Multidisciplinary Association For Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)

After reading “Marihuana, the Forbidden Medicine” and while studying pharmacology at university in the early 90s, and then passing the book over to a friend, who’s mother had multiple sclerosis and was suffering markedly at the time, without any respite in sight, just a plethora of medication that had bad side effects and made her feel even worse at times… She started to imbibe small doses of marijuana, and the doctors were amazed at how her symptoms of MS suddenly dissipated to the point her life actually became enjoyable again. Seeing how this illicit substance actually was more effective at treating MS than any legal medication available, the dichotomy of Western society’s prohibitive law’s on illicit substances came under scrutiny in our minds. As the internet was just starting out around this time, I did a web search and found MAPS. MAPS is an American nonprofit organisation working to raise awareness about the beneficial aspects of psychedelic substances… And after speaking with them briefly, they seemed like they not only really cared about the wellbeing of people in general, but they also actually cared enough to challenge the dogmatic views about the place certain entheogens should hold in the healing of humans and how we relate to the earth. The courage of these gals and guys is unlike any I have seen in the research world. They have worked with other charities and inspired people to seek new ways of healing, not only for conditions such as PTSD but also addiction, and depression too. They continue to work tirelesdly with respected government and academic organisations the world over to bring about more effective treatments for debilitating conditions… I honestly believe that these gals and guys will one day help heal the world in more profound ways than all the drug companies put together with all their years of research. But, before that happens, we need people to help support them work through the hurdles they are facing in a world still dominated by dogmatics views about psychedelics in general and the revelatory treatments that could be derived from these substances so we can essentially free people from debilitating conditions i.e. multiple sclerosis, PTSD, addiction, depression, etc. without a never-ending prescription of medication… So come on… Let’s give MAPS some big love and much needed support.

I am a recovering alcoholic and doses of mushrooms have helped me to stay sober for over a year now. I have also been diagnosed with bipolar and depression/anxiety, microdosing mushrooms has help to stabilize my mood making it possible to live a content, fulfilling life.
Having nonprofits advocate and teach people the benefits is helpful and important to me.

Registered for a MDMA study. Got through the first two sets of qualifications. Have had PTSD for over 20 years. When I talked to a woman who said she was a nurse, was (condescending and had the worst bedside manner I have ever encountered), I proceeded to tell her about my PTSD. She seemed to doubt whether or not I was really diagnosed with it, even though I was diagnosed by both separate psychologist and psychiatrist.
Long story short got an email saying that I did not qualify. When I wrote back an asked they said that they could not tell me because of the ongoing study.
To make matters worse I got a call 6 months afterwards asking me if I was still interested in the study. I told them that I was interviewed 6 months ago and rejected, did their criteria change?
They apologized and said that I wasn't removed from the list properly.
Wow! Talk about unprofessional and disorganized!
BTW. I recently went down to Mexico to a 5 m e o d m t retreat.
After 20 years I am off ssris and my PTSD is essentially gone.
Thanks for nothing M.A.PS ������

MAPS is one of the most important non-profit organizations on the planet, truly! Their work is paving the way for the genuine, lasting healing of so many hearts & souls on this earth that it's impossible to quantify the good they have done, are doing and that will come from it all in the future - it's exponential! I am immensely grateful that MAPS exists and they have my support forever. I look forward to being able to contribute as much as I can to them in the future. MAPS is a true Godsend.

I started following MAPS in 1995 while a graduate student at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. For various reasons, I took a 20 year hiatus from the "Work". I was still naive and inexperienced about psychedelics as my research was focused in a different thread when I diverged from "transpersonal" work... I ended up in the Navy Reserves and deployed several times to international regions of conflict (the Middle East). Upon my return, the depression and PTSD set in pretty hard. After about 12 years of "therapy" and getting no-where----my psychologist suggested Ketamine and she hooked me up with a trained psychiatrist who guided me through several sessions. I have been doing KAP therapy twice a week at home over the last 14 months. I have re-engaged with MAPS and --- with the mind liberating experiences of over 120 Ketamine sessions, I am able to engage in an intellectual way that I really haven't experienced since I "lost" my mind in the 1990's. I am very motivated in finding ways to get this medicine to the people who need it and want it. When mainstream treatments don't work -- or better yet -- as an alternative to mainstream medicine -- the use of psychedelics may be a way to side-step the pain and futile work of standard therapeutic tools such as "Big Pharma" medications and endless hours of therapy that got me no where because my brain was so constipated...The KAP and the exploration of the research provided by MAPS has changed my life (and consciousness) in so many ways. I am in the last trimester of my life and I have the motivation of a 25 year old -- I want to have a "Center" where people can open up to their own innate mind -- and be alive to the world and beyond ....

They are doing an amazing job of literally changing and saving the lives of some people with clinical PTSD.

They have clinical studies backing up their work, and are working with the FDA to make psychedelics legal for therapeutic use so more people (particularly our war veterans) can regain their lives back.

They helped expand my knowledge about psychedelics

Incredible pioneers and forerunners who've fought their mission for 35 years against olympian opponents. Scientists, scholars, doctors, healers, philosophers, policymakers and educators who have never faltered in their transparency and philanthropy.

MAPS is one of the best charities. I really feel part of something bigger and better when I give them my support. Here's to the future where healing and happiness is available to all.

MAPS has an engaged community of donors and has spearheaded some of the most exciting and difficult to conduct scientific research in the realm of psychiatric treatment. The potential of the things they're trying to legitimize is VERY large for healing and helping many individuals. Having a controlled, professional conduit to mediate the reintroduction of psychedelic substances back into the culture is important. The wedding of therapy with these substances is ideal and respects the profundity of the experiences they can bring about. It would be an incredible waste to throw the baby out with the bathwater for another half of a century. Please please, support this cause - from someone who has both studied and suffered in mental health. We need all the tools we can get to build whole and actualized individuals in the world.

The research of MAPS is a breakthrough for the effective treatment of PTSD.

The reports, transparency, seriousness, commitment. The role in education, the mission , the strategic plan and the vision are unique .

I am a US military veteran with PTSD.
As an Army Chaplain, I was/am familiar with the range of therapies used for PTSD veterans. They are difficult and only partially effective.
MAPS continues to offer another way which I believe holds better promise for we who suffer. They are fighting and winning against law, regulation and huge public stigma.
We need MAPS. We need their work to stop the thousands of suicides and untold suffering. Their work is cutting edge, fully scientific and of massive potential in the world of mental illness. Thank you to each worker volunteer and supporter of this hope.
Paul Williams.
Southern Utah.

Ive been a donor for a few years now and am so impressed with everything MAPS is doing. Ketamine therapy has made a huge difference in my life and I hope we can heal more people in the future.

MAPS is a courageous organization with a serious commitment to doing serious science into the benefits of molecules with psychedelic properties to alleviate human suffering and enhance the human experience. I hope their work paves the way to destigmatize these substances; which should not have been illegal to begin with. MAPS has also done a stellar job of educating the public on the properties of psychedelics in a mature and unpatronizing way.

MAPS's research into the psychotherapeutic use of psychedelics is a game-chegher since it has the promise of healing mental disorders such as depression and complex trauma, which debilitate the lives of millions around the world.
MAPS is committed to making the knowledge and the treatment available for everyone as well as building community and uniting people, which is exactly the kind of world I want to live in.

In a world of mass information along with disinformation, the work of delivering harm reduction information is a great benefit to public health, safety, and community stability. I have been happy to make donations to MAPS and have enjoyed and learned from their bulletins and books and I was in awe that beyond the world of urban legends there is actually a huge scientific community doing a lot of great work that is helping people have therapy and medicine that really works.

MAPS seems to be doing some good work towards ending a mental health oppression. I believe that with proper MDMA and psilocybin treatment, it could cure large populations of individuals suffering with mental illness who do not have access to the medicines that can provide real healing where the possibility of full recovery is more of a real probability. It can be very depressing to see the mental health systems as an industry which profit from sustaining the illness of many people who could recover with real treatment.

MAPS have paved the way to cure (yes, cure) PTSD.
Their impact will be global on nature, and while we may hear about veterans worh PTSD initially, their work will help all and any woth ptsd. Urban ptsd dwarfs veteran ptsd, think of those affected by rape, violent crime, abuse... all within reach of a cure that will become FDA approved in the coming years.
MAPS must be supported.

Regards,

PC

I'm a psychiatry resident in Colombia, a Southamerican country, that has a very Big problem with Ilegal armed groups and violence. I see so many patients diagnosed with PTSD but rhe available treatments for this condition are not enough. The MDMA for PTSD study thats MAPS is carring out will change the way we ser PTSD for ever. And psychedelics will be the latest revolution in psychiatry since antipsycotics drugs where created. I really hope that MAPS continúe to expand and grow and maybe one day se can have MAPS here in Southamerica.

I don’t have a personal experience with MAPS, but I have a detailed history with the subject matter. I believe with every bone in my body, there’s nothing more pressing for our society than unlocking the potential benefits that psychedelics hold.
One thing that is universally agreed on, is the ability of psychedelics to dissolve the ego. Anyone turning on a tv, or looking outside their window, can see if we can dissolve some of our national ego... imagine.... it may sound hippie mambo jumbo... but, I got rid of all anger issues with LSD, addiction with ibogaine, built an immunity to depression with ketamine, and realign myself once every 12-24 months with psilocybin. If our leaders would do that, we would be in a position to discuss the real issues that matter, like the fact the pentagon admitted to UFOs (I’m not an alien person, this is DOD), are we kidding? If that’s true... who gives a .... Trump or Biden?
Sorry, maybe more than you wanted to chew on. But hey, I’m here to throw my entire existence (and leftovers ego) behind MAPS!

I support MAPS because I believe wholeheartedly in the benefits of psychedelics if used purposefully and mindfully as tools for healing. As a 25 year old who has suffered from OCD, PTSD and depression for much of their life, and having tried different medications and psychotherapies with only short term relief that came with many side effects, it was only after my first use of LSD in a healing environment (a forest, with loved ones), did I truly feel capable of understanding and approaching complete management and recovery. I understood my own reality and experiences in a way I had never done so before. The same (although slightly different) profound healing moments occurred with MDMA, psilocybin and mescaline. I have and only will go on these journeys a handful of times in my life, but that is all that is needed. If you truly desire release from your demons and are willing to hold onto the lessons that psychedelics have to offer, I fully believe that they are capable of assisting you greatly. Thank you, MAPS, for raising awareness and conducting research into the benefits of these fascinating chemical angels.

I'm personally living with ptsd, social anxiety, anxiety and panic disorder. On the outside I try and look appear and act as normal as could be, but little do people know my battle internally with just trying to convince myself to remain living. Pharmaceuticals do NOT help me nor several others I know who suffer in silence. It's way past the time for better research and better options.

The need for new and innovative techniques to tackling a variety of mental health problems is now needed more than ever! The stresses of everyday existence and the increase in technological advances has brought about more mental health issues than ever before. It's great to see that organistations like this are using alternative tools which generate great results! Keep up the good work MAPS, hopefully one day I'll even be able to join you in making psychedelic studies mainstream and accepted within society.

