Psychedelic Therapy for Mental Health: Is This Therapeutic "Trip" Right for You?
Hint: you won't need to pack a suitcase for this type of trip!
Have you ever wondered what a psychedelic journey is or how it could help heal trauma?
This guide will explore some of the most common psychedelic therapy options for mental health, who each is best suited for, and what to expect. We'll also go over the entire process, from consultation to integration and everything in between (that includes what you may see, hear, or feel during your journey!).
By the end of the blog post, you will have a good idea of what a psychedelic journey looks like and whether it's right for you.
For the first stop on our trip, let's get clear on what psychedelic therapy is.
What is Psychedelic Therapy?
Like most people, you're probably surprised to see the words "psychedelic" and "therapy" side by side. Yet, scientists and researchers have been studying the potential of psychedelics for healing trauma for decades!
Psychedelic therapy is:
The intentional use of psychedelics, such as magic mushrooms and LSD, to catalyze healing and process trauma in a controlled therapeutic setting.
I know what you're thinking..." So, getting high is good for my mental health?"
The short answer is YES. However, the HOW is the main differentiator between recreational use and taking professionally guided psychedelic journey to healing trauma.
The difference between recreational use and psychedelic-assisted therapy
Intention: While recreational use is often motivated by achieving an altered state of consciousness, psychedelic therapy involves a conscious intention setting around a specific therapeutic goal.
Dose: In a professional setting, your psychotherapist determines the safest and most beneficial dosage based on your mental health concerns, background, and prior experience.
Process: During a psychedelic journey, we tend to become more open and receptive to our surroundings. A safe and supportive environment is crucial for a positive experience, especially for first-timers or anyone suffering from severe trauma, anxiety, or PTSD. During a psychedelic journey, your therapist and practitioner create a container that helps you ease into and out of your experience.
Psychedelic Integration: This is a vital puzzle piece that is not liberally spoken about in regard to recreational psychedelic use. With professional psychedelic therapy, your practitioner ensures that you safely "land" and integrate back into your body after the experience.
It’s important to note that there is absolutely nothing wrong with recreational drug use or the desire to alter your state of consciousness. In his book, Drug Use for Grow-Ups, Columbia professor and neuroscientist Dr. Carl Hart talks about how the stigma and criminalization of recreational drug use is responsible for most of the harm and damage we associate it with. Dr. Hart advocates for “responsible drug use” as a powerful conduit in the pursuit of happiness.
What are the benefits of Psychedelic Therapy?
With the recent influx of clinical studies on the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, we finally have a clear idea of how these compounds can elevate traditional psychotherapeutic techniques.
Some of the most notable benefits of psychedelic therapy include the ability to:
Effectively enhance the benefits of talk therapy, allowing patients to go deeper than they would during a typical session.
Support somatic healing (healing through a mind-body connection), which has been proven effective for treating PTSD, among other mental health concerns.
Support the release of trauma in the body, which can benefit individuals with a history of severe trauma.
Act as a gentle guide to help process grief or move through a difficult life transition.
Help participants develop a deeper connection with themselves, improving self-awareness.
Support nervous system-regulation
Establish a spiritual connection to the earth and the world around you.
Promote personal growth and creative insight.
These benefits are just the tip of the iceberg regarding psychedelic therapy. With more studies being done by organizations like The John Hopkins Center for Psychedelic & Consciousness Research, we will surely see remarkable developments in the field!
Different Types of Psychedelic Journeys
Psychedelics work in a myriad of ways, ranging in duration, intensity, and overall effects. Determining which psychedelic therapy is right for you will depend on what you are currently working through, your previous experience with psychedelics, and what you hope to achieve.
Today, the four most common psychedelic-assisted therapies are:
Cannabis Journeys
Ketamine Journeys
Psilocybin Mushroom Journeys
MDMA Journeys
Cannabis
“…Marijuana legalization presents us with an opportunity to begin to reconcile our inglorious past practices with the nation’s founding promise of “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” – Dr. Carl Hart
Up until a few years ago, cannabis was reserved for relieving chronic pain and treating epileptic symptoms. However, recent studies have shown that cannabis-assisted psychotherapy has positively affected individuals suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Its grounding effects help reduce stress and provide comfort while allowing the user to feel more connected to their thoughts.
While cannabis journeys are arguably the gentlest of psychedelic-assisted therapies, their potency and healing potential are not to be underestimated. The ceremony and ritual of cannabis journeys intensify the experience, acting as a strong catalyst for healing and deep introspection.
Unlike other psychedelics, cannabis offers individuals a sense of agency, in which patients can adjust the dosage to their needs without any long-term commitment. For anyone who isn't ready to take the plunge with a 2-8 hour journey, cannabis is a great starting point. With 38 states permitting the therapeutic use of cannabis, it is also the most accessible option today.
