Our Response To The Executive Order
President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at accelerating research, funding pathways, and potential approval through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for several psychedelic substances—including psilocybin, MDMA, ibogaine, and LSD. This move signals a notable shift from decades of strict prohibition toward cautious exploration of therapeutic potential.
By fast-tracking clinical research and clarifying regulatory pathways, the executive order may reduce barriers that have historically slowed scientific progress. Medical schools and government institutions—including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs—are already participating in controlled trials across states like California, New York, Oregon, and Texas, studying how substances like psilocybin and MDMA and others might be used safely in therapeutic settings.
Some early research from these institutions, and many anecdotal stories from Veterans who have undergone psychedelic treatment, indicate psychedelics to be a promising alternative in a holistic approach alongside traditional therapies. Psychedelics are not a cure-all and they are certainly not a magic remedy. Their potential benefits are closely tied to the context in which they’re used—often called “set and setting.” This includes the person’s mindset, the therapeutic environment, and the presence of trained medical and psychological professionals that provide before and aftercare. Without these supports, outcomes can be unpredictable or even harmful.
The most impactful psychedelic therapy requires significant preparation and integration. Participants typically undergo screening, coaching and/or counseling before treatment, followed by structured sessions afterward to process the experience and translate insights into lasting behavioral change. In other words, the substance itself is only one component of a much broader therapeutic process.
In the Veteran community, the conversation surrounding psychedelics has been building for years and many nonprofits have been established to provide access to psychedelic treatment for Veterans struggling with posttraumatic stress disorder, brain injury, depression, and substance use disorders. While growing interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy offers hope, Veterans should do their homework to find safe, well-regarded and evidence-based avenues, and approach psychedelics with clear and reasonable expectations.
At Boot Campaign, our team is deeply informed on emerging conversations in mental health, including the latest developments surrounding psychedelic-assisted approaches, and is closely engaged with emerging research. Our focus remains on providing individualized care to Veterans and their families through trusted and leading evidence-based therapies and resources. There are Veterans in our care who have pursued or are interested in psychedelic treatments and also continue to benefit from the individualized care provided by Boot Campaign.
The executive order moves momentum forward and helps to pave the way for an alternative avenue for Veterans to seek healing. Establishing clear standards, oversight, and equitable access within the healthcare system will help ensure psychedelic treatment is delivered safely, responsibly, and in a way that genuinely benefits those who need them most.
