How Veterans Are Redefining Healing Through Psychedelics

For decades, traditional mental health treatments have fallen short for veterans grappling with PTSD, depression, and the invisible wounds of war. More than 4x the number of U.S. veterans have died by suicide since 9/11 than in combat—a staggering statistic that underscores the mental health crisis within this community. Now, an unconventional approach involving psychedelics is gaining traction, led by veteran-driven nonprofits and supported by emerging science.

A New Frontier in Healing

Psychedelics, long stigmatized and misunderstood, are proving to be powerful tools in addressing treatment-resistant mental health conditions. “In my work studying the effects of psychedelics on the brain, we have seen their remarkable potential to promote healing by unlocking deeply entrenched patterns of thought and behavior,” says Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco & founder of the world’s first Center for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London.

Veterans are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in this paradigm shift. As Neil Markey, an Army veteran and CEO of Beckley Retreats, explains, “There is tremendous potential in the use of psychedelics, which I have witnessed first-hand and is supported by a growing body of research. However, the experiences are best done in the proper way, with the proper support - so the key is education and awareness.”

Organizations like Heroic Hearts Project, founded by Army Ranger Jesse Gould, are providing that education and awareness. Gould’s journey began with his own struggle with PTSD, which traditional treatments failed to address. An ayahuasca retreat in Peru became his turning point. “I was at my lowest point, feeling disconnected and hopeless. As my own pain began to lift, I knew I couldn't keep this journey to myself. I feel extremely fortunate that I found a safe psychedelic retreat in my time of need,” Gould reflects. His transformative experience inspired him to create a nonprofit that offers other veterans access to safe, legal psychedelic retreats.

Bridging Ancient Practices and Modern Science

One of the most exciting aspects of psychedelic therapy is how it blends ancient plant medicine traditions with cutting-edge neuroscience. As Dr. Robert Koffman, a retired Navy Captain notes, “My journey into psychedelic-assisted therapy began with observing its impact abroad, where plant medicines were used in ways that were deeply rooted in holistic healing traditions. I quickly realized that these therapies had the potential to go beyond conventional treatments—they could help heal not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. What I witnessed wasn’t just temporary relief from symptoms; it was genuine transformation. Veterans were reconnecting with themselves and finding ways to process trauma that conventional approaches couldn't facilitate.”

These therapies aren’t just about symptom relief; they aim to address the root causes of trauma. Dr. Julie Holland, MD, psychiatrist and author, explains, “Psychedelics have the power to cut through layers of trauma and disconnection, getting straight to the core of what really needs healing. For veterans, this isn’t just about symptom management—it’s about finally processing and moving beyond the pain.”

The Veteran’s Guide to Psychedelics: A Roadmap for Healing

Recognizing the need for a structured approach, Matt Zemon, MSc collaborated with Heroic Hearts Project to create The Veteran’s Guide to Psychedelics. This practical resource equips veterans with tools for preparation and integration, emphasizing safety and informed decision-making. “The Veteran’s Guide to Psychedelics provides veterans with the knowledge and guidance to engage with these powerful tools responsibly. This guide gives them a way to access deep healing, reconnect with their bodies, and move towards a more integrated sense of self,” says Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score.

The book also underscores the importance of community and support. Sally Roberts, an Army veteran and CEO of Wrestle Like a Girl, emphasizes, “There are many forms of courage, and healing oneself from the inside out often takes a courageous leap. The Veteran’s Guide to Psychedelics empowers warriors to take charge of their mental health with the same grit and drive they brought to the battlefield.”

The Role of Veteran-Led Nonprofits

Veteran-driven organizations are central to this movement. In addition to Heroic Hearts Project, nonprofits like VETS, The Mission Within, and The Hope Project are making psychedelic therapy accessible through legal retreats, education, and peer support. These groups recognize that healing is a multifaceted process requiring more than just the psychedelic experience itself.

“Veterans face unimaginable challenges, and the scars don’t simply fade when they come home. But there’s hope—plant medicine has the power to help them rebuild resilience and reclaim their lives,” says Kelsi Sheren, CEO of Brass & Unity and an advocate for veteran mental health.

Scientific Backing and Advocacy

The movement’s momentum is fueled by a growing body of research. A recent study led by Dr. Alan Davis, published in the Journal of Psychotropic Drugs, found that 51% of surveyed veterans had tried psychedelics, with 85% reporting significant benefits. However, 59% also reported encountering difficult psychological experiences, underscoring the need for careful preparation and support.

“Psychedelic treatments, when applied thoughtfully and professionally, can promote healing and relieve symptoms,” says Brigadier General (Ret.) Stephen N. Xenakis, M.D. His perspective aligns with findings from researchers like Dr. Greg Fonzo, Co-Director of the Center for Psychedelic Research and Therapy, who highlights how psychedelics can accelerate healing, particularly for veterans grappling with PTSD. "In our research, I’ve seen how psychedelic therapies can change brain function and accelerate the healing process, particularly in veterans grappling with PTSD,” states Fonzo.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

Despite promising data, federal policy lags behind. While the FDA has granted “breakthrough therapy” status to MDMA and psilocybin for PTSD treatment, broader approval remains elusive, leaving nonprofits to fill the gap for now. Many veterans travel to Central or South America or to Oregon to access legal psychedelics.

The way forward requires not only scientific validation but also cultural acceptance. As AnneClaire Stapleton, an Emmy-winning journalist and military spouse, explains, “Healing those who’ve served isn’t just an act of compassion—it’s a human rights imperative.”

Redefining Healing

As the stigma around psychedelics fades, veteran-led efforts are paving the way for a new era of mental health care. These organizations and resources demonstrate that psychedelics aren’t just tools for healing—they’re catalysts for transformation.

“Don’t our veterans deserve every tool possible for healing?” asks Matt Zemon. The answer, echoed by the growing chorus of voices in this movement, appears to be a resounding yes. Psychedelics may represent the frontier of trauma recovery for veterans, offering hope, healing, and resilience for those who have given so much in service to their country.