I support MAPS because I'm a 30yr old Iraq and Hurricane Katrina veteran. I've been decorated for my service and recieved an honorable discharge. The Dept. of Veterans Affairs has given me a 100% disability rating for PTSD. I've been in cognitive behavioral therapy for almost six years now. I get so afraid of experiencing the fear of some sessions it discourages me from going or being able to go as deeply into it. It will leave me fatigued for day. I have to take an hour and a half train ride to/from most of my appointments, which for someone who's constantly checking people's hands subconsciously and a problem with turning off that fight or flight feeling.. isn't exactly cohesive for therapy sessions.

I suffer from night terrors, most of the symptoms of PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Panic Disorcder, etc..

I've had experience with MDMA while visiting friends while on leave visiting friends at Brown and I can definitely see how a properly conducted and distributed amount of MDMA would help myself and other veterans like me.

They've tried 6 or 7 different SSRI's and SNRI's and nothing has helped. Wellbutrin, Mirtzapine, trazadone, lorazepam, Ativan, klonopin.. I've had to be perscribed stomach medications and have had to deal with side effects of all these medications. My medicine cabinet looks like a pharmacy. Friendships and relationships in my life have suffered. medical marijuana has finally helped me actually get some sleep sometimes and I have a license for it. I can't admit that to the VA or my doctor though because I would lose my benefits and basically end up homeless.

These studies, all thevwork that MAPS is doing is helping my brothers and sisters-in-arms and will hopefully (if the US Government and pharmaceutical companies allow) will eventually help me. I'm holding on to hope they will succeed but I am broken and online one voice. If anyone can help them or their research please do.

I'd like to help any way I can.

Chris.

MAPS, is a leading researcher & advocate for Psychedelics for healing PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, for Spiritual growth & self-discovery.
* Zendo, MAPS Psychedelic Harm Reduction Organization works at festivals training 100s of people a year, assisting many more.
* MAPS has completed Phase 1 & 2 FDA/DEA approved trials for MDMA “Combined Therapy” working at John Hopkins with Vets w/PTSD w/great success & heads into phase 3 trials for approval 2017...Psilocybin-for End of Life issues... They've made a considerable contribution to Psychedelic education, research & medicine,,, Freedom of Consciousness...

I support MAPS' work because I am in favour of learning how we as a species can make happiness more accessible. The results of pushing to develop more psychedelic medicines have repeatedly confirmed the validity of this caus and we need a great variety of tools at our disposal.

I feel this is one of the most important groups around and I wholly support them. Psychedelic substances have made a huge contribution to my life and well being, as well as to the lives of many people I know. I think all humans have the desire to change, grow and expand their consciousness and that governments should not limit their ability to do so. MAPS has been tireless in their quest to prove the efficacy of this medicine.

MAPS is such a solid organization!! I recently participated in a professional training program with them and my mind was opened to new ways of thinking and novel approaches to therapy. Additionally, they took really good care of us from start to finish. They really believe in the potential of psychedelics for healing, without being dogmatic, and they're also just good, down-to-earth people. I envision a future involving a cultural shift toward a more sophistocated and holistic understanding of healing, and I see MAPS at the helm!!

The front runners in a movement that will be one of the largest global shifts towards a better world. There are so many ways in which our society is suffering (psychologically, emotionally, spiritually), usually involuntarily, and we are left with inadequate tools and outdated information to address these very serious issues. MAPS is dedicated to moving culture beyond the fear of the "War on Drugs" days to an educated, brighter and healthier tomorrow.

Aids me in feeling comfortable that the future is in good hands !! These proteins aid in being in one place. At a time. For being lost in time behind the eyelid of the minds. One can't say I'm blind just need a couple of dimes worth of your time?? Jah bless ~n~ aya be with you!!

MAPS je jedina asocijacija na svetu koja se bavi istraživanjem ogromnih potencijala psihodeličnih i enteogeničnih supstanci na ovaj način i zbog toga zaslužuje da bude proglašena najboljom besprofitnom asocijacijom. Ovom svetu je pod hitno potrebna promena kojoj MAPS pokušava da doprinese na jako profesionalan način.

MAPS advocates using rigorous scientific studies in vetting the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. I have experienced great personal growth through the therapeutic use of psychedelics. MAPS work guarantees in the future others can share these same experiences in legal clinical settings.

The first LSD experience I had was like loosing my virginity! I feel these drugs have profound psychiatric uses that can help people in many ways

Like many young researchers working in the field of neuroscience, I believe that there are therapeutic benefits these psychedelic drugs have to offer for mental health issues. However, it is quite clear that the majority of the current field is somewhat close minded to the idea that these illegal 'recreational' substances have potential. But thanks to MAPS, with its reputable members, high profile studies and intelligent marketing, I can certainly see that the tide is changing. This research and support is clearly not only vital for ameliorating mental illness worldwide, but is also important for the universal understanding of human consciousness.

MAPS's will be credited with legitimizing psychedelics as therapeutic tools and bringing them to the mainstream. Psychology and psychiatry will forever be thankful.

If we don't research psychedelics & neurotransmitters more thoroughly we will never understand & cure mental diseases that severely impair people in their lives.

現代社會精神問題越來越多，以及越來越多特殊疾病出現，我認為，迷幻藥物的研究非常重要的原因，其一是可以研究出，是否社會誤解那些物質了，其二是他們帶來的醫療效益如果不被蓄意濫用，管理得當，可以讓更多人有活下去的希望，如果社會依舊對這些致幻物質有偏見，而實際上它們對人類社會幾乎是沒有危害，那政府是不是該全面禁止菸酒了，菸酒對人類帶來的危害還比較大呢，至於有害的物質，當然該加以防止，不過確認有藥用價值，依然可以在管制下進行醫療行為。我對你們的研究很支持，希望更多人可以知道你們的研究對人類貢獻多大。

I have learned about MAPS when working in the field of HIV prevention through harm reduction and I strongly believe in their work, in particular when it comes to the use of MDMA in psychotherapy. Furthermore, war on drugs already proved way more harmful than psychedelics.

Psychedelics helped me overcome PTSD, alcoholism, and emotional baggage that kept me from being happy, healthy, and successful. Organizations like MAPS not only fund research to make the treatments a medical reality, but reduce stigma associated with their use. As a neuroscientist they have offered to be an umbrella for my research. Bravo MAPS!

Psychedelics are the cure for the human condition and MAPS is there to support in helping the human being to remember its inner and inter-connectivity to what is.

I have personally experienced the transformative effects of psychedelic tools like LSD and psilocybin, and am convinced that they will revolutionize the field of psychotherapy. We need to do more research on these substances, to better our understanding of how we can use them in healing and therapeutic settings. That is why I support MAPS.

Psychedelics have incredible potential in mental health treatment, and it is an outrage and a travesty the way they have been demonized for the past several decades. MAPS is doing great work in driving forward the research and study of psychedelics.

MAPS helps the world to make the best out of a practical, chemical, historical and public health information that has been out for a long time but not put in the knowledge of the general public.

MAPS is doing amazing work. I believe that psychedelics, including marajuana, are going to be the new frontier of medication.

MAPS has a vision of a world in which psychedelics are used to their full potential for the benefit of mankind instead of being unfairly demonised just because they also have recreational potential.
Without the benefits of psychedelics, I would likely either be dead, in prison, or living a life of crime addicted to methamphetamine, heroin, or some other drug that helps me hide or numb the pain of existence. Psychedelics helped me see the world differently and make something of myself. But my use was illegal, and others could be punished if caught for doing what I did.
If MAPS vision can be realised, no-one need fear this - instead getting the help they need without the danger of a state that will punish them for seeking this help.
There can be no nobler goal than the betterment of humanity in whatever form that takes.

Without the scientific research and sensible approach to psychedelics, I would have died from scleroderma instead of finding a cure and I wouldn't have been able to help my friends cure their diabetes and cancer. Rick Doblin is a hero.

MAPS brings reason and scientific insight to the table when discussing psychedelics. Where drug policy has been bound by propaganda, MAPS seeks to expose the truth; psychedelics are medicine, and warrant extensive research.

For nearly 30 years, this valiant organization has been spearheading efforts to legitimize efficacious, safe, and considerably inexpensive solutions to a panoply of mental health issues. Their accomplishments are astounding, and such immense success is especially admirable when one considers the sustained and onerous adversities they have had to push against to press forward.

And yet they make it look easy, with smiles and optimism always in abundance. Thanks to Rick Doblin and his organization, psychedelic research has reached a new zenith in an era when it is needed more than ever.

The important research being done by MAPS is a personal one. As anyone who suffers from a chronic illness knows, dealing with the symptoms while trying to live our lives, isn't easy. Not only has marijuana treated the majority of my symptoms , mostly physical, but psychedelics have treated my mental health that comes along with a chronic illness.

People are going to use mind altering drugs NO MATTER WHAT! Research and education is the only way to prevent the misuse of these substances. Ignorance of proper drug use is the most damage a drug can do to society. MAPS is hope for a better future!

Mr Doblin, and Dr & Mrs Mithoefer, likely would decline the designation "heroes." Nevertheless, the healing which is on the cusp of realization and for which the world owes MAPS, will show that they deserve the title. This is equally true for MAPS' other researchers and staff, though they are less in the spotlight. Money donated to MAPS goes toward the work, and I'm proud and pleased to support them.

MAPS is doing research that will allow people in the modern Western world to finally understand that consciousness can be changed, trauma can be healed, and neurosis can be transmuted into strength. MAPS is changing medical views of what is pathological/ terminal and what is within our power to transform. Though this work could have been accomplished long ago if not for draconian drug laws, MAPS should be commended a thousand times more profusely since they have managed to thrive even within a resistant and ignorant cultural paradigm. This is history that will be remembered fondly by anyone who enjoys the benefits of exploring the freedom of human consciousness in the future. In my personal opinion, the victory of this research will change the world in ways that will be analogous to any of the great philosophical triumphs in history. I recommend that MAPS be awarded with the highest honors imaginable since their main purpose is to deeply study human consciousness and use that knowledge to alleviate as much suffering as they can without compromising health, quality of life, or individual liberty.

The insights gained by these plant medicines can be tremendously healing and life-changing. This is the most important research being done today to further our understanding of the effect of plant medicines on our mental health. This could be the most effective aid for ending depression, ptsd, anxiety, addiction, and fear of death anxiety in hospice situations. I am so thankful this research is being pursued. I think the benefits to humanity in terms of limiting suffering will be tremendous.

In a country where the government prohibits legitimate scholarly research into the efficacies of natural plant medicines, MAPS bravely marches forward, providing valuable information to the people regarding plant medicine treatments that are otherwise suppressed. Eventually, in the face of overwhelming evidence, the government will have no choice but to allow the use of plant medicines. MAPS appears to be totally committed to amassing evidence and providing valuable information to the public until the tipping point is attained.

By developing medicines to heal trauma, addiction, depression while supporting freedom of consciousness makes MAPS the one of the most important and undervalued organisation today. Not only individuals need a non-stigmatised and non-criminalised climate to find healing, we as a species, if we want to address our own shortcomings and ailments, need it too. Therefore I support MAPS with all my love and compassion.

