COMPLEMENTARY AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES that may significantly enhance psilocybin outcomes:- Here are evidence-informed complementary, adjunctive and therapeutic approaches that may significantly enhance psilocybin outcomes: COMPLEMENTARY AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES COMPLEMENTARY AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES that may significantly enhance psilocybin outcomes:- Here are evidence-informed complementary, adjunctive and therapeutic approaches that may significantly enhance psilocybin outcomes: 🔄 1. Internal Family Systems (IFS) – with Somatic Integration Especially effective for trauma survivors and those with shame/dissociation. Goes beyond talking about the trauma to meeting the "parts" (protector, exile, inner critic). Ideal in combination with psychedelic therapy—builds a language for integration. Somatic IFS adds a felt-sense of each part and helps clients reintegrate split-off states through body awareness. Certified IFS practitioners or therapists trained in psychedelic integration with IFS lens are ideal. 🧍♂️ 2. Somatic Experiencing (SE) Created by Peter Levine, focused on releasing trauma stored in the nervous system. Uses titration and pendulation to process trauma without overwhelm or re-traumatization. Clients often gain more from subtle shifts in felt sense than from verbal catharsis. Ideal for: Clients with a trauma history and low emotional awareness Those who have plateaued in traditional therapy 🕯️ 3. MDMA-Assisted Therapy (when/if accessible) Particularly effective for: Developmental trauma Complex PTSD Shame, guilt, emotional numbing MDMA can foster self-compassion, relational repair, and emotional processing not accessible through psilocybin alone. It offers a gentler, empathogen-driven route compared to psilocybin. When not available legally: Consider underground peer support networks or review MAPS protocols to inform prep/integration work. 🛏️ 4. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Especially useful for: Treatment-resistant depression Dissociative trauma states Shame-driven internal narratives Can be administered in low-dose psycholytic format (talk during experience) or higher-dose psychedelic format (inward focus). Clients often benefit from multiple sessions with structured prep and integration—ideally with trained trauma clinicians. 🎭 5. Expressive Arts & Drama Therapy Helps bypass the verbal/thinking mind and allows non-verbal access to emotional material. Use: Drawing internal parts Movement to express emotional states Writing letters to or from parts of self (e.g., inner child, protector) Especially helpful when clients say, “I can’t feel anything,” or “I don’t know how to talk about it.” 📿 6. Neurofeedback (EEG-based or HEG) For clients with severe dysregulation or early trauma, neurofeedback can: Restore regulation Decrease reactivity Improve readiness for deeper work (including psychedelic therapy) May reduce trauma symptoms even when talk therapy fails. Can be combined with therapy for greater durability. 💓 7. Attachment-Based or Relational Psychotherapy Often overlooked but essential for those with early childhood trauma. Focuses not on content, but the here-and-now dynamic between client and therapist. Helps rebuild trust, reduce shame, and establish capacity for secure attachment. Ideal pairings: AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) 📿 8. Mindfulness-Based Interventions (Trauma-Sensitive) He may benefit from: Short, guided, body-based practices (e.g., Tara Brach, David Treleaven’s trauma-sensitive mindfulness) Self-compassion training (Kristin Neff’s work) This should be offered gently; many clients with early trauma find stillness triggering—it must be scaffolded with safety. 🪔 9. Spiritual Direction / Mystical Integration For clients accessing transpersonal or mystical states in psychedelic sessions, offer: Support integrating spiritual themes Encouragement of contemplative or devotional practices Framing suffering within mythic/archetypal frameworks can promote meaning-making and post-traumatic growth 🧍 10. Bodywork with Trauma Awareness Trauma-informed massage, craniosacral therapy, TRE (Tension & Trauma Release Exercises), or Rosen Method can gently release stored trauma. These work well in tandem with integration therapy after psychedelic work. The goal is not physical alignment, but energetic/emotional release and embodiment. 🔗 11. Group Therapy or Men’s Circles Ideal for relational healing, accountability, and shame work. Especially useful if client has a pattern of isolation, avoidance, or relational distrust. Groups such as: Mankind Project Heroic Hearts Veterans Cohorts Conscious men’s work circles (e.g., John Wineland-inspired) 📌 Integration Is Key Regardless of the therapeutic modality used, what makes the difference is structured, long-term integration. Encourage a plan that includes: Scheduled follow-ups (1 week, 1 month, 3 months post-journey) Regular creative or reflective practices Continued parts work and somatic resourcing A coherent narrative of healing that includes both trauma and A referral list or national directory of practitioners trained in these modalities (IFS, SE, KAP, etc.) evidence-informed adjunctive and alternative therapeutic approaches that may Complementary Therapeutic Approaches for Trauma + Psychedelic Healing 🧠 1. Internal Family Systems (IFS) Use for: Developmental trauma, emotional numbing, shame, and addiction Key Principle: Healing occurs when exiled parts are witnessed with Self-energy Resources: Book: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz Practitioner Directory: IFS Institute 🧍♂️ 2. Somatic Experiencing (SE) Use for: Nervous system regulation, dissociation, overwhelm Key Principle: Trauma is stored in the body, not just the story Resources: Book: Waking the Tiger by Peter Levine Directory: traumahealing.org 💊 3. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Use for: Depression, trauma, emotional rigidity Delivery: Psycholytic (talk during), psychedelic (inward journey) Directory: Polaris Insight Center | Ketamine Clinics Directory 💗 4. MDMA-Assisted Therapy (when available) Use for: Deep emotional healing, developmental trauma, PTSD Key Principle: Enhances trust, reduces fear, increases empathy Resources: MAPS: maps.org/mdma Training Directory (for referrals): MAPS Training Directory 🖼️ 5. Expressive Arts Therapy Use for: Emotional access, inner child healing, parts integration Tools: Drawing, music, movement, voice, journaling Directory: International Expressive Arts Therapy Association 🧠 6. Neurofeedback (EEG) Use for: Dysregulation, sleep issues, PTSD, readiness for deeper work Directory: Biofeedback Certification International Alliance 💞 7. Attachment-Based Therapy / AEDP Use for: Healing early attachment wounds, shame, relational trauma Key Approach: Emotion-focused, right-brain dominant, co-regulating Directory: AEDP Institute 🧘 8. Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness & Self-Compassion Use for: Self-regulation, shame, building inner safety Resources: Tara Brach (free guided meditations): tarabrach.com Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness: David Treleaven Self-Compassion Practices: Dr. Kristin Neff 🙌 9. Body-Oriented Therapies Use for: Releasing trauma held in tissue, somatic reconnection Modalities: Craniosacral Therapy (biodynamic or trauma-informed) Tension/Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) Rosen Method Directories: Upledger CST Directory Rosen Institute 👥 10. Group Therapy / Men’s Circles Use for: Relational healing, accountability, peer support Examples: Mankind Project Heroic Hearts Project (veteran-focused) Sacred Sons (spiritual/embodied men’s work) 🧭 Integration Coaching & Psychedelic-Specific Support 🔹 Psychedelic Integration Therapists Psychedelic Support Directory Integrative Psychiatry Institute MAPS Integration List 🔹 Coach-Facilitators (Non-Clinical) Fireside Project - Peer Support Psychedelic Passage Being True to You Coaching Becca Parker beccasuzanne2020@gmail.com Contact Like what you see? Get in touch to learn more. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Discover a wealth of curated resources for legal research and education about Psilocybin use. Explore the best tools and links handpicked by BECCA'S CURATED RESOURCES. BECCA'S CURATED RESOURCES Welcome to the Resources page of Becca Parker’s website for psilocybin facilitation! Here, you'll find essential information with legal details, useful links, and access to additional research materials. Whether you're looking for legal guidance, FAQs, or further studies on psilocybin, this page offers a broad list of resources to support your journey. Explore everything from regulatory updates to expert insights, helping you stay informed and empowered throughout your experience. See my FAQ page for MORE information. DISCLAIMER: All information on this website does not, & is not intended to constitute medical advice. All information, content & materials available on this site are for general informational, and educational purposes only. LEGALITIES OREGON HEALTH AUTHORITY Client Intake Forms Informed Consent Oregon Psilocybin Services HISTORY National Library of Medicine World History of Psilocybin Use FEDERAL U.S. Food and Drug Administration National Library of Medicine WHERE IN THE WORLD IS USE OF PSILOCYBIN LEGAL? Psilocybin is legally available in a limited number of locations, often with restrictions or under specific therapeutic guidelines. Here are the key places where it is allowed: 1. Oregon, USA: In 2020, Oregon became the first U.S. state to legalize psilocybin for therapeutic use in supervised settings. Licensed facilitators in Oregon provide guided psilocybin sessions, primarily to help with mental health conditions, although some cities in the state are considering local bans. 2. Colorado, USA: Colorado decriminalized psilocybin in 2022, allowing adults to use it for personal use and facilitating its use in controlled settings. However, retail sales remain prohibited. 3. Australia: As of 2023, Australia has legalized the medical use of psilocybin and MDMA for specific mental health conditions, including PTSD, allowing it to be prescribed by qualified psychiatrists. 4. Canada: In Alberta, psilocybin has been approved for therapeutic use in drug-assisted psychotherapy as of early 2023, though only under specific regulations. Canada also allows for the limited medical use of psilocybin in cases approved by Health Canada. 5. Countries with Decriminalized Use: Some countries, such as Brazil, Jamaica, and the Netherlands, have decriminalized psilocybin, with places like Jamaica and the Netherlands offering "psilocybin retreats" where the substance can be used in guided sessions. Other U.S. cities (e.g., Denver, Oakland, and Seattle) have also decriminalized psilocybin at the municipal level, which generally means law enforcement deprioritizes prosecuting its use but does not allow for legal sales or distribution. PORTUGAL'S DECRIMINALIZATION OF DRUGS & THE PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACT Portugal’s approach to drug policy, which involves the decriminalization of all drugs since 2001, has shown promising results for public health, particularly in reducing the mental health crisis and improving individual well-being. This policy shift reframed drug use as a health issue rather than a criminal matter. People found with small quantities of drugs face no legal penalties and are instead directed to health and social services. This reform has helped reduce the stigma surrounding drug use, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of prosecution. Portugal’s strategy combined decriminalization with increased access to harm reduction and treatment services, such as clean needle exchanges, low-threshold methadone therapy, and expanded mental health support. This comprehensive approach has led to a decline in drug addiction rates, a drop in drug-related deaths (remaining well below the European average), and a reduction in the social costs associated with drug misuse. Overall, the approach has also improved the relationship between communities and law enforcement, as people are more likely to engage with health services instead of the criminal justice system. Recent policy updates in Portugal include decriminalizing the possession of synthetic drugs like LSD and MDMA, which has further supported harm reduction by prioritizing health over punitive measures. Experts note that this progressive stance allows for better health monitoring and even supports potential medical research on psychedelics, which could help address mental health issues by providing legal pathways for scientific exploration of their therapeutic benefits. These efforts have not increased drug use but have contributed to Portugal’s image as a model for harm reduction and mental health-focused drug policy worldwide. The outcomes support that a public health-centered approach to drug policy can effectively reduce addiction, improve mental health outcomes, and reduce the societal impacts of drug misuse. Sources: UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics End the War on Drugs LEGALITIES Oregon Psilocybin Services Ballot Measure 109 ( now codified as ORS 475A) passed on Nov 11,2020, and it directed the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to license and regulate the manufacturing, testing, transportation , delivery, sale and purchase of psilocybin products. oregon.gov. * Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) is housed within the Oregon Health Authority Public health Divisions's Center for Health Protection. To read a summary of their recent work, please see the OPS2023 Year in Review. * The National Defense Authorization Act: Legislation was passed to research the use of psilocybin to treat PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in active duty service members as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA. 12-22-23 RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE * National Sexual Abuse Hotline 1-800-656-4673. rainn.org Available 24 hours. * Forum- The Mighty. Themighty,com. A free online health community . Available 24/7. * Project LETS. ProjectLETS.org. Offers spaces for trauma survivors to share their stories and resources.Peer led. * Survivorsforum.womensaid.org.uk Read More > RESEARCH LEGALITIES Oregon Psilocybin Services Ballot Measure 109 ( now codified as ORS 475A) passed on Nov 11,2020, and it directed the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to license and regulate the manufacturing, testing, transportation , delivery, sale and purchase of psilocybin products. oregon.gov. * Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) is housed within the Oregon Health Authority Public health Divisions's Center for Health Protection. To read a summary of their recent work, please see the OPS2023 Year in Review. * The National Defense Authorization Act: Legislation was passed to research the use of psilocybin to treat PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in active duty service members as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA. 12-22-23 SAFETY Psilocybin, the active compound in certain species of psychedelic mushrooms, has been increasingly studied for its therapeutic potential and safety profile. Below are a few key scientific studies focusing on the safety and potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin: 1. Griffiths et al. (2006): Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences having substantial and sustained personal meaning and spiritual significance Journal: Psychopharmacology Summary: This study assessed the safety and psychological effects of psilocybin in healthy volunteers. Participants reported significant mystical-type experiences with positive long-term psychological benefits. No severe adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: Psilocybin was found to be safe in a controlled setting, with the potential for long-lasting psychological benefits when used responsibly. Link: Griffiths et al., 2006 2. Carhart-Harris et al. (2016): Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study Journal: The Lancet Psychiatry Summary: This clinical study explored the use of psilocybin in patients with treatment-resistant depression. After receiving two doses of psilocybin, participants showed significant improvements in depressive symptoms, some lasting up to 3 months. Conclusion: The study found that psilocybin was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events, supporting its potential as a treatment for depression. Link: Carhart-Harris et al., 2016 3. Johnson et al. (2014): Safety and efficacy of psilocybin in treating anxiety in patients with advanced-stage cancer Journal: Journal of Psychopharmacology Summary: This study evaluated psilocybin’s efficacy in reducing anxiety and depression in cancer patients. Results showed significant reductions in anxiety and depression following a single dose, with effects lasting several weeks to months. Conclusion: Psilocybin was found to be safe with manageable side effects, making it a promising option for palliative care. Link: Johnson et al., 2014 4. Griffiths et al. (2018): Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial Journal: Journal of Psychopharmacology Summary: This randomized, double-blind study assessed the effects of psilocybin on patients with life-threatening cancer. Patients experienced significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and existential distress after receiving psilocybin. Conclusion: Psilocybin was deemed safe in the short and long term, offering substantial improvements in mental health conditions related to cancer. Link: Griffiths et al., 2018 5. Nichols (2016): Psychedelics Journal: Pharmacological Reviews Summary: This review article covers the pharmacology, effects, and safety of psychedelics, including psilocybin. It highlights the low toxicity, lack of dependence potential, and the relatively safe profile of psilocybin when used in controlled environments. Conclusion: Psilocybin is considered safe for research and therapeutic use under medical supervision. Link: Nichols, 2016 6. Ross et al. (2016): Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial Journal: Journal of Psychopharmacology Summary: This trial involved patients with life-threatening cancer who were administered psilocybin to address anxiety and depression. The results showed significant improvements in both anxiety and depression, with sustained effects. Conclusion: Psilocybin was well-tolerated and produced rapid and sustained improvements in psychological well-being. Link: Ross et al., 2016 These studies generally support the conclusion that psilocybin is safe when administered in controlled, supervised environments, with promising therapeutic potential for treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and existential distress, particularly in life-threatening situations ADDICTION WHAT WOULD BE THE IMPACT OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION ON A PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY? Combining alcohol with psilocybin is discouraged due to potential negative effects on both the physical and psychological aspects of a psilocybin journey. Here’s a breakdown of some potential impacts: 1. Increased Physical Risks •Dehydration: Both alcohol and psilocybin can lead to dehydration, which can increase discomfort and negatively impact the journey. •Nausea and Vomiting: Alcohol can intensify nausea, which is an occasional side effect of psilocybin. This combination may lead to vomiting, dizziness, and overall physical discomfort. •Reduced Coordination: Alcohol impairs motor skills and balance, which, when combined with the altered perception from psilocybin, can increase the risk of accidents or injuries. 2. Blunting of the Psychedelic Experience •Reduced Intensity of Effects: Alcohol can dull the psychedelic experience by interfering with the clarity and intensity of psilocybin's effects. Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, which might counteract the heightened awareness and insights often associated with psilocybin. •Lowered Emotional Insight: Psilocybin often facilitates deep introspection, emotional openness, and self-reflection, which alcohol can diminish. Alcohol can make it more difficult to fully engage with the emotional aspects of the journey, potentially reducing therapeutic or introspective value. 3. Increased Risk of a "Bad Trip" •Anxiety and Confusion: Alcohol may increase feelings of confusion, disorientation, or even panic during a psilocybin experience. The interaction can lead to a loss of mental clarity, making it harder to process or understand the intense visual or emotional experiences that psilocybin may produce. •Negative Emotional Reactions: Alcohol can lead to emotional volatility or impulsivity, which, when paired with the profound insights or hallucinations from psilocybin, may increase the likelihood of negative emotional responses or challenging thoughts. 4. Impairment of Therapeutic Potential •Disruption of Set and Setting: Psilocybin journeys rely on a positive mindset and safe, controlled environment (often called “set and setting”) for maximum therapeutic benefit. Alcohol can disrupt this by impairing judgment, increasing impulsivity, and creating a sense of instability, which can undermine the therapeutic value of the experience. •Reduced Memory Retention: Alcohol affects memory retention, and some people report not remembering parts of the psilocybin experience if they were drinking. This can lead to a fragmented or incomplete recollection of the journey, limiting the ability to integrate insights after the experience. Summary In general, combining alcohol with psilocybin is not recommended. It can lead to increased physical discomfort, heightened emotional risk, and a reduction in the depth and clarity of the psilocybin experience. For those considering psilocybin for therapeutic or personal growth purposes, avoiding alcohol is suggested to maximize safety and the potential benefits of the journey. What would be the impact of alcohol consumption on seratonin receptors during a psilocybin journey ? Alcohol and psilocybin interact with serotonin receptors in different ways, and consuming alcohol during a psilocybin experience can interfere with psilocybin’s effects on serotonin pathways. Here’s how each substance affects serotonin receptors and what happens when they’re combined: 1. Psilocybin’s Action on Serotonin Receptors •Psilocybin primarily acts on the 5-HT2A receptors, a subtype of serotonin receptors associated with perception, mood, and cognition. When psilocybin binds to these receptors, it induces the characteristic effects of a psychedelic experience, including altered perception, emotional insights, and sometimes profound euphoria or empathy. •Psilocybin also affects 5-HT1A receptors, which can produce calming and anxiolytic effects. These effects contribute to the reflective and open mental state that psilocybin typically induces. 2. Alcohol’s Impact on Serotonin Pathways •Alcohol affects serotonin indirectly by initially increasing its release, but chronic or high doses of alcohol can lead to serotonin depletion in the brain over time. This effect is associated with alcohol’s depressant properties and its role in influencing mood and relaxation. •Alcohol doesn’t bind directly to serotonin receptors the way psilocybin does but alters serotonin signaling, which can lead to fluctuations in mood and affect mental clarity. 3. Interaction Between Alcohol and Psilocybin on Serotonin Receptors •Dampened Psychedelic Effects: Alcohol’s interference with serotonin signaling can dull psilocybin’s effects on 5-HT2A receptors, potentially blunting the clarity, emotional openness, and insights associated with a psilocybin journey. •Mood Instability: Alcohol may disrupt serotonin balance, leading to emotional volatility or mood swings during the psilocybin experience. This could heighten the risk of anxiety, confusion, or paranoia, increasing the likelihood of a challenging experience. •Reduced Neuroplasticity: Psilocybin’s effects on serotonin receptors are linked to increases in neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. Alcohol, especially in higher amounts, can counteract this by impairing neuronal health and plasticity, potentially diminishing the cognitive benefits typically associated with psilocybin experiences. 4. Increased Risk of Serotonin Imbalance and Serotonin Syndrome •Although rare, high levels of serotonin activation from both alcohol (in certain individuals) and psilocybin may theoretically increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition caused by excessive serotonin activity. This risk is more common with other serotonergic drugs, but it’s worth considering when combining any substances that influence serotonin. Summary Alcohol consumption during a psilocybin journey can interfere with psilocybin’s action on serotonin receptors, dampening the psychedelic effects and potentially causing emotional volatility and cognitive impairment. Additionally, alcohol’s indirect impact on serotonin pathways may reduce the neuroplasticity benefits associated with psilocybin, limiting its therapeutic potential. For these reasons, it’s recommended to avoid alcohol when using psilocybin to maximize safety and positive outcomes. What is the optimal clearance time between ingestion of alcohol and psilocybin? The optimal clearance time between consuming alcohol and taking psilocybin depends on factors like the amount of alcohol consumed, individual metabolism, and the desired effects of psilocybin. However, as a general guideline, it is advisable to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after drinking alcohol before taking psilocybin to ensure minimal interaction and allow your body to fully process the alcohol. Here’s why this timeframe is recommended: 1. Alcohol Clearance and Metabolism •On average, the liver metabolizes one standard drink per hour. After moderate drinking (1 The optimal clearance time between alcohol and psilocybin ingestion is generally 24 to 48 hours, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and individual factors such as metabolism. This time frame allows for most, if not all, of the alcohol to be processed by the body and reduces the likelihood of adverse interactions. Here’s a breakdown of why this is important: 1. Metabolism of Alcohol •The liver typically metabolizes one standard drink per hour, but this rate can vary. After drinking more than 2–3 standard drinks, it may take up to 12 hours or more for your body to eliminate all alcohol from your bloodstream. •For moderate or heavy drinking, waiting a full 24 hours is ideal. After binge drinking, a 48-hour window is safer to ensure no residual effects from alcohol remain. 2. Mental and Emotional State •Alcohol can impair judgment, mood stability, and cognitive function. Allowing at least 24 hours gives your brain and body time to recover fully from these effects, which is essential for an optimal psilocybin experience, as psilocybin requires a clear and stable mental state. 