In July 2023, Australia made history as the first country in the world to legalise psychedelic medicine. Convinced of their potential, filmmaker Xavier Rousset embarks on a global journey to uncover the true impact of these treatments.
But he discovers a harsh truth: The narrow focus on severe mental illness—combined with sky-high treatment costs—means these therapies will have a limited impact on the crisis at hand.
Recognising the imperative to address mental health from a new angle, A Trip to Transformation undergoes a profound shift in perspective.
Beyond treating illness, could psychedelics hold the key to a healthier, more connected world?
Seeking answers, Xavier teams up with visionary psychiatrist Dr. Nigel Strauss, who believes psychedelics hold far greater potential in fostering well-being. Against the stunning backdrop of the Great Ocean Road, Nigel leads a world-first study giving psilocybin mushrooms not to the severely ill, but to healthy people—seeking clues to how psychedelics can proactively enhance wellness, prevent illness, and foster connection.
These findings urge us to rethink how psychedelics can be more effectively integrated into society and healthcare, before it’s too late.
The journey expands internationally. In a rare, in-depth look at legal psychedelic retreats across the U.S. and the Netherlands, Xavier uncovers how these groundbreaking models—inspired by Indigenous wisdom and told through deeply personal stories—are expanding access to transformation, connection, and well-being.
As the film unfolds, Xavier’s mother—a former health and drug educator—starts to question her long-held beliefs as she witnesses her son’s transformation and hears powerful stories of people finding meaning and connection.
With the mental health crisis escalating and traditional care failing, A Trip to Transformation is a journey of hope and discovery; Could psychedelics reconnect society, at a time when we need it the most?
