"Western Science is approaching a paradigm shift of unprecedented proportions, one that will change our concepts of reality and of human nature, bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science, and reconcile the differences between Eastern spirituality and Western pragmatism." - Stanislav Grof
What is Psychedelic Assisted Therapy?
We have been amassing data and clinical experience with psychedelic medicines for decades. The failed war on drugs rescheduled psychedelics to become illegal substances. Prior to this we had a great deal of clinical information on LSD, DMT, MDMA, psilocybin, peyote, ayahuasca and other substances. New and recent trials in the USA, UK and Canada have updated this information and have proven that these substances, when used in a ‘clinical’ setting can show dramatic and positive results. It is slowly becoming understood by scientific and medical communities that psychedelics are relatively safe. In addition to historical evidence, scientific studies have demonstrated that, even at high doses, there appears to be few – if any – long-term side effects.
Psychedelic-assisted therapy typically involves talk therapy as well as the ingestion of a psychedelic. Researchers and clinicians utilise three therapy phases: preparation, the psychedelic experience, and most importantly, integration.
What Can I Offer?
On July 1st 2023 the TGA will reschedule psilocybin and MDMA to allow prescribing by authorised psychiatrists. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will permit the prescribing of MDMA for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. Just what that means for psychedelic assisted therapy is unknown at this point. As things become clearer, I will update this page with further information.
My training, whilst setting me up for the possibility of clinical trials, also recognises the fact that people are accessing these medicines themselves and that preparation and integration work can be critical for the experience to be a positive therapeutic one. Psychedelic therapy can help you plan, prepare and make sense of psychedelic experiences.
Disclaimer: I do not provide psychoactive or illicit substances. I do not conduct or promote psychedelic therapy outside of approved clinical trials and I do not provide referrals to “underground” (illegal) psychedelic services. If you contact me asking for these services you will be declined.
What is Preparation?
Preparation may include harm minimisation, safety and self care. Risk assessments such as looking at your mental health and suitability for psychedelics. A look at any possible contraindications with any prescribed or non prescribed drugs you may be taking. It is a safe space to share and ask questions, without interpretation or diagnosis. Set and setting will be discussed and a plan put in place for your journey. I will provide you with materials to use before and after your session.
What is Integration?
The first hours and then the following days after the experience are a fundamental stage to start incorporating new perceptions into your daily life by engaging in regular integration practices. During this time you are most physically, psychologically, emotionally and spiritually open to bring new understandings into life. We are integrating our experience of an altered state of consciousness and potential altered perceptions of our reality. We are incorporating possible new information revealed to us in our journey. This experience can be incredibly beneficial as we discard rigid ways of thinking and challenging as we broaden our capacity to redefine new meaning for our lives and ourselves.
We are attempting to maintain the lessons offered via the psychedelic experience and help to use them in our daily life. Please note that, as with all trauma work, psychedelic work can be layered and often people get worse before they improve. This is because we are dealing with what lies underneath the surface and it can be a difficult experience. This is another reason why integration support can be crucial.
Watch:
Psychedelics for Therapeutics and Well-being SXSW 2022 - a very good and interesting discussion around the use of psychedelics, including covering the shadow side of the work which isn’t often discussed. It’s highly recommended that this is viewed before considering a psychedelic session.
More Reading:
MAPS - Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies
Imperial College London - Centre for Psychedelic Research
Former Defence Force chief Chris Barrie supports increased accessibility of psychedelic drugs
PTSD treatment held back by Australia's antiquated drug law
EROWID - documenting the complex relationship between humans & psychoactives
How to Explore Altered States of Consciousness Without Psychedelics
