Can Psilocybin Support Cancer Patients Facing Anxiety and Depression?

Exploring Colorado’s leadership in psilocybin-assisted therapy and mental health research

As Colorado continues to lead the nation in natural medicine reform and research, a groundbreaking clinical trial is underway to explore whether psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, can help ease the emotional suffering experienced by people living with advanced cancer.

A New Frontier in Mental Health and Palliative Care

The study — now the largest national psilocybin clinical trial for cancer patients — is being conducted at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in collaboration with New York University. Funded by the National Cancer Institute, the trial is investigating how guided psilocybin therapy might reduce anxiety, depression, and fear of death in patients coping with late-stage cancer.

Traditional antidepressants and talk therapy often fall short for people navigating the emotional and existential weight of cancer. Psilocybin-assisted therapy offers a new approach — one that helps individuals access deeper meaning, connection, and peace through carefully guided, therapeutic psychedelic experiences.

How the Trial Works

Participants begin with several preparatory therapy sessions before receiving a 25-mg dose of synthetic psilocybin or a placebo. Each session takes place in a quiet, supportive environment with two trained facilitators who stay with the participant throughout the eight-hour experience.

During the session, patients wear eye masks, listen to curated music, and are encouraged to explore whatever emotions or insights arise. Afterward, participants meet with the same therapists for multiple integration sessions to help process and apply what they experienced — a vital part of the healing process.

Why Psilocybin?

Dr. Stacy Fischer, a palliative care specialist at UCHealth leading the Colorado arm of the study, explains that traditional treatments don’t always meet the needs of patients in emotional distress. “Antidepressant medications often have little benefit for these patients,” Fischer says. “Psilocybin may provide a faster and more profound sense of relief.”

Past research from NYU and Johns Hopkins has shown that psilocybin-assisted therapy can dramatically reduce existential distress, improve quality of life, and help patients reconnect with a sense of purpose and peace — with benefits lasting for months after a single session.

Colorado’s Role in Psychedelic Education and Research

Colorado is quickly becoming a national hub for psychedelic therapy research and education. The University of Colorado Center for Psychedelic Research has launched the state’s first DORA-approved facilitator training program, ensuring that future psychedelic practitioners receive ethical, evidence-based instruction rooted in safety and compassion.

Dr. Jim Grigsby, co-director of the center, emphasizes the importance of this approach: “When patients feel safe, supported, and respected, the healing potential of psychedelics becomes far greater.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Psychedelic Medicine in Colorado

While psilocybin remains regulated under federal law, Colorado’s Natural Medicine Health Act has opened new opportunities for responsible research, training, and access. With studies like this one underway, researchers and clinicians are optimistic about the future of psilocybin-assisted care — especially for people facing life-threatening illnesses and emotional suffering.

“Over time,” Dr. Fischer notes, “as we continue to conduct high-quality, rigorous science, the stigma will fade and new paths for healing will emerge.”

Colorado Cultures

At Colorado Cultures, we believe in the responsible study and understanding of all forms of fungi — from cultivation and genetics to their potential therapeutic value. As Colorado continues to pave the way in psilocybin research, we’re proud to support education, science, and community discussions that honor the healing potential of the mushroom kingdom.