As psychedelic-assisted therapies continue advancing through clinical research, an important question remains: How might these treatments fit within existing mental health care systems?
By Mark Bates, Ph.D. | Psychology Today | May 29, 2026
Published by the Modern Medicine Group
Sunstone’s recent Psychology Today article authored by Therapist Mark Bates, Ph.D., explores psychedelic-assisted therapy as a specialty intervention that can complement—not replace—ongoing psychotherapy and psychiatric care. The piece examines how psychedelic treatments may fit within collaborative care models, much like referrals to other medical or behavioral health specialists, allowing patients to receive targeted support while maintaining continuity with their primary providers.
The article also discusses the potential role of psychedelic-assisted therapy for individuals who remain engaged in treatment but continue to experience challenges such as persistent depression, PTSD, adjustment difficulties, or entrenched emotional and behavioral patterns. By fostering greater emotional flexibility, self-awareness, and therapeutic engagement, these interventions may help patients access new opportunities for growth and healing.
As the field evolves, thoughtful referral pathways, communication between providers, and continuity of care will be essential to ensuring psychedelic-assisted therapies are integrated safely, ethically, and effectively into modern clinical practice.
