Invi MindHealth, a startup based in Denver, has been awarded $4 million by the federal government to study the effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy on veterans. The company, founded by U.S. Navy SEAL veteran Jonathan Wilson, aims to address mental health challenges faced by veterans and first responders.

Innovative Approach to Veteran Mental Health

Invi MindHealth’s primary product is an app that uses biometrics to measure mental health. The company will provide 50 veterans with Oura Ring devices to track health signals during their therapy sessions at a healing center in Mexico. The study will focus on the effects of psilocybin and ibogaine, naturally occurring psychedelics, on veterans’ mental health.

Wilson, who has personally experienced the benefits of psychedelic therapy, emphasizes the importance of this research in helping veterans cope with trauma. The study is part of a broader initiative supported by an executive order from the Trump administration, which allocated funds to explore psychedelic drugs for serious mental illnesses.

Collaborative Research Efforts

Invi MindHealth is collaborating with Baylor University researchers to monitor changes in veterans’ biometrics and mental health throughout the study. The project aims to identify biomarkers that can predict rapid improvement and the durability of therapeutic effects.

The company’s research is part of a growing interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy, which has shown promising but varied results. While some individuals report significant improvements, others may experience challenging sessions. Colorado, where Invi is based, has relaxed its laws on psychedelics, allowing personal possession of substances like psilocybin and ibogaine.

Wilson’s vision for Invi MindHealth is to provide data that demonstrates the impact of psychedelic therapies on mental health, potentially influencing future treatment options for veterans and other communities.

Original reporting: Denverite — read the source article.