Their work is courageous and crucial.
The medicines are currently banned for emotional and political reasons.

Let's use science to decide on the potential uses.

The work that MAPS does is not only revolutionary, but necessary. MAPS advocates for the use of medicines that have been outlawed for nothing other than political reasons; said medicines have beautiful transformational power and provide an alternative method for folks dealing with diseases from depression to addiction, to end-of-life anxiety. MAPS advocates for the necessity of the scientific community having access to these medicines so that society is able to empirically understand their potential. Without the ability to and benefits of research, we are left in the dark and must rely on anecdotal information that the government provides. With the amount of healing that is needed on American soil, these medicines MUST be studied. Politics must not prevail. Power to the people. Just say know. Thank you for all that you do, MAPS, you are changing lives across the globe!

MAPS is saving lives ! They make the progress of getting to know our psyche to accelerate !

Thanks to the brave work of MAPS, research into the effects of psychedelic drugs on consciousness have become a growing field of study in American academia.
The recent studies and their promising results are leading to a wider interest in psychedelic substances. My work with some of those substances have paved my way out of addiction and changed my life for the better in ways I didn't think possible.

MAPS has taken the lead in guts. It takes guts to dedicate time and energy to their cause, and it is truly a noble one. Psychedelics are to the mind what the telescope is to the cosmos. Their professionalism and dedication bring a level of legitimacy and publicity necessary to encourage honest discussion about these potentially groundbreaking tools. Keep up the good work.

MAPS is an inspiration and is saving lives. Period.
They are helping us understand the human psyche better and leading us to a future of greater mental health through connection with eachother, the planet and Source.

My son suffers from PTSD and has tried many prescription drugs none have helped and many made it worse. He has only found relief with cannabis but in most places cannot get medical card for this condition and continues to suffer. I am thankful to MAPS for supporting research and use of these alternatives!

MAPS gives hope to us that we can end the insanity and uninformed hysteria and illegality that surrounds the issue of plant medicines and psychedelics. These medicines have been shown throughout history and throughout the world to be supportive to health and happiness. The current epidemic of PTSD and stress related psychological disorders is threatening the very fabric of our society. This organization is bringing information forward to support responsible research and the healing use of currently illegal substances to the people that will benefit from them. Ending unreasonable and unproductive incarceration of citizens is also important, the war on drugs is keeping us from having access to the very healing medicines that the modern world desperately needs. Thank you for supporting them

I have suffered from PTSD and have coincidentally found out about MDMA being used to treat the symptoms, also found out about MAPS clinical studies and work to make marijuana and psychedelics a prsescription medicines. I am very thankful for their work, they've done a great job :) drugs that are prohibited work much better than pharmaceutical drugs, which makes me feel completely negative towards big pharma, they create customers, not cures. It's time for revolution !

After ten years of participating in AA to address what was a debilitating alcoholism I came to realize, as many scientists studying addiction pathology and treatment are now finding, that the 12 step model was not only horribly ineffective and unsuccessful- it actually hampered my recovery and personal growth. It was out of desperation that I saught out psychedelic therapy after researching addiction online for the better part of a year and I'm so incredibly thankful that I did as it not only ended my physical addiction it disabused me of the PTSD, toxic shame, and poisonous resentments that were the fuel for my discontent and compulsion to self-medicate with booze. I was relieved of my self centeredness and shown my roll in my own situation, I was blessed with a sense of increased empathy which allowed me to forgive those I was harboring resentments towards who had abused and neglected me as a child. This increased empathy was not temporary, and has continued to enrich my life two years later. I have also disabused myself of misleading neo con propaganda and denounced my previous stance as a militant atheist islamophobe I went from denouncing all of Islam to advocating for displaced and occupied Palestinians. Psychedelic therapy not only cured my addiction, it showed me addiction wasn't even disease- it was a symptom of a larger affliction I was unaware I even had- this condition was of a spiritual nature. Psychedelics didn't chemically cure me- they simply brought me into a spiritual place where I could heal myself. The power doesn't come from a chemical, it comes from us- I never knew I had this power within me. We all have this potential for healing, insight, growth of empathy, and MAPS is far and away at the forefront of the bringing psychedelic therapy research and the resulting conversation to the forefront, and this is why it is essential that we support them. Psychedelic therapy is absolutely thee future of addiction and trauma treatment and the future is happening... Now.

Psychedelics are the only medicines that treat my schizoaffective disorder without side effects. MAPS has worked consistently to build the scientific and evidential framework to legalize this treatment. I'm proud to support MAPS.

I have finally got some relief. Knowing MAPS work in helping the PTSD problem in our military. I feel that we have made a leap in to our future help with PTSD. And other related mental health problems. Thank You MAPS

I have volunteered and donated to various non-profits over my many years. Some 6 or so years ago I became aware of the work of MAPS and attended my first conference in 2013. Was I ever impressed! What an extraordinary group of people are involved. I am still feeling the "workshop high" I left with and no it isn't something I smoke or ingest! Presenters were passionate about their work and it was heartening to observe that. It is clear that the work MAPS is doing has far-reaching possibilities to help people with serious and intractable health issues. There is an urgency to their work and I want to see them flourish.

MAPS has been an invaluable resource in navigating my own mental health and understanding how tools such as MDMA have helped those with PTSD and other anxiety disorders. The fear surrounding psychedelic medicines has resulted in disinformation and prohibition, thus making it impossible for those in need to access these potentially life-saving medicines. I have enormous respect for an organization like MAPS, who are bringing much needed sanity and research to this field. Few have been brave enough to take on such work, given the nature of the drug war, legal complexities, and lack of financial gain. And so I am very grateful for MAPS and their work and hope that funding for this vital research continues to grow.

If we want to heal this world, first we have to heal ourselves. Psychedelic agents can be used as incredible tools of healing, but in the wrong hands, with the wrong attitude, they can be very dangerous as well. MAPS is the organization which took up the task of finding a suitable, safe context for the use of psychedelic medicines, one which could be seamlessly integrated into our modern Western society.

Neither the psychedelic be-ins of the sixties, nor the Goa parties of the 90s, nor the traditional ayahuasca rituals of Amazonian tribes could be integrated in such a way that they reached more than a few percent of the population. It would be very difficult for most people to get over the somewhat "fringe" nature of these contexts. But psychedelic psychotherapy - which grew out of well-established Western traditions of psychology and psychiatry - could be a game changer.

I am a woman suffering with PTSD and extreme anxiety issues and have not yet found a treatment that helps my condition. I am hopeful at the prospect of new treatments and am excited to see a group working on this important issue.

I value MAPS work because they are opening the paths to treatments possible for those suffering from several disorders. I have hope while keeping up with their research and their progress as I suffer from PTSD and know the benefits of the substances they are studying. MAPS has helped me spread awareness of the potential options available to us in our (hopefully) near future and removing the stigma of the substances described. For once, I've been able to have intelligent debates over two substances that MAPS has been studying without judgement that they're "just drugs used for partying". Its changing the mindset of many and planting the seed to change many more. I can't wait to see how MAPS flourishes over the coming years and I will be doing my best to support them to continue their marvelous work and helping me and many others like me to have a successful and happy life.

MAPS is frontlining a battle for health and cognitive liberty. What else does matter?

MAPS is fighting for our fundamental right of free self-determination over our adult bodies and minds.
This basic human right has been stolen from us by pharmacological fascism's counterproductive and historically falsified prohibition policy which guarantees tax-free profits in the billions to unregulated criminal cartels, while it effectively only prevents any control of access, age and quality. Air America, Iran-Contra, N987SA and the HSBC settlement clearly shows who is profiting from the corruption pyramid which is the base for the global tax-free Mafia monopoly. MAPS' research focus are medicines which are known to mankind for thousands of years and where stigmatized only recently(speaking in evolutionary time scales) by corrupt people like criminals, lying politicians, lobbyists, manipulative media empires, pharmacological fascists and religious fanatics. MAPS is researching our consciousness and how it can be modified with endogenous(like DMT) and exogenous(like LSD) psychotropic substances. They are not only restricted to psychedelic research and also research dissociatives like Ketamine and empathogens like MDMA, which also can have great therapeutic potential. They are fighting for mankind to restore our originally guaranteed universal dignity and humanity.

The people at MAPS are passionate in their efforts to bring health and peace to many patients for whom traditional therapies have proved unhelpful. They are also brave and principled professionals who are committed to a scientific inquiry in a field held back by social prejudice and misinformed political fear-mongering.

Go MAPS!

MAPS has worked tirelessly to do real research on substances with great healing merit that have been outlawed by our society for too long.

I full agree with everything MAPS is doing and strongly believe in the healing powers of psychedelic medicines.

It's simple really, they are the frontiers on a subject that has been demonized by the western world for far too long, without a legitimate reason.(There isn't a legit reason by the way)
People need to know this information regardless of their personal views on any "illicit drug" , since the information they are basing it upon is not generally fact, but propaganda, "morals" and miss-information. We need to re-educate the people on all "illicit drugs", not just psychedelics.

Sovereignty over our own minds and bodies should be a fundamental human right.
Without it, we are not free, we just pretend to be.

Sincerely
Robert . L

Ps, my dream is to work in this field, so if anyone is hiring ;)

I support MAPS because after losing my left leg above knee in a motorcycle accident and almost losing my left arm, marijuana was the safest, most effective way to treat the anxiety and insomnia that came with the pain meds. Despite over a decade of 12 step work, it wasn't until I got to experience DMT that I was able to truly accept the life situation I found myself in, so I know the potential for hallucinogens used for healing in the appropriate settings and support further research.

MAPS is a trustable group of professionals in their fields, with a common goal to developing medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics. Regarding the contradictionary situation out times - when this powerful substances are generally prohibited for scientific research, but in the same time widely available on the black market for recreational use and abuse - MAPS work is essential. When i discovered this altered states of mind, realised the importance of such a therapeutic context, what MAPS is promoting. I deeply regret, that its not allowed to be available, and there are millions out there, who never even heard about these unique tools, but they can possibly benefit them. Like my grandfather, who has Alzheimer desease, or my mother with breast cancer. So i am grateful that MAPS exist, and hope that psychedelic research will soon reach a point to make psychedelic treatment widely available. If not for the generation of my parents and grandparents - at least for our generation, and for our children.

MAPS-multidisciplinary association for psychedelic studies
They general theory behind this- the combination of PROFESSIONALLY SUPERVISED cognitive therapy, with certain substances (MDMA for post trauma, lsd, dmt, psilocybin, ibogaine, mescaline, and ketamine for other purposes such as addictions) has PROVEN to highly effective in enough cases to warrant further research.
1) Support what works. The number of success stories speak for themselves

2) The original stigma- that psychedelics cannot be used medicinally due to their psychological effects- has been formally discredited.

As for abuse, OxyContin, Vicodin, Xanex, Percocet, and even COUGH SYRUP are abused. The potential for something to be abused is not an argument against it- look at the second amendment; it's merely an argument against irresponsibility.

Psychedelics simply ought to be regulated and administered with appropriately stringent laws, just like any other potent pharmacological products that are already on the shelves.