3. Avoiding Potential Physical and Chemical Interactions •Alcohol can interfere with the serotonin system and nervous system activity, potentially impacting psilocybin's effects. Waiting 24 to 48 hours helps prevent any residual alcohol from altering psilocybin's interaction with serotonin receptors. Summary For a safe and effective psilocybin experience, a 24- to 48-hour clearance period after drinking alcohol is recommended. This allows for physical recovery, mental clarity, and the reduction of any potential interactions between alcohol and psilocybin SELF EXPLORATION A psilocybin journey can be a powerful tool for self-exploration by promoting deeper introspection and emotional release. A psilocybin journey facilitated by a trained facilitator often allows for a more profound connection to oneself, leading to insights into personal challenges, relationships, or life direction. With the right mindset and preparation, and by integrating these insights afterward, people can use psilocybin to foster emotional healing, spiritual growth, and self-discovery. END OF LIFE END OF LIFE PSYCHEDELIC CARE EOLPC.org Their mission is to create the environment where the safe use of psychedelic medicine is accessible and affordable for anyone faced with a life-threatening illness. End of Life Choices.org One of the choices is through a program called "Delivering Oneself" for those who do not meet the requirements for Death With Dignity. (Those qualifications are to be an OR resident, 21 years of age or older, have a terminal diagnosis with 6 months of life to live or less, and can self-administer the 4 drugs utilized. "Delivering Oneself" is a legal program. WHEN DEEPER AND MORE EXTENSIVE WORK IS NEEDED When deeper or more extensive work is needed or wanted to heal trauma- Journey to Completion http://www.journeytocompletion.com/ offers an advanced process that combines psycho-therapeutic techniques with Jungian Depth Psychology to address "Shadow Work" Integration. It follows a powerful ancient pathway through the unconscious to break cycles of pain and retrieve creativity, then leads you back home to a deeper, more complete sense of self. Led by Norma Burton, who has studied with wisdom keepers around the world, the process blends sacred knowledge from the North, East, South, and West- the sacred four directions. Norma holds a M. Div in Psychology of Religion, MS, PhD, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, in Comparative Religions, Post Graduate studies in Somatic Psychology at SBGI. journeytocompletion.com. CREATIVITY RESEARCH STUDIES ON THE USE OF PSILOCYBIN FOR CREATIVITY ChatGPT said: Research on psilocybin’s effects on creativity is relatively new, but several studies indicate that it may enhance creative thinking by altering brain activity and perception. Here are some notable studies and their findings: 1. Maastricht University – Effects of Microdosing on Creativity •Study: “Exploring the Acute and Long-Term Effects of Psilocybin on Creativity” •Reference: Prochazkova, L., et al. (2018). Psychopharmacology, 235(12), 3401-3413. •Findings: This study investigated the effects of microdosing psilocybin on divergent and convergent thinking, both of which are key components of creativity. Divergent thinking is associated with generating multiple solutions, while convergent thinking focuses on narrowing down to a single solution. Researchers found that microdosing psilocybin improved divergent thinking, suggesting enhanced originality and flexibility in thought. Convergent thinking was unaffected, suggesting that microdosing may support creative ideation without impairing problem-solving focus. 2. Imperial College London – Brain Connectivity and Creativity •Study: “Increased Brain Connectivity under Psilocybin and the Associated Boost in Creativity” •Reference: Carhart-Harris, R. L., et al. (2014). Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111(23), 8874-8879. •Findings: Researchers used fMRI to study psilocybin’s effects on brain connectivity and found that it temporarily enhances connectivity between different brain regions, particularly in the default mode network (DMN). Increased connectivity may lead to more fluid and flexible thought processes, allowing for new ideas and perspectives, which are crucial to creative thinking. Participants also reported a heightened sense of openness and emotional sensitivity, which are often associated with creativity. 3. University of Leiden – Microdosing and Creative Problem Solving •Study: “Psychedelic Microdosing and Enhancement of Creative Problem Solving” •Reference: Kuypers, K. P. C., et al. (2016). Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 1472. •Findings: This study focused on the effects of microdosing on creativity in a controlled setting. It found that psilocybin microdoses improved participants’ ability to think outside the box, particularly on tasks requiring unconventional solutions. Participants reported feeling more open-minded and less bound to rigid thought patterns, which enhanced their problem-solving abilities. These results suggest that even low doses of psilocybin may enhance creativity by enabling more flexible thinking. 4. University of California, Davis – Psilocybin’s Effect on Openness and Creative Thinking •Study: “Psilocybin-Induced Changes in Personality and Implications for Creativity” •Reference: MacLean, K. A., et al. (2011). Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(11), 1453-1461. •Findings: This longitudinal study observed that a single high-dose psilocybin session led to lasting increases in “openness,” a personality trait associated with creativity, curiosity, and imagination. Notably, these changes in openness persisted for over a year in many participants, suggesting that psilocybin may have long-term impacts on creative thinking by fostering openness to new ideas and experiences. 5. Experimental Studies on Flow States and Creativity •Study: “Exploring the Effects of Psychedelics on Flow and Creative Output” •Reference: Barrett, F. S., et al. (2020). Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 575509. •Findings: This study explored the relationship between psilocybin, flow states, and creativity. Psilocybin was found to increase the likelihood of experiencing flow—a mental state of deep immersion and focus, which is often linked to peak creative performance. Enhanced flow states can lead to more productive creative output and a stronger connection to the creative process, suggesting that psilocybin might facilitate both artistic and problem-solving creativity. Mechanisms Behind Psilocybin’s Effect on Creativity Several mechanisms have been proposed for psilocybin’s effects on creativity: •Enhanced Brain Connectivity: Psilocybin increases connectivity across different brain regions, promoting novel connections and associative thinking, both of which are critical to creative thought. •Reduced Default Mode Network Activity: Psilocybin reduces DMN activity, allowing people to think beyond self-referential or habitual patterns, potentially leading to more expansive and novel ideas. •Increased Openness: By enhancing openness, psilocybin helps individuals explore ideas they might otherwise dismiss, encouraging curiosity and innovative thinking. Summary Although research is in its early stages, studies indicate that psilocybin may enhance creativity by promoting flexible thinking, increasing openness, and enhancing the brain’s ability to form new connections. Further research is needed to establish standardized protocols, understand the optimal dosages, and explore the potential applications for creativity in professional and artistic contexts. TRAUMA WHAT ARE THE STUDIES ON THE USE OF PSILOCYBIN FOR TRAUMA? Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, has garnered significant interest in recent years for its potential therapeutic applications, including the treatment of trauma-related conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While much of the research on psilocybin has focused on its efficacy in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction, emerging studies suggest promising avenues for its use in addressing trauma. Below is an overview of key scientific studies and findings related to the use of psilocybin for trauma: 1. Psilocybin and Emotional Processing in Trauma Study: Carhart-Harris et al. (2016) Title: "Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study" Findings: While primarily focused on depression, this study highlighted psilocybin's ability to enhance emotional processing and reduce rumination, which are critical factors in trauma recovery. Participants reported significant improvements in mood and emotional flexibility, suggesting potential benefits for trauma-related emotional dysregulation. 2. Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for PTSD Study: Garcia-Romeu et al. (2019) Title: "Psilocybin-occasioned mystical experiences in the treatment of tobacco addiction" Relevance to Trauma: Although centered on addiction, the study demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy could induce profound psychological experiences that facilitate behavioral change. These mechanisms are relevant for trauma treatment, where altering entrenched patterns of thought and behavior is essential. 3. Mechanisms of Action Relevant to Trauma Treatment Research Overview: Studies have explored how psilocybin interacts with the brain's serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, leading to increased neuroplasticity and connectivity between different brain regions. This enhanced connectivity may allow individuals to reprocess traumatic memories and integrate them in a healthier manner. Additionally, psilocybin-induced mystical experiences can foster a sense of interconnectedness and reduce fear responses, which are beneficial in trauma therapy. 4. Clinical Trials and Ongoing Research Ongoing Study: Institution: Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research Focus: Investigating the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy in various mental health conditions, including trauma-related disorders. Preliminary results indicate that psilocybin can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in individuals with trauma histories, though specific studies on PTSD are still in progress. Ongoing Study: Institution: Imperial College London Focus: Exploring the potential of psilocybin to enhance psychotherapy for PTSD by facilitating emotional breakthroughs and reducing avoidance behaviors. 5. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Review: Pollan et al. (2022) Title: "Psychedelics and Mental Health: A Review of Current Evidence" Findings: This review synthesized data from multiple studies, concluding that psychedelics like psilocybin show promise in treating various mental health conditions, including those related to trauma. The authors call for more targeted research to fully understand psilocybin's efficacy and safety in trauma populations. 6. Safety and Ethical Considerations Study: Johnson et al. (2008) Title: "Human hallucinogen research: guidelines for safety" Findings: Emphasizes the importance of controlled environments and professional guidance when using psilocybin therapeutically, especially for individuals with trauma histories who may be more susceptible to adverse psychological reactions. Conclusion and Future Directions While the body of research specifically targeting psilocybin's use in trauma treatment is still developing, existing studies provide a foundational understanding of its potential benefits. Psilocybin-assisted therapy may offer a novel approach to trauma by facilitating emotional processing, enhancing neuroplasticity, and promoting psychological insights. However, more rigorous, trauma-focused clinical trials are necessary to establish efficacy, optimal dosing protocols, and safety profiles. Key Considerations for Future Research: Population Specificity: Focusing on individuals diagnosed with PTSD or complex trauma. Longitudinal Studies: Assessing the long-term effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy on trauma symptoms. Integration with Psychotherapy: Exploring how psilocybin can be effectively combined with existing therapeutic modalities for trauma. Safety Protocols: Ensuring robust safety measures to support individuals during and after psilocybin experiences. As regulatory landscapes evolve and the stigma surrounding psychedelics diminishes, it is anticipated that research on psilocybin for trauma will expand, potentially offering new hope for individuals struggling with the enduring impacts of traumatic experiences. MORE RESOURCES Organizations *DecriminalizeNature.org. A grassroots organization advocating for the decriminalization of entheogenic plants. *UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics * End the War on Drugs. (The war on drugs is widely reviewed as a policy failure). www.aclu.org. NAACP.org for an Exit Strategy to end the war on drugs. Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research hopkinspsychedelic.org. The center focuses on conducting research studies on psychedelics, which includes studying the potential therapeutic benefits and efficacy of psychedelics. Their vision is to advance the scientific understanding of psychedelics and their potential for treating mental health. Coyote-Institute.org. A 501c3 that aims toward "Two-Eyed Seeing", bringing the wisdom of indigenous peoples to the modern world. "The coyote is our muse, because coyote is a powerful North American symbol for change and transformation. Coyote's job is to intervene when any system gets too rigid and inflexible, providing input to move the leading Read More > AMAZING RESOURCES RECOMMENDED BOOKS: I have listed 6 books here that I feel would prepare you well emotionally for your psilocybin journey. Please seriously consider reading them. * No Bad Parts. Richard Schwartz, PhD. 2021. Dr Schwartz is the creator of Internal Family Systems, a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic model that addresses "our inner critics", the "monkey mind" with an approach that ends a constant inner struggle. It is an excellent tool in working with the critic, the sabatour, guilt & shame and is an astounding tool for preparatory work and integration of a psilocybin journey. * The Body Keeps the Score. Bessel van der Kolk, MD. 2014. A pioneering & lead researcher who has transformed our understanding of trauma and offers a bold paradigm for healing. It offers understanding about trauma that is imperative to healing. * Workbook: The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Liam Daniels, 2023 * What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience & Healing. Bruce Perry, child psychiatrist, MD & Oprah Winfrey. Shifts the conversation from "what's wrong with you to what happened to you? * LSD & the Mind of the Universe: Diamonds from Heaven. Christopher Bache, PhD. 2019. Bache chronicles his 73 LSD journeys over the course of 20 years to deepen and understand his communion with cosmic consciousness. * The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women. Ellen Bass & Laura Davis.1988. Best selling self help book for survivors of incest. WORTHY DOCUMENTARIES AND MOVIES 1) Fantastic Fungi : How Mushrooms can Heal, Shift Consciousness & Save the Planet. Paul Stamets The Way of the Psychonaut. Explores the life and work of Stanislav Grof, psychiatrist & psychedelic psychotherapy pioneer. Podcast: Adventures Through The Mind. You Tube. A Psychedelic Podcast hosted by author, Jamew W Jesso. This audio & video podcast presents long-form, unedited conversations with various experts. International Center for Ethnobotanical Education Research and Service (ICEERS). ICEERS is a non profit dedicated to navigate the challenges of the globalization of traditional indigenous medicines. The Psychedelic Pharmacists Association (PPA) psychedelicpharmacist.org The leading non-profit devoted to pharmacists advancing psychedelics as medicines. They advocate education about the therapeutic use of psilocybin medicines and their place in the continuum of care. Recommended Books: * No Bad Parts. Richard Schwartz, PhD. 2021. Dr Schwartz is the creator of Internal Family Systems, a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic model that addresses "our inner critics", the "monkey mind" with an approach that ends a constant inner struggle. It is an excellent tool in working with the critic, the sabatour, guilt & shame and is an astounding tool for preparatory work and integration of a psilocybin journey. * The Body Keeps the Score. Bessel van der Kolk, MD. 2014. A pioneering & lead researcher who has transformed our understanding of trauma and offers a bold paradigm for healing. It offers understanding about trauma that is imperative to healing. * Workbook: The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Liam Daniels, 2023 * The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women. Ellen Bass & Laura Davis.1988. Best selling self help book for survivors of incest. * What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience & Healing. Bruce Perry, child psychiatrist, MD & Oprah Winfrey. Shifts the conversation from "what's wrong with you to what happened to you? * LSD & the Mind of the Universe: Diamonds from Heaven. Christopher Bache, PhD. 2019. Bache chronicles his 73 LSD journeys over the course of 20 years to deepen and understand his communion with cosmic consciousness. Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelics and Consciousness Research hopkinspsychedelic.org. The center focuses on conducting research studies on psychedelics, which includes studying the potential therapeutic benefits and efficacy of psychedelics. Their vision is to advance the scientific understanding of psychedelics and their potential for treating mental health. Coyote-Institute.org. A 501c3 that aims toward "Two-Eyed Seeing", bringing the wisdom of indigenous peoples to the modern world. "The coyote is our muse, because coyote is a powerful North American symbol for change and transformation. Coyote's job is to intervene when any system gets too rigid and inflexible, providing input to move the leading non profit system toward transformation and change. Erowid Center. www.erowid.org. The Erowid Center, a non profit educational organization that provides information about psychoactive plants and chemicals. Erovid has documented legal- and illegal- substances, including their intended and adverse effects- by thousands of participants. This link is presented for free access to information and ideas. The FAX page is an attempt to prepare 1st time users of psychoactive substances. One may refer to Erowid's summary pages in the substances main vault. The Hakomi Institute hakomiinstitute.com. Hakomi combines advances in neuroscience with the gentle inward-looking practice of Mindfulness. Conferences Coyote Institute. Two-Eyed Seeing. Jan 26-28, 2025. Online & in Maine. Psychedelic Science.org. June 16-20, 2025 MAPS sponsored conference, Denver, Colo. Zendo Project www.firesideproject.org. A non-profit founded in 2022 by mental health professionals and supported by a team of volunteers that includes doctors, psychedelic therapists, nurses, social workers, healing facilitators and harm reduction experts. Incubated for 10 years at MAPS, they provide free integration support and support during psychedelic experiences. They provide free education & psychedelic peer support services to organizations and communities. NOTE WORTHY ORGANIZATIONS Erowid Center. www.erowid.org. The Erowid Center, a non profit educational organization that provides information about psychoactive plants and chemicals. Erovid has documented legal- and illegal- substances, including their intended and adverse effects- by thousands of participants. This link is presented for free access to information and ideas. The FAX page is an attempt to prepare 1st time users of psychoactive substances. One may refer to Erowid's summary pages in the substances main vault. The Hakomi Institute hakomiinstitute.com. Hakomi combines advances in neuroscience with the gentle inward-looking practice of Mindfulness. CONFEERENCES Coyote Institute. Two-Eyed Seeing. Jan 26-28, 2025. Online & in Maine. Psychedelic Science.org. June 16-20, 2025 MAPS sponsored conference, Denver, Colo. Horizons: Perspectives on Psychedelics. An annual conference that covers cutting edge psilocybin research. horizonspbc.com Participating in conferences that discuss the therapeutic potential and safe use of psychedelics can open up dialogue. These events often feature experts from various fields such as psychiatry, neuroscience and anthropology. ORGANIZATIONS Zendo Project www.firesideproject.org. A non-profit founded in 2022 by mental health professionals and supported by a team of volunteers that includes doctors, psychedelic therapists, nurses, social workers, healing facilitators and harm reduction experts. Incubated for 10 years at MAPS, they provide free integration support and support during psychedelic experiences. They provide free education & psychedelic peer support services to organizations and communities. need, while keeping your layout clean. DRUG & ALCOHOL USE & PSILOCYBIN 1. Addictions Recovery Center Rogue Valley – Fresh Start Detox Contact & Location •Address: 1025 E. Main Street, Medford, OR 97504 (also listed at 338 N. Front Street—both in Medford) •Phone: (541) 779-1282 (Option 2 for specialized treatment) •Email: info@addictionsrecovery.org •Hours: Open 24/7 for medically monitored withdrawal/detox services Key Services & Features •Medically monitored detox for alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, opioids, etc. •MAT (buprenorphine, naltrexone), counseling, case management, peer support •Housing referrals and employment training •Accepts Medicaid, private insurance, TRICARE (military), government funding, sliding-scale/self-pay Estimated Costs •Local dual-diagnosis inpatient (30-day): ~$20,000 (range $10,000–$30,000) •General inpatient: $27,500–$56,654 for a 30-day stay •Outpatient: ~$1,700/month •Luxury inpatient: $25,000–$50,000+ per month 2. OnTrack Rogue Valley – FAQ •Where is OnTrack Rogue Valley located? oOutpatient Office (Medford): 300 W. Main Street, Medford, OR 97501 oPhone: (541) 772 1777 oFax: (541) 734 2410 •How do I contact the Access Department or make a referral? oPhone: (541) 200 2403 oEmail: access@ontrackroguevalley.org oThe Access Department handles residential inquiries, referrals, and intake information. •3. What are the outpatient office hours? oMonday–Thursday: 8 am–7 pm oFriday–Saturday: 8 am–5 pm •4. What types of programs does OnTrack Rogue Valley offer? oOutpatient programs oResidential treatment oDay treatment and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) oTrauma-informed, family-centric care oAccreditations: CARF accredited; ASAM Level 3.5 residential certified •5. Are there any unique or specialized programs? oDad’s Program and Mom’s HOME Program: allow parents to reside with their children during treatment oEmergency lodging with peer case support •6. What are the estimated costs and payment options? oResidential programs: approximately $27,000–$56,000 per month oFinancial assistance: sliding-scale and payment assistance available oInsurance: acceptance varies by plan; contact OnTrack for specifics Oasis Center of the Rogue Valley Contact & Location: •Address: 534 E. Main Street, Medford, OR 97504 •Phone: (541) 200 1530 | Fax: (541) 772 0284 •Hours: Monday–Thursday 8 am–5 pm; Friday until noon (some sources list Friday until 3 pm) Services & Support: •Focus on families (prenatal/postpartum, parenting support, MAT, child watch, peer support, social services integration) •Serves pregnant individuals and mothers/parents with young children; includes trauma-informed, integrated behavioral health Estimated Costs & OOP: •Sliding fee discount scale in place; likely Medicaid/private insurance accepted, but specific coverage details require direct contact. Summary of Programs Fresh Start Detox (ARC) •Phone: (541) 779-1282 •Address: 1025 E. Main St or 338 N. Front St •Email: info@addictionsrecovery.org •Hours: 24/7 detox services (dual-diagnosis inpatient) •Cost Range: Inpatient ~$10k–30k (30-day); outpatient ~$1.7k/month OnTrack Rogue Valley •Phone: (541) 772-1777 / (541) 200-2403 •Address: 300 W. Main St (Medford) / contact for residential locations •Email: access@ontrackroguevalley.org •Hours: Varies by program •Cost Range: Residential ~$27k–$56k/month; outpatient lower; sliding scale available Oasis Center of the Rogue Valley •Phone: (541) 200-1530 •Address: 534 E. Main St, Medford •Email: — •Hours: Mon–Thu 8am–5pm; Fri till noon/3pm •Cost Range: Sliding fee scale; contact for insurance and exact costs Next Steps for Clarity on OOP Costs: 1. Call each program directly (use the phone numbers above) to ask: •What are your typical daily/monthly rates? •Do you charge admission fees? •Which insurance plans do you accept? What would OOP look like based on my plan? •Are sliding-scale or payment assistance options available? 2. Check with your insurer to understand deductibles, co-pays, out-of-pocket maximums, and any coverage limitations on inpatient versus outpatient rehab. 3. Ask for a cost breakdown or estimate—many facilities may provide a “good faith estimate” or typical billing example based on common lengths of stay. Read More > “Psychedelics may not only provide healing from the psychological conditions we classify as mental illness, but may also offer something more existentially essential: relief from our habitualized way of seeing and being in the world.” ~Michael Pollan, author of How to Change Your Mind

