Dr. Stacey Simmons will take the floor later this month at Vroman’s Bookstore to discuss something once relegated to countercultural fringes: the healing power of psychedelic mushrooms.
With the publication of her new book, Mushroom Pharmacy, Simmons—who holds a Ph.D. in psychology and is a certified psychedelic therapist—is poised to offer an authoritative, science-backed guide to psilocybin’s growing role in mental health treatment.
“Mushrooms are not just a relic of the ‘60s,” Simmons asserts in her book. “They have the potential to rewrite the way we approach healing.”
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, has captured the attention of researchers, therapists, and policymakers alike. Studies have suggested its efficacy in alleviating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Yet, despite promising clinical trials, its use remains legally complex.
Simmons’ work distills decades of research into a practical guide, offering insight into everything from the neurological mechanics of psilocybin to microdosing practices and responsible psychedelic therapy. She also ventures into the delicate terrain of self-cultivation and foraging—topics that remain contentious in the legal landscape.
The event will provide Pasadena’s community with an opportunity to engage directly with an expert at the forefront of this evolving field. As psychedelic-assisted therapy gains mainstream credibility, discussions like these contribute to a larger dialogue about its role in the future of medicine.
Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101. (626) 449-5320. vromansbookstore.com. Event: Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Free admission.