As someone working in healthcare for the past decade who is generally passionate about medicine and helping relieve the suffering of others, I think that MAPS is doing some of the most important work in medicine today.

Having experienced mescaline as a young and reckless adolescent just for some colourful kicks, I soon discovered that there was an intrinsic meaning present and an elder fortunately showed me the respect and reverence that these pants deserved. From here I was shown their true potential to reveal our true place as humans in the cosmic web of life, our significance and our misplaced self-importance. These latter events left me with profoundly life-altering and personally trans-formative experiences that I will never forget and guided my life in directions that seemed to be fortuitous becoming an integral part of who I am now some 25 years later. That organizations like MAPS exist vindicates the validity of these experiences for me as not just 'crazy trips' but as the spiritual and deeply insightful phenomenon that they are. It is clear that the (historically recent) current drug enforcement and prohibition paradigm has continually been shown as ineffective, counter-productive and destructive and a war which unfortunately Psychedelic/entheogenic substances have been caught in. Plant substances hold enormous value for the human condition and their millennial old presence in ritual/ceremonial religious contexts across the globe vindicates the validity of studying and examining the effects on these substances with academic rigour. As my own experiences so profoundly changed my inner being, when I came to academics late in life, I found within my Cultural Studies major that the vicissitudes of everyday life, our inculcation and socialization into negative patterns of consumption and behaviour are so entirely capable of being reconfigured by psychedelics. Not only for the momentary stripping away of the ego and the profound connection and visualization of all living networks from the micro to the macro cosmic level, but for the deep realization that we are all connected and more similar than different. I am hoping to go on and examine an apparent revival in legitimate psychedelic-entheoegenic cultures and how they affect peoples articulations of spirituality in the spirit of James William's 'Varieties of Religious Experience'....for this I am endlessly grateful to MAPS for providing scientific literary resources and ongoing academic investigation through a range of disciplines. This may well be one of the most important techniques and fields of study in the 21st century if we are to progress from the ego-based destructive drive that is turning humanity against it self and its environment and move toward a new era of cooperation, awareness and sustainability through legitimate scientific discourse

I love MAPS for all of the work they put into cutting edge research, education, and great events! Their work is truly important for so many reasons.

one of the most upcomming and important organizations. There is so much treatment, public health, and general reseach potential here which is not nearly enough explored.

Psychadelics help evolve mankind in his endless journey for enlightenment. Psychadelics have an extremely beneficial effect on any person that thinks they are ready to take in what their subconciouse wants to tell them. Please continue the research on psychadelics so that we can get a better scientific understanding of them.

In determining the usefulness or uselessness of a thing, it is best to allow for certain liberties in keeping with the framers of our Constitution. Fear of the unknown keeps it unknown as Carl Jung has said. One of the tenents of our Constitution is the pursuit of happiness. If a law dis-allows the pursuit of happiness and as studies are now showing, much usefulness to individuals as a medicine, those who seek to ban or stop it are operating from something that in reality does not exist (irrational fear). The rhetoric of status quo and fear must give way to awareness and with the accuracy of science and understanding, it can. With so many lives currently being affected negativley and so much riding on appropriate discourse and knowledge, only insight into and study of a chemical or plant's potential usefulness or uselessness will bring out it's rightful place in our society.

Prior to my own introduction with these powerful sacraments, I was unconvinced of there ability to provide structured meaningful therapy for those in need regarding: PTSD, alcoholism, abuse, ect.
But after personally allowing them into my psyche, It has revealed a profound world of endless possibilities for those eager to move in the direction of overcoming. It is ingrained in our being and intertwined in our bio-logy. It increases sensitivity to all of the senses and the ability to get the the bottom of the issue in the right environment (set and setting) far sooner than traditional therepy. It seams immature and childish to regard medicines of this stature as a criminal offence, for something that has the power to change habit and thought.

I first learned about psychedelics during undergrad working towards my BS in Neuroscience & have been amazed by their huge potential for helping mental illness both in my academic research and personal experiences.

MAPS has had similar interests & research goals as myself & would love to be involved in any way with the organization!

I firmly believe countless peoples's lives could benefit from psychedelic drugs in a controlled, medical context. Personally, my experiences with MDMA, ayahuasca & psilocybe fungi have, on separate occasions, helped me immensely in my own battles with anxiety & depression. It is because of these & legitimate academic research that lead me to believe in the potential of psychedelic drugs.

There doesn't exist a valid excuse for supressing scientific research with psychedelics. Like is said, psychedelics are for psychiatry and neuroscience the same as microscope is for microbiologist. Science is for seeking facts and truth, and it shouldn't be influenced by politics. MAPS is out there to change that and with decades of hard work, they are finally seeing the results. MAPS's work may result in dramatic changes in the medical fields mentioned.

It is difficult as an individual to fight the unjust predispositions that society has towards psychedelics and marijuana usage for therapy. Being a member of MAPS I feel empowered knowing that as a group we have a larger voice and a stronger support system.

Watson & Crick were using psychedelics when working on the structure of DNA. What other great scientific discoveries have been lost by criminalising psychedelics? Society needs organisations like this to end the War on psychedelics.

I have worked with MAPS as a volunteer at their last conference and everything was organized really professionally. I can't think anything negative to say about how MAPS functions. They are working to help relieve sufferings of millions and to further the evolution of mankind with the help of psychedelic substances - medicines and tools.

I volunteered as a clinical intern for the academic year of 2012-2013 and it was one of the best experiences of my life! Everyone involved at MAPS is so amazing and I want to come back to work for them someday.

MAPS uses a perfect combo of substance induction and therapy which leads to improvements in patients and them leaving substance free unlike our current Western model but unfortunately due to information censorship, there are a lot of promising discoveries out there that aren't getting enough attention.

What often goes unmentioned is the fact that materialist science cannot explain all the phenomena out there though seems to claim far more power.

Psychedelic substances explore the field of consciousness so well and can be done in safe and controlled ways. I feel MAPS sticks to this priority really well in their work!

This organization is paving the way for the future of our civilization. I believe that the staff @ MAPPS
are heroes of our times just like our soldiers @ war. I appreciate every moning that all of those minds are collaborating to help the future of our species better understand our abilities in self exploration & self healing! May this organization receive all help, acknowledgements, & blessings from every corner of the universe!

Psychedelic research is a deadly subject to touch in the scientific world. But MAPS does an excellent job at professionalizing and utilizing their purpose and goals. If psychedelics and marijuana had a face, MAPS deserves to represent them.

As a physician treating people with opioid addictions, a chronic, relapsing disease where the available treatments have an 85% failure rate, I see the potential to help turn lives around with the use of psychedelics.

Under controlled conditions, in an open, non-judgemental setting where trust is established, it is possible for people who habitually use drugs to obliterate feelings to have the opportunity to experience awareness, trust and joy. No amount of motivational interviewing will allow people to experience what they do not know exists.

MAPS has been very instrumental in raising awareness about these issues and bringing together some of the best and brightest minds in neurology and psychiatry. A respect for the ancient cultures that gave birth to these substances seems to be integrated into their philosophy.

MAPS is an association that is necessary for the world growth in studies of consciousness. While pharmaceutical industries lobby against the modernization of laws by the result of an enriched psychedelic community, people with problems are being helped, and MAPS is a part of that. As we enter a new age of awareness, MAPS must be at the forefront of protecting the sovereign rights of individual consciousness. Treating a multitude of symptoms, psychedelics has already had profound effects, and must no longer be trivialized with 60's propaganda an irresponsible use in our current societies.

I've been studying the topic of Psychedelics for a couple years now, and MAPS has been a wonderful tool in bringing together great minds and equally great results.
Said results are, indeed, bringing life-changing results to those suffering from Depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and Drug Addictions.
This is the first organization, in years, that I've been actively talking about in my circle of friends and family.

Groundbreaking research - long time coming - sorely needed - God bless MAPS

They carry out such useful studies on the uses of psychoactive substances to help those in need of healing.

MAPS keep surprising year after year, steadily advancing knowledge in one of neurocscience's most promising frontiers. Simply awesome. Support their work now!

MAPS has been diclosing the tabu of psychoactive substance adaptive consumption. They have been facing immense legal, political and financal challanges and proved themselve to be patient, tireless and competent. After many years of their activiy we have here several rigorous psychedelic studies done and other precise research of this potent ancient psychotechnologies is coming. Im grateful I could pick up the thread of their work and proceed with promising research which could benefit human health and human-ecosystem relationship and by so it could change the way society understand itself, human nature and nature in general.

MAPS is the best non profit organization because in a time like this, a paradigm shift seems like the best way to fix the problems we have created on this planet. A paradigm shift would be much easier and happen much faster with safety tested psychedelics as prevalent as alcohol. While the need for a paradigm shift is not the only reason psychedelics need to be legal, and thus making MAPS the best and most important non profit organization, one other great reason is because, in many cases, the effect of years of therapy can be achieved overnight.

MAPS is attempting the impossible: changing the prevailing attitudes around psychedelics from "strictly for stoner rejects" to "full of potential for healing." And you know what? Somehow, it's working! By consistently getting solid research done and presenting the results to the world, people are waking up to the possibilities. Thank you, MAPS!