Discover certified psilocybin facilitation services in Ashland, OR. Prepare for your journey and integrate the experience with our trusted consultant. Explore psilocybin therapy services, which include facilitated preparation, psilocybin journey and psychedelic integration support. My tailored approach provides guided psychedelic journeys and individualized coaching, prioritizing safe therapeutic practices for every participant. See my FAQ page for more detailed information. PREPARATION Preparatory sessions for a psilocybin journey are important for several reasons: Mental preparation is key; enter with a calm, open mind, free from major stresses. Abstain from alcohol or substances for several days before the journey. Also abstain from action packed and violent movies the night before and eat lightly 1-2 days before the journey experience. In Indigenous communities individuals often fast for 2 days prior to a journey. ( This can also alleviate physical symptoms that some may have, such as a mild headache or nausea. ) * Setting Intentions: They help individuals clarify their intentions, which can focus the experience and provide a framework for insights. *Building Trust: Establishing a rapport with your facilitator fosters a sense of safety and trust, which is crucial for a supportive environment during the journey. * Understanding Expectations: Preparatory sessions provide information about what to expect, 30 pages of required paperwork from the Oregon Health Authority ( the overarching authority which regulates psilocybin services in the state) which insures informed consent, helping individuals manage anxiety and prepare mentally for the experience. Services to you would include an average of 6 hours, broken into 2 hour segments- in person, on Zoom or by phone, whichever is most comfortable to you. We take the time it takes until you feel ready. * Addressing Concerns: You can discuss fears or concerns, allowing for a more open and relaxed mindset going into the journey. * Personalization: Preparatory sessions allow facilitators to tailor the experience based on your needs, ensuring a more relevant and beneficial journey. * Integration Planning: Preparation can also lay the groundwork for post-journey integration, discussing how to process and apply insights gained during the experience. Overall, preparation enhances safety, efficacy, and the potential for positive outcomes in the psilocybin journey. The “River of Life” is a therapeutic and narrative process often used in group counseling, trauma work, or community healing. People lay out a “river” (on paper, cloth, or in physical space) and place symbolic objects along its path to represent life experiences. •Flowers → positive or life-giving events (joy, love, growth, milestones). •Stones → traumas, obstacles, or painful events carried along the way. •Sticks → times when one has caused harm or conflict, acknowledging responsibility. •Candles → usually represent hope, guidance, or spiritual light. In many adaptations, they are placed to honor moments of resilience, transformation, or remembrance of those who supported you. Candles can also mark an ongoing source of strength that helps illuminate the journey ahead. 👉 Different facilitators adapt the symbols slightly, but candles almost always signify light, hope, healing, or the memory of loved ones that help guide the individual through their life’s river. This process brings to light situations that may benefit from processing: mourning, forgiving, celebrating. As anything in the unconscious may well surface during a psilocybin journey. THE JOURNEY A psilocybin journey, often referred to as a “trip,” is a profound experience that varies widely depending on the person, dosage, mindset, and setting. Here’s a general description: 1. Onset (20-60 minutes): After consuming psilocybin mushrooms, most people feel effects within 20 to 60 minutes. Many start with a sense of mild anticipation or excitement, sometimes accompanied by physical sensations like warmth or tingling. There can be mild nausea or headache. Some may be cold, others hot with profuse sweating. So bring an extra pair of clothes. This stage can bring heightened awareness of one’s surroundings, with colors appearing brighter, sounds more immersive, and an overall sense of “shifting” from normal perception. 2. Peak (2-4 hours): The peak is the most intense part of the journey. Visuals may become more pronounced, with colors and patterns appearing to move, change, or “breathe.” Closed-eye visuals can also become vivid, often displaying geometric shapes, mandalas, or scenes that feel profound or symbolic. With focus one can move beyond the visuals to focus on the intentions & purpose for the journey. During this phase, people often experience deep introspection and feel a connection to nature, the universe, or their inner selves. Emotions are often amplified, and thoughts can be more fluid and nonlinear, with "downloads" of information & understanding happening instantaneously. Some describe this as a moment of “ego dissolution,” where they feel a release from their usual sense of self and connected to something greater. This can be both blissful and challenging, depending on the individual. 3. Plateau (1-2 hours): After the peak, things begin to stabilize. Visuals may soften, but the insights and emotional waves remain strong. Many describe this as a phase of integration, where they reflect on the peak experience, gaining insights or coming to terms with feelings or thoughts. 4. Comedown (1-2 hours): As the effects continue to fade, the journey usually transitions into a more relaxed state. Some people feel physically tired, exhausted or energized but mentally refreshed, with a lingering & strong sense of peace and connection. Reflecting on the experience can bring a “glow” that lasts for hours or even days. Many feel an afterglow of clarity, emotional release, or a renewed sense of perspective on life. Preparation enhances safety, efficacy, and the potential for positive outcomes in the psilocybin journey. It requires mindfulness, intention, and creating a safe, supportive environment. Set a clear intention: 'why are you taking this journey, and what do you hope to explore or gain?' Choose a quiet, comfortable setting, free from distractions. Have a trusted guide who can provide reassurance if needed. Be sure there is water available and bring any favorite music or comfort items with you. Mental preparation is key; enter with a calm, open mind, free from major stresses. Avoid alcohol or substances, action packed and violent movies the night before and eat lightly 1-2 A psilocybin journey, often referred to as a “trip,” is a profound experience that varies widely depending on the person, dosage, mindset, and setting. Here’s a general description: 1. Onset (20-60 minutes): After consuming psilocybin mushrooms, most people feel effects within 20 to 60 minutes. Many start with a sense of mild anticipation or excitement, sometimes accompanied by physical sensations like warmth or tingling. There can be mild nausea or headache. Some may be cold, others hot with profuse sweating. So bring an extra pair of clothes. This stage can bring heightened awareness of one’s surroundings, with colors appearing brighter, sounds more immersive, and an overall sense of “shifting” from normal perception. Have a trusted guide who can provide reassurance if needed. 2. Peak (2-4 hours): The peak is the most intense part of the journey. Visuals may become more pronounced, with colors and patterns appearing to move, change, or “breathe.” Closed-eye visuals can also become vivid, often displaying geometric shapes, mandalas, or scenes that feel profound or symbolic. With focus one can move beyond the visuals to focus on the intentions & purpose for the journey. During this phase, people often experience deep introspection and feel a connection to nature, the universe, or their inner selves. Emotions are often amplified, and thoughts can be more fluid and nonlinear, with "downloads" of information & understanding happening instantaneously. Some describe this as a moment of “ego dissolution,” where they feel a release from their usual sense of self and connected to something greater. This can be both blissful and challenging, depending on the individual. 3. Plateau (1-2 hours): After the peak, things begin to stabilize. Visuals may soften, but the insights and emotional waves remain strong. Many describe this as a phase of integration, where they reflect on the peak experience, gaining insights or coming to terms with feelings or thoughts. 4. Comedown (1-2 hours): As the effects continue to fade, the journey usually transitions into a more relaxed state. Some people feel physically tired, exhausted or energized but mentally refreshed, with a lingering & strong sense of peace and connection. Reflecting on the experience can bring a “glow” that lasts for hours, days or even months. Many feel an afterglow of clarity, emotional release, or a renewed sense of perspective on life. INTEGRATION Optimizing the integration of a psilocybin journey is key to maximizing its insights and transformative potential. Here’s a step-by-step guide that can help: 1. Immediate Aftercare (Day of Journey) Rest and Reflect: Right after the experience, rest and give yourself time to process. Take time to sit quietly, allowing your mind and body to recalibrate. Hydration and Nutrition: Rehydrate with water or herbal teas, and eat something nourishing to ground yourself. 1. Journaling: Write down immediate impressions, emotions, and key moments from the journey. Capturing raw thoughts can provide context for later reflection. 2. Set Intentions for Integration (Days Following Journey) Define Key Themes: Think about major insights or themes from the journey. Write down any realizations or messages that felt important. Set Actionable Goals: Break down themes into small, actionable changes that align with your values. For example, if the journey emphasized self-compassion, set a goal to incorporate self-care practices. 3. Supportive Practices (First Week) Meditation: Daily meditation can help integrate insights by keeping you present and open to emotional processing. Breathwork or Yoga: Engaging in gentle movement or deep breathing exercises helps release any stored emotions and can ground insights into the body. Nature Time: Spending time in nature can be deeply grounding and is often beneficial for reflecting on the journey’s themes. 4. Community and Support (Ongoing) Therapeutic Support: Consider working with a therapist trained in psychedelic integration if the journey brought up unresolved trauma or deep psychological issues. Integration Circles: Join a local or online community of people who have had similar experiences, allowing you to discuss and process openly. Creative Expression: Expressing your experience through art, writing, music, theatre or other creative outlets can be very healing. 5. Sustaining Changes (Weeks to Months) Revisit Your Journal: Periodically reread your journal entries, looking for recurring themes or patterns. Utilize archetypes for progress or remaining needed work. Incorporate Lessons into Daily Life: Gradually implement the lessons learned into your day-to-day routines. Small, mindful shifts often have the most sustainable impact. Be Patient: Integration is an ongoing journey. Allow yourself time, as profound changes often emerge gradually. 6. Evaluate and Adjust (Every Few Months) Reflect on Growth: Reassess the journey’s impact on your life. Consider what has shifted and where you still feel called to grow. Set New Intentions: Use each checkpoint to set new, meaningful intentions or renew previous ones, adapting as needed. “Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” ― Will Rogers Complementary and Therapeutic Approaches

Becca Parker Certified Psilocybin Facilitator | Psilocybin therapy ComprehensiveFacilitation for Transformative & Healing Psilocybin Journeys Discover evolutionary psilocybin journey facilitation designed to guide you safely through a transformative psilocybin experience. As a Psilocybin Journey Facilitator, I offer preparatory coaching, journey facilitation and psychedelic integration coaching that supports safe psilocybin sessions for consciousness exploration and transformational healing. Comprehensive Facilitation for Transformative & Healing Psilocybin Journeys Discover evolutionary psilocybin journey facilitation designed to guide you safely through a transformative psilocybin experience. As a Psilocybin Journey Facilitator, I offer preparatory coaching, journey facilitation and psychedelic integration coaching that supports safe psilocybin sessions for consciousness exploration and transformational healing. INTRODUCING OUR MASTER PACKAGE "I do know of a therapist; it's called a mushroom. Ask them for help" ~Bess Williams Hi: My name is Becca Parker, Welcome in! I am a Certified Psilocybin Journey Facilitator, based in the heart of the destination vacation site of Ashland, in Southern Oregon . I am here to guide you on a safe, insightful, and transformative journey with psilocybin, whether you’re seeking personal healing, spiritual growth, or deep self-exploration. Psilocybin-assisted therapy addresses spiritual exploration and well-being, personal growth, creativity, mental health improvement and recovery- including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, addictions & end-of-life harmony and closure. Compassionate, adept, facilitation ensures that each experience is tailored to your needs, offering you the support and integration tools necessary for meaningful results. Allow me to walk with you on this path toward clarity, connection, and well-being. With a 50 year background in healing as a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, RN and nutritionist, as well as being a 50 year practitioner of meditation and yoga, I am dedicated to providing a safe haven and supportive environment for you to embark on a transformative life-changing and healing experience. More About Me "With the little ones (psilocybin mushrooms), we travel, we heal, we see the unseen. We learn to listen, to the Earth, to our hearts. They heal us by showing us who we are and who we are meant to be.” ~Sage Ritual Words from Mazatec Psilocybin Ceremony

An Extensive, Bold & Essential Psilocybin-Assisted Study for PTSD & Major Depression: Ascertaining which of 4 Micro Dosing Patterns is most effective What length of Micro Dosing would be optimal for Recovery How the microdosing might affect a full dose psilocybin journey. Veterans Steps to Stability Project An Extensive, Bold & Essential Psilocybin-Assisted Study for PTSD & Major Depression: * Ascertaining which of 4 Micro Dosing Patterns is most effective * What length of Micro Dosing, would be optimal for Recovery * How the microdosing might affect a full dose psilocybin journey. Welcome to Veterans Steps to Stability Are you a Veteran struggling with PTSD and depression? Have traditional treatments failed to bring lasting relief? The Veterans Steps to Stability Project is launching one of the largest studies ever conducted on four different microdosing protocols for psilocybin-assisted therapy for PTSD and depression. Building on existing scientific research, our goal is to identify a clear, effective, and lasting path to healing by: Determining the most effective dosing schedules Identifying the optimal length of a microdosing program Exploring the long-term benefits of microdosing on PTSD and depression symptoms About the Study Who: We are recruiting 600 U.S. military veterans diagnosed with PTSD and depression. What: An 8-week microdosing protocol followed by a full-dose psilocybin journey under the guidance of state-licensed facilitators. When: Participants will complete online questionnaires over two years to track changes in symptoms and quality of life. Why: To address the veteran suicide crisis by finding an effective, transformative treatment for PTSD and depression. Where: Licensed psilocybin service centers in Oregon, primarily Ashland and Portland. How: Through an observational, longitudinal cohort study with open-label and quasi-experimental design (you don’t need to know the research jargon to participate). Funding: Supported by generous donors who believe in this mission. Scholarship assistance will be available. Why Participate? This could be life-changing—and life-saving. Your participation will help identify the best microdosing protocols —including dosage, patterns, and duration—which could benefit millions in the future. This large-scale study is designed for statistical validity , meaning your contribution will help create reliable, actionable results. Experience a therapeutic approach to PTSD and depression that may succeed where others have failed. Become part of a supportive, veteran-focused healing community . Scholarships are available for those in need. How It Works Microdosing Phase – 8 weeks of psilocybin microdosing, with four different protocols tested to find the most effective approach. Full-Dose Session – One guided psilocybin journey with a Certified Psilocybin Facilitator after the microdosing phase. Follow-Up & Support – Ongoing online assessments and integration sessions to reinforce long-term healing. Long-Term Commitment – Complete 12 online questionnaires over two years to help researchers track how long the benefits last and whether re-dosing is needed. Sign Up If you’re a veteran ready to explore a new path to stability and peace, we invite you to join this groundbreaking research. 📩 Sign Up: Veterans Steps To Stability Sign Up Form Link 📞 Contact Us: beccasuzanne2020@gmail.com Join Us in Pioneering a New Future The Veterans Steps to Stability Project i s more than a study—it’s a mission to bring hope, healing, and peace to those who have served. Your participation could change your life—and help shape the future of PTSD treatment for countless others. This is historic. Reclaim your peace. ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. PTP Form

What is considered a justified fee for a psilocybin facilitator to charge? ​Determining a justified fee for a psilocybin facilitator involves several factors, including the facilitator's qualifications, experience, the context in which the service is offered, location, and the duration and type of the session. Fees Your investment supports more than just time together. It includes: > A trauma-informed, compassionate presence > Customized preparation support (avg. 6 hrs) > In-person facilitation in a safe, sacred setting (avg. 6 hrs) > Post-journey integration guidance, as long as needed (avg. 4 hrs) > commitment to your healing and growth What’s Included in a Journey Fees & Offerings Journey Facilitation Fees The total cost for a facilitated psilocybin journey with Becca Parker includes preparation, ceremony support, and post-journey integration. Below is a breakdown of the cost for a fully supported, professionally facilitated psilocybin journey with Becca Parker. 💠 Total Fee: $2,200 Factors Influencing Psilocybin Journey Fees 1. Qualifications & Training Facilitators with advanced credentials, such as those in psychology, counseling, or psychedelic-assisted therapy, may charge more due to their expertise and ability to ensure a safe, informed experience. For example, a Family Nurse Practitioner trained in trauma and somatic therapies brings significant clinical value, justifying higher compensation. 2. Experience Seasoned facilitators with a proven track record may command higher rates. It’s worth noting that licensed Psilocybin Service Centers have only been operational since March 2023, making the field relatively new. 3. Type of Service Fees vary depending on the service offered—whether it's an individual session, group journey, integration therapy, or a full package that includes preparation and post-session support. 4. Session Duration Longer sessions that include both preparation and integration typically incur higher costs. However, room rental fees tend to be flat-rate regardless of session length, unless only a brief microdosing session is needed. 5. Location Geographic region plays a role in pricing. Facilitators in urban areas with a higher cost of living often charge more than those in rural locations. 6. Independent Business Expenses All licensed psilocybin facilitators in Oregon operate as independent businesses. This means business-related costs are built into the facilitator fee. These include the development and maintenance of a professional website (where you’ll find valuable information on psilocybin, research, and journey preparation), subscription services like Zoom (for consultations) and YouTube (for ad-free music during sessions), as well as required permits, such as a worker's permit in addition to the facilitator license. A Journey Reflection "After literally months of research, I chose Satya Therapeutics for the next step in a long journey to combat severe depression. Central to that was the quality of licensed facilitators they make available to their clients. Personally, I was relieved to find Becca Parker's bio on their website because having someone with a nursing background was important to me as a woman in my sixties. Satya educated me on the process, answered all my questions, and then Becca did the deep dive into the work needed to get the most benefit from this experience. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it: worth the cross country flight, days away from home, the financial commitment. Everything. It is still early days, but I believe this treatment has changed my life for the better. I am cautiously optimistic for a future that is an upgrade to my recent past." — Katie Goodman Let’s Work Together Get in touch so we can start working together. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Get in touch with Rebecca Parker for a free consultation. Reach out to us today with all your questions about a psilocybin journey experience and how it can help you! Contact me for a free consultation Connect with Becca Parker, a trusted psilocybin facilitator, to schedule or inquire about facilitated experiences. Reach out to book psilocybin journey appointments or learn more about my supportive psychedelic journey services that help you along your path of healing and growth. Phone 503-819-3712 (Text OK) Email beccasuzanne2020@gmail.com Social Media Working in Southern Oregon and Throughout the State of Oregon FEES SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION INTRODUCING OUR MASTER PACKAGE First Name Last name Phone Best Time to Call Email Message Send Thanks for submitting! DISCLAIMER: When performing psilocybin preparation, journey facilitation, and integration I am NOT representing or utilizing my medical status. Stay informed on the latest breakthroughs and insights in psilocybin therapy! Join Becca's mailing list for exclusive updates, resources, and tools to support your journey. First name* Subscribe Email* I want to subscribe to your mailing list. "These substances open the door to what feels like an innate knowledge… Psilocybin shows us our true place in the cosmos and reminds us that we are more than mere passengers in our lives." ~Terence McKenna (Ethnobotanist and philosopher)

Here, you will find a curated collection of trusted professionals, including doctors, former clients, and experts within the psilocybin industry. These individuals and organizations have played an integral role in supporting the transformative journey of healing and growth through psilocybin therapy. References and Referrals Welcome to our References and Referrals page. Here, you will find a curated collection of trusted professionals, including doctors, former clients, and experts within the psilocybin industry. These individuals and organizations have played an integral role in supporting the transformative journey of healing and growth through psilocybin therapy. Whether you're seeking medical guidance, client testimonials, or insights from experienced facilitators, this page connects you with a network of knowledgeable and compassionate professionals committed to safe and effective psychedelic experiences. Feel free to explore the references below to learn more about the impact of psilocybin and the trusted individuals who make these journeys possible. "I could not have possibly had a better experience than I did at Satya Therapeutics. The owners and staff with whom I interacted with were kind, professional and knowledgeable. My guide for the session was Becca Parker and I could not have asked for a better facilitator. Her expertise and wisdom during the session were invaluable and significantly enhanced the experience and the benefit I derived therefrom. I would recommend both the agency and facilitator to anyone. My experience there at Satya and with Becca was, without exaggeration, one of the best and most significant of my life. I'm so grateful to everyone who contributed in any way to my experience there. Thank you so very much." — Matt Response from Becca to Matt: Thank you Matt for your heartfelt & thoughtful review! It was a pleasure & honor to work with you at Satya Therapeutics, & again hear that your experience was so meaningful & powerful, & that you felt the facilitation was invaluable. I look forward to seeing continued growth, healing & insight for you, & welcoming you again in the future for another transformational journey! "I have had the honor of knowing and working alongside Becca Parker FNP for over 15 years, both as a colleague practicing holistic health and as a friend. As a medical doctor, I've witnessed her unwavering dedication to her client's well-being and exceptional expertise in integrated medicine. Becca's professionalism is unmatched, and her extensive medical background as a Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwife, and Nutritionist adds a level of expertise and unique skill set to her practice that is truly special. What sets Becca apart is her character. Her kindness, compassion, empathy and genuine desire to assist clients on their healing journey creates a nurturing and safe and supportive environment. Her integrity, compassion and dedication to her craft is truly commendable. Becca's additional training as a certified psilocybin facilitator brings an additional level of skills to help support clients who are seeking transformative psilocybin experience. I wholeheartedly recommend Becca to those seeking a psilocybin journey. " — Dr. Whitacre A Journey Reflection "After literally months of research, I chose Satya Therapeutics for the next step in a long journey to combat severe depression. Central to that was the quality of licensed facilitators they make available to their clients. Personally, I was relieved to find Becca Parker's bio on their website because having someone with a nursing background was important to me as a woman in my sixties. Satya educated me on the process, answered all my questions, and then Becca did the deep dive into the work needed to get the most benefit from this experience. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it: worth the cross country flight, days away from home, the financial commitment. Everything. It is still early days, but I believe this treatment has changed my life for the better. I am cautiously optimistic for a future that is an upgrade to my recent past." — Katie Goodman I was fortunate to have selected Rebecca Parker as my facilitator for the life-changing therapy I received at Satya Therapeutics. Rebecca (Becca) is a gentle soul whose innate and intuitive healing style eased me towards a better life path. She helped me unblock the mental roadblocks with wisdom and caring. I will always be thankful for her guidance, care and empathy. Satya Therapeutics is a welcoming, safe environment where the journey of the rest of my life began. I haven't been changed, I have been unlocked. — Thank you. Elaine Bodnar Becca Parker was an excellent facilitator for my psilocybin journey. The preparation was thorough, and the integration helped to clarify insights. She is insightful and compassionate. She helped me have an amazing experience. She facilitated the release and resolution of intense emotional issues. I appreciate her unwavering support. I was very glad she was there to assist me. I highly recommend Becca. — Shanna Becca Parker was my Facilitator. I initially chose her because of her strong professional medical background. After our initial conversation, I knew I had made the right choice. She guided me through microdose sessions, which led me to a complete psilocybin journey. It was an amazing experience that is changing my life. I will take other voyages ,,, Becca will be at the helm. — Jon Dunn Let’s Work Together Get in touch so we can start working together. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Forms, provided by the Oregon Health Authority, to better understand information you may cover with Becca, your licensed psilocybin facilitator, during a psilocybin journey preparation session. Client Intake Forms and Information The following are the required forms from the Oregon Health Authority ( the legal ruling body that sets the rules & regulations for the Oregon psilocybin centers & the Oregon certified psilocybin facilitators.) Each of the 15 sets need to be downloaded, read, signed & dated at least 24 hours prior to the administration of any psilocybin. These signed forms ( with the Exception of the Release of the end of the session) need to be given to the Facilitator prior to your journey. CLICK ⬇ DOWNLOAD FOR ALL CONSENT FORMS ⬇ OR YOU CAN DOWNLOAD INDIVIDUALLY BELOW ⬇ 1 - Informed Consent - Updated 1.1.25 2 - Satya Informed Consent - Updated 10.5.25 3 - Client Bill of Rights - Updated 1.1.25 4 - Client Information Form - Updated 1.1.25 5 - Client Transportation Plan - Updated 12.27.22 6 - Client Safety and Support Plan - Updated 1.1.25 7 - Client Medication and Medical/Assistive Device Form - Updated 1.1.25 8 - Interpreter or Client Support Person Plan - Updated 1.1.25 9 - 303 Client Data Form - Updated 1.1.25 10 - Authorization to Disclose Personal Identifiable Information - Updated 1.1.25 11 - Notice and Opt-Out of Disclosure of De-Identified Data - Updated 1.1.25 12 - Client Consent for Other Individuals to Be Present During an Administration Session - Updated 1.1.25 13 - Client Consent for Use of Supportive Touch During Administration Session - Updated 1.1.25 14 - Psilocybin Product and End of Session Form - Updated 1.1.25 15 - Client Consent for Video and Audio Recording of Individual Administration Session - Updated 1.1.25 16 - Client Consent for Video and Audio Recording of Group Administration Session - Updated 1.1.25 Required Microdosing Forms For EACH & EVERY microdosing session, a set of these forms is needed. This is the state requirement. You will sign and date each form with the EXCEPTION of the end-of-session form! CLICK ⬇ DOWNLOAD FOR ALL MICRODOSING CONSENT FORMS ⬇ OR YOU CAN DOWNLOAD INDIVIDUALLY BELOW ⬇ 1MD - Client Consent for Use of Supportive Touch During Administration Session - Updated 1.1.25 2MD - Client Transportation Plan - Updated 12.27.22 3MD - Client Safety and Support Plan - Updated 1.1.25 4MD - Psilocybin Product and End of Session Form - Updated 1.1.25