The Journey
During a cannabis journey, individuals can expect to feel a deeper connection to their body, making it a powerful tool for somatic work. Although the experience may be different for each person, typical effects include:
a feeling of groundedness and connection to the earth
a sense of lightness, both physically and mentally
a heightened awareness of your thoughts and the world around you
Benefits
Healing trauma with cannabis therapy can result in various holistic benefits, including:
greater inner-awareness
relaxing the nervous system, releasing built-up anxiety and stress
decreased self-judgment
better emotional regulation
enhanced creativity and insight
elevated mood
increased sense of connection to the universe
Who It's For
Cannabis-assisted therapy is best suited for individuals who:
have trouble cultivating a mind-body connection
deal with high levels of chronic stress
have PTSD or a history of family trauma
are not comfortable with the feeling of releasing control of their body
Ketamine
Ketamine journeys are another popular form of psychedelic-assisted therapy for individuals who seek healing from chronic emotional or mental difficulties. The FDA-approved dissociative analgesic is known for its powerful effects on the brain and body. Recent studies indicate a strong potential for ketamine therapy as a treatment for depression.
The Journey
The ketamine journey is slightly different from the cannabis journey with one significant difference: Instead of getting grounded deeper into your body, you experience a sense of floating or dissociation from your physical form.
Sounds freaky, right?
However, it is precisely this out-of-body experience that supports a deeper connection to your subconscious, allowing you to access parts of yourself that would otherwise remain hidden.
Typical effects of the 2-3 hours long ketamine journey can include:
a feeling of disconnection from the physical world
heightened senses
a sense of euphoria
visual and auditory hallucinations
a deep sense of relaxation
Benefits
Ketamine therapy can be a powerful tool for individuals looking to:
do some deep subconscious-level introspection
gain a new perspective on life
develop a deep sense of inner peace
improve their mood
find relief from chronic anxiety
discover more clarity
Who It' 's For
Ketamine-assisted therapy is best suited for individuals who:
need to gain a deeper understanding of themselves
have difficulty with emotional regulation
are struggling with long-term depression or PTSD
have been or are currently taking antidepressants without seeing much improvement
Psylocibin Mushrooms
You may have heard of these "magic" mushrooms in a conversation about the Beatles, Pink Floyd, or Woodstock, but today, psilocybin mushrooms do much more than inspire groovy music.
Despite being used by indigenous cultures as a healing tool for millennia, the magic of psychedelic mushroom journeys is only now being recognized by science. For example, research indicates that psilocybin therapy can be a tremendous resource for treating depression—when combined with traditional psychotherapy, its antidepressant effects can last up to one year!
The Journey
The psychedelic journey with mushrooms is often described as an ecstatic experience. This mind-altering trip provides you with access to the depths of your subconscious, along with a renewed perspective of the world. Unlike cannabis or ketamine, mushrooms typically take 30-90 minutes for the psychedelic effects to activate in the body, with more of a slow-release activation.
During the 5-6 hour journey, effects can include:
visual and auditory hallucinations
altered sense of time
heightened emotions
giddiness or euphoria
Benefits
Psilocybin therapy has been found to provide several mental and emotional benefits, including:
a deepened connection to the earth and the self
heightened creativity and insight
increased sense of unity and oneness
better emotional regulation
improved focus and concentration
treating substance abuse disorders
Who It's For
Psilocybin therapy is best suited for individuals who:
are looking to reach a deeper level of insight into their mental and emotional state
have had trouble connecting to their spiritual self
are looking for a natural way to manage depression and anxiety
need to gain clarity on difficult life choices
are seeking alternative methods of addiction recovery
MDMA
In the 80’s, MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) was used by psychotherapists to help individuals and couples heal and encourage personal growth. Unfortunately, in 1985, the government cracked down by classifying it as a Schedule I substance. Luckily, it is once again being acknowledged for its immense healing potential. In fact, recent studies have shown that MDMA can improve the effects of chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD.
The Journey
The MDMA journey usually lasts between 3-6 hours, with peak effects occurring 90 minutes after administering the dose. During this time, you may experience:
heightened pleasure and sensations
intensified emotions
altered perception of time
increased sociability and empathy
Benefits
MDMA therapy can provide an array of both physical and emotional benefits, including:
Improved coping strategies for trauma survivors
Reduced fear and avoidance related to the traumatic event
Improved emotional regulation
Enhanced self-awareness and insight into one's own thoughts and feelings
Who It' 's For
MDMA-assisted therapy is best suited for individuals who:
have not seen improvement despite traditional PTSD treatment
have difficulty expressing their emotions in a healthy way
are open to exploring the depths of their trauma and healing it
are looking to gain insight and clarity into their life choices
want to reconnect to their spiritual self.
Each experience is different.
Something important to note is that no matter what the "typical" effects and benefits are, each experience is different. What we carry inside ourselves—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—will ultimately impact our experience and guide our journey. The best way to ensure a safe and supportive trip is to work with a licensed professional that personalizes your experience.