MAPS is on the frontlines, is perhaps unique in it's work to legitimize and medicalize psychedelics, sine qua non I feel our world is damned to extinction. The most spiritual experiences I have ever known were states of consciousness engendered by psychedelics, and one experience in particular extraordinary. It happened when I was 18, and my friend Mitch brought me over two hits, tiny barrels of microdot, that he called White Lightning. I ate them and he had to leave to run a couple of errands. He came back an hour and a half later or so. I wasn’t really feeling anything, and beginning to think I was in for a disappointment. We took a ride in his car and still nothing except I did notice the street lights reflecting surreally off the hood of his car. We visited a friend of his who worked at a pizzeria after which Mitch brought me home. Mitch subsequently offed himself in a PCP haze because he was never educated to the differences between LSD, a psychedelic, and PCP an elephant tranquilizer, which itself the authorities have manipulated with the name of “Angel Dust,” confusing it with the genuine article, MDA, and marijuana.
He left and I was disappointed but still wanted to get high. After a lot of begging I prevailed upon my brother to smoke some marijuana with me. We ducked into the bathroom with its exhaust fan and smoked a bowl, and when we finished he went downstairs to fix something to eat. I started washing my pimple-painted face. All of a sudden I became very high. The pot had seemingly catalyzed the acid. The whole bathroom started vibrating with a scintillating energy. The water gushing out of the faucet became a glorious wonder to behold and was rushing backwards into the faucet as much as out of it. I wasn’t to experience the same kind of beauty until I visited Niagara Falls some years later. The electrical outlet above the sink directly in front of me became a totally different entity, as if a television on which a drama of the greatest interest was playing itself out. I seemed to be able to see each molecule that composed it moving in its appointed path according to Universal Law, which also I witnessed in all its glory and self-evidentness for the first time. As if a test of my conscience and an inventory of my sincerity as a seeker, Great Spirit I think jammed questions into my head: “Who am I? Where did I come from? Where am I going to? How did I get here? What is my purpose in life?” Everything was all wonder at this point; it wasn’t to be terrifying until later. All at once, the answers came in a flash: Oneness with the Universe. I had a feeling of being, seeing, and flowing with the One truth that I call Great Spirit. It was a moment of pure light, bliss, and wisdom. I was as One, and in perfect harmony with Universal Mind. This was the reality. My regular everyday life and state of consciousness was the illusion. I was still able to see myself and my tiny little ego that existed as against something else – the environment, other people, God - but I also could see with Great Spirit’s eyes, what itself was striving to realize itself, and which is the ground and foundation of all being; and which is consciousness. I could see myself as a unique and divine being identical but distinct from the universal essence, the macrocosm, of which I was a microcosm. As fast as I had asked these questions had the answers come, which it seemed like the Universe had only been waiting eternally to be asked to reveal the bliss and beauty of this world. But even the answers weren’t answers to those questions, but only the portal I should go through to experience what I did. I saw the Universe in the proverbial grain of sand and that eternity exists only in the moment. It was necessary as I looked down upon myself from on high that I should still have my body, my being, my ego to participate in the cosmic party, while at the same time all that was an illusion next to the reality of universal being, the dull yellow, all expansive penetrating light of being itself. All of the reality below me, Maya as the Hindus call it, was as an illusion next to the pure light, a kind of light the color of sunshine which was the true essence of being. Enough. There are no words really to express what I had experienced, because even words are only shadows of the reality they represent, and with them there are already division: speaker and spoken to, and all of the many dualities words summon, which don’t exist next to the Cosmic Whole.
I couldn’t believe the wonder and the beauty of what I had just seen. I wanted to tell somebody, anybody, everybody this special thing, the reality and meaning of life.
I went flying out of the bathroom and called urgently to my brother that I wanted to tell him something. Again and again I had to shout for him. He finally acquiesced to my plaints and came upstairs. I looked at him and realized in that moment that there were no words I could use to explain. It was something that existed whole and unfathomable and complete unto Itself and in which there were no divisions between talker and talked to, subject and object or any other. My brother’s face lit up into a hundred million different prisms of light; and his head became bathed in the headdress of an Indian chief.
I stood staring at him in wonder and terror. The colors were incredible and my brother’s visage and aura changed now from one with an Indian headdress of feathers of a thousand million colors to the face of a clown with like coloring.
He must have thought me insane for just staring at him like that, and I was. Although no more insane than the world I had just left forever. For I would never be the same.
It was difficult for me to understand what was happening to me. I would later read Nietzsche describe it as the phenomenon that nothing exists apart from the whole. I don’t guess I consciously dropped my jaw on the ground at all the lies I had been told about LSD just then. When I came out of the trance, the voice said to me, “This is the truth, and don’t you ever forget it. I’ve had to show it to you this way because, for One, of the recklessness of nuclear weapons.” I mean I was on to it this far: in that once I had been initiated into the holy ganja, which had been demonized to me as just slightly worse than the CIA, I had to be suspect about what I had been told about other so-called drugs. I mean I had enough common sense to know that coffee and cigarettes – now there’s a gateway drug, as if it isn’t bad enough all by itself – and alcohol were drugs. Fer crissakes the first time I got drunk, on Mad Dog 20/20, my vision was anything but. And I puked all over the tent baked beans, although I didn’t remember eating them, and my head was spinning as if communicating with a UFO. As adolescents we practiced the same games our elders did. My brother sighed, turned on his heel, and went downstairs to do something; eat I guess. My consciousness struggled between going back to that One, and certain oblivion; or returning to the runt of the life of my ego. Luckily I found, subsequent to this, warriors such as Three Dog Night’s shambala, and Don Quixote, because there was definitely something militaristic about this. My red phone went forth to do battle with the blue carpet, about as inane an image as Alice eating mushrooms. I kept the TV on to try to return me to some sense of normalcy. I’ll never forget that the television show, Jeremiah Jones: Nature’s Protector was on. My mom came home from work at 4 a.m. and shut the TV off. I’ll never forget that either. I was so terrified she would know I was awake. I wonder if she sensed that something momentous had happened to me that night. The point is, it is unconscionable the lies that I was told about marijuana, fer crissakes, and these other substances. One should be prepared for that experience, and it is sine qua non an alternative to the nightmare of capitalist dysfunction. I once wrote in a review of Under the Influence: Disinformation Guide to Drugs about this issue, “Rather than an institutional and cultural framework of support for such a breathtaking discovery, there was the most mendacious dissembling around the issue of (some) drugs.” And I still believe that with respect to psychedelics, “True religious freedom...would be an exploring and attempt at recreating these kinds of states of consciousness; understanding the potentialities and limitations of integrating them into everyday life; freedom to create some kind of cultural and institutional framework to give them legitimacy as religious ritual,” rather than be forced to stumble into it. Indeed, Mitch had to see for himself what the realities of PCP (phencyclidine), an animal tranquilizer, were. His suicide was successful, and a way-station along the path was swinging a four-foot long piece of tree lumber against another tree, in a PCP haze, in the dead of a suburban Chicago winter. This wasn't a case of drugs being evil. This was a problem of prohibition and dishonesty.

MAPS are doing really amazing researches. It's so important to research psychedelics and find how to use them as treatment. Actually, I'd even like to join MAPS in future as a scientist.

MAPS work has been essential for the development of a well informed and consistent argument against the "war on drugs"and the social significance that the end of such war would have is a major positive shift for human kind.

MAPS is doing great good for mankind, by far the most worthy of support! Not only are they fighting to make the "drug war" no more, they want to use substances for the benefit of us all. Modern society has a lot of problems that used to be handled more easily when you could pick your own medicines. Prohibition must die, people need to live!

I find MAPS a very detailed and interesting site. The amount of knowledge which is conveyed re: psychedelics and their useage should be made more widely available and MAPS is doing this in a clear and concise way.

I love MAPS. There are so many wonderful reviews on this site already so I'll just say that I hope you guys win this much deserved award.

For years, I have been a supporter of MAPS as they have struggled to spread the truth about the benefits of psychedelic substances can offer in psychological and/or physical healing. For many years, the United States government continuously threw up roadblock after roadblock when studies on psychoactive compounds were proposed; and despite that opposition, MAPS continued and in fact redoubled its efforts. I remember the day I received my MAPS publication, discussing the studies which had begun overseas to use MDMA in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in soldiers. I remember reading about the individuals who became trained in this new "entheogenic therapy", and feeling so proud that, in large part thanks to years of tireless labor from MAPS, these studies would soon be taking place here in the US as well. I began seeing, even in the most conservative publications, an increasing number of articles which, if not exactly embracing the idea, did acknowledge that for many people, these treatments were highly successful. I began seeing more and more studies relating to the use of psilocybin for cluster headaches, and now trials have begun using the once entirely-banned LSD: believed to have no medicinal value at all, it has not been well-studied since the mid-century. Scientists are also looking into was to use psilcybin to reduce end of life anxiety in cancer patients. In the future, we can only expect many more great insights to come out of these types of studies, and it is MAPS, in large part, who can be thanked for the many, many years of hard work that has allowed us to reach this point.

The brave folks at MAPS work tirelessly to help change perceptions about the medical use of these extraordinary compounds. In our world today, increasingly dangerous and expensive pharmaceuticals dominate the treatment options available to many patients who could be helped safely and effectively using psychedelics. MAPS is doing the research that may well change that.

I have struggled for 30 years with a debilitating mental illness. Though I have worked with many talented therapists over the years, I have been hospitalized and the best I can say is that traditional medicine has been helpful but has in no way cured my PTSD + depression. Through MAPS's help I am vastly improved, and can see my way to complete healing over the next few months. A year ago, I had not even heard of MAPS. This sounds miraculous, but it happened to me. I hope I can someday make a big donation to this extraordinary organization. I don't quite owe them my life, but my life is immeasurably better because of MAPS. This is what Steve Jobs would term an "insanely great" group of people.

MAPS is one of the most extraordinary nonforprofit organizations I know. Their dedicated leaders, enormous volunteer base, diversity of supporters, unique expertise in the field and hard work puts them on the forefront among most effective nonforprofits today.  MAPS has been able to bring together scientists and thinkers, health practitioners and faith leaders, cutting edge research institutions and diverse ethno - cultural wisdom practitioners, visionaries and community leaders from across the globe to create more positive, more humane and more hopeful world. MAPS transformative work is providing many people with hope towards healing, recovery and wholeness when it is most needed in their lives. I am very honored to know them.

MAPS is a fantastic organization, dedicated to human beings. While utilizing complementary therapies and strategies for overcoming unbearably traumatic experiences, they are consistent in their message, actions and heart. Here here to Maps! Long live the organization and all the people who have benefited from their painstaking battle to make legal those therapies and methodologies!

In a field like psychadelics, the overall health effects aren't well known. Thanks to MAPS we're finding out more about these drugs and how they affect us and their research has the potential to help millions of people

MAPS is the only organization providing the world with essential research on a subject other nonprofits are too timid to deal with. Psychedelic research is becoming more legitimate because of what MAPS has done.

MAPS has been a courageous spearhead in the struggle to end the prohibition of therapeutically valuable psychedelics. I congratulate Rick Doblin and his staff for undertaking this important work.

The MAPS material is always varied. It academic without being overwhelming, and they also tackle some of the more quirky experiences resulting from psychedelic use - one story which springs to mind, if I remember correctly, is of someone learning to wrrite with their left hand after taking MDMA, putting questions to it and getting instructive and unexpeced responses.

As a MAPS supporter for many years, I can say, without reservation, that the work Rick Doblin and his staff have done to promote important clinical research has been superlative. I believe MAPS along with The Heffter Society have the potential to manifest new treatment paradigms for many sufferers of mental illness. I believe these have potential for healing psychic wounds which may otherwise not respond to conventional allopathic modalities. Phillip Grob. M.D.

MAPS is an extremely important organization, one that goes against the grain in a certain sense, in that it relies on "outside the box" thinking in order to solve some of the problems that face modern society. While many people may shun or look down upon the work that they do, I feel that it is absolutely essential that their research continues and expands, as they are on the brink of some of the most important and helpful scientific discoveries of our times, and have the capability to vastly improve the lives of millions of people around the world.

I have been a volunteer with the MAPS organization for several years. I like the program and will continue to volunteer for as long as they need me.

I was introduced to MAPS by a friend of mine through another helpful site. I like helping organizations like this because they are creating a helpful environment for those who deservingly need it.

I firmly believe in them and appreciate what they do. Thank you MAPS. You have made a difference for the better.

MAPS is an excellent organization with great integrity and best of intentions. They work they are doing is invaluable and the brave people who stand up and fight for what they know is right in the name of helping others deserves all it can get. As they have steadily progressed with their projects and the success of their clinical studies it is only a matter of time before many people wake up and realize the importance of this work and how it has been all along, thanks to the incredibly supportive community who literally fund it all independently.

Maps is doing research in a very important field, a field which has been kept out of academic science for quite a while only for sheer financial and pseudo-moral interests, i appreciate the way in which maps is working very much, thanks.

