Brian Pilecki, Ph.D.
I have been interested in working with psychedelics since 2000 when I discovered their potential to help with mental health problems and aid in personal growth and spiritual exploration. After studying psychedelics, non-ordinary states of consciousness, and meditative and contemplative traditions while earning an M.A. at the California Institute of Integral Studies, I then moved on to a more mainstream PhD clinical psychology and specialized in mindfulness-based therapies, anxiety disorders, and trauma. I currently work as a study therapist on several clinical trials, including MDMA-assisted therapy for social anxiety and 5-MeO-DMT for depression. I also regularly train other clinicians in psychedelics, including serving as an instructor for Fluence’s psilocybin facilitation certificate program. Through my work as a researcher, trainer, and therapist for clients who use psychedelics, I have a deep understanding of current best practices in the field. I am so excited to be able to offer psilocybin sessions as part of Oregon's Psilocybin Services program!
I was originally drawn to the mental health care field out of a desire to help others. While psychotherapy is one effective method that helps a lot of people, it also has limitations. Psychedelics, when taken in the right conditions, can have powerful and transformative effects on people's lives. I am continuously inspired by hearing stories about how psychedelics have led to positive growth and change. However, psychedelics are not a miracle cure, require effort to implement, and may not be helpful for everyone. In addition, as a gay or queer cis-male, I have experienced privilege and advantage for some aspects of my identity, as well as oppression and harm due to other aspects. It is therefore important to me to welcome clients of all backgrounds in regard to race, sexuality, gender identity, or any other identity.
If we work together, my main goal is to create a sense of safety and trust so that you can fully let go into your psilocybin experience. I also emphasize the importance of preparation before the experience and integration afterwards so that benefits you experience are more likely to last. After decades of experience with psychedelics, I have seen all kinds of journeys and know that each person's path is unique. I strive to create a relationship where your beliefs and worldview are centered, and welcome clients who identify as religious, spiritual, atheist, or who aren't sure. While I bring a grounded and respectful attitude to the journey space, I also value humor and a light-hearted touch, and consider it a privilege to be able to do this work and be part of your journey.
- Licensed Psychologist: Portland Psychotherapy Clinic, Research, & Training Center
- Study therapist: MDMA-assisted therapy for the treatment of social anxiety disorder
- Psychedelic therapy trainer: Fluence
- Affiliate Faculty: Oregon Health and Science University
- Author: ACT-Informed Exposure for Anxiety
- Podcast Host: Altered States of Context
- Co-Founder: Portland Integration Network
- Postdoctoral Fellow: The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
- Ph.D. Clinical Psychology: Fordham University