorised Prescriber pathway and are currently limited to specific clinical indications. All prescribing and medical oversight sit with an Authorised Prescriber psychiatrist.
All medicines are prescribed and medically supervised by an Authorised Prescriber psychiatrist in Australia.
This is psychological therapy first. The medicine supports the therapy process.
The process includes preparation, a supported medicine session, and integration sessions afterwards.
Eligibility
Medicine-assisted therapy in Australia is currently limited to:
- Treatment-Resistant Depression (psilocybin pathway)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (MDMA pathway)
Eligibility and suitability are determined through psychological screening and medical assessment with an Authorised Prescriber psychiatrist.
This pathway is not available for other diagnoses under current prescribing permissions.
How It Works
This pathway follows three structured phases:
Preparation
Psychological therapy focuses on readiness, stabilisation, and clarifying therapeutic intent before any medicine session takes place.
Medicine-Assisted Session
The medicine session takes place in a structured clinical setting with two trained clinicians present. Psychological support focuses on safety, grounding, and emotional stability throughout the session.
Integration
Follow-up therapy sessions support reflection on what emerged and focus on stabilisation and practical application in everyday life.
Safety and Clinical Support
All prescribing and medical decisions are managed by an Authorised Prescriber psychiatrist. Psychological therapy continues before, during, and after the medicine session to support emotional safety, grounding, and regulation.
Care is delivered within recognised clinical standards, including screening and ongoing review, to ensure suitability and stability throughout the process. The pathway is delivered within a defined and time-limited therapeutic structure.
Scope and Limitations
Medicine-assisted therapy involves structured psychological care and medical oversight. It does not include:
- Stand-alone medicine sessions without preparation and integration
- Guaranteed or rapid outcomes
- Recreational or exploratory use
- Treatment outside established prescribing pathways