Research
Research at Synaptic Institute is lead by Dr. Matthew Hicks and involves partnerships with a variety of institutions. Click on the links below to learn more about current and past projects.
Low-Income Group Psilocybin Assisted Therapy for Depression (LIGPATD)
Principal Investigator: Matthew Hicks
Clinicians: Matthew and Olivia Hicks
Co-investigators: Heather Zwickey and Ryan Bradley
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In partnership with the National University of Natural Medicine and the Sheri Eckert Foundation, this feasibility study recruited Medicaid eligible adults with depression into four cohorts of six participants. They received two preparation, two full-dose psilocybin, and two integration sessions, all done as a group. It is the first psychedelic study to focus on a low-income population, the first trial to utilize Oregon Psilocybin Services, and among the first few in the modern era to use a group format.
Indigenous Psychedelic Shaman Interviews (IPSI)
Principal Investigator: Matthew Hicks
Co-investigators: Heather Zwickey and Ryan Bradley
​By interviewing psychedelic practitioners with indigenous backgrounds, this qualitative study aims to articulate how psychedelic research could benefit indigenous communities and gain perspective on what Westernized versions of psychedelic therapy might be missing. Referrals of indigenous leaders would be much appreciated. Please contact matthew.hicks@nunm.edu.
Ketamine Microdosing and Meditation
A weekly evening group is offered at Synaptic Institute's new clinic in which participants can receive a very small dose of ketamine while participating in meditation. De-identified outcome data may be used to justify a clinical trial in the future.
Psilocybin Microdosing and Meditation Group
A weekly morning group is offered 7 Gates Sanctuary, a licenced psilocybin service center, in which participants can receive a very small dose of mushrooms while participating in meditation. De-identified outcome data may be used to justify a clinical trial in the future.