THE HISTORY OF PSILOCYBIN USE The history of psilocybin use spans thousands of years, intersecting with indigenous practices, scientific research, countercultural movements, and modern politics. THE HISTORY OF PSILOCYBIN USE The history of psilocybin use spans thousands of years, intersecting with indigenous practices, scientific research, countercultural movements, and modern politics. Here's an overview: Ancient and Indigenous Use · 7-9 K years ago: The earliest evidence of psychedelics is in a cave in the Tassili-N-Ajjer region of the Sahara Desert, Algeria- on a mural. The mural depicts “mushroom man” or “mushroom shaman”, a bee-headed figure with mushrooms sprouting out of his body. Identified as PSILOCYBE MAIREI, which were native to the region. · 6 K years ago: The Selva Pascuala mural in a cave near Villar del Humo, Spain. It features mushrooms researchers believe to be PSILOCYBE HISPANICA, a local species · 5,700 years ago The identification of mescaline strengthened the evidence that native North Americans recognized the psychotropic properties of peyote as long ago as 5,700 · 5000 BC- Psychedelics used in Central America; Ayahuasca used in the Amazon; Iboga used in West Africa · 3700 BC. Evidence of the use of PEYOTE ( a cactus containing the psilocybin MESCALINE) in the Rio Grande, Texas. · Brian Muraresku (The Immortality Key: The Secret History of The Religion With No Name, delineates 12 years’ worth of research and data revealing ritualistic psychedelic use in classical antiquity- among ancient Greeks, Romans & Paleo Christians. Psychedelic wine was drunk outside Pompei from the 1st century AD- the same time early Christians were there. This is revolutionary. This subject is discussed in The Mystery Religion of ancient Greece- the Eleusian Mysteries. Implications for Christianity are far reaching. · There was ritual use of psychedelic beer in Iberia · 392 BC, Greece – psychedelic use was wiped out by the Catholic Church · 3K plus years ago in Peru, the use of the San Pedro cactus (which also contains mescaline) was known · 1300 BC in N Peru, a stone carving of a deity shows the god holding the San Pedro cactus · 1K-1500K BC mushroom stones were found in both Mexico and Guatemala, indicating the use of psilocybin mushrooms · 15th century Spanish missionaries attempted to destroy all records and evidence of the use of these mushrooms, · 16th + 17th century Spanish conquistadors in Central & South America were appalled that the people utilized plants, and that women were involved. It was threatening as psychedelics gave power to the people. During the inquisition, lasting more than 350 years- between 1478 & 1834- using plants was punishable by death. Nevertheless, a 16th century Spanish Franciscan friar and historian mentioned TEONANACATL in his extensive writings, intriguing 20th century ethnopharmacologists and leading to a decades long search for the identification of TEONANACATL. · South American Aztec Indians referred to magic mushrooms as TEONANACATL, meaning God’s flesh, and they were used in religious and healing rituals. · 1K years ago, a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences described the discovery of a shaman’s pouch in SW Bolivia, containing multiple psychedelics, including BUFOTENIN and DMT. Interestingly, the pouch contained HARMINE which can be combined with DMT to potentiate psilocybin effects. (DMT is both a derivative and a structural analog of tryptamines. Half life 9-12 minutes. Administration: by mouth with a MAOI), vapor, insufflation, rectal, IM, IV) · 1K years ago. The researcher Dennis McKenna points out there isn’t data showing exactly how far back Ayahuasca use dates- but undoubtedly thousands of years · 1895 saw the 1st scientific trial involving peyote in Wash, DC @ Columbia Univ (now George Washington Univ). · 1897 German Pharmacist Arthur Heffter consumed 150 mg mescaline that he had isolated. This was the 1st experience with a purified psychedelic · 1904 Mycologist Franklin Earle was the 1st person to identify Psilocybe Cubenis in Cuba · 1912 German chemist Anton Kottisch - 1st to synthesize MDMA · 1919 Austrian chemist Ernst Spath- 1st to synthesize mescaline * 1930s-1950s: Western anthropologists and ethnobotanists, such as Richard Evans Schultes, documented indigenous mushroom ceremonies. R. Gordon Wasson's famous 1957 Life magazine article introduced psilocybin to mainstream Western audiences. · 1931 Canadian chemist Richard Manski - 1st to synthesize DMT · 1938 Swiss chemist Albert Hofman, who worked for Sandoz Pharmaceuticals, developed LSD from ergot that grows on wheat and barley. LSD-25 was the 25th variation. He did not realize it’s capabilities. · 1943 he had a peculiar “presentiment” that there was something worthwhile in it. He accidentally ingested some on his finger and had an unexpected experience. A few days later he planned an experiment with it. He ingested 250 micrograms of LSD, which he thought would represent a prudently safe, small amount, but was in fact a strong dose. He had a period of psychosis with it. Sandoz Pharmaceuticals sent free packets of LSD to any chemist who wanted to research it. · 1946 Microbiologist Oswaldo Goncalves de Lima discovered DMT’s natural occurrence in plants (Goncalves de Lima, 1946) · 1949 The psychiatrist Max Rinkel carried out the 1stexperiment in the US by giving 100 volunteers at the Boston Psychopathic Institute. He believed the effects of the drug mimicked schizophrenic psychosis- calling LSD a “madness mimicking” agent Throughout the 1950s, over 500 articles on LSD appeared in scientific journals. Post WW2 era doctors and psychiatrists explored LSD for its potential therapeutic value. Doctors had free reign in the 50’s and 60’s to study psychedelics. This was the “1st wave” of research in the US, and also in Europe. 1958: Albert Hofmann, the Swiss chemist who discovered LSD, first synthesized psilocybin from Psilocybe Mexicana mushrooms. There were also CIA funded experiments conducted by Ewen Cameron at the Allen Memorial Institute in Montreal, Quebec. Some of the most wide-spread trials in the Western World occurred in Saskatchewan, under the direction of psychiatrists Humphry Osmond (in Weyburn) and Abram Haffer (in Saskatoon). Far from being fringe medical research, these LSD trials represented a fruitful, and encouraging, branch of psychiatric research occurring alongside more famous and successful trials of the 1st generation of psychopharmacological agents, such as chlorpromazine and imipramine. Ultimately, these LSD experiments failed for 2 reasons, one scientific and the other cultural. First, in the 1950s and early 1960s, the scientific parameters of clinical trials shifted to necessitate randomized controlled trials, which the Saskatchewan researchers had failed to construct. Second, as LSD became increasingly associated with student riots, antiwar demonstrations, and the counterculture, governments intervened to criminalize the drug, restricting and then terminating formal medical research into its potential therapeutic effects (Can J Psychiatry June 2005; Vol 50, No 7:381-388) (article Flashback: Psychiatric Experimentation with LSD in Historical Perspective. Erika Dyck. 2005 · 1950-1965- 40,000 patients were given psychedelic drugs in trials researching the schizophrenic process. This resulted in over 1000 scientific papers. · 1952 American Charles Savage published 1st study looking at LSD as a treatment for depression in the American Journal of Psychiatry. Results were inconclusive, meaning it made no difference in outcomes. · 1952 Humphry Osmond published studies on LSD use for treating those with alcohol abuse. He was at the cutting edge of psilocybin research. It led to his association with novelist Aldous Huxley, who after receiving psychedelics, wrote Doors of Perception. His research also led to his involvement with the CIA and M16, which were interested in LSD as a possible “truth drug” to make enemy agents reveal secrets. · 1955 Gordon Wasson, then vice president of JP Morgan in NYC, is told by a friend of magic mushrooms & goes to Mexico in search of someone who would lead him in a psilocybin ceremonies. Maria Sabina took him under her wing for 2 years. After which time, and against Maria’s wishes to keep her photo and information private about her life & the sacred ceremonies he had learned of and participated in, he recounted his experiences in Life Magazine. It was on the front page of the most widely read magazine in America at the time- 1957.Wasson was also followed to Mexico by the CIA, due to their interest in psychedelics.0 · 1956 Czech psychiatrist Stanislas Grof had his 1st experience with LSD, ingesting 250 micrograms. He went on to pioneer the use of Holotropic Breathwork and Transpersonal Psychology. Grof carried out more than 4,000 LSD assisted therapy sessions, many at Esalen Institute where he led group workshops for decades. He had a tremendous influence in the US, more than any other researcher, in adding to scientific study and knowledge and creating a socially acceptable cultural milieu that helped prove the therapeutic value of psychedelics. He said that transformation belongs to the psyche of the person- NOT the medicine. One of his books is called The Way of the Psyche. He stated that the psyched has the inclination to reintegrate itself, but if integration is not complete- “use body work to areas that are off”. He and his wife are currently doing trainings coupled with breathwork. · 1956 Hungarian chemist & psychiatrist Stephen Szara- extracted DMT from the MIMOSA HOSTILIS plant and administered the extract to himself intramuscularly. This, along with Manske’s He made major contributions in the field of pharmacology. DMT’s natural occurrence in plants, formed the link between modern science and the historical use of many DMT-containing plants as a cultural and religious ritual sacrament (McKenna et al, 1998), their effect on the psyche and the chemical structure of DMT. He was the 1st person to describe its psychedelic effects. He moved to the US after the Hungarian Revolution and eventually became Chief of the Biomedical Branch of the US National Institute on Drug Abuse. He worked on the metabolism of DMT in healthy and schizophrenic volunteers. · 1957 front page, Life Magazine - titled SEEKING THE MAGIC MUSHROOM, about Gordon Wasson’s experiences in Mexico. The Life article resulted in hundreds swarming to Mexico, overrunning the town she lived in, changing the culture and turning the local and national people against her. Her home was burned down 1960 twice. She died in poverty. · 1960 Timothy Leary, took mushrooms in Mexico before he arrived at Harvard to teach (inspired to go through Gordon Watson’s Life magazine article. He said he “learned more in 5 hours utilizing the mushrooms than he had from 15 years of study”. He was an enigmatic prominent researcher at Harvard university. On return to Harvard, he received permission to study psychedelics. That was the beginning of the Harvard Psychedelic Research Project where 20 theological students participated. 8 received psychedelics. 9 had mystical experiences. He was fired, along with Richard Alpert (who renamed himself Ram Das, and wrote “Be Here Now”) in 1963 for his controversial practice of taking psilocybin along with his subjects. With his charismatic personality and Irish back ground he took to the streets to become a crusader for psilocybin use. He was arrested 36 times. He was known for a 8-circuit model of consciousness He was famous for “Turn on, tune in, drop out.” · On the west coast Ken Keasey trumpeted psilocybin. Loudly. Early Researchers: Albert Hofmann- Discovered LSD Huston Smith- religious scholar. He said “in the end, it’s altered traits that matter- not altered states”. He was a member of the 1998 Elders Council. He received the 2010 APPPAH award Richard Alpert- Harvard teacher & psilocybin researcher. He became RAM DAS, writing BE HERE NOW in 1971 Ralph Metzer, PhD. German born American psychologist & writer. Metzner & Ram DAS wrote Birth of a Psychedelic Culture. He founded the Green Earth Foundation. Gabor Mate, Hungarian – Canadian Physician and prolific author. Expert in childhood trauma & it’s impacts on physical and mental health, including autoimmune disease, cancer, ADHD, addictions. His research informs mental health today. He is known for his book “in the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction. His most recent book is The Myth of Normal. 1960’s- Psychedelics eventually made their way to the streets as Timothy Leary became an apostle for liberation. · Underground chemists, such as Leonard Pickard, Nick Sand & Owsley Stanley, started to manufacture the inexpensive LSD and distribute them to the general public. They produced millions of doses. It was when psychedelics entered the public realm and popular culture that the law surrounding their production, sale and possession started to change. It was the time of the Vietnam War, and the protesters of the war were associated with protests, riots, rebellion, radicalism. · White Bird in SF starts harm reduction efforts 1965- Willis Harman, Stanford professor, later to become president of the Institute of Noetic Sciences, and Robert Mogar, Associate Professor of Psychology, San Francisco State College, gained the agreement of the Administration of SF State College to set up The Institute of Psychedelic Research. Harman wondered if psylocibin could focus the mind for scientific problem solving, not mysticism or psychotherapy. Unfortunately, the turmoil created by Timothy Leary in his open advocacy of psychedelics and his low regard for the encrustation he perceived in many institutions, generated enormous resistance in the academic world This caused SF State College to reverse their decision despite the fact that they had already printed a brochure describing the substantial potential that psychedelic drugs could offer, based upon a great deal of experience that had been gathered n the previous decade by knowledgeable investigators. 1966 Oct 6. Public use and the sale of LSD, DMT, Peyote and mescaline were prohibited. All scientific research was halted on the same day- with over 60 promising trials in progress, totally disregarding the exceptional positive results, and despite evidence of the limited medical risks and therapeutic potential of psychedelics. 1970 LSD, DMT, MDA, psylocibin & cannabis became labeled as Schedule 1 drugs under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). (The CSA was Enacted by Congress to regulate the manufacture, distribution and use of certain drugs and other substances that have the potential for abuse or addiction. Psychedelics were placed in this category.) Penalties were established. They vary depending on the substance, quantity, and the defendant’s criminal history. 1971-86 The “War on Drugs” commences. Mandatory minimum sentencing enforced. Made drug use a criminal offense rather than a health issue. “Just Say No” and DARE Camps created fear and shame. For nearly 2 decades, research was halted. Researchers were stigmatized if they wanted to study psychedelics, and there was no government funding available. 1986. MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies). A Non-Profit 501c3 Public Benefit Corporation founded by attorney Rick Doblin, to end the prohibition against psychedelics both legally and culturally, fostering research, funding and resulting in persistent progress. It has had a huge influence and success in the FDA in 2019 declaring psychedelics as a breakthrough therapy. There is much to be said about this crucial organization that now sponsors conferences with 12,000 in attendance. For another time…. 1986 After years of being used as an adjunct to therapy by a small group of therapists, MDMA is deemed a Schedule 1 drug after it gained popularity in night clubs. No controlled studies after this time for decades. 1986-93- As Aids & Crack epidemics rage on, psilocybin use shifts to the Rave scene & festivals like Burning Man. 1993 National Harm Reduction Coalition forms in an effort to support vulnerable populations. 1996 Marijuana legalized in Oregon and Colorado 1998 Franz Vollenweider, the Swiss neuroscientist, discovers that LSD and psilocybin achieve their effects by binding with the brain’s 5-HT2A receptor 1989-1998 Rupert Sheldrake/Terence McKenna – talked of self -transformation during DMT travels. Rupert Sheldrake was a controversial biologist and author of more than 85 scientific papers and 9 books, and co-author of 6 books. Terence McKenna developed a taxonomy to analyze non- human intelligences. Was at Esalen Institute. McKenna said that “not until our primate ancestors began eating psychedelic plants did they begin to acquire human qualities. McKenna wrote “True Hallucinations”. He had fascinating ideas, a sense of humor & self- parody. As a youth he read Carl Jung’s Psychology and Alchemy. In 1972 he received a self-tailored degree in ecology, resource recovery and shamanism. He was an American ethnobotanist and mystic. 1946-2000 (died age 53) Said psychedelics were man’s salvation. Timothy Leary christened him the “Timothy Leary of the 90’s”. There were 3 authors to The Evolutionary Mind: Trialogues at the Edge of the Unthinkable- Ralph Abraham, Rupert Sheldrake and Terence McKenna. Their passion was to break out of paradigms that retard our evolution, and to explore new possibilities. They ventured where few have gone before, leading readers on an exciting journey of discovery. Ralph Abraham, PhD, chaos mathematician. The discussions in the Evolutionary Mind Trialogue focused on the evolution of the mind, the role of psychedelics, skepticism, the psychic powers of animals, the structure of time, the life of the heavens, the nature of God, and transformations of consciousness. “Written with startling insights and more wonder than we knew we had”. (Matthew Fox) In the past 10-15 years-several FDA approved clinical studies have indicated medical value for psilocybin assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of depression, anxiety and certain addictions- drug and alcohol & OCD, PTSD and quality of life/peace for cancer patients at the end of life. At present, assuming that the early clinical studies can be validated by larger studies, psylocibins are poised to make a very significant impact on treatments for otherwise ineffectual mental health. This research included clinical trials with MDMA- assisted treatment for PTSD, alcohol abuse, social anxiety, depression and addiction as well as the ability of psychedelics to catalyze spiritual or mystical experiences and inspire creativity. 1999 Dr. Roland Griffiths set up a research project at John Hopkins Univ to study the effects of psilocybin 2006 Griffiths publishes his LANDMARK paper showing that psilocybin can induce highly meaningful mystical experiences 2006 Research showed LSD and psilocybin could decrease cluster headaches in both intensity and frequency 2009 Dr Robin Carhart-Harris carried out the 1st clinical study of psi in the UK. This was also the 1st clinical study in 40 years in the UK. 2011 Charles Grob publishes research showing that psi decreases anxiety in patients with advanced cancer. Study shows that MDMA is a safe and effective treatment for PTSD 2014 Carhart-Harris showed in a study utilizing brain scans, that psi increases communication between areas of the brain that don’t normally communicate with each other. 2016 Carhart-Harris published brain scan images of how LSD affects the brain. 2018 Study illustrates that ayahuasca leads to significant decrease in depression 2019 The Imperial College of London launches the world’s 1st Center for Psilocybin Research. Some months later John Hopkins launces its own Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research Albert Marshall, indigenous leader, said we need “two eyed seeing”, referring to an integration of indigenous knowledge and sacred practices with the psychedelic plants used for healing and transformation, with the forthcoming medical approach. 2019 – FDA declares psychedelics as a BREAKTHROUGH THERAPY, based on the clinical trials from Compass Pathways and Usona Institute on psilocybin use for severe depression and major depressive disorders. The designation is meant to expediate the development and review of drugs that are intended to treat a serious condition. What was lacking in the 60’s-90’s was technology and hard scientific data. Today, we have MAPS submitting their Phase 3 Trial of MDMA ! Paul Stamets, 1955- current, prominent American mycologist, scientist, prolific researcher, advocate of medicinal fungi and myco-remediation, entrepreneur, started Fungi Perfecti with the goal of building the bridge between people and fungi. Since its inception in 1980, Fungi Perfecti has become synonymous with cutting-edge mycological research and solutions. His recent product- “Stamen’s Stacks” combines Lion’s Mane, niacin and psilocybin mushrooms to create a powerful healing tea with extraordinary anti-inflammatory effects, as stated by over 5000. Stage 1 studies begin in the near future. 2020 Nov 3. OR Ballot Measure 109 passes. “The Psilocybin Services Act”. (The Oregon Psilocybin Society, with founders Tom & Sheri Eckert, led the campaign to raise awareness about the safety and benefits of controlled psilocybin services.). It directs the OR Health Authority to regulate the manufacture, delivery, purchase and consumption of psilocybin mushrooms & psilocybin products to individuals 21 years of age and over. The Oregon Health Authority was given 2 years to establish the program and create regulations. A Psilocybin Advisory Board (OPAB) advises the OHA. The board has 14 members appointed by the governor. Clients are allowed to purchase, possess and consume psilocybin at a certified psilocybin service center and under the supervision of a certified psilocybin service facilitator after undergoing a preparatory session. OHA determines who is eligible to be licensed as a facilitator (training requires 160 hours), determines the qualifications, education, training and exams needed, and creates a “professional conduct” for facilitators. OHA sets psilocybin dosage standards and labeling and packaging rules. Measure 109 allowed cities and counties to place referendums on local ballots to prohibit or allow psilocybin product manufacturers or psilocybin service centers in unincorporated areas with their jurisdictions. 2020 Nov. Measure 110 made personal/non- commercial possession of a controlled substance, including psilocybin, no more than a class E violation with maximum fine of $100 or, one might, in lieu of a fine, completed a screening health assessment, as set forth in ORS 430.389 (Council to oversee and approve grants and funding to Behavioral Health Resource Networks & other entities to increase access to treatment and services), within 45 days of when the person receives the citation for the Class E violation. ) With completion of the assessment the court shall dismiss the citation. The failure to pay a fine on a Class E violation is not a basis for further penalties or for a term of incarceration (2021 c.2) 2021 Feb 1. Oregon Senate Bill 755-C codified and amended Ballot Measure 110, which decriminalize most unlawful possession of a controlled substance (PCS) offenses from a felony or misdemeanor to the new Class E violation. 2023 39 states now have legal access to marijuana. Polling shows that when people know of someone it has benefited, their opinion changes. Education is needed. There are currently 700+ ketamine clinics in the US. Over the next decade it is expected that there will be 6,000 Clinics. (There are 5-6 K hospice centers in the US). Legalization will help with dispelling demonization. Religious use is dramatically increasing, particularly with Ayahuasca. 2023 The 1st FDA approved group therapy Study is currently at the Veterans Administration in Portland, Oregon 2023 Nov. MAPS results of phase 2 and phase 3 study were delivered to the FDA. Phase 3 study on the use of psychedelics for major depression was published Oct 2023. Compass Pathways is starting Phase 3 study on treatment resistant depression. MAPS has an “agreement letter” from the FDA, so the FDA is legally bound to approve MDM if there is statistical significance, if there are no known safety problems, and if data has been gathered properly. However, it has been deemed that more studies are needed. This is a “New Drug Application”. There is a 6- month review time, as it would be a new “breakthrough” therapy. However, the clock stops when the FDA is finished with their questions. Then MAPS needs to respond, MAPS founder Rick Doblin felt that by May-June 2024 there should be FDA approval. However, FDA approval did not come. More studies are needed. THE FUTURE When FDA approval does come, the DEA will have 90 days to reschedule. It is not clear if the DEA would put it into Class 2 or 3, but they will have to reschedule it within 90 days, as Congress passed laws restricting them to 90 days- as in the past they’ve taken a notoriously long time to do it. Now, that’s not enough. The states need to reschedule as well. 50% of the states usually reschedule with the FDA changes. Others may need to go through their Public Health Board. California needs a new law. That is in the works now- a decriminalizing law, with a bill that says when the FDA approves psychedelics as a breakthrough therapy- MDMA will also be automatically approved. “There have been many promising series of discussions with insurance companies” Rick Doblin says. Insurance coverage is crucial. It doesn’t help a person if they get the drug for free, but they can’t afford the therapy. The FDA and DEA control the drugs, but they have no jurisdiction over psychotherapy. And all of the scientific studies have been based on Psychotherapy assisted psychedelic therapy. Doblin says “Peer support trainings and self-care training is needed so people can do this on their own”. Doblin has not seen any pushback from the pharmaceutical industry. “The drug war” has been largely discredited, so not seeing pushback. The value of helping people with PRSD is extremely large”. The value to the family is estimated to be 70K over the 1st 3 years. MAPS has a standardized treatment manual. It is in the Public Domain. It describes the therapeutic approach. With FDA approval, practitioners will need to be trained according to the protocol MAPS used in their Phase 3 trial. They want schools of psychiatry and psychotherapy as part of the core curriculum. But once the method is learned, there can be innovation- they won’t have to use MAPS “inner directed therapeutic method”. One can combine it with guided imagery. Current medical therapies are only addressing symptoms. Psychedelics address the core roots, and with neuroplasticity. New areas of research are mind-body, cognitive behavior conjoint therapy, IBS, fibromyalgia, cancer patients and their partners (study at Sanstone, Maryland) 2025. A lot of psychedelic studies will have gone through Phase 3 trials. Rick Doblin of MAPS stated we need a dual strategy: medical safety and a legal framework. He believes the issues with the FDA will be: · What therapies will be approved · How will we train 10,000 therapists · Combinations of different psychedelics, used in different ways · If/How group therapy can be as effective as individual therapy With research continuing into psychedelic substances and prohibitions gradually being relaxed, we will continue to see historic moments with psychedelics occurring in our lifetime (hopefully!).

