Experts urge competency-based training, not a single new credential, for psychedelic care

At an FDA public hearing on potential therapeutic uses of psychedelic drugs, clinicians and educators emphasized that workforce readiness must focus on demonstrable competencies and supervised practice rather than a single, costly credential that would limit access.

Heidi Allen, a consultant for a multidisciplinary training group, told the panel she supports embedding training in clinical curricula: "WE ARE SCALING PSYCHEDELIC EDUCATION NATIONALLY ACROSS UNIVERSITIES AND DISCIPLINES." Allen and other speakers said nurses, peer-support specialists and therapists should be integrated into multidisciplinary teams rather than creating an additional certification layer that duplicates existing clinical licensure.

Erin Atkinson, a licensed clinical social worker, said the work requires preparation and long-term integration: "PSYCHEDELIC TREATMENT DOES NOT ALWAYS UNFOLD IN A STRAIGHT LINE." Atkinson urged ongoing clinical consultation and competency-based continuing education to maintain standards of care.

Rajan Dunne, a psychiatrist with experience in many trials, argued psychiatric oversight is essential for many indications, saying, "GOOD PSYCHEDELIC CARE REQUIRES THE FULL SCOPE OF PSYCHIATRIC EXPERTISE." He recommended models that ensure psychiatrists remain available for complex diagnostic and safety decisions.

Speakers collectively recommended supervised practicums, simulation-based assessment, national registries of clinician competencies, and pathways that allow practitioners in rural and underserved areas to participate under scope-of-practice rules. They warned that overly prescriptive provider requirements could create workforce bottlenecks and worsen inequities.