Board President Of Arlington Nonprofit Completes MDMA Therapy Training

ARLINGTON, MA — Melissa Parker, Board President of HOPE (Healing Options for Post-traumatic Experiences) has completed the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) MDMA Therapy Training Program.

With 100-hours of clinical training under her belt (60-hours asynchronous online and 40-hours in-person), Parker said the the program has facilitated her learning of the theory, skills, and practice of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy.

MDMA (3,4- methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is anticipated to receive FDA approval in 2023. According to HOPE, results from phase 3 clinical trials have shown that MDMA, when used in conjunction with psychotherapy, offers a safe and effective way to catalyze the therapeutic process for survivors who live with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Phase 3 MAPS clinical trials reveal that 67 percent of study participants no longer qualified for a diagnosis of PTSD and 88 percent of participants experienced a clinically significant reduction in symptoms.

“MDMA-assisted psychotherapy allows individuals to stay regulated while continuing to be present and connected to the therapeutic process,” Parker said in a statement. "It creates a safe environment for therapists to help survivors process their trauma and achieve inner healing in a lasting way.”

"I am living proof of the positive impact of MDMA – my personal experience encouraged me to become a therapist, and to be a strong voice and advocate for survivors to have access to specialized treatment,” she added. "I was so impressed by how hard many of my fellow MAPS trainees are also working to drive patient access to this important therapy.”

HOPE works to overcome the barriers to accessing quality care and treatment for trauma survivors who are part of marginalized populations, including and especially people of color and those living in poverty.

For more information, or to become a volunteer or donate, visit hopeoptions.org.