Optimi Health Corp (NASDAQ: OPTH) announced the appointment of Dr. Michael Blough as chief clinical development officer, a newly created senior role. The appointment was disclosed on September 22, 2026.
In his capacity, Dr. Blough will oversee the company's overall clinical development strategy and operations. He will supervise two upcoming trials: a Phase 2 study of psilocybin‑assisted psychotherapy for major depressive disorder and a Phase 3 study of MDMA‑assisted psychotherapy for post‑traumatic stress disorder. Both trials are expected to begin patient enrollment in the next calendar year.
Dr. Blough brings more than two decades of experience directing research programs that span bench science, pre‑clinical work and clinical trials. Since 2022 he has collaborated with Optimi on clinical trial applications and previously led Health Canada‑authorized trials of psilocybin and MDMA for mental‑health indications. Prior to his work in psychedelic medicine, he spent 15 years researching brain cancer, publishing over 30 peer‑reviewed papers on glioblastoma and heading a seven‑year national initiative funded by the Terry Fox Research Institute.
Optimi Health describes itself as a commercial‑stage pharmaceutical company that manufactures GMP‑grade psychedelic drug products and holds a Health Canada pharmaceutical manufacturing licence. Its production facilities are located in British Columbia, Canada.
CEO and co‑founder Dane Stevens said the appointment adds “a valuable combination of clinical trial expertise in psychedelics, a strong working relationship with Health Canada, and a commitment to scientific rigor at a pivotal moment for our Company.”