What the government, most of academia, and private companies fail to do, MAPS provides desperately needed, cutting edge research for the benefit of mental health. As mental health issues seem to burgeon with new and old disorders throughout the worlds' population, MAPS is needed now more than ever.

MAPS brings to the medical field and its patients a promise of success and progression that has been ignored by the government and for-profit companies for decades. Known medical benefits for drugs are explored using careful research and volunteer patients. The psychological well-being of people fuels MAPS, not profit, while donations from their supporters keeps the research alive. MAPS research benefiting individuals with PTSD fuels my regular donations. The organization could be run no better, and I hope to see them grow in success so that mankind can continue to benefit from MAPS.

MAPS continues to do research in an area that was given short shift in the 60's. Their research potentially offers the public a valuable tool to combat some serious issues from PTSD to depression to such things as helping cancer patients in fighting nausea. I'm happy to donate a small sum to them each year so that they can continue this valuable work.

MAPS is a wonderful organization that is brave enough to explore areas that are still considered taboo by many. Hopefully through the work they do and the kind support of many good people, this will not always be the case.

The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies is doing some of the most important work in the modern day. In a point in history where we are literally watching society's paradigm shift, it is groups like MAPS whose cutting edge research and authentic education for the potentials found with psychedelics that is making it happening. I was fortunate enough to attend the Psychedelic Science in the 21st century conference, which was one of the most amazing and inspiring experiences of my life. All the people there felt like we were part of a movement based on enlightened principle; pioneers leading humanity towards a greater good. The staff behind the scenes of MAPS are all intelligent, hardworking people, who are dedicated to this mission and embody the important values the group supports.

MAPS has provided sooo much good information to me about what is being done with enthogens and consciousness it's incredible. The expertise and knowledge put together with new age ideas to understand the relevance of these different things in todays world is soooo important, and MAPS is doing such a great job!! Thanks MAPS!!!!

MAPS promote effectively the research of psychedelic substances for therapeutic benefit in humans. The organization does wonderful work based on wisdom, courage and compassion!

I have inoperable stage 4 prostate cancer. MAPS has given me the hope that those of us living with terminal cancer have a voice of support for end of life experiences that can deepen our awareness of our living and dying. I am grateful for MAPS resource material, advocacy, and collaborative efforts in the area of research. For some of us cancer patients, the great healing has little to do with cancer itself. When it's the heart that needs to healing, MAPS is there to help point the way. I'm very appreciative for discovering MAPS at this point in my life.

This group is great. Respectful and honest in their fundraising. and so effective in getting research projects off the ground around the world.

MAPS is on the front lines, exploring the global potential of human consciousness for public good. For 25 years, their visionary efforts have been put toward designing scientific research to explore therapeutic treatments for addiction, PTSD, terminal illness, end of life trauma and spiritual transformation. MAPS funds clinical trials with human subjects and publishes regular updates in an online newsletter in accordance with FDA and European Medicine Agency Guidelines, regarding MDMA, Ibogaine, LSD, cannabis. MAPS' integrity & vision make it unique.

At the forefront of human potential, I believe MAPS vision to be inspiring and valuable. Although psychedelics, entheogens and hallucinogens have played a sacred and central and role in most societies throughout history, today they are misunderstood and oppressed both culturally and politically. MAPS is leading the way in their renaissance with solid scientific research and public policy reform. Like microscopes and telescopes for a conscious psyche and humane spirit, the first time I experienced psychedelics I caught a glimpse of the potential and possible implications they hold. Used in medicine, psychiatry and spiritual practices, psychedelics can heal individuals and positively transform society and culture. The impact MAPS could contribute to human development spans wide and deep.

MAPS serves as an organization to fund unbiased research for psychedelic drugs, educate the public on its findings and influence public policy. Through steadfast dedication and stellar work, MAPS is helping to put unique and effective psychiatric tools back in the hands of doctors to use with their patients. The group of researchers and advocates involved with this organization are some of the most brilliant minds I've ever encountered.

MAPS has worked to keep the candle of psychedelic research going through some very dark years. It is difficult to appreciate how long they have tried to disseminate balanced and helpful information in the face of a "no tolerance" attitude and a "war on drugs" which put all substances into the same category. Now that some psychedelic research is actually taking place again after decades, MAPS is leading the way with careful studies.

Multidisciplinary Association For Psychedelic Studies: MAPS is working towards and succeeding in allowing psychedelics to be accepted for their true benefit.

I have great faith in the work that MAPS is doing. The therapeutic potential of psychedelics is boundless, and the discoveries that MAPS is documenting will lead to a great transformation of our society's understanding of physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Rick Doblin, president and founder came to our university (University of West Georgia) and ave a wonderful talk. He also presented at the ClusterBuster conference because MAPS has funded research on this medical condition.

I believe that MAPS is essential to our survival and evolution as a species. I've been a member for many years, and only wish I could give them more support.

MAPS is a great organization that does excellent work in areas spanning a variety of issues. Most recently I got to participate in a teleconference of a presentation By Andrew Weil MD at a MAPS conference in California while I was at the Cannabis Therapeutics Conference in Rhode Island. MAPs soes an outstanding job of locating and disseminating critical information for policy makers. Keep up the great work

MAPS is a wonderful, pioneering organization that is opening up new doors for medical and scientific research, through fundraising and organizing concerned individuals and professionals. They are working to facilitate a greater understanding and a more constructive utilization of psychedelic substances within our society.

In an area that is often clouded by uniformed prejudice, it's good to see an organization such as MAPS striving to bring reason and science into the domain of critical inquiry. Indeed, this is how all science and knowledge advances. I am quite impressed by the dedication of the people working at MAPS, they are constantly advancing the need for factual information, and their website and programs are a testament to this. I have received newsletters constantly and have found the website to be a good source of information and news regarding projects and ongoing research. I think what impresses me the most, is how they manage to do so much on a very modest budget, to say the least. This can only happen as a result of dedication and professionlism of all those involved. To sum, being interested in ongoing research as I am, I find the information coming out of MAPS invaluable.

MAPS is fighting for all of this research; this information has to go on and out to the World. Ignorance will not triumph as long as people like Rick Doblin are out there on the front line. Thanks for all you do, Rick.

As a member of the clinical research community, I was asked to review MAPS conduct of clinical trials and provide guidance. I was incredibly impressed by the clear mission to bring the high standard of clinical research and ICH guidelines to all MAPS research, to ensure data generated would be held with same level of integrity and respect as non-psychadelic (and generally accepted) research methods.

I'll do a lot of volunteer fo Camp Spirit Lake. One of the them is to make sure thaht people remember a detention camp of First world war in Abitibi, Quebec, Canada. Since 1998, i worked to establish Historical interpretation center about East European immigrant that were unfairly interned because they didn't possess official paper and were considered dangerous for the security of Canada. This year will open the Historical Interpretation Center. Just look at this website: campspiritlake.ca Next, i'm a volounteer in an organization that is very implicated in archeological digging in Abitibi: Archeo-08. Right, we work with Algonguin to hep them to recover a part of their past. For, it's always been important to look at the past. So, i always be there give a hand.

I participated a conference titled Psychedelic Sciences in the 21st Century that was sponsored and organized by MAPS. It was an amazingly well-organized and highly informative conference that attracted participants from all over the world. A deeply inspiring and transformative experience for me.

As a psy-crisis counsellor at various western Canadian festivals, I have benefited from MAPS resources for education and MAPS individuals for training. The MAPS organization provides an invaluable service to our community.

MAPS first came into my life 6 or 7 years ago at Burning Man. They were involved in a camp named entheon village. Entheon village hosted a series of lectures with speakers from all over the world with different backgrounds. I had just read PIHKAL and was thrilled to know Dr. Alexander Shulgin was in attendance and giving a couple lectures. Dr. Shulgin and MAPS have taught me the value of a psychedelic experience and how to responsibly delve into the mind through psychedelic experience. MAPS is definitely holding the torch when it comes to researching and studying the myriad of positive uses and applications of psychedelic experience. Without organizations like MAPS so much potential could be lost by dogmatic and fearful thinking when it comes to furthering ourselves spiritually and mindfully. Thank You MAPS for demystifying entheogens and showing me how to responsibly and productively explore the mind.

No organisation has helped me more than MAPS. I read about the use of psychedelics in psychotherapy and healing in the early 1960s but was unable to benefit from this promising treatment because clinical use and research was halted by the law. MAPS has been courageous in educating the public and funding research which is finally going forward after so many decades. As a sufferer of severe PDST due to serious injuries and their psychological repercussions I am grateful to MAPS and hopeful that they will succeed in "putting the MD back in MDMA".

I have worked in the past with MAPS and they are an absolutely wonderful organization. I have nothing but praise for MAPS and will continue to volunteer.

Maps is leading the revolution of scientific study into the important area of medecines /tools for the mind. Both healing in the sick and growth /development in the healthy. They're spearheading an evolution of societies attidudes and perceptions with regard to mind altering substances. We live in a maturing society, one in which regulation rather than prohibition will continue to prove the more effective and beneficial policy. The work of maps is an inspiration and an example of what can be achieved with patience perseverance and a solid and righteous philosophy

This may be the only organization that has effectively promoted and executed the research of psychedelic substances for therapeutic benefit in humans. As research in the field of neuroscience progresses, it is being realized that creating therapeutics for the exceedingly complex conditions plaguing the brain is exceptionally difficult. Thus, every available resource that provides either direct therapeutic benefit or opens a new path of discovery should be utilized to its full potential, and the efforts of MAPS is making this possible.

I had known of the existence of MAPS for a good while, but never truly understood the extent of their work until this year's SSDP International Conference. The MAPS booth was staffed with well -informed, courteous, and helpful individuals who were more than happy to walk curious folk through the mission of MAPS, and inform them about the medical benefits of psychedelics and cannabis. Speakers at the conference shed a new and healing light on substances such as MDMA, which is all too frequently misinterpreted as a harmful party drug. Through MAPS's hard work at events like this all over the world, people who might have initially shunned such research are becoming better informed, and more positively responsive. Likewise, patients who are not benefiting from their usual treatments are finding new hope through the use of cannabis and psychedelics. I now receive the MAPS bulletin, and am overjoyed to see how far their boundaries are spreading, and how many people are being healed through their work.

The research organized and sponsored by MAPS is crucial to the future of mental and physiological health. Building real bridges between ancient wisdom and modern science using meticulous medical standards and working directly with the changing tides of public sentiment is significant to many areas of humanitarian interest. Being such powerful medicines, psychedelics can not be ignored nor can they be treated lightly. Developing understanding of these materials with intelligence and compassion is a feat MAPS has been successfully accomplishing for years through diligence and incredibly noble efforts. The importance of MAPS' work to the world and our future can not be stressed enough.

I have been aware of maps for 15 years and I feel that they have been instrumental in re legimitizing the use of psychedelic compounds in medicine and psychiatry. Thier work, research, and funding studies domestically and abroad has been a gift to science and humanity as a whole. Thier publishings are very informative and professionally put together.

