Psychedelic Research Team Lead: Payton Follestad, ND, MS

Payton Follestad is a fourth-year dual degree ND student striving 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, known as 'the Grandmother of Naturopathic Research,' and Brenna Bray, PhD, the Founder, Director, and CEO of NourishED.

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

Recently, Follestad was named the 2025 Naturopathic Student Researcher of the Year, among numerous other accolades. She has presented her work at both local and national venues, including the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)' 2025 Psychedelic Science 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, a dedicated naturopathic physician and 4th-year student, finalizes her research abstract on the use of Ayahuasca, an indigenous psychedelic plant, as a promising mental health resource for treating 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). A NUNM student leads a clinical research pilot study on Ayahuasca's effects 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 as part of their ongoing clinical research initiatives. 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 for updates on these mental health resources!