Alberta Psychedelics Startups Collaborate Ahead of Expected MDMA Legalization in Canada

LOS ANGELES- Two emerging Alberta-based psychedelics startups, ATMA Journey Centers and Cena Life, are forging a partnership in anticipation of the potential legalization of MDMA-assisted therapy in Canada come 2024. The strategic alliance aims to broaden the reach of psychedelic therapy across Canada, providing more patients with legal and regulated therapeutic avenues.

At present, Canadian residents seeking legal psychedelic treatment must navigate a federal special access program, which grants permission for therapy on an individual basis to both providers and their patients. However, both ATMA and Cena Life hope to simplify this process. Their combined vision involves establishing standardized practices for psychedelic therapy clinics nationwide.

With existing psychedelic therapy clinics in Edmonton and Calgary, and plans for further expansion in the near future, Cena Life has positioned itself as a notable player in the sector. Meanwhile, ATMA’s expertise lies in connecting patients with appropriate providers, facilitating clinical trials involving psychedelics, and fostering the growth of psychedelic healthcare professionals.

Vu Tran, ATMA’s CEO, emphasized the need for the integration of psychedelic therapy into the existing healthcare system, remarking, “To achieve wide accessibility and legalization, a solid bridge to the healthcare system is paramount. Cena Life’s extensive knowledge of the Canadian health care landscape will be invaluable in this regard.”

The partnership’s timing is crucial. Both companies are prepping for what they believe will be the green light from the Canadian government on MDMA-assisted therapy in 2024. Such a development could potentially set the stage for the broader legalization of other psychedelics, further invigorating the sector.

Reverdi Darda, CEO of Cena, noted the synergy between the two companies: “Collaborating with ATMA boosts our capacity to advance our mission dramatically.” Darda added, “Our combined goal is to pave the way for a nationwide network of clinics that uphold values of safety, regulatory alignment, and excellence. We’re not just looking to facilitate access to therapies like psychedelic and ketamine-assisted treatments, but also to usher therapists nationwide into this transformative movement.”

Addressing the past challenges faced by those seeking psychedelic therapies, Darda further stated, “We recognize that many had to turn to underground sources for support. Our primary objective is to guarantee access to care in programs that are not only rooted in Alberta’s standards but are also adaptable to the evolving regulatory environment of the country.”