A Founder’s Journey Through Ibogaine: A Letter from Laura Shapiro
By Laura Shapiro
At Plant Medicine People, we believe that plant medicines aren’t just therapeutic tools — they’re personal catalysts for transformation. In this spirit, we’re honored to share the story of one of our sister organizations, Bassé — an ibogaine clinic in Mexico founded by someone who’s walked the healing path herself: Laura Shapiro.
Laura is not only the founder of Bassé, she’s also one of the earliest voices in the modern ibogaine movement. Her story, which began in personal crisis and evolved into nearly two decades of advocacy and clinical leadership, is a testament to what’s possible when plant medicine is held in the right container.
From Desperation to Discovery: Laura’s Story
Eighteen years ago, Laura Shapiro was in a battle for her life. After exhausting every conventional treatment — methadone, Suboxone, detox centers, and 12-step programs — nothing had touched the deep-rooted pain that fueled her addiction. In a final moment of desperation, she and her family began researching ibogaine — a powerful plant medicine derived from the African Tabernanthe iboga shrub.
That search led them to Dr. Deborah Mash, a pioneering neuroscientist and the only U.S. researcher granted FDA approval to study ibogaine in clinical trials. Deeply moved by Laura’s story, Dr. Mash helped arrange her first ibogaine detox in Mexico.
“Within 45 minutes of taking ibogaine, I felt my addiction leave my body,” Laura recalls.
With clinical support, proper stabilization, and a safe setting, Laura underwent a process that not only relieved her of withdrawal but also gave her clarity, peace, and perspective. For the first time, she began to truly let go of the trauma and pain at the root of her addiction.
From Patient to Pioneer
After her treatment, Laura joined Dr. Mash’s team at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine, supporting research and deepening her understanding of ibogaine's neurochemical and therapeutic mechanisms.
Eventually, Laura co-founded one of the largest ibogaine clinics in the world. But as the field expanded, she noticed a shift—some clinics prioritized volume over care, detox over healing.
“I knew the model could go deeper—more human, more heart-centered, more integrated,” Laura reassured.
So she stepped away to build something different.
Introducing Bassé: A New Model of Ibogaine Care
Born from Laura’s personal journey and professional evolution, Bassé is more than a clinic—it’s a sanctuary for healing.
Located in Mexico, Bassé blends the best of clinical oversight, ancestral medicine, and trauma-informed care to support deep and lasting transformation. It’s a place where healing isn’t rushed—it’s nurtured.
The Bassé Model Includes:
Comprehensive medical screening and stabilization protocols
Licensed clinical oversight during treatment
Trauma-informed, heart-led therapeutic support
Somatic therapies to support nervous system repair
Daily bodywork, breathwork, and integration
Ongoing aftercare to support long-term healing
At its core, Bassé is built on a simple truth: healing happens when people feel safe, seen, and supported.
Why We’re Sharing This
At Plant Medicine People, our mission is to spotlight the leaders and communities advancing ethical, conscious plant medicine work. We’re proud to support Bassé not just as a sister organization, but as a model for how ibogaine therapy can be delivered with integrity, heart, and safety.
Whether you’re exploring ibogaine for yourself or researching treatment options for a loved one, we encourage you to visit Bassé’s website to learn more.
“Ibogaine gave me my life back. And now, through Bassé, I want to offer that same possibility to others.” — Laura Shapiro
A Path Forward
Laura’s story is a reminder that the most powerful healing spaces are often created by those who have walked through the fire themselves. Her journey—from patient to pioneer—isn’t just inspiring; it’s a blueprint for how plant medicine can be held responsibly and with reverence.
We’re grateful to walk alongside people like Laura and organizations like Bassé, who continue to expand what’s possible in the world of integrative healing.
Explore Bassé → www.basseibogaine.com
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About the Author
Laura Shapiro is the founder of Bassé, an ibogaine clinic in Mexico dedicated to heart-centered, trauma-informed healing. One of the earliest voices in the modern ibogaine movement, her journey began with her own recovery nearly two decades ago and has since evolved into a career of advocacy, research, and clinical leadership. Today, she continues to pioneer a model of care that blends medical oversight, ancestral wisdom, and integrative support to help others find lasting transformation.