Looking for answers? Explore the FAQs for insights on all things related to a psilocybin journey. Get answers to your most pressing psilocybin journey FAQs on our dedicated page. We address common psilocybin concerns, preparation for a psilocybin journey, and safety considerations in psilocybin sessions, ensuring you feel informed and prepared for your experience. Frequently Asked Questions GENERAL RESEARCH KEY CURIOSITIES AND CONCERNS WHEN CONSIDERING A PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY Safety and Risks: One of the primary concerns is about the safety of psilocybin use. People are curious about the psychological and physiological effects, particularly the potential for "bad trips," anxiety, or long-lasting changes in perception. Some worry about the risk of triggering underlying mental health conditions like psychosis. (click here for more info on this subject) Therapeutic Potential: Many are interested in psilocybin's use in treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. People want to know how effective these treatments are, how psilocybin compares to traditional medications, and whether the benefits last long after the experience. Spiritual and Mystical Experiences: Another point of curiosity is the profound, often spiritual experiences people report during psilocybin journeys. Many want to understand the nature of these experiences—how they feel, their significance, and whether they lead to personal growth or lasting positive change. Legal and Ethical Questions : As laws surrounding psychedelics are changing in various regions, people are curious about the legal status of psilocybin, how they can access it safely, and the ethical considerations of using it outside clinical settings. These questions reflect a mixture of excitement and caution as the public weighs the potential benefits and risks of psilocybin use. FEES What is considered a justified fee for a psilocybin facilitator to charge? Determining a justified fee for a psilocybin facilitator involves several factors, including the facilitator's qualifications, experience, the context in which the service is offered, location, and the duration and type of the session. Here are some considerations: FACTORS INFLUENCING FEES 1. Qualifications and Training: Facilitators with extensive training in psychology, counseling, primary care, or specifically in psychedelic-assisted therapies may charge higher fees due to their expertise and ability to provide a safer and more informed experience. As an example, a Family Nurse Practitioner adds significant value to their qualifications, as they work on a daily basis with primary care with individuals with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, and trauma, and somatic-based therapies to assist in recovery. Specific training in trauma reflects a deeper level of training which ought to be reflected on a higher pay scale. 2. Experience Level: More experienced facilitators who have successfully guided numerous sessions may command higher fees based on their track record and reputation. The psilocybin centers have only been open and functioning since March 2023. 3. Type of Service: Fees might vary based on whether the facilitator is providing individual sessions, group sessions, integration therapy, or comprehensive packages that include preparation, the session itself, and post-session integration. 4. Session Duration: The length of the session can also affect the cost. A longer session that includes preparation and integration time may warrant a higher fee. However, unless there is micro-dosing where only 1 hour might be needed for a room, the room fee generally remains the same- a flat rate. 5. Fees can vary significantly based on the region or city: Urban areas with a higher cost of living may have higher fees compared to rural areas. 6. Overhead Costs: Facilitators operating in clinical settings or wellness centers may have additional overhead costs that can influence their fees. Here is a breakdown: The yearly facilitator fee that the state of Oregon Health Psilocybin Services charges is $2,000. That is close to $200 a month. (There is talk of the license fee being increased to $3,000 a month). Charges for being on a Psilocybin Service Center's Web site is $200/month. There is also the fee for the facilitator to establish and maintain their own website, yearly fees for Zoom, Youtube & Spotify (for uninterrupted music), music equipment & headphones, a worker's permit that is needed in addition to the Facilitator license, fingerprints, essential oil diffuser, and oils. Preparatory work generally takes 6 hours ( I as a facilitator am very thorough}, the journey takes 6 hours, and integration is generally 4 hours (longer if desired). All this is overhead- for a total of ~ $500 a month. In addition, our training often costs ~ $10,000. Generally, the facilitator fees are warranted. At least mine are! 7. Summation of Becca's Fees: Facilitator fee - $1,500 Psilocybin Center Room Fee - $700 (Includes Psilocybin Cost - $50) (16 hours of work results in the hourly rate of $62.50 per hour.) Total Fee for Facilitated Journey by Becca Parker - $2,200.00 SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION The Psilocybin Access Fund will cover psilocybin facilitation costs for those in need of deep healing and who experience financial hardship and/or come from underserved communities. They believe getting money directly to folks who want this medicine, but normally wouldn’t be able to access it, is the best solution now for creating more access and potential for healing. www.sherieckert.org . End-of-Life Scholarships End of Life Psychedelic Care ( EOLPC.org) youtube.com/@end-of-life-psychedelic-care . Their mission is to create an environment where the safe use of psychedelic medicine is accessible for anyone with a life-threatening illness. To get you started, here is a great video with Thomas Hartle, diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in 2016 and one of the first Canadians to be approved for psilocybin therapy through their Health Canada program. Since 2020, Thomas has participated in 7 psilocybin journeys. In the following video, you'll learn how psilocybin relieved his anxiety over dying, helped him accept his cancer, grow spiritually, and even manage endless rounds of chemo. https://youtu.be/NbecNlbHBGU Psilocybin Therapy Insurance Initiative The following is a psilocybin insurance initiative- for those interested in political activism. This is the Sheri Eckert Foundation's research project to accelerate insurance coverage. We know from firsthand experience that philanthropy will not and should not last forever as the solution to any problem. This is the very reason for this foundation’s existence and our Psilocybin Access Fund. We also feel insurance coverage for psychedelic medicines in state-regulated models is an inevitability and will arrive much sooner if we put a concerted effort towards it. SEF's Psilocybin Therapy Insurance Initiative, which is one half of the goal of the Psilocybin Access Fund , with direct access being the other half, is being implemented through their partnership with OPEN , an interdisciplinary, community-wide, non-commercial research and evaluation project. They aim to measure the impact of state-legal psychedelic services. OPEN is housed at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). Their members are clinicians, teachers, and researchers who are dedicated members of the community. INTRODUCING OUR MASTER PACKAGE Dual- Licensed, Dual Facilitation Support" Together with A Crucial Microdosing Component Two Guides, Two Dual Licensed One Powerful Journey Two Facilitators- Twice the Experience- Twice the Expertise Michael J. Roades, Becca Parker, MS, CADC III, LPF Certified Psilocybin Facilitator, Addiction Specialist RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Midwife Nutritionist CLIENT INTAKE FORMS If you are considering or have decided to experience a psilocybin journey with Becca Parker as your licensed facilitator please review the following forms ( at this link ), provided by the Oregon Health Authority. This will help you better understand the information you may cover with Becca during a preparation session. (An individual accessing psilocybin services in Oregon is referred to as a client.) www.psilocybinjourneyfacilitator.com/about-4-1 PREPARATION FOR YOUR EXPERIENCE Why is it important to have preparatory sessions for a psilocybin journey? Preparation is essential for ensuring a safe, meaningful, and transformative experience. Here are several reasons why: 1. SETTING CLEAR INTENTIONS & CLARIFYING GOALS: Preparatory sessions allow individuals to set clear intentions for their journey, helping guide the experience in a constructive way. This can focus on personal growth, healing, creativity, or spiritual exploration. Psychological Framing: Intentions shape how the mind engages with the psychedelic state, reducing confusion and increasing the likelihood of a beneficial outcome. Please read this again. 2 . SAFETY AND HARM REDUCTION SCREENING FOR RISKS: A trained facilitator can assess whether psilocybin is suitable for an individual, especially if there are any psychological conditions or medications that might increase risks, such as a history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or certain SSRIs. ( The latter is NOT a contraindication for a journey, but dosing may need to be higher. In Oregon, an individual can start with a lower dose, and within an hour of your journey, assess whether or not you would like a boost, up to 5 grams, which is the legal limit a certified center may go. This is reviewed in the state Informed Consent papers, which are a hefty 30 pages long, and are signed prior to the journey.) Physical and Emotional Safety: Preparatory sessions help establish guidelines for a safe environment and develop coping strategies for challenging emotions that may arise during the experience. 3. FOSTERING TRUST AND RAPPORT BUILDING WITH A FACILITATOR: In working with a facilitator, these sessions build a relationship of trust. This is crucial, as the facilitator often plays a key role in providing comfort or guidance during the journey. 4. UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS: The facilitator can explain what to expect, reducing fear or anxiety about the unknown and building confidence in the process. Dosing and time needed for a journey are discussed. 5 MANAGING EXPECTATIONS. Setting Realistic Expectations is crucial as psilocybin experiences can vary greatly. Preparation helps manage expectations, preventing disappointment or undue fear when unexpected or challenging moments arise. THE BOTTOM LINE: The mushrooms will bring to you what is most important for you to learn and experience. You will benefit the most if you allow and honor the journey to unfold, and look for the lessons within it. Understanding Possible Outcomes: Knowing the range of experiences—euphoric, emotional, or even difficult—prepares individuals to navigate whatever may come. 6. EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PREPARATION . Exploring Underlying Issues: Psilocybin often brings up deep emotional material. Preparatory sessions, and integration, help individuals begin exploring difficult thoughts, memories, or emotions that may surface during the trip. Note: it is NOT necessary to reveal or rehash past trauma. This could be needlessly traumatizing for a person. Mental Grounding: These sessions could also teach or refer to techniques like mindfulness or breathwork that can help ground an individual during the experience, especially in challenging moments. 7. CREATING THE RIGHT SET AND SETTING TO OPTIMIZE THE ENVIRONMENT: Preparation helps ensure that the setting is conducive to a positive experience—free from distractions, emotionally safe, and supportive. Mindset (Set): Working through fears, doubts, or unresolved feelings before the journey can reduce the risk of negative or overwhelming experiences. 8. Discussion about what happens to the brain while on psilocybin enriches understanding of the benefits of a psilocybin journey. 9. INTEGRATION PLANNING , Post-Experience Integration: Understanding that the journey doesn't end when the effects of psilocybin wear off is crucial. Neuroplasticity can continue days after the physical journey is over, and if an individual is aware of this, and allows the time for this, there may be great benefit from it. Preparatory sessions help develop a plan for integrating insights and experiences after the trip, fostering long-term growth and healing. CONCLUSION: Psilocybin is a powerful tool that, when approached with respect, preparation, and mindfulness, can lead to profound personal insights and healing. Preparatory sessions ensure that the individual is in the right frame of mind, physically safe, and mentally prepared for whatever the experience may reveal. This preparation greatly increases the chances of a positive and meaningful journey. PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY FOR SELF EXPLORATION A psilocybin journey can be a powerful tool for self-exploration by promoting deeper introspection and emotional release. A psilocybin journey facilitated by a trained facilitator often allows for a more profound connection to oneself, leading to insights into personal challenges, relationships, or life direction. With the right mindset and preparation, and by integrating these insights afterward, people can use psilocybin to foster emotional healing, spiritual growth, and self-discovery. WHEN DEEPER AND MORE EXTENSIVE WORK IS NEEDED When deeper or more extensive work is needed or wanted to heal trauma- Journey to Completion.com offers an advanced process that combines psycho-therapeutic techniques with Jungian Depth Psychology to address "Shadow Work" Integration. It follows a powerful ancient pathway through the unconscious to break cycles of pain and retrieve creativity, then leads you back home to a deeper, more complete sense of self. Led by Norma Burton, who has studied with wisdom keepers around the world, the process blends sacred knowledge from the North, East, South, and West- the sacred four directions. Norma holds a M. Div in Psychology of Religion, MS, PhD, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, in Comparative Religions, Post Graduate studies in Somatic Psychology at SBGI. journeytocompletion.com . INTEGRATION OF YOUR EXPERIENCE Optimizing the integration of a psilocybin journey is key to maximizing its insights and transformative potential. Here’s a step-by-step guide that can help: 1. IMMEDIATE AFTERCARE (DAY OF JOURNEY) Rest and Reflect: Right after the experience, rest and give yourself time to process. Take time to sit quietly, allowing your mind and body to recalibrate. Hydration and Nutrition: Rehydrate with water or herbal teas, and eat something nourishing to ground yourself. 1 . JOURNALING: Write down immediate impressions, emotions, and key moments from the journey. Capturing raw thoughts can provide context for later reflection. 2. SET INTENTIONS FOR INTEGRATION (Days Following Journey) Define Key Themes: Think about major insights or themes from the journey. Write down any realizations or messages that felt important. Set Actionable Goals: Break down themes into small, actionable changes that align with your values. For example, if the journey emphasized self-compassion, set a goal to incorporate self-care practices. 1. Journaling: Write down immediate impressions, emotions, and key moments from the journey. Capturing raw thoughts can provide context for later reflection. 2. Set Intentions for Integration (Days Following Journey) Define Key Themes: Think about major insights or themes from the journey. Write down any realizations or messages that felt important. Set Actionable Goals: Break down themes into small, actionable changes that align with your values. For example, if the journey emphasized self-compassion, set a goal to incorporate self-care practices. 3. SUPPORTIVE PRACTICES (First Week) Meditation: Daily meditation can help integrate insights by keeping you present and open to emotional processing. Breathwork or Yoga: Engaging in gentle movement or deep breathing exercises helps release any stored emotions and can ground insights into the body. Nature Time: Spending time in nature can be deeply grounding and is often beneficial for reflecting on the journey’s themes. 4. COMMUNITY AND SUPPORT (Ongoing) Therapeutic Support: Consider working with a therapist trained in psychedelic integration if the journey brought up unresolved trauma or deep psychological issues. Integration Circles : Join a local or online community of people who have had similar experiences, allowing you to discuss and process openly. Creative Expression: Expressing your experience through art, writing, music, theatre or other creative outlets can be very healing. 5. SUSTAINING CHANGES (Weeks to Months) Revisit Your Journal : Periodically reread your journal entries, looking for recurring themes or patterns. Utilize archetypes for progress or remaining needed work. Incorporate Lessons into Daily Life: Gradually implement the lessons learned into your day-to-day routines. Small, mindful shifts often have the most sustainable impact. Be Patient: Integration is an ongoing journey. Allow yourself time, as profound changes often emerge gradually. 6. EVALUATE AND ADJUST (Every Few Months) Reflect on Growth: Reassess the journey’s impact on your life. Consider what has shifted and where you still feel called to grow. Set New Intentions: Use each checkpoint to set new, meaningful intentions or renew previous ones, adapting as needed. OPTIMIZING THE INTEGRATION OF A PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY Here’s a step-by-step guide that can help: 1. Immediate Aftercare (Day of Journey) Rest and Reflect: Right after the experience, rest and give yourself time to process. Take time to sit quietly, allowing your mind and body to recalibrate. Hydration and Nutrition: Rehydrate with water or herbal teas, and eat something nourishing to ground yourself. 1. Journaling: Write down immediate impressions, emotions, and key moments from the journey. Capturing raw thoughts can provide context for later reflection. 2. Set Intentions for Integration (Days Following Journey) Define Key Themes: Think about major insights or themes from the journey. Write down any realizations or messages that felt important. Set Actionable Goals : Break down themes into small, actionable changes that align with your values. For example, if the journey emphasized self-compassion, set a goal to incorporate self-care practices. 3. Supportive Practices (First Week) Meditation: Daily meditation can help integrate insights by keeping you present and open to emotional processing. Breathwork or Yoga: Engaging in gentle movement or deep breathing exercises helps release any stored emotions and can ground insights into the body. Nature Time: Spending time in nature can be deeply grounding and is often beneficial for reflecting on the journey’s themes. 4. Community and Support (Ongoing) Therapeutic Support : Consider working with a therapist trained in psychedelic integration if the journey brings up unresolved trauma or deep psychological issues. Integration Circles : Join a local or online community of people who have had similar experiences, allowing you to discuss and process openly. Creative Expression: Expressing your experience through art, writing, music, theatre or other creative outlets can be very healing. 5. Sustaining Changes (Weeks to Months) Revisit Your Journal: Periodically reread your journal entries, looking for recurring themes or patterns. Utilize archetypes for progress or remaining needed work. Incorporate Lessons into Daily Life: Gradually implement the lessons learned into your day-to-day routines. Small, mindful shifts often have the most sustainable impact. Be Patient: Integration is an ongoing journey. Allow yourself time, as profound changes often emerge gradually. 6. Evaluate and Adjust (Every Few Months) Reflect on Growth: Reassess the journey’s impact on your life. Consider what has shifted and where you still feel called to grow. Set New Intentions: Use each checkpoint to set new, meaningful intentions or renew previous ones, adapting as needed. HOW LONG ARE PSYCHEDELICS PERCEPTIBLE WITH LABORATORY TESTING? The detectability of psychedelics in urine and blood depends on the specific substance, dosage, frequency of use, and the sensitivity of the testing method. Below is an overview of common psychedelics: 1. General Factors Affecting Detection * Metabolism: Faster metabolisms may clear substances more quickly. * Frequency of Use: Chronic use may extend the detection window. *Testing Sensitivity: Advanced tests like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) can detect lower concentrations. 2. Common Psychedelics and Detection Times Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms) Psilocybin is the active compound in magic mushrooms. Once ingested, it is rapidly converted into psilocin, the psychoactive substance. Detection windows for psilocybin/psilocin vary by test type: Psilocin is excreted through urine, but it is unstable and degrades quickly. Therefore, tests must be performed shortly after use. Urine: Detectable for 1–3 days after ingestion. Blood: Detectable for less than 24 hours. Extended Detection: Chronic or high-dose use might extend this window slightly. Practical Notes Specialized Tests: Detection of psilocybin requires specific tests like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography. Hair Testing Detection Window: Up to 90 days. While hair follicle tests can theoretically detect psilocybin or psilocin for months, this is uncommon because the substances are typically present in very low concentrations. LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) Urine: Detectable for 1–4 days. Standard tests often miss it unless specific for LSD. Blood: Detectable for 6–12 hours after use. Saliva: Up to 1 day. DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) Urine: Detectable for 24 hours, depending on dosage. Blood: Typically clears within a few hours. Mescaline (Peyote, San Pedro) Urine: Detectable for 2–4 days. Blood: Detectable for up to 24 hours. MDMA (Ecstasy) Urine: Detectable for 2–4 days. Blood: Detectable for up to 48 hours Factors Affecting Detection 1. Dosage: Higher doses may be detectable for a longer period. 2. Metabolism: Faster metabolisms clear psilocin more quickly. 3. Hydration: Staying hydrated can speed up excretion. 4. Testing Sensitivity: Standard drug tests do not include psilocybin unless specifically ordered. DETOXIFICATION OF PSILOCYBIN IN THE LIVER Psilocybin is primarily metabolized through the hepatic (liver) detoxification pathway . Here’s a breakdown of its metabolic process: First-Pass Metabolism (Liver): After ingestion, psilocybin is rapidly dephosphorylated by alkaline phosphatases in the liver to psilocin , its active metabolite. Psilocin is responsible for the psychoactive effects. Phase I Metabolism (Cytochrome P450 Enzymes): Psilocin undergoes oxidation via the CYP2D6 enzyme , converting it into inactive metabolites such as 4-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (4-HIAA). Phase II Metabolism (Glucuronidation): Psilocin also undergoes conjugation with glucuronic acid (via UGT enzymes , primarily UGT1A9 and UGT2B7), forming psilocin-O-glucuronide , a more water-soluble form for excretion. Excretion (Renal & Fecal Pathways): The majority of psilocin and its metabolites are excreted in the urine (80-90%) within 24 hours. A small fraction is eliminated through feces. Since psilocybin metabolism primarily involves the liver (CYP2D6, UGT enzymes) and renal excretion , individuals with liver impairment or genetic variations in CYP2D6 activity may experience altered psilocin clearance, potentially affecting the intensity or duration of effects. IS PSILOCYBIN ADDICTIVE? Psilocybin is generally considered to have a low potential for addiction, primarily due to how it interacts with the body’s physiological systems, particularly the brain. Here are the main reasons why psilocybin does not lead to the same kind of addiction seen with substances like opioids, alcohol, or nicotine: 1. Minimal Dopamine Response Most addictive substances, like cocaine or opioids, strongly stimulate the brain's reward system by increasing the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and reinforcement of behavior. This dopamine surge is what creates the "high" and reinforces continued use, leading to addiction. Psilocybin, however, primarily affects serotonin receptors, specifically the 5-HT2A receptor. It doesn’t significantly increase dopamine levels in the brain's reward pathways. The lack of a strong dopamine release means that psilocybin doesn’t create the same cycle of craving and reward, which is central to addictive behavior. 2. Rapid Tolerance Development Psilocybin induces a rapid tolerance, meaning that the body quickly adjusts to its presence. After just a few consecutive uses, psilocybin’s effects diminish significantly, making it difficult to achieve the same intensity of experience with repeated use. This quick tolerance discourages frequent use, as taking more doesn’t necessarily produce stronger effects. The brain becomes less responsive to the substance, which reduces the desire to take it repeatedly. 3. Lack of Withdrawal Symptoms One hallmark of addiction is the presence of withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not used. Substances like alcohol, nicotine, and opioids create a physical dependence, where the body adjusts to their presence and experiences discomfort or illness when they are removed. Psilocybin, however, does not lead to physical dependence. There are no significant withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping its use, even after multiple experiences. In addition to this, if multiple successive attempts are made in succcession, the mushrooms simply quit being effective. 4. Non-compulsive Use Patterns Most psychedelics, including psilocybin, tend to induce profound, often overwhelming experiences that require mental and emotional energy. The experiences can be introspective, emotionally intense, and not necessarily pleasant, even when used responsibly. This contrasts with addictive substances that often provide immediate gratification and euphoria, which encourage compulsive use. For most people, the intensity of a psilocybin experience discourages frequent use. Users generally don’t feel the need to take psilocybin regularly, and there’s little compulsion to take it as part of a daily or habitual routine. 5. Focus on Psychological, Not Physical, Effects Psilocybin primarily alters perception, mood, and consciousness. Its effects are deeply tied to cognition and emotional processes rather than triggering a physical craving. People who use psilocybin often do so for introspective, therapeutic, or spiritual reasons, which tend to promote intentional, controlled use rather than compulsive patterns typical of addiction. Conclusion: Due to psilocybin’s minimal impact on the brain’s dopamine-based reward system, rapid tolerance development, absence of withdrawal symptoms, and the nature of its effects, it lacks the physiological mechanisms that typically drive addiction. While psychological dependence is possible in some cases, the physiological response of the body to psilocybin helps prevent it from becoming physically addictive. In summary, psilocybin increases communication between brain regions by quieting the " Default Mode Network"(DMN), allowing for a more interconnected, fluid brain state, which leads to changes in perception, thought, and sense of self. FDA’s 2017 Assessment of Abuse Potential of Drugs The FDA’s 2017 Assessment of Abuse Potential of Drugs highlights the abuse potential of psilocybin as relatively low , especially compared to more commonly abused substances. Key points include: Low Risk of Dependence : Psilocybin does not strongly activate the brain's dopamine pathways, which are typically associated with addiction and reinforcing drug-seeking behaviors. Self-Administration Studies : Animal studies show that psilocybin is not readily self-administered, indicating a low likelihood of compulsive use. Pattern of Use : In humans, psilocybin is generally used in controlled or ceremonial contexts rather than in frequent, habitual ways. Its intense and often challenging psychedelic effects discourage frequent use. Toxicity and Overdose : Psilocybin has a high safety margin, with serious physical harm or overdose being exceedingly rare. Risk of Misuse : While the abuse potential is low, misuse could occur in unregulated or non-therapeutic settings, particularly if used recreationally without proper preparation or integration. The assessment supports psilocybin's therapeutic use when administered under professional supervision while acknowledging the need for safeguards against misuse. CONTRAINDICATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS ARE NOT TO USE PSILOCYBIN IF PREGNANT. There are no studies on this, and there never will be. All reports will be individual case reports. There has been use of psilocybin in breastfeeding mothers but there is no research behind this either, and never will be. Breastmilk is pumped prior to the journey for the baby to drink for 6 hours during the mother's journey, and during this time the mother would discard her milk. DO NOT USE MSOI, LITHIUM, VENLAFAXINE, OR HAVE A HISTORY OF EPILEPSY OR OTHER SEIZURE DISORDERS, BIPOLAR, SEVERE CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE INCLUDING UNCONTROLLED BLOOD PRESSURE, HEART FAILURE, CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE, PREVIOUS HEART ATTACK, STROKE OR IF THERE IS AN ALLERGIC TO MOLD AND/OR FUNGUS,. People who are red-green colorblind may have temporary visual tracers lasting up to several days. Alcohol should be avoided. Antidepressants DO NOT need to be stopped, but a higher dose may well be required, as both psilocybin and many of the antidepressants utilize the same serotonin receptors. WHAT DO AMERICANS MOST FEAR ABOUT USING PSILOCYBIN Americans' fears about using psilocybin often stem from a combination of factors, including misconceptions about its safety, potential for abuse, legal status, and the psychological effects of psychedelics. Here are some common concerns: 1. Fear of Psychological Effects: Many people worry about having a "bad trip" or experiencing intense anxiety, paranoia, or psychological distress. 