In 2020, Oregon passed Measure 109, allowing the Oregon Health Authority to create a program where licensed service providers could administer psilocybin-producing mushrooms to people over 21. 

Psilocybin, a natural psychedelic compound found in over 200 species of mushrooms, is said to help with depression, trauma and spiritual well-being. Mary Sheridan, an underground psychedelic guide and advisor at Myco-Vision, spent $10,000 to go through the licensing program but ultimately chose to remain unlicensed to better meet people’s needs. 

Among the many problems Sheridan sees with the licensing program, the fees that come along with being a licensed facilitator would force her to charge high prices. To get these services, people typically have to pay $3,000 or more. Instead, Sheridan offers coaching and support. 

Since she can’t supply clients with the psychedelic substances, they obtain the decriminalized substances themselves. Sheridan can offer referrals for people that she knows have safe and effective products, but doesn’t get involved in the process. 

According to Angela Allbee, the Oregon Psilocybin Services program manager,

the OHA doesn’t have the authority to set or regulate the cost of products or services. “Those are independent businesses that are licensed that determine what their costs are.” 

Sheridan’s clients, Tambi Lane and Angela Goodstein, sought the services for different reasons, but both felt that it helped them significantly. “I felt like it shut me down, rebooted me and upgraded me, is what my experience was,” said Goodstein. Lane saw Sheridan to help her deal with the recent loss of her boyfriend. 

“It couldn’t have gone better,” said Lane. “I remember a couple of times that day, being like, ‘everybody needs to do this.’” With time, these laws and fees may change, making magic mushrooms more accessible in the future. 

According to Allbee, the program hopes to open its rules each year to create more equity and access. “I hope there is soon a way that more people are able to have the experience if they want it,” said Lane. 

@nyu_ajo

♬ original sound – American Journalism Online

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