Psychedelic Education, Assessment, Preparation & Integration
© Alex Grey
INSIGHT provides consultation regarding current psychedelic research, education, assessment and integration services.
Our lead psychiatrist conducts formal assessments and preparation support for those entering FDA-approved psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy clinical trials, as well as plant-medicine journeys in countries outside the United States where use is legal.
INSIGHT provides ongoing support for those wishing to implement changes into their life after a psychedelic experience. It is not uncommon for difficult material to arise during a psychedelic journey, which can make integration afterwards challenging without assistance.
At INSIGHT, we honor each individual’s choices regarding their care, but we do not sell, provide, refer or distribute illegal substances.
What are psychedelics and why are people using them?
Psychedelics are a class of hallucinogenic psychoactive compounds, many of which are found in plants (i.e., psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, San Pedro, peyote cactus) used for thousands of years by indigenous cultures. Other psychedelics are synthesized in a laboratory (i.e., LSD, MDMA, synthetic psilocybin). Although differing in potency and characteristics, all psychedelics are known for their primary effects of triggering non-ordinary states of consciousness with accompanying psychological, visual and auditory changes.
While the acute effects of psychedelics are temporary, many people are seeking psychedelic experiences as part of their therapeutic journey towards wholeness and balanced mental health. Some clients choose to explore psychedelic-assisted therapies due to ineffective traditional therapeutic modalities (i.e., talk therapy and medications), undesirable side effects from medications, or a desire to no longer need pharmaceutical treatments and willingness to explore non-mainstream healing practices.
Others may wish to explore the roots of their emotional landscape and relationships, which can deepen the traditional psychotherapeutic path. Often this path involves uncovering the roots of childhood trauma, attachment wounds, and intergenerational trauma, with the intention of healing and consciously creating new choices. Many others find psychedelics useful in their spiritual journey towards discovering their true selves, life purpose, and meaningful connection to others and the planet.
© Nicole Mizoguchi
What is Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy is a treatment modality that can be a useful tool to supplement existing psychotherapy or deepen an individual’s spiritual/psychological growth. Typically, psychedelic-assisted therapy involves several pre-trip preparation sessions with a therapist, one (1) to three (3) psychedelic journeys, and weeks/months of post-trip integration therapy sessions.
While recent psychedelic studies have shown promise for conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, addiction, anxiety and PTSD, current government regulations in the United States prohibit these compounds from being prescribed or administered in settings outside of FDA- approved clinical trials.
Although results from these clinical trials indicate psychedelic-assisted therapy is safe and effective, psychedelics are not for everyone. There are some conditions for which psychedelic use is contraindicated or not recommended.
Some medications can lead to dangerous interactions with psychedelics or inhibit a psychedelic experience. It is important to talk with a doctor familiar with these interactions, and discuss if a medication taper or alternative treatments are right for you.
Where can I learn more about psychedelic research & psychedelic-assisted therapy?
Michael Pollens' How To Change Your Mind - This is a beginner’s guide to learn more about the different types of psychedelics, how they work, history, legal challenges and current research. Michael Pollen, a middle aged man, also details his own psychedelic experiences and how they have led to helpful insights.
Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelics Studies (MAPS)
“Psychedelics are to the study of the mind, what the microscope is to biology, and the telescope is to astronomy.”