2. Addiction and Abuse Potential: There's a belief that psychedelics can be addictive or lead to harmful behaviors, despite evidence suggesting that psilocybin has low potential for addiction. 3. Legal Concerns: Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I substance in the U.S., creating a fear of legal repercussions associated with its use. 4. Stigma: Cultural stigma surrounding drug use can deter individuals from exploring psilocybin, fearing judgment from peers or society. 5. Lack of Knowledge: Many people simply lack information about psilocybin, including its effects, benefits, and safety when used responsibly. COMMON FEARS ABOUT A "BAD TRIP" A "bad trip" on psilocybin is often characterized by anxiety, fear, or uncomfortable emotions. However, it’s important to understand that even challenging experiences can provide valuable insights if approached correctly. Preparing for a psilocybin journey and understanding how to navigate difficult moments can significantly reduce the chances of a bad trip. Here’s a discussion of the fears surrounding bad trips and tips on how to avoid or manage them: 1. LOSS OF CONTROL One of the biggest fears is the loss of control over thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations. During a psilocybin journey, reality can feel unfamiliar, leading to discomfort or panic. 2. EGO DISSOLUTION The sense of self, or "ego," can temporarily dissolve, leading to a fear of "losing oneself" or a sense of impending doom. This can be disorienting, especially for those unprepared for it. 3. INTENSE EMOTIONS OR TRAUMATIC MEMORIES Psilocybin can bring repressed emotions or past trauma to the surface, which can feel overwhelming. While this can be therapeutic, it might also induce fear if someone is unprepared to face these emotions. 4. FEAR OF NEVER RETURNING TO NORMAL Many worry that they might remain stuck in an altered state or develop lasting mental health issues. In most cases, the effects of psilocybin are temporary, though the insights and emotions experienced can last longer. HOW SAFE IS PSILOCYBIN? Please link to the RESOURCES PAGE for this information SAFETY AND RISKS One of the primary concerns is about the safety of psilocybin use. People are curious about the psychological and physiological effects, particularly the potential for "bad trips," anxiety, or long-lasting changes in perception. Some worry about the risk of triggering underlying mental health conditions like psychosis. (click here for more info on this subject) Therapeutic Potential: Many are interested in psilocybin's use in treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. People want to know how effective these treatments are, how psilocybin compares to traditional medications, and whether the benefits last long after the experience. Spiritual and Mystical Experiences: Another point of curiosity is the profound, often spiritual experiences people report during psilocybin journeys. Many want to understand the nature of these experiences—how they feel, their significance, and whether they lead to personal growth or lasting positive change. Legal and Ethical Questions: As laws surrounding psychedelics are changing in various regions, people are curious about the legal status of psilocybin, how they can access it safely, and the ethical considerations of using it outside clinical settings. These questions reflect a mixture of excitement and caution as the public weighs the potential benefits and risks of psilocybin use. SAFTEY STUDIES Comprehensive Review of Psilocybin Clinical Trials Pace Report (PMC Review, 2024/25): Evaluated over 134 interventional trials. Findings: Most trials are Phase 1 or 2; 3rd and 7th reported adverse events include mild cardiovascular symptoms (e.g., elevated blood pressure, heart rate), gastrointestinal symptoms, and psychological symptoms. No patterns of serious long-term harm. Many trials are small and underpowered for rare events. Summary Table of Safety Findings (2018–2025) Study / ReviewPopulationKey Mild AEsSerious AEsOverall SafetyLiechti et al. (2022) Healthy volunteers (escitalopram pretreatment)Mild anxiety, transient BP increaseNoneSafe under controlled dosing JAMA Systematic Review (2024) Multiple clinical trialsHeadache, nausea, anxiety, dizzinessVery rareGenerally benign, well tolerated Ross et al. (2023) & extension TRD patientsNausea, headache, elevated BP/HR, mild anxietyNoneDurable benefit with no serious harm Breeksema et al. (2024) Qualitative TRD cohortEmotional stressors more salient than pharmacologyNoneSafe when setting optimized PMC Review (2024/25) 134 trials evaluatedCardiovascular, GI, anxietyVery rareSupportive of safety in controlled trials Early SUD Trials (2025) Substance use populationsSame mild AEsNone observed yetPreliminary data, favorable profile Take-Home Points Across multiple RCTs , open-label trials, and systematic reviews (2018–2025), psilocybin administered in controlled clinical contexts has a benign safety profile. Common adverse effects : Headache, nausea, mild anxiety, transient psychotic-like sensations, brief cardiovascular changes (e.g., elevated BP/HR). These are typically short-lived and well-tolerated under supervision. Serious adverse events (e.g., persisting psychosis, suicidality) are extremely rare in properly-screened, supervised settings. Psychological preparation and proper "set and setting" play a critical role in minimizing distress and maximizing safely navigated experiences. Acute Effects After Escitalopram or Placebo Pretreatment Liechti, M. E., Preller, K. H., & Vollenweider, F. X. (2022). "Acute effects of psilocybin after escitalopram or placebo pretreatment in healthy subjects: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study." Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics , 111(2), 408–416. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpt.2499 Findings: Psilocybin dosing following two weeks of escitalopram was considered safe, with elevated blood pressure and reduced anxiety but no serious adverse events. Systematic Review of Adverse Effects JAMA Network Open (2024). "Acute adverse effects of therapeutic doses of psilocybin: A systematic review and meta-analysis." Findings: Frequent non-serious effects include headache, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, and dizziness. Serious adverse events are rare and usually transient. Studerus, E., Kometer, M., Hasler, F., & Vollenweider, F. X. (2018). "Acute, subacute, and long-term subjective effects of psilocybin in healthy humans: A pooled analysis of experimental studies." Journal of Psychopharmacology , 25(11), 1434–1452. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881110382466 Safety and Efficacy in Major Depressive Disorder Ross et al. (JAMA Psychiatry/Neurol. 2023). "Single dose psilocybin treatment for major depression." Findings: No serious adverse events. Common mild effects: transient increases in blood pressure, mild anxiety, headache, and nausea. Sustained reductions in depressive symptoms observed. Efficacy and Safety Extension Trial (12 Months Follow-up, 2022). Findings: Psilocybin remained well-tolerated, with effects persisting through the 12-month follow-up, and no new safety concerns. Davis, A. K., Barrett, F. S., May, D. G., Cosimano, M. P., Sepeda, N. D., Johnson, M. W., & Griffiths, R. R. (2021). "Effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy on major depressive disorder: A randomized clinical trial." JAMA Psychiatry , 78(5), 481–489. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.3285 Qualitative Perspectives in Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) Breeksema et al. (Scientific Reports, 2024). "Patient experiences with psilocybin treatment in treatment-resistant depression (TRD)." Findings: Patients reported preparation and trust issues as more significant stressors than drug toxicity. Adverse effects were typically emotional or expectation-related rather than pharmacological. Emerging Applications in Substance Use Disorders ScienceDirect (2025). "Psilocybin in the treatment of substance-use disorders." Findings: Early clinical data (e.g., opioid or nicotine use reduction) report similar mild adverse effects, with no serious safety signals yet. Data is preliminary. What is Microdosing? Microdosing involves consuming very small, sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin (usually about 0.1–0.3 grams of dried mushrooms) without inducing the hallucinogenic effects associated with larger doses. The goal is to gain subtle benefits, such as improved mood, focus, and creativity, without experiencing a full psychedelic trip. Common Microdosing Regimens Fadiman Protocol: Developed by Dr. James Fadiman, this schedule involves taking a microdose every three days. A typical cycle: Dose on Day 1, rest on Day 2 and Day 3, then repeat. This pattern allows for a period of reset and integration. Stamets Stack: Created by mycologist Paul Stamets, this protocol combines a microdose of psilocybin with lion’s mane mushroom and niacin. The cycle follows a 5-days-on, 2-days-off schedule, and the combination is believed to enhance cognitive effects and support nerve growth. Two Days a Week: Some people prefer a simpler protocol, microdosing two days per week (often on non-consecutive days) to reduce tolerance and avoid overuse. Potential Benefits of Microdosing Psilocybin Although formal research is still emerging, anecdotal evidence and some preliminary studies suggest several potential benefits: Mood Enhancement: Improved mood and reduced anxiety. Enhanced Focus and Productivity: Increased attention and mental clarity. Improved Creativity: Enhanced problem-solving abilities, beneficial for creative professions. Reduced Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety: Some early studies suggest positive effects on mood disorders. Potential Neurogenesis: Animal studies show promise for stimulating neurogenesis, which could improve cognitive function. Scientific Studies and Research on Microdosing Imperial College London Study (2021): Found that low-dose psilocybin could enhance emotional well-being and lower self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety. Results were largely self-reported, necessitating more rigorous studies. Translational Psychiatry Study (2021): Suggested that psilocybin microdosing might be associated with greater emotional stability and improved mood. Self-reported mental health assessments before and after microdosing indicated increased well-being. Maastricht University Study (2019): Showed that microdoses of psilocybin improved both convergent and divergent thinking, which are important for creative problem-solving. This aligns with anecdotal claims about microdosing’s potential to enhance creativity. Microdosing psilocybin holds promising potential, though much of the evidence remains anecdotal or self-reported. Clinical research is ongoing to validate its benefits and establish standardized guidelines, particularly for managing mental health conditions and enhancing cognitive function. PREGNANCY, BREASTFEEDING & PSILOCYBIN Here’s a structured outline of why psilocybin is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding , and what safe alternatives may be considered: Rationale for Avoiding Psilocybin 1. Lack of Safety Data No clinical trials have been conducted in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Animal studies are extremely limited, and there are no teratogenicity or neurodevelopmental safety profiles available. The absence of evidence does not equal safety—so medical consensus errs on the side of caution. 2. Possible Risks During Pregnancy Placental transfer: Psilocybin is converted to psilocin, which crosses the blood–brain barrier; it is likely to cross the placenta and reach the fetus. Fetal neurodevelopment: Because psilocin acts on serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors, there is theoretical concern for interference with fetal brain development, particularly during critical gestational windows. Physiological stress: Acute effects (e.g., elevated blood pressure, heart rate, nausea, vomiting) could stress the maternal–fetal unit. Psychological stress: The intensity of psilocybin experiences could provoke anxiety, confusion, or trauma resurfacing, all of which may negatively affect pregnancy. 3. Risks During Breastfeeding Excretion in breast milk: While not directly studied, most small, lipophilic compounds pass into breast milk. Generally, approximately 3% of medications pass from the mother into breastmilk. The infant’s immature metabolism may amplify exposure. Neurobehavioral risks: Unknown long-term effects on infant brain development if psilocin is ingested through breast milk. Altered caregiving: The acute psychoactive state could impair safe infant care during and immediately after ingestion. 4. Legal & Ethical Concerns Use in pregnancy or lactation would present liability and ethical issues in both clinical and research contexts. Most regulatory bodies (OHA in Oregon, FDA, professional organizations) explicitly caution against use in these populations. Alternatives to Psilocybin in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Non-Pharmacological Options Psychotherapy: Evidence-based approaches such as CBT, IPT, IFS or EMDR for depression, anxiety, or trauma. Mindfulness & Meditation: Shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms during pregnancy. Somatic Therapies: Gentle yoga, breathing practices, and body-based stress release. Peer/Support Groups: Especially for perinatal mental health or trauma recovery. Nutritional & Lifestyle Interventions Dietary support: Omega-3 fatty acids, adequate protein, leafy greens, and B-vitamins—all linked to mood stability. Exercise: Moderate physical activity (walking, swimming, prenatal yoga) improves mood and sleep. Sleep hygiene: Structured sleep practices, relaxation techniques, limiting screen use. Herbal & Natural Remedies (with medical guidance) Chamomile or Lemon Balm tea: Mild anxiolytic and safe in moderation during pregnancy. Lavender aromatherapy: Shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Magnesium supplementation: May help with sleep, anxiety, and muscle relaxation. Bright-light therapy: Safe and effective for seasonal and some perinatal depression. (Note: St. John’s Wort and other serotonergic herbs are generally not recommended in pregnancy or lactation due to insufficient safety data.) ✅ Summary: Psilocybin is avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding because of unknown but potentially significant risks to fetal and infant neurodevelopment, maternal physiology, and caregiving capacity. Instead, safe evidence-based approaches such as psychotherapy, mindfulness, supportive care, nutrition, and select gentle natural remedies should be prioritized. DRUG & ALCOHOL USE & PSILOCYBIN 1. Addictions Recovery Center Rogue Valley – Fresh Start Detox Contact & Location Address: 1025 E. Main Street, Medford, OR 97504 (also listed at 338 N. Front Street—both in Medford) Phone: (541) 779-1282 (Option 2 for specialized treatment) Email: info@addictionsrecovery.org Hours: Open 24/7 for medically monitored withdrawal/detox services Key Services & Features Medically monitored detox for alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, opioids, etc. MAT (buprenorphine, naltrexone), counseling, case management, peer support Housing referrals and employment training Accepts Medicaid, private insurance, TRICARE (military), government funding, sliding-scale/self-pay Estimated Costs Local dual-diagnosis inpatient (30-day): ~$20,000 (range $10,000–$30,000) General inpatient: $27,500–$56,654 for a 30-day stay Outpatient: ~$1,700/month Luxury inpatient: $25,000–$50,000+ per month 2. OnTrack Rogue Valley – FAQ Where is OnTrack Rogue Valley located? Outpatient Office (Medford): 300 W. Main Street, Medford, OR 97501 Phone: (541) 772‑1777 Fax: (541) 734‑2410 How do I contact the Access Department or make a referral? Phone: (541) 200‑2403 Email: access@ontrackroguevalley.org The Access Department handles residential inquiries, referrals, and intake information. 3. What are the outpatient office hours? Monday–Thursday: 8 am–7 pm Friday–Saturday: 8 am–5 pm What types of programs does OnTrack Rogue Valley offer? Outpatient programs Residential treatment Day treatment and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) Trauma-informed, family-centric care Accreditations: CARF accredited; ASAM Level 3.5 residential certified Are there any unique or specialized programs? Dad’s Program and Mom’s HOME Program: allow parents to reside with their children during treatment Emergency lodging with peer case support What are the estimated costs and payment options? Residential programs: approximately $27,000–$56,000 per month Financial assistance: sliding-scale and payment assistance available Insurance: acceptance varies by plan; contact OnTrack for specifics 3. Oasis Center of the Rogue Valley Contact & Location: Address: 534 E. Main Street, Medford, OR 97504 Phone: (541) 200‑1530 | Fax: (541) 772‑0284 Hours: Monday–Thursday 8 am–5 pm; Friday until noon (some sources list Friday until 3 pm) Services & Support: Focus on families (prenatal/postpartum, parenting support, MAT, child watch, peer support, social services integration) Serves pregnant individuals and mothers/parents with young children; includes trauma-informed, integrated behavioral health Estimated Costs & OOP: Sliding fee discount scale in place; likely Medicaid/private insurance accepted, but specific coverage details require direct contact. Summary of Programs Fresh Start Detox (ARC) Phone: (541) 779-1282 Address: 1025 E. Main St or 338 N. Front St Email: info@addictionsrecovery.org Hours: 24/7 detox services (dual-diagnosis inpatient) Cost Range: Inpatient ~$10k–30k (30-day); outpatient ~$1.7k/month OnTrack Rogue Valley Phone: (541) 772-1777 / (541) 200-2403 Address: 300 W. Main St (Medford) / contact for residential locations Email: access@ontrackroguevalley.org Hours: Varies by program Cost Range: Residential ~$27k–$56k/month; outpatient lower; sliding scale available Oasis Center of the Rogue Valley Phone: (541) 200-1530 Address: 534 E. Main St, Medford Email: — Hours: Mon–Thu 8am–5pm; Fri till noon/3pm Cost Range: Sliding fee scale; contact for insurance and exact costs Next Steps for Clarity on OOP Costs: 1. Call each program directly (use the phone numbers above) to ask: What are your typical daily/monthly rates? Do you charge admission fees? Which insurance plans do you accept? What would OOP look like based on my plan? Are sliding-scale or payment assistance options available? 2. Check with your insurer to understand deductibles, co-pays, out-of-pocket maximums, and any coverage limitations on inpatient versus outpatient rehab. 3. Ask for a cost breakdown or estimate—many facilities may provide a “good faith estimate” or typical billing example based on common lengths of stay. MARIJUANA & PSILOCYBIN: HOW WOULD MJ AFFECT A PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY? How can cannabis (marijuana) affect a psilocybin journey? Dose-dependent amplification: In a prospective survey of 321 psychedelic users, adding cannabis increased intensity on multiple scales; low doses were linked to more “mystical/visual” qualities, while higher doses were associated with more challenging experiences (anxiety, confusion). Physiological load & heart risk: THC commonly raises heart rate and blood pressure. Large epidemiologic data and scientific statements from the American Heart Association link cannabis use with higher risks of MI and stroke, so co-use on a physiologically intense day isn’t ideal—especially for people with cardiovascular disease or risk factors. Pharmacology note (why effects can shift). Psilocybin is converted to psilocin, then largely cleared via UGT enzymes and other pathways; cannabinoids (especially CBD) can inhibit some drug-metabolizing enzymes. Direct clinical interaction data with psilocybin are sparse, but this is one reason effects can feel “stronger” or “different” with co-use. CBD vs THC. CBD (without THC) shows small-to-moderate anxiolytic effects in controlled studies, but cannabinoids overall show only modest average benefits for sleep. There are no high-quality trials specifically testing CBD to smooth psilocybin experiences, so any benefit is inferred. Harm-reduction tips if someone still chooses to combine: Avoid high-THC products during the come-up and peak. If used at all, keep THC very low; consider CBD-dominant later in the session if anxiety spikes (coordinate with your facilitator). Skip smoking/vaping if you have cardiac risk; avoid edibles with long, unpredictable onsets. Non-drug alternatives for sleep or anxiety (evidence-based) CBT-I (gold standard for insomnia). Works across in-person, telehealth, and digital formats; large effect sizes on insomnia severity and sleep parameters. Mindfulness / MBSR. Improves sleep in RCTs and can reduce anxiety with effects comparable to escitalopram in a head-to-head trial. Lavender oil (oral Silexan 80–160 mg/day). Meta-analyses of randomized trials show significant anxiolytic effects with good tolerability; can also aid sleep via reduced anxiety. Magnesium (e.g., glycinate). Systematic reviews suggest modest sleep benefits, likely greater if you’re deficient; watch for GI upset at higher doses. Chamomile. In a randomized trial for GAD, pharmaceutical-grade chamomile reduced anxiety more than placebo; often used as tea or standardized extract. > Caution on ashwagandha: Some trials suggest small benefits for stress/sleep, but rare liver injury cases are documented. If used, keep courses short, avoid if you have liver disease, and stop if you develop jaundice or dark urine. References (APA) Dold, M., Bartova, L., Fugger, G., Kautzky, A., Souery, D., & Kasper, S. (2023). Efficacy of Silexan in patients with anxiety disorders: A meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, 26(8), 1–13. (PMC10465640). Jeffers, A. M., et al. (2024). Association of cannabis use with cardiovascular outcomes. Journal of the American Heart Association. Kuc, J., Kettner, H., Rosas, F., Erritzoe, D., Haijen, E., Kaelen, M., Nutt, D., & Carhart-Harris, R. L. (2022). Psychedelic experience dose-dependently modulated by cannabis: Results of a prospective online survey. Psychopharmacology, 239(5), 1425–1440. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-021-05999-1 Li, W. W., et al. (2024). The effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction… Frontiers in Psychology, meta-analysis. (For sleep, see Black et al., 2015 JAMA RCT.) Mei, S., et al. (2023). Comparative efficacy of onsite, digital, and other settings for CBT-I: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Scientific Reports, 13, 1892. Rawji, K. S., et al. (2024). Magnesium supplementation and sleep: A systematic review. Nutrients. Testai, F. D., Gorelick, P. B., Aparicio, H. J., et al. (2022). Use of marijuana: Effect on brain health—A scientific statement from the AHA. Stroke, 53, e1–e??. Han, K., et al. (2024). Cannabidiol for anxiety: Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. Journal of Affective Disorders Reports. Henson, C., et al. (2025). Cannabinoid-based medicines for insomnia: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Reviews. Amsterdam, J. D., et al. (2009). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral chamomile extract in GAD. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(4), 378–382. Meshkat, S., et al. (2025). Pharmacokinetics of psilocybin: A systematic review. Pharmacology & Therapeutics. Thomann, J., et al. (2024). In vitro and in vivo metabolism of psilocybin’s active metabolite psilocin. Archives of Toxicology. National Institutes of Health. (2024). Ashwagandha – LiverTox. (Summary of case reports). ANTIDEPRESSANTS/ANTI-ANXIETY DRUGS Below is a breakdown of which antidepressants/anti-anxiety drugs typically require an 8-week (or longer) taper, and why. 🔹 SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) These are the most common class that interferes with psilocybin. Most SSRIs downregulate 5-HT2A receptors, blunting or blocking psilocybin’s effects. Discontinuation syndrome is also a risk if stopped abruptly. Usually Require 8 Weeks or More Paroxetine (Paxil) → short half-life , very high risk of withdrawal. Needs slow, extended taper. Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) (technically SNRI, but similar risk) → short half-life, notorious for withdrawal. Often requires 8–12 weeks. Duloxetine (Cymbalta) (SNRI) → high risk for withdrawal, 8 weeks recommended. Often 6–8 Weeks Fluoxetine (Prozac) → exception because of its long half-life (active metabolite norfluoxetine). Sometimes requires less tapering (2–4 weeks), but because receptor reset takes longer, many protocols still allow 8 weeks washout before psilocybin. Sertraline (Zoloft) → usually tapered over 4–8 weeks depending on dose and duration. Citalopram (Celexa) → 4–8 weeks. Escitalopram (Lexapro) → 4–8 weeks. 🔹 Other Antidepressants SNRIs (Serotonin–Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): Venlafaxine, Duloxetine, Desvenlafaxine → high withdrawal risk, 8+ weeks. Tricyclics (Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Imipramine, etc.) → require slow taper (6–8 weeks minimum) due to anticholinergic rebound and arrhythmia risk. MAOIs (Phenelzine/Nardil, Tranylcypromine/Parnate, Selegiline patch) → very strict washout required (usually 2–8 weeks depending on dose), both for serotonin syndrome risk and receptor reset. Mirtazapine (Remeron) → less effect on serotonin 2A but still often tapered over 4–8 weeks due to withdrawal. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) → usually does not require 8 weeks, more commonly 2–4 weeks depending on dose. Not a strong serotonin blocker. 🔹 Anti-Anxiety Drugs Benzodiazepines (lorazepam, clonazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, etc.) These don’t block psilocybin’s action, but they blunt intensity during the journey (and are often used as a safety med for overwhelming anxiety). Tapering is slow — often months for long-term users, because of dependence risk. 8 weeks may not be enough if used chronically. Buspirone (Buspar) 5-HT1A partial agonist, can blunt psilocybin . Taper usually 2–4 weeks, not necessarily 8 weeks. Beta-blockers (propranolol, atenolol, etc.) → do not interfere with psilocybin receptor activity. No taper needed unless clinical reason. ✅ Summary Table Medication Class Examples Taper & Washout Before Psilocybin 🟡 SSRIs Paroxetine, Sertraline, Citalopram, Escitalopram 6–8 weeks (Paroxetine often 8+ weeks) 🟡 SSRI (long half-life) Paroxetine, Sertraline, Citalopram, Escitalopram 2–4 weeks taper, but allow 8-week washout for receptor reset 🔴 SNRIs Venlafaxine, Duloxetine 8–12 weeks 🟡 Tricyclics Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline 6–8 weeks 🔴 MAOIs Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine 2–8 weeks (strict washout) 🟡 Atypicals Mirtazapine 4–8 weeks 🟢 Atypicals Bupropion 2–4 weeks 🔴 Benzodiazepines Lorazepam, Diazepam, Clonazepam Very slow taper (months if chronic use); blunt effects if continued 🟢 Buspirone Buspirone 2–4 weeks 🟢 Beta-blockers Propranolol, Atenolol No taper required for psilocybin safety 📌 Key Point for Psilocybin Studies: Most clinical psilocybin protocols (e.g., Johns Hopkins, Usona) require an 8-week antidepressant washout, even if the pharmacology suggests a shorter taper, to ensure maximal receptor sensitivity and safety. EFFECTS OF WELLBUTRIN (BUPROPION) ON PSILOCYBIN Here’s a detailed, evidence-based summary of how Wellbutrin (bupropion) may interact with a psilocybin journey, followed by references EFFECTS OF WELLBUTRIN (BUPROPION) ON PSILOCYBIN 1. Pharmacological Overlap Bupropion is primarily a norepinephrine–dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) , unlike SSRIs or SNRIs that affect serotonin. Psilocybin works through 5-HT2A receptor agonism (serotonin system). Since Wellbutrin does not strongly downregulate serotonin receptors, it is less likely than SSRIs to blunt psilocybin’s subjective effects . 