This organization is wonderfully helpful is spreading knowledge on previously/currently taboo topics. These guys do a great job de-mystifying and are working hard to share and make into a science, what so much misinformation has kept us in the dark about psychedelics. The tools they offer to the curious searching individual, like myself, has probably saved me from jumping into bad situations and has helped me develop healthy ways of researching and developing a game plan for how I participate (in life and with psychedelics). Much love to MAPS!

I have been a member for a number of years. I always look forward to receiving the MAPS Bulletin, which is filled with fascinating articles. This is science in the true sense of the word, that is, one that is entirely compatible with a religious point of view and a humanistic psychology. There is no other organization like this one. I'm proud to be a member.

Having been a donor and member of MAPS for a number of years, reading their bulletins and attending the latest MAPS conference, I can attest to the remarkable work that Rick and his hardworking team have accomplished. These amazing and powerful plants and drugs have been vilified by the media, being lumped together with dangerous and addictive substances to further the cause of the "War on Drugs". Now thanks to the MAPS team, there are a number of clinical trials in progress throughout the US and other countries researching the safety and efficacy of psychedelics, entheogens and cannabis. I currently support them financially and would like to donate my time in the future.

MAPS is the only effective support I have found when experimenting with MDMA in the course of beating my severe PTSD-symptoms. Antidepressants, tranquillizers and group therapy did not relieve these symptoms. Five years ago, thanks to MAPS I had the courage to take MDMA for a few months, then stop this 'medication' and find myself cured. No more depression from flashbacks, negative feelings and stress anymore!

I have been following MAPS activities and supporting them for approximately 6 years. They continue to do important work for our communities in many different ways.

I have been looking for organizations and opportunities to learn more, become an activist, and get involved. MAPS is always the best source! I can feel positive with every visit to the site, every piece of literature that comes to me, and their projects. When I was a minor, I studied "drugs" via the library, pamphlets, and out-of-date propaganda and was lucky enough to make up my own mind. When I turned the legal age to make my own decisions, I was appalled that there was so much legislation and negativity to such an un-harmful way of life, thought. I think it is time for MAPS to get a stronger base to spread it's good wisdom. I have been fortunate enough to have access to the psychedelic drugs and community that interested me, but I have run into countless numbers of people and organizations that have no access or safety. More so, I have had to educate people on the positive effects of this type of thinking. With MAPS behind people like me, we really can change the thinking and using of the world. We can help remind the pharmaceutical companies, citizens, and sick people that there are alternatives and they are good!

MAPS is doing important and pioneering research that is helping modern culture understand the beneficial healing effects derived from many substances whose efficacy, now anecdotel, has not been clinically proven. As we face the next century, with all the challenges poised by billions of people living with finite resources, I believe this information will add greatly to the tools humanity has available to help us continue to evolve sustainably and democratically.

MAPS is funding research into the medical use of psychedelic drugs, which have amazing potential. Without a doubt we need more data on the efficacy of these drugs to treat illness, and MAPS is leading the way into the light.

I was introduced to MAPS about five years ago and I have been a supporter of their work ever since. The are a group of committed individuals doing work on behalf of many marginalized and suffering people around the world. I give MAPS my strongest support.

I believe in MAPS and the vision and directive of the people behind this organization. To live to see the day when these life changing medicines are accepted and applied in the way that MAPS promotes will allow me to die a happy man!

Research in higher consciousness is a path to save life on our planet --- MAPS fulfills a vital role in raising awareness of the need and opportunities for achieving this end.

I truly and unequivacally believe in both the work that MAPS does and the way they go about it. Rick Doblin, their founder, is an inspiration to me in my own life, in the way he has applied gentle yet unyielding pressure to the powers that stand in the way of truth and justice. Rick Doblin and MAPS are true representatives of the Peaceful Warrior. I also appreciate MAPS embrace of the entirety of the psychedelic community. It would be much easier to only embrace the less controversial research side only.

This organization is dedicated to changing the way our society views psychedelic substances and is the leading voice attempting to show that there are valid medical and spiritual applications to apply them to. I am very happy to be a part of what I consider to be one of the most important organizations and movements in the US today.

Today we face the morass of medical-political structures which continue to deliver obsolete care to our loved ones. Opening minds of those who regulate and deliver care is the our biggest obstacle. Because those "in charge" believe they are in the right the are resistive to options of nature that have been present all along. MAPS does the hard research that can provide the opportunity for change in the regulations and care we offer to our loved ones in the future.....Let's keep it going.

MAPS is a rare and heroic organization dedicated to the relief of suffering and the spiritual evolution of humanity. I personally believe that psychedelics used properly can increase the intellectual and emotional intelligence of our species and network us with other intelligences in the world and in the universe.

This is a fantastic non-profit research group that has helped thousands of people and deserve massive support for their groundbreaking work.

MAPS is doing the extremely important research that will possibly help shift humanity into a new consciousness and out of the mess we've created. All this while at the same time constantly fighting obsolete and uninformed government regulations.

I have experience with MAPS in relation to Kosmicare, the spiritual emergencies places in festivals. It's an incredible experience at all levels.

I did my PhD dissertation research on the psychospiritual effects of ayahuasca retreats. I had very interesting and positve results. I was pleased to be able to present my research at the recent MAPS conference to a large audience of professionals and lay persons. When used appropriately psychedelic medicines can have very positive therapeutic effects. MAPS is one of the few venues that is seriously looking at this.

MAPS has been tremendously helpful and extremely informative. Their contact has been a real plus in my life. Their magazines are most helpful with photos of personnel and content.

MAPS is an amazing organization dedicated to researching the medical possibilities of different substances such as MDMA and Psilocybin. They do work that almost no one else is doing, and have achieved significant results thus far.

MAPS takes a great approach to solving the problems brought about by the drug war. Once we understand substances better we will be able to keep people safer and use drugs to heal more than harm.

Without the ongoing progress of MAPS in the field of psychedelic studies and their commitment to providing unbiased education, the growing movement of medical use of entheogens would not be happening. Keep up the good work!

I have a dear friend who received treatment with MAPS after being stabbed by her husband as he stabbed himself to death at the same time. She died clinically, and fought to return. She succeeded. Her recovery was blessed by the magic of MAPS. Spirit works closely with those who trust and believe.

The misunderstandings surrounding the entirety of the psychedelic community have been rampant since the media got involved in the sixties. MAPS is not only helping clear the fog in terms of public perception of the nature of the fantastic chemical entities known as psychedelics, but they are indeed actively involved in the progressive practice of supporting active research into the clinical utility thereof. Thus, my appreciation of these noble activities is my impetus for support of this great organization.

In my Masters class in Paradigms of Consciousness, we were asked to monitor the media for evidence of a shift from a Cartesian worldview to Perennial Philosophy. The New York Times highlighted the San Jose MAPS conference on Page A1, citing the use of hallucinogens to help depressed cancer patients face death and find meaning in life. My professor, who has had personal experience with ayahuasca, was impressed by my paper.

MAPS has played a key role in assisting Professor Lyle Kraker, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, seek a registration from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration to cultivate Cannabis for clinical research. This long-term project will enable numerous researchers in the U.S. to learn much more about the functioning of the cannabinoid system within the body, and the numerous functions which it regulates. Because of the politicized ostracism of Cannabis and cannabinoid research, MAPS project to create a source of Cannabis for research that is independent of the federal anti-drug bureaucracy is essential to promote basic science. MAPS has demonstrated the vision, competence, and determination to drive this project ahead. This is just one instance of its important work.

This organisation is embarking on a very important task of defining and shaping the tools to aid in the discovery of therapies and medications to help people recover from much ignored and misunderstood states of living in terms of physical and mental health, be it improving or abolishing the sufferring associated with the mental or physical health condition. To put it bluntly most of their goals would not only improve the lives of those in need but vastly improve the lives of the so called 'normal' society we live in. The permutations of their success would no doubt be seen as an evolotionary step forward.

I helped out with as an assistant for one of John Halpern's studies through MAPS at McLean hospital two summers ago. MAPS is a blessing for the world. They are the only ones not only brave enough to share the truth of the power of these sacred medicines but also willing to work through the seemingly insurmountable barriers to letting the world see it. Rock on MAPS show everyone the power of opening to Love.

I suffer from cluster headaches. It was through MAPS site I learned that some people alleviate these cluster headaches through the use of psychedelic mushrooms. When I tried the method, it helped. Also, as a journalist, I have cited MAPS research in my work, and staff members have been helpful when I needed to contact them for information about stories. Thanks, MAPS!

maps is a great org. It have really helped my closed ones to understand the positive effects psych. Substances can have. And is the no1 in studies and information that can help and benefit both individuals and society.

I attended the Maps psychedelic science conference in April and met people that helped me with my dissertation on gay and lesbian people's experience with ayahuasca. I attended presentations on the many uses of psychedelics and how they affect people and attended presentations on ayahuasca. the topic of my dissertation. I was able to meet participants and consult with experts. It was very useful and I eventually met the reader for my dissertation there.

As an advocate for comprehensive drug policy reform the science provided by MAPS is invaluable to overcoming prejudice. In my own life, it was an informational written by MAPS that helped me identify my headache pattern as “Cluster headaches.” As a public supporter of MAPS, I find fellow supporters in the most unlikely places. Most recently, I was at a state political party dinner when the stranger seated next to me brought up a recent MAPS study. We were pleasantly surprised to find one another--between the two of us we educated another 8 people at the table about the important research MAPS supports!

In a world were the powers are against the research and the facts and prefer to be ignorant of the true way things are in this world MAPS has broken through started to get great minds to think alike and to bring others who may never consider that this reaserch is needed in to the fold thank you MAPS

MAPS success will do a great deal for breaking down a part of the Western Culture's ethnocentrism, which I believe is holding our culture back from what it could be. The narrow-minded belief that only "modern scientific medicine is the best for curing people of their ailments" is an approach which does not leave room for understanding and truly accepting the healing methods used by other cultures. In it's wisdom, MAPS is working within our current culture and modern scientific methods to grow an understanding and general acceptance of the great power of psychedelic compounds, the taking of which has been a staple healing method of many indigenous cultures. When Western Culture can look past ethnocentrism and accept the validity of other beliefs, especially in methods of healing, a more well-rounded culture can emerge.

It brings tears to my eyes that finally after centuries of global ignorance, apathy and fear regarding psychedelic medicines a group of people stands up and believes that we as humanity have an obligation to educate ourselves about all the possibilities that science and nature have delivered us. And that includes psychedelics! Helping people who suffer mentally or psychically by giving them these medicines is love and compassion in its purest form. I wish my father had known MAPS before he died of cancer.

I'm new to MAPS but am thrilled to find they exist and are doing this work. I ate Psilocybin mushrooms as a teenager and, though I would not recommend their use to anyone of that age, they had a profound affect on my life. I switched my college major to botany, traveled to India and lived in yoga ashrams for 15 years. I live in the south and have a cow pasture across my driveway. I eat mushrooms 2-3 times per year. I own my own business and am very active in my community. I believe appropriate use of natural mind expanders can greatly enrich one's spirital life.

MAPS is a great organization that helps fund and support research and puts together clinicians and researchers on this value of psychedelic studies and medical treatment. I found their recent conference in San Jose inspirational and hope that they continue to be supported.

