Microdosing Psychedelics: A Gentle Nudge for the Mind and a Companion to Therapy
By Dr. Denise Renye
Over the weekend, I went to a book reading/launch by James Fadiman, one of my former teachers, for his new book on microdosing. Fadiman has been at the forefront of psychedelic research for decades, and his work on microdosing has brought a lot of attention to its potential benefits—especially in supporting mental health, creativity, and neuroplasticity.
At the event, Fadiman shared a story that stuck with me. He talked about a therapist colleague of his who won’t even work with people unless they’re microdosing. While that’s a bold stance, it reflects how profoundly some therapists believe in its ability to support healing. I don’t take such a hard line, but I have worked with many people who microdose, and I’ve seen firsthand how it can be a helpful tool—though not a cure-all.
As I listened to Fadiman speak, I found myself thinking back to a time in my life waaay before I became a psychologist, when I worked at Party City.
It was one of my jobs I had during undergrad—blowing up balloons, folding costumes, and learning how the rush of Halloween could make or break your shift. One of the middle managers there had multiple sclerosis (MS). He was deeply affected—his movements were slow and deliberate, his speech careful, his energy unpredictable. Some days, he was sharp and steady; other days, you could see the effort it took just to stand and talk.
At the time, I didn’t have as deep of an understanding as I do now about neurodegeneration or nervous system regulation, but I could see how hard his body and mind were working to keep up. As I sat in that book reading, I couldn’t help but wonder: what if he had access to something like microdosing? Could it have made his days a little easier? Could it have helped his brain find new pathways around the damage, giving him more ease, more connection, more presence?
How Microdosing Supports the Brain
Microdosing works by gently stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which plays a role in mood, cognition, and perception. One of the most exciting aspects of psychedelic research is its potential for neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons) and neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to rewire and adapt).
Small, regular doses of psychedelics—too low to cause hallucinations—have been found to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps neurons grow and form new connections. Typically people micro with psilocybin or LSD. In practical terms, this means microdosing might support the brain in breaking out of rigid patterns—whether those patterns are related to trauma, depression, anxiety, or even neurological conditions like MS.
For someone like my old manager, whose nervous system was struggling to keep up, microdosing might have helped his brain create new pathways, offering even a small improvement in function. And for those navigating mental health challenges, it offers a similar possibility—to gently shift the brain into new ways of thinking, feeling, and relating.
Microdosing as a Companion to Therapy
As a psychologist and sex therapist, I don’t see microdosing as a magic cure, but I do see it as a potential ally in the therapeutic process. Here’s why:
It Can Help Loosen Emotional Blocks: Some people come to therapy feeling stuck, like they’re trapped in the same thought patterns or emotional cycles. Microdosing has been reported to enhance cognitive flexibility, making it easier to access new insights and perspectives.
It Supports Trauma Healing: Trauma can get “wired” into the nervous system, keeping people locked in fight-or-flight mode or disconnected from their emotions. By encouraging neuroplasticity, microdosing may help the brain create new pathways beyond survival mode and into deeper healing. More research is needed.
It Enhances Mind-Body Awareness: As someone who works somatically, I know how vital it is for people to reconnect with their bodies. Microdosing, particularly with psilocybin, is known to heighten interoception—awareness of internal sensations—which can support embodiment practices in therapy.
It Can Foster Creativity and Problem-Solving: Whether it’s breaking old relationship patterns, working through sexual concerns, or rediscovering passion, microdosing is often associated with an increased sense of curiosity and openness—both valuable qualities in therapy.
Could Microdosing Be a Panacea?
Some people talk about microdosing as if it’s a panacea—something that can heal everything from depression to chronic pain to creativity blocks. Is it? I don’t know. It certainly holds promise, but more research is needed. The early studies and anecdotal reports are compelling, but we still don’t fully understand its long-term effects, optimal dosing strategies, or how it interacts with different mental health conditions.
What I do know is that for some people, microdosing has been life-changing. For others, it does nothing at all. And for some, it can trigger anxiety or discomfort. Like any tool, its effectiveness depends on the person using it, their unique neurochemistry, and the context in which it’s used.
Things to Consider
If you’re curious about microdosing, it’s important to approach it with care and intention. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
It’s Not a Quick Fix: Microdosing works best when paired with self-reflection, therapy, or other healing practices.
Legal and Safety Considerations: Psychedelics are still illegal in many places, and it’s essential to be informed about the laws and potential risks.
Everyone’s Experience is Different: Some people feel noticeable benefits, while others don’t respond at all. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.
I keep thinking about my old manager at Party City—how he showed up every day, doing the best he could with what his body allowed. And I think about all the people now, struggling with mental health challenges, chronic stress, or the effects of trauma, looking for something that might offer them a little more ease, a little more possibility.
The mind is not static. It can grow, heal, and change, even in small ways. Microdosing is one possible way to support that process—a gentle nudge in the direction of healing. And sometimes, that’s all we need to begin moving toward something new.
If you’ve explored microdosing or are curious about it, I’d love to hear your thoughts. What has your experience been? Reach out if you wish to connect.