Member Spotlight: Red Willow Hospice Advances End-of-Life Care Through Innovative Psychedelic Therapy Program
June 11, 2026

The Texas-New Mexico Hospice & Palliative Care Organization is proud to spotlight member organization Red Willow Hospice, a Northern New Mexico-based nonprofit that continues to explore new areas of compassionate, patient-centered care.

Red Willow Hospice recently announced the launch of its groundbreaking psychedelic-assisted therapy program for hospice and palliative care patients, becoming one of the first hospice organizations in the nation to integrate these emerging therapies into end-of-life care. The initiative was made possible through grant funding awarded earlier this year to support innovation and research in psychedelic-assisted care for individuals facing serious illness and end-of-life challenges.

The program focuses on the therapeutic use of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound that has shown promise in helping patients experiencing existential distress, anxiety, depression, grief, and emotional suffering related to serious illness. Research continues to demonstrate the potential for psychedelic-assisted therapies to improve quality of life, spiritual well-being, and emotional comfort for patients navigating life-limiting diagnoses.

Founded on a philosophy of conscious, compassionate care, Red Willow Hospice has long embraced innovative approaches that honor the emotional, spiritual, and psychological dimensions of the end-of-life journey. The organization’s new program reflects a growing national conversation about how hospice and palliative care providers can better address suffering beyond physical symptoms.

The grant funding supporting the initiative was awarded through the Hospice and Home Care Foundation of New Mexico and other philanthropic partners committed to advancing research and access to psychedelic-assisted end-of-life care. The funding will help Red Willow develop clinical protocols, train staff, support patient access, and contribute to the growing body of evidence surrounding these therapies.

Red Willow Hospice CEO Robyn Chavez, who is also a registered nurse, has been a vocal advocate for innovative models of care that improve the patient and family experience. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded services while remaining deeply committed to its mission of providing holistic, compassionate care throughout Northern New Mexico. Justin Babin, RN, COO of Red Willow Hospice, serves as a TNMHPO board member.

As the hospice field continues to evolve, Red Willow Hospice serves as an example of how organizations can thoughtfully explore emerging therapies while maintaining a steadfast focus on dignity, comfort, and quality of life.

TNMHPO congratulates the entire Red Willow Hospice team on this remarkable achievement and their continued leadership in advancing the future of hospice and palliative care.

Learn More About Red Willow Hospice

Visit Red Willow Hospice to learn more about their services and innovative care programs.

Sources

  • Red Willow Hospice: https://www.redwillowhospice.com/
  • Hospice News: “Red Willow Hospice Unveils New Psychedelic Treatments” (June 2026)
  • Hospice News: “New Grants Fuel Psychedelic End-of-Life, Palliative Care Innovation” (February 2026)
  • Taos News: “Red Willow Hospice to Offer Psilocybin Treatment”
  • News-Medical: “HHCM Awards $245.66K to Advance Psychedelic End-of-Life Care Research”
  • Taos News: “Red Willow Hospice’s Path to Conscious Care”

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The TNMHPO Education Subscription is for agencies who wish to provide on-demand education for the entire staff. This subscription is an add-on to a TNMHPO membership and can’t be purchased separately.

A TNMHPO Membership Plus Education Subscription gives members of the Texas New Mexico Hospice & Palliative Care Organization unlimited access to all archived online education for the entire year.  You can provide training to your current staff and utilize these educational opportunities for new employee orientation.  There are courses for every discipline on your hospice team and continuing education units and proof of attendance for Administrators, Nurses, Social Workers, and LPCs.

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