Boulder is buzzing with excitement over Payton Follestad, ND, MSR Student, who’s been named Boulder’s 2025 Naturopathic Student Researcher of the Year. Her groundbreaking work in psychedelic research is reshaping the future of naturopathic medicine.

Payton Follestad is an ND, MSCR student at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in Portland, OR. She is also a Research Associate and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Research Team Lead at the NourishED Research Foundation, based here in Boulder, CO

Bridging Two Worlds

Follestad studies at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in Portland, OR. She’s a fifth-year student pursuing a dual degree as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) and Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR). At the same time, Follestad leads the Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Research Team at NourishED Research Foundation, based right here in Boulder and recently awarded Boulder’s Nonprofit Organization of the Year.

Follestad’s mentors include Heather Zwickey, PhD—known as the “Grandmother of Naturopathic Research”—and Boulder’s own Brenna Bray, PhD, recently honored as Health Coach, Advocate, and Researcher of the Year.

She combines clinical training with cutting-edge research and stands at the crossroads of naturopathic healing and psychedelic science.

Research That Matters

Follestad’s research focuses on the healing potential of psychedelic medicines. She studies how these substances impact mood, inflammation, gut health, and even gene expression. She also works to ensure psychedelic use follows strong medical and ethical standards.

Follestad, a 5h Year ND, MSCR student, was recently awarded a Certificate of Excellence for her research presentation at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)’ Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference.

One of Follestad’s key projects is an anonymous observational study on Ayahuasca, which examines its effects on both psychology and biology (study flyer shown below).

Follestad’s work helps legitimize psychedelic medicine in places where it’s often misunderstood or misused.

Leading with Vision

Follestad doesn’t just follow trends—she helps set them. Her research, writing, speaking, and advocacy expand the boundaries of what naturopathic doctors can do. She’s part of a growing movement that blends science with spirit, and she’s helping lead the way.

Follestad’s LinkedIn profile reads like a roadmap for the future of integrative mental health. It’s no wonder she was recently honored with a Certificate of Excellence for her research presentation at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)’ 2025 Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference.

Boulder’s Student Researcher to Watch

In a city known for bold ideas and holistic health, Follestad stands out as our 2025 student researcher to follow. Her mix of research skill, clinical insight, and fearless curiosity makes her one of Boulder’s brightest minds.

Follestad isn’t just studying psychedelics—she’s redefining what healing can look like.

The Future Is Now

Payton Follestad is more than a student. She’s a changemaker. Her work opens new doors for doctors and patients alike, proving that science and soul can work together.

Boulder proudly celebrates her achievements—and eagerly awaits her next moves.

👉 Learn more about Follestad’s research: Ayahuasca Study at NUNM.

Brenna Bray

Dr. Brenna Bray, a local health and wellness coach, stress researcher, associate professor, and avid ultra-marathon mountain runner, holds PhDs in Biomedical Science, Neuroscience, and Complementary and Integrative Health. Her journey through an eating disorder fuels her dedication to coaching, merging personal experiences with scientific expertise. Through her practice, Bray empowers clients to access and harness their innate healing abilities and achieve remarkable health and wellness transformations. Committed to community engagement and holistic well-being, Dr. Bray shapes a brighter, healthier future for all. Learn more about Dr. Bray at www.brennabray.com.