NRFi Psychedlic Research Team Lead: Payton Follestad, ND, MS

Payton Follestad is a fourth-year dual degree ND student studying to become a naturopathic physician while concurrently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Research. Follestad studies at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in Portland, OR, under Heather Zwickey, PhD ("the Grandmother of Naturopathic Research") and Brenna Bray, PhD (NourishED Founder, Director, and CEO).

Follestad has strong interests in psychedelic research, the healing power of nature, traditional botanicals, end-of-life care, mental health and physical medicine. She strives to gain knowledge and a conceptual understanding of holistic approaches to medicine and plans to lead the research and development of botanical, plant, and psychedelic practices that facilitate the body’s innate ability to restore optimal health. This goal offers natural based solutions to improve patients’ quality of life while aiming for sustainable health and patient agency.

Follestad was recently named 2025 Naturopathic Student Researcher of the Year, among numerous other accolades. She has presented her work at local and national venues, including the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)' 2025 Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference. Her pioneering work in psychedelic research is reshaping the future of naturopathic medicine.

Follestad has several PubMed Publications underway. Check back for updates!

• AANMC (2025). Payton Follestad, ND, MS Student Finalizes Research Abstract on Use of Ayahuasca, an Indigenous Psychedelic Plant, for Depression. Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANMC). February 2, 2025. https://www.facebook.com/TheAANMC/posts/payton-follestad-a-4th-year-naturopathic-doctorate-and-master-of-science-in-clin/1054024516771999/

• Villarreal, A. (2025). NUNM student leads Ayahuasca pilot study on depression. National University of Natural Medicine, January 28, 2025 (In the News). https://nunm.edu/2025/01/nunm-student-leads-ayahuasca-pilot-study-on-depression/

• National University of Natural Medicine. (2025). Evaluating Ayahuasca’s effect on depression. National University of Natural Medicine, Helfgott Research Institute. https://nunm.edu/research/study-opportunities/participate-in-a-research-study-on-ayahuasca/

• Manuscripts in Prep! Check Back!