Matt Zorn on ibogaine, psychedelics policy at HHS

Matt Zorn's Transition to HHS

Matt Zorn, Deputy General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), recently discussed his new role in shaping U.S. psychedelics policy, including ibogaine, during an interview at The Psychedelic Healthcare Forum in New York. Zorn, who joined HHS in May 2025, was previously known for his legal challenges against the federal government on drug policy issues, including cannabis rescheduling and patient access to psilocybin under the Right to Try Act.

From Legal Adversary to Government Insider

Before joining HHS, Zorn was a prominent legal adversary of federal drug policies, often challenging the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and HHS itself. His legal work included opposing the DEA's proposed scheduling of psychedelic tryptamines. Now, as a key figure in HHS, Zorn has become a central player in the department's efforts to address psychedelics, earning him the informal title of "psychedelics czar."

The Executive Order on Psychedelics

Zorn played a significant role in the development of President Trump's April 2026 executive order focused on psychedelics. This order is part of a broader government effort to explore new solutions to the mental health crisis. Zorn noted that many within the government, regardless of political affiliation, are eager to advance psychedelics as a potential tool in addressing mental health issues.

Why It Matters

Zorn's transition from a legal challenger to a government insider highlights a shift in the U.S. approach to psychedelics. His involvement in shaping policy could influence the future of ibogaine and other psychedelics in addressing mental health and substance use disorders. The executive order and ongoing discussions at HHS suggest a growing openness to exploring psychedelics as part of the mental health toolkit.

Zorn's journey reflects broader changes in the perception and regulation of psychedelics in the U.S., potentially paving the way for new therapeutic options.