Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy & Integration

A grounded, trauma-informed and psychologically rigorous approach for PTSD and Treatment Resistant Depression

Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is an emerging area of mental health practice that brings together neuroscience, depth psychology, and carefully supported altered states of consciousness.


My work in this space honours the ancient and indigenous application of plant medicine within a clinically grounded Australian medical framework.

In Australia, this work is delivered through multidisciplinary clinical models, with a strong emphasis on safety, preparation, and integration. Treatment is structured across three interrelated phases:

  • Preparation – assessment, readiness, and psychological resourcing

  • Medicine-assisted sessions – delivered within a medical and psychiatric framework

  • Integration – supporting meaning-making, consolidation, and real-world change

This phased approach reflects the importance of psychological safety and continuity of care.


A Clinically Grounded Approach
My approach is grounded in clinical psychology, nervous system science, trauma-informed care, and ethical practice, with a strong emphasis on preparation, integration, and psychological containment.

While psychedelic experiences can be meaningful, insight alone is not treatment.

From a psychological standpoint, the therapeutic value of psychedelic-assisted therapy depends largely on the care, containment, and integration that surround the experience. Depth, pacing, and readiness are prioritised over speed or outcome-driven approaches.

This work is approached with care, restraint, reverence and respect for the complexity of the human psyche.

As Clinical Director of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy at The Health Lodge, I help lead a pioneering multidisciplinary program designed to support individuals healing from treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.

Learn More

Learn More at The Health Lodge, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Clinic

A grounded, trauma-informed and psychologically rigorous approach for PTSD and Treatment Resistant Depression

Key Topics
& Signature Talks

A grounded, trauma-informed and psychologically rigorous approach for PTSD and Treatment Resistant Depression

  • Dr. Paula Watkins’ presentation at our recent MCAS Conference was nothing short of spellbinding. She has a rare gift for weaving modern neuroscience and psychology with the ancient mystic arts of healing, creating a deeply resonant and transformative experience for everyone in the room. Her ability to bridge science and spirit so seamlessly left us captivated, I could have listened to her all day. Dr. Watkins embodies the future of integrative healing, where intellect and intuition unite to illuminate the path to wellness.

    Reine DuBois, Clinical Director, The Health Lodge

  • "Dr. Paula Watkins’ presentation at our recent MCAS Conference was nothing short of spellbinding. She has a rare gift for weaving modern neuroscience and psychology with the ancient mystic arts of healing, creating a deeply resonant and transformative experience for everyone in the room. Her ability to bridge science and spirit so seamlessly left us captivated, I could have listened to her all day. Dr. Watkins embodies the future of integrative healing, where intellect and intuition unite to illuminate the path to wellness."

    Reine DuBois, Clinical Director, The Health Lodge

  • Conferences

    Paula presents at practitioner trainings and professional conferences with a focus on trauma-informed care, nervous-system science, and integrative psychology — blending clinical depth with real-world application.

  • Interviews

    Available for both public and practitioner-facing interviews — online or in person — Paula offers grounded, insightful commentary and actionable takeaways on topics ranging from parenting and mental health to psychedelic-assisted therapy.

  • Women & Parenting Events

    Paula brings a deeply human, science-meets-soul approach to public events — sharing practical, empowering tools for navigating motherhood, stress, and healing in everyday life.

 Contact me

  • Based in Byron Bay, Australia — available for interstate and international speaking engagements.

  • For invitations to speak, media features, or collaboration opportunities, please get in touch at contact@drpaulapsychology.com.

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