Dr. Cumming is a highly accomplished neuroscientist, author, and professor in the Department of Nuclear Medicine at the University of Bern. His research focuses on molecular and neuroimaging techniques, particularly positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Using this technology, he has extensively investigated the role of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin applying this knowledge to the study of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Over his career, he has held positions at prestigious institutions such as McGill University, Aarhus University, the University of Oslo, and Queensland University of Technology. In more recent years, Dr. Cumming has also published on other neurobiological topics, including psychedelics such as MDMA, psilocybin, LSD, and DMT, as well as MAO inhibitors like the β-carboline harmine. In tonight's talk, Dr. Cumming will discuss the neurochemistry of DMT, which, along with β-carboline MAO inhibitors such as harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine, are key components of the Amazonian plant-based brew Ayahuasca.

There are two paradigms of how psychedelics should be used in psychotherapy. The psychedelic paradigm, developed and practiced in North America, provides for the patient to be administered one or two high-dose sessions, which should then primarily lead to a mystical experience of connectedness, which should break up encrusted feelings and thought structures in order to help the patient out of depression or similar mental disorders. This model provides for 3-10 hours of accompanying psychotherapy. During the 1960s, a number of methodologically sound studies were carried out which showed that this method positively changed the mood of many patients in the weeks following treatment, but did not lead to lasting improvement. This is also confirmed by current therapy studies, all of which were carried out using the psychedelic paradigm. The so-called psycholytic therapy established in Europe during the 1960s has psychoanalytic treatment as its framework. It provides for long-term psychotherapeutic treatment (1-2 sessions per week over 1-2 years). During this treatment, 5-20 so-called psycholytic, i.e. lower-dose sessions, which focus less on ego resolution and more on psychodynamic effects and interpersonal content, are interwoven. At the time, this method was mainly used to treat patients who were resistant to psychotherapy. Even today, the method appears to be promising again, as psychedelic therapy seems to produce short-term improvements - and lasting changes in human experience and behavior probably require more time per se. The lecture provides an overview of the two paradigms, explains the principles of psycholytic therapy and discusses these in the context of the current study situation.

Explore key perspectives in the development of psychedelic treatments through insights from a Randomized Clinical Trial with Psilocybin to treat Depression. Starting with how factors like set and setting shape the subjective experience experience and treatment outcomes. Delve into the complexities of designing clinical trials, including the challenges posed by blinding and the nocebo effect, and the ethical implications for psychedelic drug development. Finally, learnings from the study offer a glimpse into the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), highlighting its potential in group therapy settings and the promise of precision psychiatry for tailored treatment approaches. The talk will conclude with 15min for Q&A followed by an Apéro!

Dr. Michael Mithoefer is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist who has been pivotal in the field of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. Working closely with the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), he has been at the forefront of clinical research into MDMA's therapeutic potential since the early 2000s. Along with his wife, Annie Mithoefer, he has trained countless therapists across the globe and helped establish the rigorous protocols for MDMA-assisted therapy. In recent years, Mithoefer's work on MDMA for PTSD has gained international recognition. His clinical trials have paved the way for MDMA to be considered for FDA approval, potentially transforming the landscape of trauma treatment worldwide. This landmark research is expected to set a global precedent for countries interested in adopting psychedelic-assisted therapies in mental health care. With a long-term vision, Mithoefer and his colleagues are dedicated to creating more accessible therapeutic approaches for trauma survivors. Michael Mithoefer is not only a great researcher but also a deeply compassionate therapist who exemplifies the healing potential of psychedelics in therapy.

This talk will explore the effects of psychedelics on neuroplasticity, shedding light on their possible therapeutic benefits for a range of disorders. We will look at the intricate layers of neuroplasticity, while examining a selection of methods to critically evaluate how these adaptive changes can be measured across different scales. Finally, our speaker will share insights from a new study on how one can utilize psychoplastogens to boost cognitive training effects.

Join us for an insightful presentation on the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, where we will explore why Gestalt Therapy is particularly well-suited for this transformative approach. Psychedelics like MDMA, psilocybin and LSD are gaining recognition for their potential to support deep emotional healing, and Gestalt Therapy’s focus on present-moment awareness, embodied experience, and relational dynamics creates an ideal framework for integrating these experiences. Learn about the core principles of Gestalt Therapy and how they align with psychedelic-assisted-psychotherapy (PAT) and psychedelic integration. Understand the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and their role in supporting emotional and psychological growth. Explore the use of MDMA in therapy through a real-life case example, illustrating how Gestalt techniques can guide and deepen the therapeutic process during and after a psychedelic experience.