My name is Tal Arnon, and I am a fifth-year PhD student at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS), specializing in Transpersonal Psychology. My passion is combining modern psychotherapy with ancient healing practices to help those suffering from trauma and PTSD. I am reaching out for support to complete my research on the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian plant medicine—for Israelis living with PTSD. This project is deeply personal to me, shaped by over two decades of work in somatic psychotherapy and my own experiences observing individuals in ayahuasca healing settings. I have witnessed firsthand how ayahuasca can create meaningful change for individuals and groups seeking to heal from trauma. My research aims to explore the lived experiences of Israelis with PTSD who have participated in ayahuasca ceremonies, highlighting both the benefits and risks of this approach. By amplifying their voices, I hope to lay the groundwork for integrating alternative therapies into mainstream mental health care in Israel and beyond.

Living in Israel means facing ongoing stress from security threats, military service, and the aftermath of conflict. The recent events have led to a sharp increase in PTSD cases, making the need for innovative, culturally relevant therapies more urgent than ever. My research is designed to address this gap by studying how ayahuasca, when combined with Western healing methods, can offer new pathways for recovery. Funds raised will help cover my tuition for the final semesters, editing services, and essential research travel to San Francisco. With your support, I can complete this important work and contribute to new hope and healing for trauma survivors in Israel. Every contribution brings us closer to a future where effective, compassionate care is available to all who need it.

Some of you have kindly reached out to ask about the cost of my PhD program at CIIS.

At this point:

Dissertation & continuance fees (during advanced research phase): $4,175–$4,311 per semester

Standard semester fees (registration, wellness, tech, student union): around $253 per term

I’ve been deeply fortunate to have a dear friend with a generous heart and a strong belief in the power of this work, who supported me through the first three years of the program. Their help gave me the foundation to make it this far, and I carry their faith with me every step of the way.

As I now step into the final phase — conducting research, writing my dissertation, and bringing this vision to life — I am turning to my wider community for support.

"Just a quick note — Ricky is listed as the beneficiary simply because I can’t open a U.S. bank account. Every donation goes directly toward supporting my PhD journey. I’m so grateful for your help and belief in this work!"

If this research speaks to you, if you believe in the healing potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy, or if you’ve felt the impact of this work personally, your contribution helps carry this project across the finish line.

Every donation — regardless of its size — is a meaningful part of this shared vision.

With deep appreciation,

Tal