Dr. Shannon Hughes teaches, consults and conducts research on how we use psychoactive drugs and medicines in our society today. She has been a leader in articulating a uniquely Social Work perspective on the use of prescribed psychoactive drugs for treating mental health problems. She has developed and delivered education and training to professional social workers, counselors, and the public about ethical psychopharmacology and the field of psychedelics. Dr. Hughes is an Associate Professor in Social Work at Colorado State University and in the Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Colorado School of Public Health. She is a founding member of The Nowak Society, 501c3, a Colorado-based non-profit involved in community education and organizing around empowered relationships with drugs and medicines. She also serves on the Larimer County Behavioral Health Technical Advisory Committee, and consults on behavioral health and psychedelic advocacy in the legislative and policy arenas. 

Dr. Rob Colbert earned his Masters degree in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology from Naropa University and his doctorate at the California Institute of Integral Studies. Dr. Colbert’s research explores the experiences of adult couples who use MDMA recreationally and the perceived benefits of MDMA use on their relationships. Dr. Colbert is a therapist for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy organized by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, and is a founding member of the Psychedelic Research and Training Institute in Fort Collins. In his private practice as a psychotherapist, Dr. Colbert specializes in working with young adults, non-ordinary states of consciousness, psychedelic integration, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. He is a founding Board Member of the Colorado non-profit, The Nowak Society, which provides education, training, and advocacy around refining our relationships with drugs and medicines. 

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this training are solely those of the trainer and do not necessarily represent those of the Colorado Counseling Association. The primary purpose of this training is to educate and inform mental health professionals. The CCA seeks trainers who are experts on the topic presented; however, the CCA does not endorse any trainer. The CCA is not responsible and does not verify any of the information contained within this training for accuracy. This training does not constitute mental health or other professional advice, consultation/supervision, or services.This training is available for private, non-commercial use only. Advertising incorporated into, placed in association with, or targeted towards the content of this training without the express approval and knowledge of the CCA Governing Council, is forbidden. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this training. The CCA assumes no liability for any activities in connection with this training or the use of this training in connection with any other website, computer, or playing device.