New State-Approved CU Denver Psychedelic Facilitator Training Program Now Accepting Applications

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) is now accepting applicants for Colorado’s first and only public university-based, state-approved psychedelic facilitator training program—bringing academic rigor and transparency to one of the fastest evolving areas in mental health care.

The 16-week, hybrid program gives future facilitators the tools to legally and ethically guide psychedelic-assisted experiences. CU Denver’s curriculum is grounded in science, a commitment to understanding and serving people from all backgrounds, and public accountability. Approved by Colorado’s Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), the program aligns with the state’s new psychedelic licensure framework. After completing CU Denver’s academic classroom training, students work with partners to complete the additional practical experience required to be licensed to practice as trainees in less than six months.

This fills a critical need as mental health providers and community organizations increasingly view psychedelic therapy as a promising treatment for conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression—just as new policies across the country are making these therapies more accessible.

“This program prepares facilitators to provide psychedelic care safely, responsibly, and with compassion,” said Vivian Shyu, PhD, director of education and training at CU Denver’s Center for Psychedelic Research. “We’re helping to set the ethical and professional foundation for a field that’s still taking shape—and getting it right matters.”

Trainees gain a multidisciplinary understanding of psychedelics while developing three key skills:

• Ethical Integrity: Focuses on client safety, cultural humility, informed consent, respect for boundaries, and knowing when facilitation is not appropriate.
• Psychedelic Expertise: Builds a multidisciplinary understanding of psychedelics, including history, culture, law, and therapeutic contexts—which are all essential for trust and safety.
• Embodied Presence: Cultivates self-awareness, emotional regulation, resilience, and the capacity to remain grounded during intense client experiences.

CU Denver’s program leads the way as a public-sector initiative in a field where private companies have typically led. As Colorado rolls out a regulated model—including licensure, affordable facilitator programs, and structured healing centers—CU Denver is helping define national best practices. With a focus on access and safety, the university is shaping how psychedelic therapy is introduced responsibly to the public.

About Vivian Shyu, PhD, Director of Education and Training
Vivian Shyu is a teaching professor in CU Denver’s Psychology Department, where she is recognized for her expertise in cognitive psychology and neuroscience. Her current research is centered on the patterns of psychedelic drug use and their intersection with legislative changes. Shyu brings experience as a trained, psychedelic-assisted therapy facilitator and actively contributes to this evolving field. Driven by a passion for advancing the science and availability of psychedelic therapies, she is dedicated to developing comprehensive training programs tailored for different types of facilitators. Her goal is to ensure these programs provide robust professional preparation, equipping facilitators with the necessary skills and understanding. Through her work, Shyu aims to foster safe and accessible avenues for psychedelic therapies to benefit diverse communities.

About the University of Colorado Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We’re the state’s premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top ranked bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners—at any stage of their life and career—for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state’s largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $800 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu. 

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