I have followed the work of MAPS since its inception and admire their tenacity and how much they have accomplished on a very small budget. No other organization focuses like they do on this important area of medicine.

MAPS performs a service for society that no other organization does. When I was an undergrad in the early 1980's I immersed myself in all the research literature which looked at the possibilities using psychotropic substances for treating mental illness, for enhancing creativity and for spiritual exploration. I wanted to continue at the graduate level, but I could not find any graduate psych programs that would support my efforts. By 1986, the year that MAPS was founded, I had given up my dream of pursuing a career in psychedelic research. My graduate studies went in a different direction. I never looked back, that is until around 2004 when I discovered MAPS. I have been a proud member ever since, supporting their efforts to advance the use of these substances for the benefit of humanity.

I am new to MAPS having attended the San Jose conference two months ago. I must say I was impressed with the turn out and the momentous nature of the event. I am most grateful for the people who have stuck out their necks to push forward this very important research. I am a one who believes that the disciplined use of psychedelics and cannabis can bring huge benefits to society. Without MAPS, I fear that there would be no serious discussion of the merits of these therapies.

In addition having taken various substances both recreationally and experimentaly, I have also read a fair degree of both sides of the arguments for and against the exploration of psychedelics. The outlawing of these substances illustrates the misguided perceptions that some people can have,making the work of M.A.P.S even more important and vital. The open minded attitudes and research of M.A.P.S is essential for the improvement of our understanding of human consciousness and wellbeing,and of course the actions and true effectiveness of these substances. The members of M.A.P.S are to be applauded for their continuing work in what is for some, a controversial area.

MAPS does crucial, diligent and thorough work towards the end of helping humanity make the best use of the psychoactive plants and substances it has been given. In a societal climate that generally ranges from hostile to skeptical, MAPS provides a clearheaded, rational perspective on these substances and their value, while working tirelessly with governments and other agencies to advance the cause of greater health for all.

Overall, I feel that MAPS has helped to promote a postive perspective on the demonized group of psychedelic & entheogenic substances. Being a person who has experimented with these types of substances I firmly believe that without these inhibitors many lives would have no direction and have no true understanding of religous experience. We all need to reform our understanding of this groups of pioneers and their research to help all of mankind evolve in their perspective of the relationship we have with the world around us.

MAPS is important to the world because it is clear to anyone that mind-altering drugs are a powerful force for humanity, but without the people that work at MAPS these findings would stay within the realm of self-help and recreational usage. The work they do is of incalculable importance to society, I know from my own life how big the healing properties of these substances can be. Now lets find ways to apply these effects in a controled manner and help out those who need help. I am an ex bio-medical engineer. I quit because I don't agree too much with the pharmaceutical industry. MAPS gives a wholesome alternative, often getting to the root of the problem where regular medicine just treat the symptoms. With love for the world!

MAPS does terrific work, a voice of reason in a wilderness of lies and distortions. We need more oraganizations like MAPS with the courage to speak truth to power.

My late husband was chaplain to a psychiatric hospital, he had had previous experience of working with addiction, and was a volunteer at both a national and local level for a mental health charity. He felt deeply about the limitations of treatment for mental illness, and the powerlessness and social and economic exclusion that often accompany a mental health problem. In the last years of his life he came across the early research on psychedelics, including the Good Friday Experiment and the work of Stanislav Grof, and was excited about the future possibility of patients with conditions likely to respond to therapy using psychedelics being freed from long term medication and able to gain control over their lives again. He was not aware of MAPS, but I would like to think that at some level of existence he is rejoicing that such an organisation exists, and that their careful research may soon offer hope to people with a wide variety of mental health disorders.

I first heard of MAPS when I was setting up my university's branch of Students for Sensible Drug Policy UK. As someone who, generally, in my life, takes a firm stand for rationalism and against any superstitions/dogmas that stand in the way of humanity's efforts to understand itself and the universe, I can only applaud the tenacity of an organisation that refuses to accept on trust the idea that certain drugs have no legitimate medical uses, and engages in systematic trials to find out whether and to what degree psychedelics can help treat psychological illnesses. Of course, as a long-time opponent of the war on drugs on moral grounds (the idea that someone deserves to be punished simply for one's choice of recreational chemical seems as repugnant as the idea that someone should be punished for their sexual orientation or choice of religion), I must regard MAPS as part of the R&D department of this particular social justice movement, in that it is much harder to demonise people who use a particular drug if that drug has become part of mainstream medicine. I'm just surprised there aren't more organisations doing this kind of work.

MAPS brings together an extraordinary mix of people with widely differing backgrounds, necessarily sharing only a common interest in the topic of psychoactive drugs. The organization acts as an advocate for some of those people, who might have otherwise had no voice at all. In other cases it allows individuals who might have acted on their own to instead cooperate to make a stronger statement. Though the topics MAPS addresses don't always find favor with governmental/business groups, MAPS always marches boldly forward, and combining a principled approach with a core of pragmatism quite skillfully. Bravo to Rick Doblin, and to all the members, associates and hangers-on of the MAPS community.

MAPS is unique. Its pioneering resources & research program provide a depth of quality information and debate that is unequalled anywhere else in the world. [1] MAPS volunteers represent the forefront of knowledge in this valuable territory of brain research. Posting a question to MAPS can provide state-of-the-art discussion and data that I could not have obtained elsewhere. [2] Crucially, MAPS makes its resources freely available (you do not need a membership subscription). Again, pioneering in the belief that access to research should be open to all. I am indebted to MAPS and its volunteers for keeping me updated and informed for the past 15 years. ~ an invaluable rescource. Dr. Helena Watts, Imperial College London, UK.

I know MAPS and the President Rick Doblin since 1990 and I´m amazed how successful MAPS is in providing research in the area of psychedelic medicine. Through steady effort and profound work with experts this is possible. It is very necessary to research these substances for certain areas where common medicine fails.

MAPS helps people to keep abreast with the therapeutic and positive effects of psychedelics. The hype around the bad effects suppresses the immense benefits that can be derived if the same drugs are used in a therapeutic setting under supervision. Its high time to get some real knowledge on the so called drugs our youngsters are using and see if theres any fire behind the smoke. Substances classified as Psychoactive have indubitably been used since the beginning of time across all cultures. And there must be a reason to why our elders were fans of ayahuasca, peyote and mescaline, to name a few. Its time to rediscover that knowledge and use it safely to bring our brains back into balance with nature. We need to know more and be fully informed before we slander substances as "bad". A little knowledge is a dangerous thing. MAPS is the future. Of right info on drugs. We don't trust a government that lets the most violence causing substances sell freely Hint hint! ALCOHOL! yet keeps marijuana, the chill pill like high illegal. Ever heard of domestic violence after ONLY a JOINT? (not taken together with other things, alcohol etc)....we need to be INFORMED! And MAPS does it! Thank you. I do wish you would hold conferences the world over though instead of concentrating them in some areas as i live on the other side of the world and can't really attend them :(. The rest is Good. Thank you. Keep going!!!!

I discovered maps through the internet. I've always been a student of psychedelia and was heartened to see such honest straightforward interest and inquiry into the nature and usefullness of theses substances. To that end I know of no other organization doing such work.

MAPS is a gift to our society. My work as a researcher, mental health clinician, and social justice advocate has been enhanced through the information and diverse perspectives found the organization's healing social and spiritual explorations. For about a year I let me membership laps. This was in reaction to receiving an unhelpful response after I inquired about the MAPS therapist training (mentioned in a research proposal). I basically received a message that to learn more about the therapist training I had to attend the upcoming MAPS conference. Living on the other side of the country and being busy person, going to the conference was not an option. I felt frustrated that this information appeared to be off limits because of my inability to attend this conference. Request for donations and renewal of membership continued to appear in my mail and email box. I considered writing to Rick concerning my experience, and at the same time, I have been busy with other obligations. After receiving a recent MAPS publication on Death and Dying, i decided to set aside the disappointment I felt with my last interaction and renew my membership. I believe in the medicine MAPS provides to cultures. The publication on Death and Dying reminded me of the importance of supporting this organization.

MAPS is an incredible organization working towards a very noble and important cause - to bring the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics into the limelight so millions of patients all over the world can benefit from new treatments. They are the only charity I have come across that is working towards this goal. My experiences with MAPS have all been positive, I wholly support their work and would encourage anyone think of supporting them to do so.

I was introduced to MAPS during research in Ibogaine Studies, and the Harm Reduction movement. Since then, I have joined as a student member, and attended the recent conference in San Jose, CA. I am very impressed with the ability of this organization to pull together such highly talented individuals of such varied backgrounds, who are dedicated to opening the doors to developments that have been waiting in the wings for decades. Working together, using science and rigorous research methods, and on the basis of a social need and on spiritual and cultural expression, to further this important work. Thank you, MAPS, I hope to join you in this work one day soon!

I have been tracking MAPS since shortly before its inception - about 25 years. Astonishingly, MAPS met its ambitious agenda, bridging scientific, social, legal and political hurdles that had hampered researchers for most of a century.

MAPS is the leading and most dedicated organization in the field of psychedelic drugs. They are supporting, conducting and financing groundbreaking research that will help humankind in every possible way. My experience with them is only positive as I have talked to several members and they have always provided me with excellent data and helped explain numerous issues in this field. I know they are conducting a lot of research in Europe (because of legal issues back at the US) and I think they should branch out to (Continental) Europe even more! I personally also think that they should work more closely with established institutes that currently lack their viewpoint and establish research contacts with the 'opposition'.

The MAPS Psychedelic Science Conference in 2010 was a landmark, watershed event, bringing together some great minds and scientists, and the community in general. MAPS is leading the way in a renewal of psychedelic studies, in terms of chemistry, pharmacology, neuroscience, psychology and more, a renewal that is likely to have far-reaching consequences for modern science and society as a whole.

I first got to know about them in a conference about schamanism and psychedelics, in Peru. After that I receive e-mails about what's new in psychedelic research every month. Last month they also forwarded a message of a need for volunteerworkers, at a psychedelic festival in Portugal. I like this a lot because it gave me an option to help out in a way that is possible for me. Donating money is not an option since I'm a poor student. Neither is travelling to the Americas, at the moment, because I live in Europe.

MAPS is a wonderful Non-Profit from whom I receive frequent informative email updates and have attended one seminar about the benefits of re-introducing psychedelic research into the medical system.

MAPS is in a crucial position to make the change in the minds of humanity that must happen for our species to have a future. There is a famous quote by Einstein that goes something like "problems can not be solved by the same minds that created them". This speaks to the necessity of MAPS work to validly research and document the potential of psychoactive medications to positively impact our psychological wellbeing and cognitive potential. A few hours ago I treated in my ED a young veteran suffering from debilitating PTSD. I wish that he and so many others of his peers had access to the incredible treatments that MAPS studies have demonstrated under research conditions.

I have been directly and indirectly involved with MAPS for over a decade now. The doors that have been opened to me as a result of giving my time and energy to such an organization are innumerable. Their vision is clear and their goals are for the higher good. Yeah MAPS!