The State of the Union: The Science and Legality of Psychedelics in Texas

Curious about psychedelics and how they fit in Texas? Join us for an eye-opening panel discussion where we’ll explore how psychedelic-assisted therapy is poised to transform how we approach mental health, and how Texas is playing a surprising leadership role in the psychedelic revolution. What starts here, changes the world, and Texas is helping shape the psychedelic future in the United States.

Our expert panelists include Dr. Lynnette Averill, a researcher who will break down the science behind psychedelic healing and the state of medical research. You’ll hear from Steve Viola, a retired Navy SEAL with a powerful story of healing the invisible wounds of war through psychedelic medicine. Logan Davidson, an experienced legislative advocate, will lead the panel discussion and break down the past, present, and future of psychedelic policy.

We’re excited to feature Steve’s real-life testimony on undergoing psychedelic-assisted therapy. He’ll share what it felt like, the impact on his life, and the potential these treatments have once approved by the FDA.

Why attend? Whether you’re a mental health professional, a person interested in psychedelics, or just fascinated by new developments in research, this event will deepen your understanding of the state of psychedelics in Texas. You’ll leave with practical knowledge and a fresh perspective on how these therapies could make a difference and where they stand with the FDA and state government.

Join us for an enlightening and inspiring discussion!

Bio of Speaker/Panelists:

Dr. Lynnette A. Averill is the daughter of a US Marine who died by suicide after years of struggling with ineffective treatments. His life – and subsequent death – shaped Dr. Averill personally and professionally. The focus of Dr. Averill’s work is on studying and supporting novel, rapid-acting interventions with potential to save lives. Her research focuses on the fine-grained understanding of mechanisms underlying psychedelic medicines, the effects of chronic stress and trauma, and treatment response. She served as subject matter expert for TX House Bill 1802 which passed with near-unanimous bipartisan support and funds a clinical trial of psilocybin for Veterans with PTSD, which Dr. Averill will lead.

Steve Viola spent 30 years in the U.S. Navy, serving 28 years as a Navy SEAL and 26 years as a Combat Medic. He retired in 2016 and started a business. He currently serves as the Managing Partner of Max Perdiem, Inc. Steve was recently knighted by The Royal Order of Constantine the Great and Saint Helen in Finland for his international military and humanitarian medical services. Steve took a journey with the Mission Within in 2017 and has been an advocate for psychedelic therapies ever since. He is driven by the desire to continue growing personally and professionally. He is always learning something new, whether learning how to play the ukelele, traveling the country in his motor home or publishing a cookbook. He wants to help people improve each day and loves meeting new people from all walks of life.

Logan Davidson is the executive director of Texans for Greater Mental Health, a grassroots nonprofit supporting psychedelic therapies in Texas. Before joining T4GMH, he was a legislative and political staffer with bipartisan experience at the state and federal level. He served as Legislative Director and Chief of Staff for Representative Alex Dominguez, where he shepherded Texas' historic psychedelic therapy law, HB 1802, to passage and implementation. Logan graduated from Texas Tech University and received his MBA from the University of North Texas, and he resides in Austin, Texas.

PsyT Disclaimer: Version January 2024

PsyT does not hold ceremonies or promote illegal activities during our events. This is not a place to seek, encourage, or participate in the procurement of controlled substances. You agree that you will not contact us for such things and will not engage in any such activities in your participation in any PsyT event. We provide a platform to discuss experiences that offer transformation in our personal and professional lives. You acknowledge that any information we provide is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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