2. Possible Diminished Intensity There are anecdotal and limited clinical reports that Wellbutrin may modestly dampen the intensity of psychedelic effects . This may be due to mild serotonergic activity or indirect neurotransmitter interactions. 3. Seizure Risk Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold , especially at higher doses (>450 mg/day) or in combination with alcohol or other stimulants. Since psilocybin can cause transient increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and neural excitability , the risk of seizures may be slightly elevated in vulnerable individuals. 3. Seizure Risk Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold , especially at higher doses (>450 mg/day) or in combination with alcohol or other stimulants. Since psilocybin can cause transient increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and neural excitability , the risk of seizures may be slightly elevated in vulnerable individuals. 4. Psychological Effects Both bupropion and psilocybin can alter mood, reduce depressive symptoms, and increase energy/drive . This may theoretically lead to amplified emotional release during the psilocybin experience, but evidence is still emerging. 5. Clinical Guidance Many psychedelic therapy centers suggest tapering stimulants and activating antidepressants like bupropion prior to high-dose psilocybin, if medically safe, to: Reduce seizure risk Avoid unpredictable interactions Ensure maximal therapeutic depth of the psilocybin journey ✅ Summary : Wellbutrin is less likely than SSRIs to completely blunt psilocybin effects, but it may modestly dampen intensity and carries a heightened seizure risk when combined with psilocybin. Many clinicians recommend tapering before a full-dose journey if safe and feasible. Citations Carhart-Harris, R. L., & Goodwin, G. M. (2017). The therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs: Past, present, and future. Neuropsychopharmacology, 42 (11), 2105–2113. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2017.84 Grady, M. M., Stahl, S. M. (2012). Practical guide for prescribing psychotropic drugs. Cambridge University Press. Johnson, M. W., Griffiths, R. R., Hendricks, P. S., & Henningfield, J. E. (2018). The abuse potential of medical psilocybin according to the 8 factors of the Controlled Substances Act. Neuropharmacology, 142 , 143–166. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.05.012 Stahl, S. M. (2013). Stahl’s essential psychopharmacology: Neuroscientific basis and practical applications (4th ed.). Cambridge University Press. Strawn, J. R., Geracioti, L., Rajdev, N., Clemenza, K., & Levine, A. (2018). Pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder in adult and pediatric patients: An evidence-based treatment review. Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, 19 (10), 1057–1070. https://doi.org/10.1080/14656566.2018.1491966 COLORBLINDNESS Colorblindness itself is not officially listed as a contraindication to undergoing a psilocybin journey in Oregon or in clinical guidelines. There's no rule in Oregon’s Measure 109 or related regulations barring individuals with color vision deficiency from participating. That said, there have been anecdotal reports—especially in the context of microdosing—that might be worth noting: Some men with color blindness have reported experiencing visual tracers or lingering after-images in their field of vision when microdosing psilocybin. This can last several days. A notable case involved a 35-year-old man with mild red–green color blindness whose Ishihara test scores significantly improved after a single high-dose psilocybin experience. His color perception reportedly remained elevated for days to months . These findings are case-based and not generalizable; most guidelines don’t cite colorblindness as a risk factor or contraindication. HEADACHES - PSILOCYBIN & HEADACHES What are the studies with psilocybin and headaches and the outcomes? ChatGPT said: Studies on psilocybin for headaches, particularly cluster headaches and migraines, have shown promising outcomes. Here’s a summary of key research findings: 1. Harvard University – Psilocybin and Cluster Headaches (2006) Study : “Clusterbusters: Treatment of Cluster Headache and Other Headache Disorders with Hallucinogens” Reference : Sewell, R. A., Halpern, J. H., & Pope, H. G. (2006). Neurology, 66 (12), 1920-1922. Findings : This observational study analyzed self-reports from 53 individuals with cluster headaches who used psilocybin. Results showed that psilocybin was effective in both stopping an ongoing cluster headache and extending the remission period between headache cycles. Approximately 50% of participants reported that psilocybin either completely or partially aborted a cluster attack, while 52% noted a reduction in the frequency of headache episodes. This study provided some of the earliest evidence of psilocybin's potential as a treatment for cluster headaches. 2. Yale University – Psilocybin for Migraine Relief Study : “The Potential of Psilocybin for Migraine Relief: A Pilot Study” Findings : This study investigated the effect of low-dose psilocybin on migraines. Participants reported significant reductions in migraine frequency and severity in the weeks following psilocybin administration. Interestingly, some participants noted relief lasting up to two weeks after a single low dose, suggesting that even sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin could be beneficial for migraine sufferers. 3. Clusterbusters Research Studies (Ongoing) Studies : Clusterbusters, an advocacy group for cluster headache research, has conducted and funded multiple surveys and studies to document the effects of psilocybin and LSD on cluster headaches. Findings : Many sufferers report that psilocybin can prevent the onset of cluster cycles when taken at the beginning of a cycle and can extend remission periods. Clusterbusters advocates for more formal clinical studies, as anecdotal evidence strongly supports psilocybin's effectiveness, though the exact mechanisms are still under investigation. 4. NYU Langone Health – Pilot Study on Hallucinogens for Headache Disorders Study : “Psilocybin for Headache Disorders: Assessing Safety and Efficacy” Findings : This pilot study tested the safety and efficacy of psilocybin for cluster headaches and migraines. It confirmed that psilocybin is generally well-tolerated at low doses and reduces headache frequency for many participants. The study highlighted that psilocybin’s anti-inflammatory effects on the central nervous system might play a role in its headache-relieving properties. Mechanisms of Psilocybin’s Effects on Headaches Several hypotheses have been proposed for why psilocybin may relieve headaches: Vasoconstriction : Cluster headaches are associated with blood vessel dilation. Psilocybin causes initial vasoconstriction, which could help alleviate the dilation linked to cluster attacks. Serotonin Receptors : Psilocybin’s effect on serotonin receptors (specifically 5-HT2A receptors) could interrupt headache pathways, as serotonin imbalances are often implicated in headache disorders. Neuroplasticity and Resetting Pain Pathways : Psilocybin may help “reset” neural circuits related to pain perception, potentially reducing sensitivity to pain signals over time. Summary Research indicates that psilocybin may be a promising treatment for cluster headaches and migraines, providing both acute and preventive relief. Studies consistently show reduced headache frequency and severity, with some sufferers experiencing extended remission periods. Formal clinical trials are needed to better understand optimal dosing, safety, and the mechanisms underlying psilocybin’s effects on headache disorders. HEADACHES - CLUSTER HEADACHES 1. Case Series Analysis: A study published in 2006 evaluated the effects of psilocybin and LSD in treating cluster headaches. It reported that psilocybin could interrupt active cluster periods and prolong remission in chronic cluster headache patients. This research suggests that psychedelics may have unique prophylactic effects. (2006): Authors: Sewell RA, Halpern JH, and Pope HG Jr. Published in: Neurology, Volume 66, Issue 12, Pages 1920-1922. Key Findings: Psilocybin and LSD were reported to effectively interrupt active cluster periods and extend remission times in a case series of patients. This study demonstrated a strong anecdotal basis for psychedelics' potential in managing cluster headaches. Link: PubMed Abstract . 2. Recent Clinical Trial: A 2022 open-label study at Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark explored psilocybin's effects on chronic cluster headaches. The trial showed a significant reduction in attack frequency (30% average decrease), with one patient achieving 21 weeks of remission. Changes in hypothalamic functional connectivity correlated with treatment outcomes, highlighting psilocybin's potential mechanisms. Study Design: The trial evaluated three low-to-moderate doses of psilocybin in patients with chronic cluster headaches. Trial Registration: NCT04280055. Published on: medRxiv. Link: medRxiv Article . 3. Observational Data: ClusterBusters , a patient advocacy group, collected numerous anecdotal reports indicating that psilocybin and similar psychedelics helped terminate cluster headache cycles and extend remission periods. This has driven ongoing efforts to establish rigorous clinical trials. For further details, these studies and insights are discussed in publications and platforms like Neurology and clinical trial registries. For additional information, consult resources from ClusterBuster s or MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies). HEADACHES - CLUSTER HEADACHES RESEARCH Research ArticleVolume 460122993May Psilocybin pulse regimen reduces cluster headache attack frequency in the blinded extension phase of a randomized controlled trial Emmanuelle A.D, et al. emmanuelle.schindl Reports describe reduced cluster attack burden after a 3-dose pulse of psilocybin. This study describes the effects of repeating pulsed psilocybin after 6 months. A repeat psilocybin pulse significantly reduced cluster attack frequency by 50%. Prior psilocybin response does not appear to affect response to the repeat pulse. Future research will help characterize psilocybin's effects in cluster headache. Abstract Background In a recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we observed a nonsignificant reduction of attack frequency in cluster headache after pulse administration of psilocybin (10 mg/70 kg, 3 doses, 5 days apart each). We carried out a blinded extension phase to consider the safety and efficacy of repeating the pulse regimen. Methods Eligible participants returned to receive a psilocybin pulse at least 6 months after their first round of study participation. Participants kept headache diaries starting two weeks before and continuing through eight weeks after the first drug session. Ten participants completed the extension phase and all ten were included in the final analysis. Results In the three weeks after the start of the pulse, cluster attack frequency was significantly reduced from baseline (18.4 [95% confidence interval 8.4 to 28.4] to 9.8 [4.3 to 15.2] attacks/week; p = 0.013, d’ = 0.97). A reduction of approximately 50% was seen regardless of individual response to psilocybin in the first round. Psilocybin was well-tolerated without any unexpected or serious adverse events. Discussion This study shows a significant reduction in cluster attack frequency in a repeat round of pulse psilocybin administration and suggests that prior response may not predict the effect of repeated treatment. To gauge the full potential of psilocybin as a viable medicine in cluster headache, future work should investigate the safety and therapeutic efficacy in larger, more representative samples over a longer time period, including repeating the dose. References 1.Schindler, E.A. ∙ Gottschalk, C.H. ∙ Weil, M.J. ... Indoleamine hallucinogens in cluster headache: results of the clusterbusters medication use survey J. Psychoactive Drugs. 2015; 47:372-381 Crossref Scopus (67) PubMed Google Scholar 2.Sewell, R.A. ∙ Halpern, J.H. ∙ Pope, Jr., H.G. 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Development of the Stanford expectations of treatment scale (SETS): a tool for measuring patient outcome expectancy in clinical trials Clin. Trials. 2012; 9:767-776 Crossref Scopus (124) PubMed Google Scholar 34.Bang, H. ∙ Ni, L. ∙ Davis, C.E. Assessment of blinding in clinical trials Control. Clin. Trials. 2004; 25:143-156 Full Text Full Text (PDF) Scopus HOW DO INDIGENOUS LEADERS VIEW PLANT MEDICINE/ PSYCHEDELICS? Indigenous leaders and wisdom keepers have long recognized the healing power of psilocybin and other plant medicines, viewing them as sacred tools for connecting to the spirit, healing the self, and creating harmony within the community. Mazatec Healer Maria Sabina: “Cure yourself, with the light of the sun and the rays of the moon, with the sound of the river and the waterfall. Heal yourself, with the voice of the forest and the vision of flight. Heal yourself with beautiful love, and always remember…you are the medicine.” WHAT IS THE VALUE OF MUSIC IN A PSILOCYBIN JOURNEY The music chosen for psilocybin sessions can significantly shape the experience, often helping to deepen emotions, create a sense of safety, and guide the journey through various stages. Research, especially from institutions like Johns Hopkins University and Imperial College London, has explored music's role in therapeutic psilocybin sessions and highlighted certain types of music that tend to support the process: 1. Classical Music and Ambient Instrumentals Classical music, particularly slower and more meditative pieces, is commonly used because it creates an expansive, timeless quality that enhances introspection. Pieces by Johann Sebastian Bach, Arvo Pärt, and Erik Satie are popular choices. For example, Bach’s “Cello Suites” and Pärt’s “Spiegel im Spiegel” are often used because they encourage a peaceful, open state of mind. 2. Guided Playlists with a Variety of Emotional Tones Johns Hopkins University has curated playlists with music specifically chosen for psilocybin therapy, containing a range of emotional tones. These playlists are designed to guide the journey from gentle and soothing sounds to more intense, evocative pieces and finally to calming, grounding music as the session concludes. This approach supports the natural flow of a psilocybin journey, which can be cyclical, moving from deep introspection to moments of relief and clarity. 3. Indigenous and World Music Indigenous and ceremonial music, such as traditional drumming or songs from cultures that use psilocybin or similar plant medicines, can add a spiritual element to the experience. Icaros (healing songs used in Amazonian ceremonies) or Native American flute music are sometimes used to evoke a sense of connection to nature and ancestral wisdom. These songs can provide comfort and grounding, helping to connect participants to a larger sense of belonging. 4. Ambient and Minimalist Music Ambient and minimalist music by artists like Brian Eno or Steve Roach is often used because of its soothing, non-intrusive quality. These soundscapes help create a calm, supportive environment that allows emotions and thoughts to arise without distraction. Eno’s Music for Airports and Apollo: Atmospheres and Soundtracks are popular because they encourage relaxation and contemplation without overwhelming the listener. Celtic Harp Music, Handpans & Music by East Forest is also very popular. 5. Nature Sounds Nature sounds, such as flowing water, birdsong, or gentle rain, are frequently integrated into psilocybin sessions. These sounds can evoke a sense of grounding and connection to the natural world, which is often comforting and helps deepen the experience. Many guided playlists include nature sounds between tracks to offer a restful pause and create a seamless flow in the session. 6. Improvised Music for Personalized Experiences Some therapists and guides create live, improvised music tailored to the journey. For instance, live drumming, gentle guitar, or piano can be used to mirror the emotional tone of the experience. This approach creates a highly personalized environment that responds to the participant’s needs. Example Playlist (Based on Johns Hopkins Recommendations) “Spiegel im Spiegel” by Arvo Pärt “Gnossienne No. 1” by Erik Satie “The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace” by Karl Jenkins “O Euchari in Leta Via” by Hildegard von Bingen “An Ending (Ascent)” by Brian Eno “Music for the Great Healing Ceremony” by Native American Flute Ensemble Tips for Choosing Music for a Psilocybin Session Avoid Lyrics: Lyrics can sometimes feel distracting or impose specific ideas. Instrumental or wordless music allows participants to connect with their own inner imagery and thoughts. Match the Session Phases: Calmer, gentler music is typically used at the start and end, while more dynamic music can be introduced in the middle phases, where emotions may be heightened. Allow for Silence: Silence between tracks, or even during the session, can be powerful, allowing the participant to connect with their inner experience without external influence. In psilocybin therapy, music acts as a co-therapist, helping to guide and deepen the journey. It is carefully chosen to respect the natural arc of the experience, ultimately supporting healing, introspection, and connection. Note!: The most common complaint by journeyers about their journey has to do with the music that was played! If you would like music during your journey, you may want to review the above suggestions, or present during the preparation period- your preferences & dislikes. You can always direct the facilitator to change or stop the music. VALUE OF USING JUNGIAN ARCHETYPES IN PREPARATION FOR YOUR JOURNEY Jungian archetypes are universal symbols, themes, and patterns that Carl Jung believed exist within the collective unconscious—a level of the psyche shared among all humans. Jung proposed that these archetypes shape our behavior, dreams, and experiences by influencing the way we perceive and interact with the world. They’re not specific to any one culture or time but appear repeatedly across myth, art, literature, and spiritual practices. Here are some of the primary Jungian archetypes: 1. The Self Represents the integration of all parts of the psyche, symbolizing wholeness and unity. Often seen as the goal of personal development or "individuation," where the conscious and unconscious mind align. Common symbols: mandalas, circles, the wise elder, or god-like figures. 2. The Shadow The dark, hidden, or repressed side of the personality that includes thoughts, feelings, and behaviors we reject or ignore. Encounters with the Shadow can lead to self-awareness and growth by acknowledging less conscious parts of ourselves. Common symbols: monsters, devils, wild animals, or dark figures in dreams. 3. The Anima and Animus The Anima (feminine aspect) in men and the Animus (masculine aspect) in women represent gendered aspects within each person that need balance. The Anima and Animus represent qualities like emotion, intuition, logic, and strength, influencing how we relate to the opposite gender and our own gender expression. Common symbols: romantic partners, guides, or figures of idealized masculinity/femininity in dreams. 4. The Hero Symbolizes courage, perseverance, and the drive for self-improvement or success. The Hero archetype is often associated with a quest, facing obstacles, and transformation, representing the journey toward self-knowledge and fulfillment. Common symbols: warriors, knights, athletes, or adventurers. 5. The Wise Old Man/Woman Represents wisdom, insight, and guidance, often appearing in dreams or stories as a mentor or teacher. This archetype can help one navigate life's difficulties with patience, understanding, and foresight. Common symbols: elderly figures, shamans, wizards, or spiritual guides. 6. The Child Embodies innocence, curiosity, and the potential for growth. Represents the inner child within each person, the part that is spontaneous, playful, and open to new experiences. Common symbols: children, animals, young plants, or anything connected with youth or beginnings. 7. The Mother Symbolizes nurture, care, and creation, and relates to the capacity for empathy and protection. This archetype can relate to biological mothers, nurturing figures, or inner qualities of care. Common symbols: Earth, the moon, water, or any figure that represents comfort, care, and security. 8. The Trickster The Trickster disrupts order, introduces chaos, and challenges conventions. This archetype forces people to question beliefs, assumptions, and behaviors, often leading to transformation through humor, mistakes, or surprises. Common symbols: jesters, jokers, animals like foxes or crows, or characters that challenge norms. These archetypes aren’t strict categories but flexible templates that shape our motivations, behaviors, and relationships. In understanding them, people can gain insight into their inner worlds, helping to unlock potential, face challenges, and foster self-understanding. Jungian archetypes can also appear in dreams and guide a person toward wholeness or self-realization, a process Jung referred to as individuation. Practical Application Set Intentions Using Archetypes: Write down any intentions related to each archetype. For example, if working with the Shadow, you might set an intention like, “I am open to meeting my repressed aspects with compassion.” Visualize Encounters with Archetypes: Meditation or visualization exercises around each archetype can create a sense of familiarity, which can be comforting during the journey. Use Symbols as Anchors: Consider having objects or symbols that represent each archetype nearby. They can serve as grounding anchors, reminding you of the qualities you seek to explore or embody. Integrating Jungian archetypes can encourage a sense of structure and intention, framing the journey as an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. This framework can be a powerful tool for navigating both the highs and the potential challenges of the experience. Here are some insightful quotes that reflect the potential benefits of psilocybin journeys: 1. Michael Pollan (Author of How to Change Your Mind ): "The ego is what stands in our way of these kinds of experiences… Psilocybin helps people move beyond their ego and the usual barriers of self that can limit one's view of the world." 2. Albert Hofmann (Swiss chemist who discovered LSD): "Alienation from nature and the loss of the experience of being part of the living creation is the greatest tragedy of our materialistic era. Psilocybin can catalyze that sense of connection to the whole of life." 3. Bill Richards (Psychiatrist and psychedelic researcher): "Psilocybin can facilitate an intense feeling of interconnectedness, a 'mystical-type experience,' which may transform lives by fostering a sense of gratitude, acceptance, and compassion." 4. Terence McKenna (Ethnobotanist and philosopher): "These substances open the door to what feels like an innate knowledge… Psilocybin shows us our true place in the cosmos and reminds us that we are more than mere passengers in our lives." 5. Roland Griffiths (Johns Hopkins neuroscientist and psychedelic researcher): "One of the most remarkable findings…is that people who have had a significant psilocybin experience report increased measures of life satisfaction, meaning, and purpose for months, even years, afterward." 6. Rick Doblin (Founder of MAPS): "Psilocybin isn’t just about escaping reality; it’s about seeing reality from a new perspective, often with empathy and insight into one's own consciousness." 7. Alan Watts (Philosopher and writer): "Psychedelics are not meant to replace reality but to inspire us to see it more fully. They remind us that what we call 'reality' is but a limited version of what we might see." These quotes underscore the potential of psilocybin to foster self-awareness, interconnectedness, and an enriched perspective on life. The Saboteur archetype (from Jungian/Caroline Myss’ framework of archetypes) represents the part of us that undermines progress—through self-doubt, fear of success, or unconscious sabotage. Working with it often means bringing awareness to the ways we “cut off our own legs” and reclaiming the lessons it holds (self-protection, discernment, healthy boundaries). Here are some good reflective questions you might ask when exploring the Saboteur archetype: 🔍 Awareness Questions In what situations do I notice myself “getting in my own way”? What thoughts or fears come up right before I abandon a project, goal, or relationship? How do I know when my inner critic is active—and what does it usually say? ⚖️ Motivation & Shadow Questions Am I sabotaging myself out of fear of failure—or fear of success? What part of me benefits from keeping things “safe” by not moving forward? How do I use excuses, distractions, or procrastination to protect myself? 🛡️ Protection & Lessons What is my Saboteur trying to protect me from? What wisdom might this archetype hold if I listen to it with compassion? When has my self-sabotage actually kept me from harm or unwise choices? 🌱 Transformation & Integration How would my life look if I stopped giving power to the Saboteur? What support or practices help me move through fear instead of stopping because of it? How can I honor the protective role of the Saboteur while choosing healthier ways to protect myself. to it with compassion? When has my self-sabotage actually kept me from harm or unwise choices? 🌿 Here’s a worksheet-style guide you could use when working with the Saboteur archetype. It’s designed with prompts and space for journaling/reflection. 📝 Saboteur Archetype Reflection Worksheet Purpose: The Saboteur archetype shows us how fear, doubt, or unconscious patterns may block growth. By exploring it, we can transform self-sabotage into self-protection and self-awareness. 🔍 Awareness Notice how the Saboteur shows up in your life. In what situations do I most often “get in my own way”? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What thoughts or fears arise right before I give up or abandon something important? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What are the typical words, phrases, or “inner voice” messages of my Saboteur? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ ⚖️ Motivation & Shadow Explore what’s underneath the sabotage. Am I holding back because of fear of failure—or fear of success? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What hidden benefit do I get from keeping myself “safe” by not moving forward? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ How do procrastination, excuses, or distractions show up as forms of sabotage in my life? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ 🛡️ Protection & Lessons Recognize what the Saboteur might be protecting you from. What is my Saboteur trying to shield me from (criticism, rejection, disappointment, responsibility)? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ Has self-sabotage ever served me in a protective way? (e.g., avoiding toxic situations, preventing burnout) Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What wisdom might my Saboteur offer me if I listened with compassion? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ 🌱 Transformation & Integration Reframe the Saboteur into an ally for growth. If I stopped giving power to the Saboteur, how would my life look different? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What support, practices, or rituals help me move through fear rather than stop because of it? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ How can I honor the Saboteur’s protective role while choosing healthier ways to keep myself safe? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ ✨ Closing Reflection: The Saboteur is not here to destroy you—it is a messenger showing where fear lives. By listening, you can transform sabotage into courage, protection, and wise action. 💜 — the Lover archetype is often connected to passion, connection, vitality, sensuality, creativity, and the longing for union (with self, others, nature, or the divine). It’s the part of us that seeks beauty, intimacy, and deep presence. When unconscious, it can slip into obsession, dependency, or loss of self. Here are archetypal reflection questions for working with the Inner Lover: 🌹 Awareness & Connection What brings me alive—what makes me feel most in love with life? Where do I feel passion and vitality in my daily life? Where do I feel numb? How do I express love (to myself, others, the world)? In what ways do I block or resist love when it’s offered to me? 