Psychedelic-assisted therapy always involves:
lab-tested and verified substances
personalized and controlled doses based on your unique challenges and goals
a safe and comfortable setting
intention setting and integration
Now that you know the different options out there, let's look at what a professional psychedelic journey looks like in detail.
What can I expect on a Psychedelic Journey?
The best way to think about a psychedelic journey is to treat it as if you're going on a trip. This means:
planning ahead of time to find the best-licensed professional near you
taking time off of work and other responsibilities for a stress-free experience
bringing anything you need to make you feel comfortable and ensure you enjoy the experience (comfortable clothes, emotional support talismans, your favorite essential oils, etc.)
giving yourself time to reintegrate back into your everyday life
To start, think of your psychotherapist as your travel agent!
Consultation
Find a "travel agent" to discuss your "trip" and goals.
During your consultation, your psychotherapist will assess what you hope to get out of the experience, your current mental and emotional state, and any unique challenges you might have.
This is why finding a psychedelic guide you trust and feel comfortable with is essential.
This initial session will also help your practitioner understand the treatment and dosage best suited for you. An ethical practitioner will know when you are ready to journey or whether you need more sessions before you dive deeper into psychedelics.
Intention setting
Get clear on what you hope to get out of your journey.
Before your session, you'll be asked to set clear intentions. This is where you get to define what you're hoping to gain from the experience.
It can be anything from gaining clarity on a difficult decision to healing emotional trauma. Intention setting is vital to ensuring the most beneficial outcome while providing a grounding cord to guide you throughout the journey.
The Day Of
Clear your schedule and pack your bags. It's time to journey!
On the day of your session, you'll be asked to be mindful of what you eat and drink to ensure a safe experience, depending on the type of journey you will be going on. For example, some practitioners may ask you to fast for a few hours before the session.
You'll also be prepared with any materials needed for the journey, such as comfortable clothing and blankets, music, or art supplies for the integration period. I recommend clearing your schedule for the entire day to help you easily reintegrate into your natural rhythm.
The Journey
Step off the plane and immerse yourself in the teachings and insights.
Your psychotherapist will help guide you through your journey, allowing you to connect with deep emotional states while challenging yourself to gain insights and learnings.
You may feel a range of emotions, such as joy, fear, and even sadness. These are all part of the journey, and it's important to remember that whatever comes up is for your benefit and growth. Any emotional release can be profoundly cathartic and will always be supported by your practitioners and the safe container they set up for you.
Once you have come out of the psychedelic journey, your psychotherapist will help you to process and integrate your experience.
Psychedelic Integration and Aftercare
Land home, giving yourself time and space to return to everyday life.
Integration is critical for reaping the full benefits of a psychedelic journey and can take anywhere from days to weeks. This is where you can reflect and learn from the experience and voice any questions or fears.
Having an aftercare plan and giving yourself ample time to reintegrate into your life is essential. Your psychotherapist can help you with the tools needed for this period, including finding a support system, setting up small goals, and connecting with nature.
What to expect after your journey
The effects of a psychedelic journey can last anywhere from days to weeks. You may experience an increased level of self-awareness and spiritual growth, as well as a deeper understanding of your purpose and goals in life.
You may feel more connected with yourself, others, and nature. You may also find that your relationships with yourself and others improve, as well as any underlying issues such as depression or anxiety.
Is a Psychedelic Journey right for me?
A psychedelic journey can be a powerful tool for healing trauma, gaining clarity in life, and becoming more connected with yourself. However, it is not for everyone, and speaking to your psychotherapist before taking the plunge is essential.
How to determine whether a psychedelic journey is the next best step in your mental health journey
While the best way to determine whether psychedelic therapy is right for you is always to consult with a licensed psychotherapist, these are some of the signs that you might benefit from this experience:
You have tried traditional talk therapy, but it is not yielding the results you hoped for
You have tried various prescription medications to help manage your anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic stress and don't feel they have helped.
You have trouble connecting with yourself and your emotions, find it difficult to trust others, or struggle to overcome a traumatic experience.
You feel disconnected from the world and find it difficult to connect to your body.
Safety Assessments for psychedelic therapy
It is important to remember that psychedelic therapy is not for everyone. Those with a personal or family history of severe mental health issues may be at risk of experiencing adverse reactions to psychedelic therapy. When consulting with your psychotherapist, it is important to disclose any mental health conditions or family history to ensure that your safety and well-being are prioritized throughout the entire process.
As part of my initial consultation, I always conduct a safety assessment, which helps me determine whether a client is a good candidate for a psychedelic journey.
Conclusion
Psychedelic therapy is a potent tool for healing trauma and finding clarity in life. While the experience may sound daunting, it can offer immense benefits when done in the right setting.
If you want to find relief from depression, anxiety, or PTSD through alternative healing methods, book a free consultation with me today to see if psychedelic therapy is the right choice. With my guidance, you can unlock the potential of psychedelics and find your own holistic path to healing.