Lauren shares insights from her work at Imperial College London, where she contributed to research on psilocybin for anorexia and fibromyalgia, as well as DMT for treatment-resistant depression. She reflects on the limitations of purely individual therapeutic models and explores how group-based approaches can foster deeper healing through connection, shared experience, and what she describes as communitas.

The conversation also touches on the contrast between clinical and ceremonial settings, the role of group dynamics in emotional processing, and the challenges of access and affordability as psychedelic therapy expands.

In this episode, we speak to Dr Lauren Macdonald, a psychiatrist, psychedelic therapist, and group retreat facilitator. She details her path to psychedelics, in particular her cancer diagnosis that left her with existential dread that she felt fully dissipate only after a psychedelic experience. She goes on to discuss her interest in group retreats and treating existential distress. Before closing, she explains problems with the current medical model in the UK and where psychedelics fit.

In our latest Oncology Revolution Podcast, we dive deep into a holistic approach to mental & emotional health in oncology with Dr. Lauren.

From navigating the emotional rollercoaster of an advanced cancer diagnosis to exploring body-mind practices like yoga and mindfulness, this episode offers invaluable insights for both cancer patients and survivors.

We also talk about:
- The difference between healing and curing
- How to slowly recover emotionally and spiritually
- The potential of psychedelics for trauma in cancer survivors

Could psychedelics start a new era for women's health?

What happens inside a psychedelic retreat?

Meet Dr. Lauren Macdonald - a psychiatry doctor, group retreat facilitator and psychedelic therapy guide. She worked with patients in psychedelic clinical trials at Imperial College London and now leads psychedelic retreats around the world. Her approach includes integrating traditional and Western medicine. In this episode, you'll hear what happens at The Reconnection, Lauren's bi-annual retreat for women.