About Metanoia

Pioneering psychedelic research for personal growth, creativity, and human flourishing through rigorous science and ethical practices.

Our Mission

To advance the scientific understanding of psychedelics and their potential to enhance personal growth, creativity, and well-being in healthy individuals. We are committed to conducting rigorous, ethical research that expands knowledge of how these compounds can support human flourishing beyond clinical applications.

Our Vision

A world where the transformative potential of psychedelics is fully understood and responsibly harnessed—empowering individuals to achieve greater self-awareness, creativity, and emotional resilience, while fostering a deeper connection to themselves and others.

Our Story

From vision to reality

Metanoia was born from a simple observation: while psychedelic research has made remarkable strides in treating mental health conditions, there remains a vast, unexplored frontier—understanding how these compounds can benefit healthy individuals seeking personal growth, enhanced creativity, and deeper self-awareness.

Founded in 2025, Metanoia brings together researchers, practitioners, and advocates united by a shared vision: to bridge the gap between clinical applications and the broader potential of psychedelics for human flourishing. Our name comes from the Greek word meaning "a transformative change of heart" or "a fundamental shift in thinking"—perfectly capturing our mission to expand understanding of consciousness and personal development.

Our unique hybrid structure—combining a U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit with an Israel-based research affiliate—allows us to pursue our mission with both the rigorous scientific standards expected of academic research and the innovative approaches necessary to push the boundaries of current understanding.

Today, Metanoia stands at the forefront of a new wave of psychedelic research, one focused not on treating pathology, but on unlocking human potential. We believe that by understanding the mechanisms through which psychedelics enhance creativity, foster emotional resilience, and deepen self-knowledge, we can contribute to a more conscious, connected, and flourishing humanity.

Our Approach

The principles that guide our work

Rigorous Science

We employ gold-standard research methodologies, including randomized controlled trials, validated assessment tools, and peer-reviewed publication processes.

Ethical Practice

Participant safety and informed consent are non-negotiable. We follow strict ethical guidelines and maintain full transparency in our research processes.

Open Knowledge

We are committed to sharing our findings widely, contributing to the global body of knowledge and informing evidence-based policy discussions.

Our Team

The people behind our mission

Shraga Israel

Founder & Executive Director

Twenty years of experience transforming ambitious visions into operational realities. Shraga brings deep expertise in organizational development, strategic partnerships, and research administration to lead Metanoia's mission.

Ofir

Co-Founder & Research Director

Leading our research initiatives with a commitment to scientific excellence and ethical practice. Ofir oversees study design, methodology, and ensures our research meets the highest standards of academic rigor.

Advisory Board

We are currently assembling an advisory board of internationally recognized researchers, clinicians, and thought leaders in the psychedelic science field. Stay tuned for announcements.

Our Hybrid Structure

A unique organizational model for sustainable global impact

U.S. Nonprofit

501(c)(3) Public Charity

  • Tax-deductible donations
  • Grant eligibility
  • Public education programs
  • Research oversight & governance
  • Community outreach

Collaborative Partnership

Research Affiliate

Israel-Based Operations

  • State-of-the-art research facilities
  • Clinical study operations
  • Product & protocol development
  • Revenue generation
  • International collaborations

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our organization and work

Unlike most organizations that focus on clinical applications for mental health disorders, Metanoia specifically researches the potential of psychedelics for personal growth in healthy individuals. We explore how these compounds can enhance creativity, self-awareness, emotional resilience, and overall well-being—areas that have received far less scientific attention.

We welcome inquiries from individuals interested in participating in our research. Study participants must meet specific criteria established for each study. Please visit our Volunteer page or contact us directly to learn about current study opportunities and eligibility requirements.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to Metanoia are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Funds directly support our research initiatives, educational programs, and community outreach. We maintain full transparency in our financial reporting, and detailed breakdowns of fund allocation are available in our annual reports.

Metanoia does not promote, encourage, or facilitate recreational drug use. Our focus is on scientific research conducted in controlled, legal settings with appropriate oversight. We believe in evidence-based education that helps individuals make informed decisions, and we advocate for responsible policies grounded in science rather than stigma.

Our U.S. nonprofit (501(c)(3)) focuses on research, education, and community outreach, funded by tax-deductible donations and grants. Our Israel-based research affiliate conducts advanced studies and may develop applications that generate revenue. Profits from the affiliate are reinvested into the nonprofit's mission, creating a sustainable model for long-term impact.

Participant safety is our top priority. All studies undergo rigorous ethical review, participants receive comprehensive screening and preparation, sessions are supervised by trained professionals, and integration support is provided. We follow established protocols developed by leading research institutions and continuously update our practices based on the latest safety research.

We welcome partnerships with research institutions, universities, healthcare organizations, and aligned nonprofits. Partnership opportunities include collaborative research, educational program development, funding initiatives, and advocacy efforts. Contact us to discuss how we might work together toward shared goals.

Ready to Learn More?

Explore our research, read our educational content, or get in touch to discuss how you can be part of our mission.