Join us for an enlightening panel on “The Role of Psychotherapy in Mental Health and Wellness,” where we’ll explore the evolving landscape of psychedelic assisted-therapy, approaches in psychotherapy, and their impact on mental wellness.

This event brings together diverse perspectives from experts in psychiatry, psychology, and community advocacy to discuss the potential benefits and challenges within the field. Our goal is to foster a well-rounded dialogue that educates, inspires, and offers fresh insights into therapeutic practices and the ethical considerations surrounding them.

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When: Monday, November 18^th, 6pm-10pm

Where: Omni Downtown Hotel, Austin, TX (Capital Factory- Volttron)

700 San Jacinto At, E 8th St, Austin, TX 787017

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Speakers

Rick Doblin, PhD

Dr. Rick Doblin is a prominent American psychologist and the founder of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), an organization dedicated to research and education on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. With a Ph.D. in public policy, Doblin has been a pioneering advocate for the scientific study of psychedelics, particularly in mental health treatment. His work has been instrumental in advancing clinical research and promoting policy reform regarding the use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes. Over the years, he has played a key role in increasing public awareness and acceptance of psychedelic therapy, contributing to a growing movement aimed at integrating these substances into modern medicine.

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Greg Fonzo, PhD

Dr. Greg Fonzo is a clinical psychologist and neuroscientist known for his innovative research in emotional regulation and mental health. He serves as an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin, where he focuses on the interplay between brain function and psychological processes, particularly how emotions influence decision-making and behavior. Dr. Fonzo has made significant contributions to understanding how neuroimaging can inform therapeutic practices, especially for anxiety and mood disorders. He is also involved in exploring psychedelic-assisted therapies, aiming to enhance treatments for individuals facing severe mental health challenges. His work combines rigorous scientific inquiry with a commitment to improving mental health care.
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Stephaine Washburn, PhD

Dr. Stephanie Washburn is a Neuroscientist and Psychedelic Science Advocate with a PhD in Psychology from Texas A & M. She is an experienced clinical research/medical affairs professional with proven ability to bring products to market, facilitate communication of key clinical study results, and promote successful physician relations in assigned territory. Dr. Washburn’s expertise in neuroscience and clinical research continues to impact the fields of medical technology and treatment approaches.

Han Ren, PhD

Dr. Han Ren (she/they) is a licensed clinical and school psychologist, consultant, speaker, and educator with a Ph.D from the University of Texas at Austin in school psychology. She is deeply rooted in liberation and anti-oppressive work, practicing from a justice-oriented, interpersonal, culturally-humble, and systems-informed framework. Through their widely viewed content on social media, they strive to make mental health accessible and applicable to our daily lives. Dr. Ren addresses the pursuit of collective healing through her work centered in historically overlooked communities. She co-leads Pivot Psychology, a group private practice in Austin, Texas and has been featured on the TEDx stage, the Headspace app, Buzzfeed, the Huffington Post, and NPR's Life Kit. When she's not in the therapy chair, Dr. Ren is working on her first book: "The Hyphenated Life," a self-help memoir on bridging the in-between spaces of intersectional identities, debuting in 2026.

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Caitlin Riley (Moderator)

Caitlin is a facilitator and integration specialist with The Illuminating Co, an Austin-based nonprofit entheogenic sanctuary serving veterans, first responders, civilians, and their families through sacred medicine journeys and comprehensive 25-week preparation and integration programs. Caitlin’s foray into the field began in 2016 when a healing crisis prompted a journey inside the mind and around the world to experience medicine traditions in Peru, Chile, Argentina, Nicaragua, and Gabon. This voyage gave rise to her desire to serve others and help them heal with entheogenic medicine. Additionally, Caitlin leads the Psychedelic Society of Texas (PsyTexas), an all-volunteer-run organization fostering community, education, and dialogue around the transformative power of psychedelics. Join her at caitlinriley.com and PsyTexas.com to learn more.

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Olivia Eden MacDonell

Olivia is a dedicated professional in psychedelic therapy, with over five years of experience as a facilitator and integration specialist. Driven by a passion for empowering individuals through transformative experiences, Olivia founded The Activation Project (TAP), an innovative software platform designed to simplify and enhance psychedelic aftercare. Through TAP, she is making integration accessible and affordable, helping people turn insights into lasting positive change. Join Olivia on the panel as she shares her expertise and vision for the future of psychedelic integration.

Andrea Nucete-Elliott

Andrea is a dynamic leader, originally from Venezuela and raised in Italy. A former professional indoor volleyball player, she has channeled her competitive spirit and passion for teamwork into her current roles as CEO of TIY and President of the #SheIsMe Movement. Her commitment to community service shines through her work with the #SheIsMe Movement, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing life-enhancing resources for girls and women at all stages of life. The movement creates real-life experiences and opportunities designed to develop successful leaders, emphasizing mental health and personal growth. Andrea’s mission is to inspire and uplift women, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to achieve their dreams.

Ashley Carmen, LMFT

Ashley is a San Francisco Bay Area native of Mexican, Nicaraguan, and Czech heritage and the founder of the Psychedelic Guide Network (PGN). Specializing in helping therapists expand their practice into psychedelics, Ashley has trained with the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and in psilocybin guidance through the School of Consciousness Medicine, inspired by Mazatec traditions. Ashley’s mission is to build a diverse, multidisciplinary team of psychedelic guides, fostering peer support and integrating traditional knowledge within modern medicine. She champions intuitive practices and learning from Master Plant Teachers, enriching the field of psychedelic therapy.

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