Bend Service Center Launched Veteran Therapy Program
A new initiative in Bend now covers the cost of psilocybin-assisted therapy for military veterans.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Military Jobs
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Drop Thesis and the Returning Veterans Project have launched The Path Forward Program, a sponsored initiative providing free psilocybin-assisted therapy to veterans. The program removes financial barriers by utilizing corporate sponsorships to cover the full costs of care.
Why it matters
Many veterans face significant financial hurdles when seeking specialized mental health treatments. This new model ensures that cost does not prevent access to potentially transformative care for those who have served.
Since 2005, the Returning Veterans Project has served 5,200 individuals. The new initiative follows a pilot trial where 75% of veterans achieved remission from severe PTSD one month after treatment.
The players
Drop Thesis
This facility is a licensed psilocybin service center located in Bend that provides clinical care for the program.
Returning Veterans Project
This organization provides free health services to veterans and their families across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
The Ohio State University
This research institution conducted a pilot trial analyzing the efficacy of psilocybin for veterans with PTSD.
Department of Veterans Affairs
This federal agency is currently researching psilocybin as a treatment for veterans through its PIVOT study.
The details
The program includes a comprehensive process featuring preparation, a psilocybin session, and integration support. The Returning Veterans Project manages veteran eligibility and funds, while Drop Thesis provides the clinical environment for the therapy sessions.
Timeline
The Returning Veterans Project began operations in 2005.
Drop Thesis opened its facility in Bend in 2023.
The Ohio State University trial was published in July 2026.
The Path Forward Program was launched on September 24, 2026.
The VA PIVOT study will enroll veterans through 2031.
Market Landscape
The program extends the clinical exploration of psychedelic medicine currently being undertaken by the Department of Veterans Affairs PIVOT study. This initiative aligns with a growing industry trend of integrating alternative therapies into established veteran mental health care models.
Veterans in the Bend area who meet eligibility requirements can now access psilocybin-assisted therapy without personal out-of-pocket costs. Those interested must coordinate directly with the Returning Veterans Project to determine their specific coverage eligibility.
The takeaway
This partnership demonstrates a new model for funding mental health services through private corporate support. Veterans interested in the program should contact the Returning Veterans Project to understand the full scope of their eligibility criteria.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest resources for regional service members in our Military Jobs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTVZ.
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