Beyond the War Zone: Psychedelics Offer New Hope for Veterans Fighting Inner Battles

For many veterans, the most grueling battles begin long after they leave the battlefield. Haunted by the invisible wounds of war—post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and crushing depression—these warriors often face an uphill struggle to reclaim their lives. Traditional treatments, while helpful for some, often fall short, leaving countless veterans searching for alternative paths to healing.

The groundbreaking documentary In Waves and War, which premiered at this year’s Telluride Film Festival, sheds light on a revolutionary approach: psychedelic-assisted therapy. With raw honesty and powerful storytelling, the film captures the journeys of three retired Navy SEALs—Marcus Capone, Matty Roberts, and DJ Shipley—as they seek relief through unconventional yet profoundly effective means. At the heart of their journey is Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS), a non-profit organization that provides a lifeline for veterans struggling to overcome their mental health challenges.

Founded in 2019 by Marcus and Amber Capone, VETS is reimagining mental health care for veterans. The organization’s approach goes beyond the psychedelic experience itself, embracing a comprehensive model that includes preparation, therapy, and post-treatment integration. This holistic framework helps veterans process their experiences, find meaning in their journeys, and foster lasting change.

The process begins long before veterans take the first step into a psychedelic session. Preparation is key. VETS provides access to trained professionals who guide participants through setting intentions, discussing fears, and understanding what to expect during the therapy. This groundwork creates a sense of trust and safety—essential elements for a transformative healing experience.

During the therapy, substances like ibogaine—known for its potential to treat psychological trauma and addiction—are administered in controlled, clinical settings. Veterans report profound breakthroughs during these sessions, often describing them as life-changing. But the real work begins after the experience. Through integration sessions, participants explore how to apply their insights to everyday life, creating lasting emotional resilience and personal growth.

For Marcus Capone, who co-founded VETS with his wife Amber, the path to healing was not straightforward. A retired Navy SEAL, Marcus battled severe PTSD and depression upon returning home, compounded by survivor’s guilt and relentless nightmares. "I grabbed my pistol every time the doorbell rang," he shared in the documentary. Traditional treatments offered little relief. It was only through psychedelic-assisted therapy that he found a way to confront his pain and begin the journey toward healing.

Amber Capone’s role has been equally transformative. As the CEO of VETS, she has been an outspoken advocate for veterans seeking alternative mental health treatments. "Our veterans have sacrificed so much," she said. "They deserve every opportunity to heal, and that includes access to innovative therapies."

What sets VETS apart is its emphasis on community. Healing doesn’t happen in isolation, and VETS understands the power of shared experiences. Veterans undergoing psychedelic therapy are part of a larger network that provides connection, understanding, and support. The integration programs offered by VETS foster a sense of camaraderie, helping veterans realize they are not alone in their struggles.

This support system is particularly vital for veterans who often feel disconnected upon returning to civilian life. The bonds formed during preparation and integration can help veterans rebuild relationships, regain a sense of purpose, and reclaim their lives.

The transformative potential of psychedelic therapy for PTSD and related conditions is increasingly supported by science. Clinical trials have shown that substances like ibogaine and psilocybin can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. These findings align with the experiences of veterans like those featured in In Waves and War.

Despite these promising results, access to such treatments remains a challenge. Ibogaine, for example, is classified as a Schedule I drug in the U.S., creating legal hurdles that prevent widespread use. Advocacy groups like VETS are working tirelessly to change these laws, pushing for research, education, and policy reform to ensure that veterans can access the treatments they need.

The documentary In Waves and War serves as more than just a film—it’s a rallying cry. It challenges viewers to reconsider how we support veterans and addresses the stigma surrounding mental health and psychedelic therapy. Amber Capone hopes the film will open hearts and minds to the possibilities of these groundbreaking treatments. "We aim to illuminate the urgent need for innovative therapies," she said. "Our mission is to save lives, one veteran at a time."

For the veterans who have endured unimaginable hardships, psychedelic therapy offers more than just relief—it offers hope. By addressing the root causes of their pain and fostering a holistic approach to healing, VETS is helping to rewrite the narrative for those who have given so much. The journey is far from over, but with organizations like VETS leading the charge, a brighter future is within reach.

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