Can Psychedelics Change How We Treat Addiction? Vote for Our SXSW 2026 Panel

Aug 11, 2025

Vote now through August 24 to help bring Can Psychedelics Change How We Treat Addiction? to SXSW 2026!

This panel will explore how outdated drug laws enable predatory “faux-rehab” systems, and how psychedelics, cannabis, and policy reform can open the door to compassionate, science-backed recovery solutions.

Why Psychedelics and Cannabis Could Change Addiction Treatment

Traditional addiction treatment has too often failed the people who need it most. Outdated laws prop up exploitative rehab models, while proven, evidence-based therapies remain out of reach. This panel brings together three powerhouse perspectives to discuss what needs to change:

Shawn Hauser – Legal Perspective: Partner at Vicente LLP, co-chairing the Hemp and Cannabinoids Department and Federal and International Law Group. Shawn helps cannabis, hemp, and psychedelics businesses navigate evolving state and federal laws, focusing on compliance, licensing, and policy reform. She has been a key voice in shaping responsible regulations that support public health.
Dr. Sue Sisley – Pioneering Medical Research: Internal Medicine/Psychiatry physician and President of Scottsdale Research Institute, Dr. Sisley has led FDA-controlled trials on cannabis for veterans and first responders, conducted studies on cannabis for opioid reduction, and secured the only DEA S1 manufacturer license in the U.S. to cultivate natural psilocybin fruiting bodies for clinical trials. She has successfully sued the DOJ/DEA three times to remove barriers to psychedelic research.
Justin Benoliel – Filmmaker & Firsthand Experience: Founding member and Executive Producer of Object & Animal, Justin is a Peabody Award winner and the SXSW Grand Jury-winning filmmaker behind Shuffle, which exposes the insurance-fueled cycle of addiction treatment fraud. Justin brings both lived experience and a professional lens to the conversation.

How to Vote for Our SXSW 2026 Panel on Psychedelics and Addiction Treatment

Panel: Can Psychedelics Change How We Treat Addiction?

Deadline: August 24, 2025

1. Go to: SXSW Panelpicker

(or search “Can Psychedelics Change How We Treat Addiction” on SXSW PanelPicker)

2. Login or create a free SXSW account

3. Click the ❤️ heart icon to “favorite” the session and cast your vote

Vote now through August 24 to make sure this conversation happens on the SXSW 2026 stage!