CAN MUSHROOMS SAVE YOUR LIFE? PSYCHADELIC-ASSISTED THERAPY WITH SPECIAL GUEST, DR. STACEY SIMMONS, “THE PHARMACY QUEEN”

Have you ever wondered if something as natural—and as ancient—as a mushroom could help you resolve trauma, reduce depression, or even diminish the fear of death?

On this week’s episode of Love University, we met Dr. Stacey Simmons—psychotherapist and certified psychedelic-assisted therapy practitioner (staceysimmonsphd.com). Her work brings together neuroscience and and plant-medicine research. As the author of Mushroom Pharmacy, Dr. Simmons explores how psilocybin and other psychedelics may support emotional healing, spiritual awakening, and brain transformation.

Here are a few highlights from our conversation:

• What is psilocybin therapy? Dr. Simmons explained that psilocybin—the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms”—has been used for thousands of years in sacred ritual. Today, it’s being clinically studied for depression, trauma, and end-of-life anxiety. Several U.S. states, including Oregon and Colorado, have already approved regulated use in therapeutic settings.
• Microdosing vs. full-dose journeys. We talked about the difference between microdosing (small, sub-perceptual doses taken regularly) and higher-dose “journey” sessions, which can open people to profound experiences of unity, inner clarity, or even a rehearsal of death—helping some individuals release long-held fear or emotional pain.
• The healing comes from preparation and integration. Dr. Simmons emphasized that psychedelics aren’t miracle pills. Safety, psychological screening, and careful integration afterward are essential—especially for those with conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, where use is contraindicated.
• Beyond chemicals: spiritual repair. According to Dr. Simmons, psilocybin can temporarily silence the inner chatter of the “monkey mind,” opening space for deep insight, connection, and awe. She believes these moments remind us that we’re more than our bodies—and can reconnect us with a sense of mystery in an increasingly mechanized world.
• A new kind of medicine. With her clinical practice and book, Mushroom Pharmacy, Dr. Simmons invites us to rethink how healing happens—not just with prescriptions, but with purpose, intention, and reconnection to self and nature.

Dr. Simmons left us with a simple reminder: Mushrooms alone may not save your life—but when used with wisdom, they can help you remember how to live it more fully.

🎧 Catch the full interview now on Love University to explore the intersection of brain science, plant medicine, and personal transformation—with one of the most grounded and inspiring voices in the psychedelic wellness space. Also make sure to follow Dr. Avila on Instagram at @dralexavila