Psychedelic Integration
As the psychedelic renaissance broadens and gains more research, there is evidence validating psychedelic therapies for a multitude of issues such as treatment-resistant depression, PTSD and addiction. Recently we have witnessed the creation of Johns Hopkins University’s Psychedelic Research Center and University of California Berkeley’s Center for Science of Psychedelics. While most of these therapies (e.g. MDMA and psilocybin) are still in clinical trials in the USA, people are choosing not to wait to have these options and traveling overseas in the interest of legal and expedited healing.
In the United States, cannabis and prescription ketamine are legal psychedelic therapies, as are non-substance experiences such as breath-work, float tanks and hypnosis. These experiences create access to a healthy reprogramming of the subconscious mind.
My interest and expertise are in education, harm reduction and community acceptance. I have learned from (and worked for) leading international psychedelic education training programs. Beginning in 2017, I facilitated integration groups in Southern California. Frequently people choose to attend an integration circle, or have a session with me, as they are preparing their research into these medicines or returning from an experience.
Integration is a process. As you recall the experience and share the story, it affirms what is being released. You then recognize new ways of being that bring more health, vitality, love and joy to your every day life.
Peru, the Netherlands, and Jamaica are a few locations where one can find legal psychedelic therapies. In the United States most recently two states - Oregon and Colorado - legalized psilocybin therapy and are in process of creating the structure to support those treatments. There is the saying that the “journey begins the moment you decide to go to ceremony” (i.e. have the experience). As you become clear in your intentions, you are already in the process of integration. It is not only about (mind) set and the setting… it is about developing the skills for navigating the intensifying energies. This is where a mindfulness practice, such as meditation, is foundational. The support part of the experience is where attending an integration circle, or having an integration session with me, can be beneficial.
Integration strategies include soaking in salted water, journaling, earthing (walking barefoot on the grass or sand), dancing, drumming and singing. As you bring voice to your experience, you connect more deeply to yourself and community. We co-create this forum as a safe, confidential space, with clear structure and agreements, within which you can express yourself and find answers to your questions. Please schedule a one to one session with me to support your process and anchor the positive benefits.
Integration FAQs
Can you help me to prepare for a psychedelic experience?
Yes. A good way to begin is with a transformational ketamine or cannabis experience (ask for details). Ketamine and cannabis are similar to the other entheogens, such as MDMA and psilocybin. The process, combined with deliberate intention and integration, is a legal psychedelic therapeutic journey.
Can you tell me how to acquire psychedelic substances?
No. I am able to point you towards research and books that can help you to assess how to move forward. I can also help you to discern travel options to a legal overseas retreat. I don’t make recommendations, but will share where to find reviews. I can give you information about cannabis that will help you feel comfortable with making a purchase at a legal dispensary. I do not provide any information on how to acquire illegal substances.
Can you tell me how to apply for clinical trials involving psychedelics?
Yes, I will share with you what I know. Currently there are many clinical trials taking place, such as the research being done with psilocybin for the treatment of depression at University of California San Diego. MAPS has completed phase three of clinical trials with MDMA, researching the efficacy of that substance for treatment resistant PTSD.
Can you help me to ween off my psychiatric medications to prepare for an experience?
I am not a licensed medical professional. I will refer you back to your doctor and encourage you to accomplish this with their supervision. If you need a referral to a licensed medical professional, sympathetic to or familiar with psychedelics, I can give you a selection of names from which you may choose. I can support you in this process with hypnotherapy as part of your mental health team.
Are you a psychedelic therapist?
I am a hypnotherapist and coach certified as a practitioner in mindfulness-based psychedelic therapy (MBPT). This training uses much of the same format and is modeled on the MAPS MDMA therapy protocol. I have extensive experience with harm reduction and as a psychedelic integration provider.
Can you tell me about microdosing?
Microdosing is the use of a subperceptual (10% or less) amount of a compound for the purposes of mental health, regeneration and overall well being. There is a lot of anecdotal information and not much evidence based information. Research is starting to be done in this area.
Disclaimer
My work as a psychedelic integration specialist is in the interest of cognitive liberty, harm reduction and benefit optimization for health and wellbeing. Please do your research and make informed, responsible, wise choices. I do not encourage or condone any illegal activity. Please know and abide by the laws in your state and country.