When Oregon became the first state to legalize psilocybin services, the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board carefully reviewed decades of scientific research. Their goal was to understand where psilocybin could provide the most benefit. One area stood out clearly: substance use disorders—especially alcohol and nicotine dependence.
For many people, quitting smoking or reducing alcohol use can feel nearly impossible. Willpower alone isn’t always enough, and traditional treatment programs don’t work for everyone. That’s where psilocybin can make a difference.
What the Research Shows
A landmark randomized, placebo‑controlled clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry found that individuals with alcohol use disorder who received psilocybin‑assisted psychotherapy reduced heavy drinking by 83%, compared to a 51% reduction among those receiving placebo‑assisted therapy. Nearly half of the psilocybin group achieved complete abstinence, compared to fewer than 25% in the placebo group.
Further reinforcing these results, a phase II double‑blind randomized trial reported significant long‑term reductions in percent heavy drinking days, overall drinking days, and average drinks per day, with effects sustained up to eight months post‑treatment Nature+1.
These findings provide compelling clinical evidence that psilocybin, paired with therapy, could be a powerful tool in helping people with alcohol use disorder make lasting changes.
Why Psilocybin Helps
Psilocybin doesn’t just dull cravings. Instead, it often helps people experience a profound shift in perspective. Many describe a journey as a “reset”—a chance to step outside of the patterns that kept them trapped. For some, that reset opens the door to:
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Recognizing the root causes of addictive behavior
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Feeling compassion toward themselves, rather than shame
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Strengthening their motivation to live in alignment with their values
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Building a new relationship with alcohol, nicotine, or other substances
At Vital Reset in Hood River, Oregon, we’ve seen how this combination of science, preparation, and safe facilitation can help people make lasting changes.
Real Stories of Change
Heidi’s Story
“I wasn’t having a problem with my drinking, but after my psilocybin journey, I lost all desire for alcohol. The nightly glass or two of wine with dinner simply disappeared. I don’t miss it—I just don’t care anymore.”
Michael’s Story
Michael had smoked for more than 25 years. He came to psilocybin feeling skeptical but desperate for a change. During his journey, he experienced a deep sense of compassion for his body and realized how much he wanted to live freely and healthily. Within weeks, he stopped smoking completely. Months later, he told us he no longer feels controlled by cravings.
Stories like these illustrate how psilocybin can shift not just habits, but the underlying mindset that fuels them.
What You Can Expect
While psilocybin shows strong promise, no outcome is guaranteed. Your success will depend on preparation, mindset, and the effort you put into integrating your insights afterward. That’s why we provide:
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Personalized preparation sessions to clarify your intentions and goals
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Safe, supportive facilitation during your psilocybin journey
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Integration support to help you carry your breakthroughs into daily life
You don’t have to do this alone. If you or someone you love is struggling with smoking or drinking, psilocybin may offer the turning point you’ve been searching for.
Take the First Step
At Vital Reset, we’re here to walk beside you. Call us at 541-645-4485 or contact us through our website to talk about whether psilocybin might be the right step for you. Your journey toward freedom can start today.
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A calm scene of a person pouring out alcohol or choosing a non-alcoholic drink (alt text: “Psilocybin treatment for drinking Oregon”)
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A sunrise or new growth in nature symbolizing renewal (alt text: “Safe psilocybin treatment Oregon”)
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A facilitator and client in a calm, supportive environment (alt text: “Psilocybin experience in Oregon service center”)
