About AIS
The Academy of Intrinsic Studies is dedicated to unlocking holistic human transformation through integrated psychedelic education, bridging science, spirituality, and consciousness studies.
Our Mission
"To deliver comprehensive, accredited training that integrates scientific rigor, ethical responsibility, and spiritual wisdom, preparing facilitators for transformative client experiences."
Our Vision
To set the gold standard for facilitator training nationwide, advancing ethical, safe, and integrated psychedelic practices that unlock holistic human transformation.
Integration
Bridging scientific understanding with spiritual wisdom for comprehensive healing
Ethical Integrity
Upholding the highest standards of ethical practice and responsible facilitation
Innovation
Pioneering new approaches to consciousness exploration and healing
Accessibility
Making transformative education available to diverse communities
Our Story
AIS was founded by Dave Naftalin and Kathleen Bruce following transformative experiences with leading psilocybin programs. Driven by a shared vision, they founded AIS to provide rigorous, holistic psilocybin facilitator training.
With the passage of Colorado's Proposition 122, our founders saw an opportunity to create a training program that would set the standard for professional psilocybin facilitation—one that honors both scientific understanding and spiritual wisdom.
Drawing on decades of combined experience in psilocybin research, mental health care, and traditional healing practices, we developed a curriculum that prepares facilitators to work effectively within legal frameworks while maintaining the depth and integrity of this powerful modality.
Today, AIS is proud to be among the first accredited training programs for psilocybin facilitators in Colorado, with a growing community of alumni who are helping to shape the future of psilocybin therapy and wellness.
Our Core Values
Integration
We bridge scientific research with spiritual wisdom, honoring both evidence-based approaches and traditional knowledge.
Ethical Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of ethical practice, prioritizing safety, consent, and responsible facilitation.
Innovation
We pioneer new approaches to consciousness exploration and healing, advancing the field through research and practice.
Community
We foster a supportive network of practitioners dedicated to collective growth, learning, and healing.
Accessibility
We strive to make transformative education accessible to diverse communities through scholarships and inclusive practices.
Personal Growth
We believe that effective facilitation begins with the facilitator's own journey of transformation and self-discovery.
Our Faculty
Learn from leading experts in psychedelic research, mental health, and traditional practices who embody our values of integration, ethical integrity, and innovation.
Dave Naftalin
Co-founder
Pioneering licensed facilitator, advocate for ethical psychedelic therapy with extensive experience in the field.
Kathleen Bruce
Co-founder
Expert educator, legislative advocate, and curriculum developer in natural medicine education.
Kaycie López Jones
Equity Facilitator
Transformational equity facilitator specializing in intercultural education and ancestral psychedelic practices.
Josh Gage
Mental Health Specialist
Mental health crisis therapist, expert in trauma-informed care and youth mental health.
Javan Ward
Strategic Partner & CMO
Marketing leader integrating AI-driven insights with conscious brand practices.
Join Our Community
Become part of a growing network of professionals dedicated to ethical, effective psychedelic facilitation and holistic human transformation.