The Psychedelic Symposium

The Psychedelic Symposium is a bimonthly gathering of leading thinkers, researchers, and

explorers in the psychedelic space. Each event dives deep into the science and

stories behind psychedelics, covering everything from anthropology and history to

neuroscience and clinical practice.

Hosted by neuropsychopharmacologist Rebecca Harding, this series brings you into

the heart of psychedelic research, featuring thought-provoking talks and lively

discussion with some of the UK’s leading psychedelic scientists.

This session will explore:

Psychedelics for treating addiction

Addiction is a widespread challenge that affects not only individuals but families and communities. Traditional treatments can help, but relapse is common and many people continue to struggle. Recently, psychedelic-assisted therapies, using substances like psilocybin, have shown promise as a new approach to supporting recovery.

This symposium will explore how psychedelics may help people struggling with addiction. Speakers will look at the history of psychedelic research, current clinical studies, and real-world evidence to understand both the potential and limitations of these treatments. They will also discuss how brain imaging techniques, like MRI scans, are helping scientists see how psychedelics may change brain networks involved in reward, habits, and social connection. By combining insights from neuroscience, psychology, and clinical practice, this symposium will show how psychedelic therapy could offer a new approach to treating addiction and improving lives.

Speakers:

Rebecca Harding, PhD (c)

Rebecca Harding is a neuropsychopharmacologist at University College London. With a background in brain imaging, Rebecca’s work aims to uncover the brain mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Before beginning her PhD, Rebecca completed an MSc at the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London and went on to work as a research scientist in the psychedelic pharmaceutical industry

Dr. Rayyan Zafar, PhD MRSBDr.

Rayyan Zafar is a neuropsychopharmacologist and Wellcome postdoctoral fellow at Imperial College London. He leads the world’s first clinical and brain imaging study testing psilocybin therapy for gambling addiction. His research explores how psychedelics can change the brain’s reward systems and support recovery. He also advises companies working in the fields of psychedelics, cannabis, and wellness.

Orla Mallon, PhD (c)

Orla is a neuroscientist studying psychedelics, addiction, and human connection. She leads the brain imaging part of the PsilOpioid trial, the UK’s first clinical trial using psychedelics to help people with opioid addiction. Her research focuses on how social connection and meaningful experiences may help the brain recover from addiction, highlighting that recovery often depends as much on connection as on abstinence.

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