The University of Wisconsin-Madison Psychedelic Symposium took place on November 13–14, 2025, in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. Attended by researchers, clinicians, indigenous studies specialists, anthropologists, chemists, historians, journalists and beyond, this conference is a convergence of multiple specialties from every corner of the psychedelic space. The symposium’s interdisciplinary nature surfaced key insights, particularly regarding the differing ways psychiatrists and bench scientists interpret psychedelic trial outcomes. While data-focused researchers emphasized missed statistical thresholds, clinicians highlighted the practical value of therapies that benefit a substantial proportion of patients despite mixed results, demonstrating the importance of engaging diverse viewpoints in psychedelic drug development. There was also a strong emphasis on compounds that are structurally and mechanistically related to psychedelics yet are distinct from traditional psychedelic agents.

This year’s theme was “Reset,” reflecting how psychedelic therapy’s modern resurgence has prompted a critical shift toward regulatory rigor, methodological standardization, and commercially scalable models. This transition from historically sensationalized and controversial approaches to evidence-backed paradigms will prepare both the healthcare industry and the general public for a potential FDA approval in the coming years.

Echoing psychedelic-assisted therapy paradigms, this report is divided into three sections. Preparatory covers preclinical research, Administration consists of presentations relating to the psychedelic-assisted therapy paradigm, and Integration focuses on the broader social, political, and economic considerations of bringing psychedelics to the global market.

To view the full report, select Download Report PDF at the top of this page.