💞 Relationship to Self & Others How do I treat myself when I long for affection, comfort, or intimacy? Do I give love as freely as I long to receive it? Where in my life am I craving deeper connection? What does “healthy intimacy” look like for me? 🎨 Creativity & Desire How do I channel my passion into creative or life-giving outlets? What desires have I suppressed out of fear, shame, or judgment? Where do I confuse love with possession, or passion with control? What role do beauty, art, or sensual experience play in my healing? ⚖️ Shadow of the Lover When have I lost myself in love, passion, or desire? Do I use relationships, substances, or fantasies to avoid loneliness or pain? Where have I mistaken intensity for intimacy? What wounds around love, abandonment, or betrayal still shape my choices? 🌱 Transformation & Integration How would my life change if I allowed myself to love fully—without fear of loss or rejection? What practices help me embody presence, passion, and joy in healthy ways? How can I cultivate deeper intimacy with myself, not just with others? In what ways can I bring the Lover’s gifts—beauty, tenderness, devotion—into my work, community, and daily life? ✨ Closing Reflection: The Inner Lover teaches us that love is not only romantic—it is a life force. By tending to this archetype, we awaken joy, intimacy, and connection to the sacredness of being alive. 📝 Inner Lover Archetype Reflection Worksheet Purpose: The Lover archetype represents passion, intimacy, vitality, and our ability to connect with self, others, and the world. When balanced, it brings joy, creativity, and devotion. When shadowed, it may manifest as obsession, dependency, or avoidance of true intimacy. 🌹 Awareness & Connection Notice where love, passion, and vitality show up—or are missing—in your life. What makes me feel most alive and in love with life? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ How do I currently express love—to myself, to others, and to the world? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ In what ways do I block or resist love when it’s offered to me? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ 💞 Relationship to Self & Others Explore how the Inner Lover guides intimacy and connection. How do I respond to my own needs for affection, comfort, or intimacy? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ Do I give love as freely as I long to receive it? Why or why not? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ Where in my life am I craving deeper connection? Notes / Reflection: __________________________________________ 🎨 Creativity & Desire Uncover the Lover’s role in creativity and desire. How do I channel my passion into creative or life-giving outlets? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What desires or longings have I suppressed out of fear, shame, or judgment? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ How do beauty, art, or sensual experiences feed my soul? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ ⚖️ Shadow of the Lover Bring awareness to the unconscious patterns of the Lover. When have I lost myself in love, passion, or desire? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ Where have I mistaken intensity for intimacy? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What old wounds around love, betrayal, or abandonment still shape my choices today? Notes / Reflection: __________________________________________ 🌱 Transformation & Integration Reframe the Lover into an ally for healing and connection. How would my life change if I allowed myself to love fully—without fear of loss or rejection? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ What practices help me embody passion, tenderness, and joy in healthy ways? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ How can I cultivate intimacy with myself, not just with others? Notes / Reflection: ___________________________________________ In what ways can I bring the Lover’s gifts—beauty, devotion, presence—into my work, relationships, and community? Notes / Reflection: __________________________________________ ✨ Closing Reflection: The Lover archetype teaches us that love is not only romantic—it is a life force that infuses passion, creativity, and meaning into everything we touch. By honoring the Inner Lover, we deepen our connection with life itself. JOURNEY MANAGEMENT - ACTIONS TO MINIMIZE THE POSSIBILITY OF A BAD TRIP 1.SET AND SETTING - Set (Mindset): Ensure you’re in a positive, open mindset before taking psilocybin. If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or emotionally unstable, it's better to wait until you feel more centered. - Setting (Environment)**: Choose a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment. Ideally, you should be in a quiet, relaxed place with people you trust. An unfamiliar or chaotic environment can increase the likelihood of anxiety or confusion. -Hydration and Rest Ensure you're well-hydrated and have eaten something light beforehand. Being physically comfortable can make it easier to handle the mental or emotional journey. 2. INTENTIONS - Before starting the journey, set clear intentions for why you're taking psilocybin. Whether it’s for healing, self-exploration, or spiritual growth, having a purpose helps ground the experience and reduces feelings of aimlessness or fear. 3. DOSAGE - Start with a low dose if you're inexperienced or uncertain about your tolerance. Higher doses can lead to more intense and potentially overwhelming experiences. A common cause of bad trips is simply taking too much for one’s comfort level. 4. SUPPORTIVE FACILITATOR - A supportive facilitator can be invaluable, take the time to get to know them so you feel safe. This person can provide reassurance and help guide you if things get difficult. They can remind you that what you're experiencing is temporary and that you are safe. 5. PREPARATION AND EDUCATION - Understand the effects of psilocybin: Knowing what to expect (visuals, emotional shifts, time distortion) can reduce fear when the effects start. - Meditation and Relaxation Techniques: Learning breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques beforehand can help calm anxiety during the journey. 6. LETTING GO OF CONTROL - One of the key tips for avoiding a bad trip is to **surrender to the experience**. Fighting or resisting the effects of psilocybin often leads to more anxiety. Trust that the experience will pass and that challenging moments can bring insight. 7. MUSIC AND COMFORT ITEMS - Play calming or familiar music to create a soothing environmen t. Some people also find comfort in having personal items, like a blanket or favorite object, to ground them if they start feeling anxious. JOURNEY MANAGEMENT - A SHIFT IN PERSPECTIVE CHANGES EVERYTHING Alan Watts often spoke about “the backward law” — the paradox that the more we strive for something, the further away it seems. The harder we try to be happy, the more we feel unsatisfied. The more we fight change, the more life feels like it’s slipping through our fingers. But Watts took this idea even further. He questioned the very nature of who we are. What if the problem isn't the situation — it's our perspective? Watts argued that much of our suffering isn’t caused by external circumstances but by our attachment to how things should be . Psychedelics, meditation, and self-inquiry reveal something profound: reality doesn’t have to change — sometimes, we just need to see it differently. The Self is Not a Thing—It’s a Process Think about this: 🌀 Every seven years, nearly every cell in your body is replaced. The person you were a decade ago, physically, no longer exists. 🌀Your thoughts, desires, and emotions constantly shift — who you were five years ago likely doesn’t think or feel the same way you do now. 🌀 Yet, we cling to a rigid idea of who we are — as if we are a fixed identity, rather than an ever-changing flow of experience. Watts suggested that our suffering comes from our attachment to an old version of ourselves. We try to maintain consistency, even when everything in nature, including us, is designed to change. A Shift in Perspective Changes Everything When we stop trying to be someone and simply allow ourselves to flow with life, we experience a strange kind of freedom. This is why psychedelics and meditation can be so powerful — not because they show us something new, but because they shift the way we see what’s already here. 🌀What if happiness isn’t something to chase, but something that arises when we stop resisting the present moment? 🌀 What if you allowed yourself to change, moment by moment, instead of clinging to a fixed idea of who you "should" be? 🌀 What if you’re not a thing at all, but a process—like a wave in the ocean, constantly moving and evolving? Watts believed psychedelics, meditation, and deep self-inquiry weren’t about “finding yourself” but about realizing you were never a fixed entity to begin with. So on Alan Watts’ birthday, Jan 7, MAPS encourages you to consider this: What if freedom isn’t about becoming someone, but about dissolving into the flow of what already is? Here are some great resources to delve into this thinking, provided by MAPS! 🔹 The Real You: a motivational speech by Alan Watts. 🔹 MAPS’ FREE Integration Station workbook : a tool dedicated to integration techniques to help people process, understand, and incorporate psychedelic insights into daily life. 🔹 Visit the official Alan Watts Website for additional lectures and readings. JOURNEY MANAGEMENT - HOW TO RESPOND TO A CHALLENGING JOURNEY A "challenging trip" is often a term used instead of "bad trip," emphasizing the importance of proper preparation, mindset, and environment—known as "set and setting." Challenges during a journey often arise when there is insufficient preparation, support, or post-experience integration. With thorough planning and reflection, even intense moments can be valuable, revealing profound messages and insights. Most individuals find that, with the right guidance and integration, these experiences become some of the most meaningful and transformative moments of their lives. A "challenging trip" on psilocybin is often characterized by anxiety, fear, or uncomfortable emotions. However, it’s important to understand that even challenging experiences can provide valuable insights if approached correctly. Preparing for a psilocybin journey and understanding how to navigate difficult moments can significantly reduce the chances of a bad trip. Here’s a discussion of the fears surrounding bad trips and tips on how to avoid or manage them: Tools to help you manage intense experiences during your journey. · Breathe and Ground Yourself Focus on your breathing to stay calm. If visuals or emotions become overwhelming, close your eyes and concentrate on deep, slow breaths. This helps re-center you and reduces panic. · Remind Yourself It's Temporary A simple but effective strategy is to remind yourself that the experience is temporary and that you are in a safe space. Having a trip sitter reinforce this can be very reassuring. · Shift Your Focus If something feels negative or scary, try shifting your focus to something calming. You could change the music, look at a comforting object, or focus on things from the natural world in the room or a picture. Sometimes, a small change in environment can ease tension. Skillful support from the facilitator can guide you and help you remember that you are safe. Your facilitator will know how to gently remind you of your purpose and intentions. This will help reorient and calm you. · Acceptance If difficult emotions arise , rather than trying to push them away, acknowledge them. Allowing yourself to experience them fully can reduce resistance and turn a potentially bad trip into a valuable moment of personal growth. · Hydration and Rest Ensure you're well-hydrated and have eaten something light beforehand. Being physically comfortable can make it easier to handle the mental or emotional journey. · Final Thoughts While the fear of a bad trip is understandable, preparation and awareness can significantly reduce the chances of one. Challenging experiences aren't necessarily harmful; they can be important parts of the process. By focusing on creating a safe, supportive environment and setting clear intentions, you can approach the journey with confidence and reduce fear. Finally, starting with an appropriate dose and having post integration plans insure a smoother and more transformative experience. With the right preparation, challenges can be opportunities for growth rather than overwhelming obsticals. RIVER OF LIFE ART PROJECT The “River of Life” is a therapeutic and narrative process often used in group counseling, trauma work, or community healing. People lay out a “river” (on paper, cloth, or in physical space) and place symbolic objects along its path to represent life experiences. Flowers → positive or life-giving events (joy, love, growth, milestones). Stones → traumas, obstacles, or painful events carried along the way. Sticks → times when one has caused harm or conflict, acknowledging responsibility. Candles → usually represent hope, guidance, or spiritual light . In many adaptations, they are placed to honor moments of resilience, transformation, or remembrance of those who supported you. Candles can also mark an ongoing source of strength that helps illuminate the journey ahead. 👉 Different facilitators adapt the symbols slightly, but candles almost always signify light, hope, healing, or the memory of loved ones that help guide the individual through their life’s river. MICRODOSING What is Microdosing, different dosage regimes, benefits and scientific studies about it's use? Microdosing involves consuming very small, sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin, the active compound found in "magic mushrooms." Typically, these doses are so small (usually about 0.1–0.3 grams of dried mushrooms) that they do not induce the hallucinogenic effects associated with larger doses of psilocybin. The idea is to gain subtle benefits, such as improved mood, focus, and creativity, without experiencing a full psychedelic trip. Common Microdosing Regimens There are a few popular schedules people follow when micro-dosing psilocybin: Fadiman Protocol : Developed by Dr. James Fadiman, this schedule involves taking a microdose every three days, typically taking the dose on Day 1, resting on Day 2 and Day 3, then repeating. This cycle allows for a period of reset and integration. Stamets Stack : Created by mycologist Paul Stamets, this protocol combines a microdose of psilocybin with lion’s mane mushroom and niacin. The cycle follows a 5-days-on, 2-days-off schedule, and the combination of ingredients is believed to enhance cognitive effects and support nerve growth. The Paul Stamets microdosing protocol —also known as the Stamets Stack—is a popular regimen combining psilocybin, lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), and niacin (vitamin B3). Stamets proposed this combination to potentially promote neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, while enhancing cognitive function and creativity. Stamets Microdosing Protocol Overview Schedule: · 5 days on, 2 days off (e.g., Monday–Friday dosing, Saturday–Sunday off) · The breaks help prevent tolerance buildup. Components & Suggested Dosages: Substance Typical Dose (per day) Psilocybin 100–300 mg dried mushroom equivalent (microdose) Lion’s Mane 5–10 grams fresh / 500–1000 mg extract Niacin (flush) 100–200 mg (to promote capillary expansion) Rationale Behind the Stack: Stamets theorizes the following mechanisms for the components of the stack: · Psilocybin stimulates 5-HT2A receptors, which may enhance mood, perception, and support neurogenesis. · Lion’s Mane has shown in preclinical studies to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). · Niacin improves peripheral circulation, potentially aiding the distribution of NGF throughout the body and possibly into the brain. He believes this stack may have therapeutic potential for conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic brain injury, depression, and PTSD. Key Caveats: · The stack has not been clinically validated, and safety data is limited. · Niacin in high doses may cause uncomfortable flushing. · Psilocybin microdosing remains illegal in many jurisdictions. Two Days a Week : Some people prefer a simpler protocol, where they microdose two days per week (often on non-consecutive days). This pattern is thought to reduce tolerance and avoid overuse. Potential Benefits of Microdosing Psilocybin Although formal research on micro-dosing is still emerging, anecdotal evidence and some preliminary studies suggest several potential benefits, including: Mood Enhancement : Many users report improved mood and reduced anxiety, suggesting psilocybin may have a positive effect on mood and outlook. Enhanced Focus and Productivity : Users report increased attention and mental clarity, making it a potential tool for productivity and creativity. Improved Creativity : There are reports of enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities, which can be beneficial for people in creative professions. Reduced Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety : Initial studies suggest that microdosing could help reduce depressive symptoms and generalized anxiety. Potential Neurogenesis : Animal studies on psilocybin show promise for stimulating neurogenesis, or the growth of new brain cells, which might translate into cognitive benefits. Scientific Studies and Research Research on micro-dosing is limited, as most studies have focused on therapeutic or higher doses of psilocybin. However, recent studies have started to explore the benefits of micro-dosing: Imperial College London Study (2021) : This study found that low-dose psilocybin could enhance emotional well-being and lower self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, results were largely self-reported, suggesting a need for more rigorous studies. 2021 Translational Psychiatry Study : This study suggested that psilocybin micro-dosing might be associated with greater emotional stability and improved mood. The study compared self-reported mental health before and after microdosing and noted that participants experienced increased feelings of well-being. Maastricht University Study (2019) : Research showed that microdoses of psilocybin improved both convergent and divergent thinking, both of which are important for creative problem-solving. This aligns with anecdotal claims that microdosing may enhance creativity. Microdosing psilocybin appears to hold promising potential, although much of the evidence remains anecdotal or self-reported. Clinical research is ongoing to validate its benefits and establish standardized guidelines, particularly in managing mental health conditions and enhancing cognitive function. Citations & Sources: While there is no formal peer-reviewed clinical study specifically validating the Stamets Stack in humans, Stamets has discussed the protocol and its theoretical underpinnings in various talks and articles: · Stamets, P. (2017). Psilocybin, Lion’s Mane and the Neurogenesis Stack: A Potential Cognitive Enhancer . Presented at the MAPS Psychedelic Science Conference. [Video] · Stamets, P. (2020). Paul Stamets on Joe Rogan Experience #1385 . Discussion includes the rationale and anecdotal reports about the microdosing stack. [Podcast] Clinical Research on Individual Components (not specific to the stack): · Zhang, Z., et al. (2016). Hericenones and erinacines: stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) biosynthesis in Hericium erinaceus . Mycobiology, 44 (3), 217–227. https://doi.org/10.5941/MYCO.2016.44.3.217 · Carhart-Harris, R. L., & Nutt, D. J. (2017). Serotonin and brain function: a tale of two receptors. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 31 (9), 1091–1120. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881117725915 COMPLEMENTARY AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES Here are evidence-informed complementary adjunctive and therapeutic approaches that may significantly enhance psilocybin outcomes: 🔄 1. Internal Family Systems (IFS) – with Somatic Integration Especially effective for trauma survivors and those with shame/dissociation. Goes beyond talking about the trauma to meeting the "parts" (protector, exile, inner critic). Ideal in combination with psychedelic therapy—builds a language for integration. Somatic IFS adds a felt-sense of each part and helps clients reintegrate split-off states through body awareness. Certified IFS practitioners or therapists trained in psychedelic integration with IFS lens are ideal. 2. Somatic Experiencing (SE) Created by Peter Levine, focused on releasing trauma stored in the nervous system . Uses titration and pendulation to process trauma without overwhelm or re-traumatization. Clients often gain more from subtle shifts in felt sense than from verbal catharsis. Ideal for: Clients with a trauma history and low emotional awareness Those who have plateaued in traditional therapy 🕯️ 3. MDMA-Assisted Therapy (when/if accessible) Particularly effective for: Developmental trauma Complex PTSD Shame, guilt, emotional numbing MDMA can foster self-compassion, relational repair, and emotional processing not accessible through psilocybin alone. It offers a gentler, empathogen-driven route compared to psilocybin. When not available legally : Consider underground peer support networks or review MAPS protocols to inform prep/integration work. 🛏️ 4. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Especially useful for: Treatment-resistant depression Dissociative trauma states Shame-driven internal narratives Can be administered in low-dose psycholytic format (talk during experience) or higher-dose psychedelic format (inward focus). Clients often benefit from multiple sessions with structured prep and integration —ideally with trained trauma clinicians. 🎭 5. Expressive Arts & Drama Therapy Helps bypass the verbal/thinking mind and allows non-verbal access to emotional material . Use: Drawing internal parts Movement to express emotional states Writing letters to or from parts of self (e.g., inner child, protector) Especially helpful when clients say, “I can’t feel anything,” or “I don’t know how to talk about it.” 📿 6. Neurofeedback (EEG-based or HEG) For clients with severe dysregulation or early trauma, neurofeedback can: Restore regulation Decrease reactivity Improve readiness for deeper work (including psychedelic therapy) May reduce trauma symptoms even when talk therapy fails. Can be combined with therapy for greater durability. 💓 7. Attachment-Based or Relational Psychotherapy Often overlooked but essential for those with early childhood trauma. Focuses not on content, but the here-and-now dynamic between client and therapist . Helps rebuild trust, reduce shame, and establish capacity for secure attachment. Ideal pairings : AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) 📿 8. Mindfulness-Based Interventions (Trauma-Sensitive) He may benefit from: Short, guided, body-based practices (e.g., Tara Brach, David Treleaven’s trauma-sensitive mindfulness) Self-compassion training (Kristin Neff’s work) This should be offered gently; many clients with early trauma find stillness triggering —it must be scaffolded with safety. 🪔 9. Spiritual Direction / Mystical Integration For clients accessing transpersonal or mystical states in psychedelic sessions, offer: Support integrating spiritual themes Encouragement of contemplative or devotional practices Framing suffering within mythic/archetypal frameworks can promote meaning-making and post-traumatic growth 🧍 10. Bodywork with Trauma Awareness Trauma-informed massage, craniosacral therapy, TRE (Tension & Trauma Release Exercises) , or Rosen Method can gently release stored trauma. These work well in tandem with integration therapy after psychedelic work. The goal is not physical alignment, but energetic/emotional release and embodiment . 🔗 11. Group Therapy or Men’s Circles Ideal for relational healing, accountability, and shame work. Especially useful if client has a pattern of isolation, avoidance, or relational distrust. Groups such as: Mankind Project Heroic Hearts Veterans Cohorts Conscious men’s work circles (e.g., John Wineland-inspired) 📌 Integration Is Key Regardless of the therapeutic modality used, what makes the difference is structured, long-term integration . Encourage a plan that includes: Scheduled follow-ups (1 week, 1 month, 3 months post-journey) Regular creative or reflective practices Continued parts work and somatic resourcing A coherent narrative of healing that includes both trauma and A referral list or national directory of practitioners trained in these modalities (IFS, SE, KAP, etc.) evidence-informed adjunctive and alternative therapeutic approaches that may significantly enhance outcomes: Complementary Therapeutic Approaches for Trauma + Psychedelic Healing 🧠 1. Internal Family Systems (IFS) Use for: Developmental trauma, emotional numbing, shame, and addiction Key Principle: Healing occurs when exiled parts are witnessed with Self-energy Resources: Book: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz Practitioner Directory: IFS Institute 🧍♂️ 2. Somatic Experiencing (SE) Use for: Nervous system regulation, dissociation, overwhelm Key Principle: Trauma is stored in the body, not just the story Resources: Book: Waking the Tiger by Peter Levine Directory: traumahealing.org 💊 3. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Use for: Depression, trauma, emotional rigidity Delivery: Psycholytic (talk during), psychedelic (inward journey) Directory: Polaris Insight Center | Ketamine Clinics Directory 💗 4. MDMA-Assisted Therapy (when available) Use for: Deep emotional healing, developmental trauma, PTSD Key Principle: Enhances trust, reduces fear, increases empathy Resources: MAPS: maps.org/mdma Training Directory (for referrals): MAPS Training Directory 🖼️ 5. Expressive Arts Therapy Use for: Emotional access, inner child healing, parts integration Tools: Drawing, music, movement, voice, journaling Directory: International Expressive Arts Therapy Association 🧠 6. Neurofeedback (EEG) Use for: Dysregulation, sleep issues, PTSD, readiness for deeper work Directory: Biofeedback Certification International Alliance 💞 7. Attachment-Based Therapy / AEDP Use for: Healing early attachment wounds, shame, relational trauma Key Approach: Emotion-focused, right-brain dominant, co-regulating Directory: AEDP Institute 🧘 8. Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness & Self-Compassion Use for: Self-regulation, shame, building inner safety Resources: Tara Brach (free guided meditations): tarabrach.com Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness: David Treleaven Self-Compassion Practices: Dr. Kristin Neff 🙌 9. Body-Oriented Therapies Use for: Releasing trauma held in tissue, somatic reconnection Modalities: Craniosacral Therapy (biodynamic or trauma-informed) Tension/Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) Rosen Method Directories: Upledger CST Directory Rosen Institute 👥 10. Group Therapy / Men’s Circles Use for: Relational healing, accountability, peer support Examples: Mankind Project Heroic Hearts Project (veteran-focused) Sacred Sons (spiritual/embodied men’s work) 🧭 Integration Coaching & Psychedelic-Specific Support 🔹 Psychedelic Integration Therapists Psychedelic Support Directory Integrative Psychiatry Institute MAPS Integration List 🔹 Coach-Facilitators (Non-Clinical) Fireside Project - Peer Support Psychedelic Passage Being True to You Coaching Becca Parker beccasuzanne2020@gmail.com DISCLAIMER All information on this website does not, and is not intended to constitute medical advise. All information, content & materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Fees Dual Facilitation Pathway Up Back to Top

Meet Becca Parker, a skilled psilocybin facilitator. Learn more about her background, expertise, and how she can support your psilocybin journey. Hello, I'm Becca Parker Certified Psilocybin Facilitator Guiding Mushroom Journeys RN, CNM, FNP Learn about my deep commitment to providing a supportive, professional environment for your psilocybin journey. I share my personal background and holistic approach to being an experienced psychedelic experience facilitator, helping you to receive spiritual growth and a safe, insightful experience. See my FAQ page for more detailed information. A bit more about me My life’s work as a medical professional has centered in holding space for people for 50 years as a healer. This includes 50 years as a Registered Nurse and home birth midwife, 28 years as a Certified Nurse Midwife, and 25 years as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Nutritionist. I have worked at drug and alcohol rehab centers, and worked on state psychiatric wards that have enriched my training. I have childhood experiences in the war-torn environment of substance abuse, and have years of attending Alanon meetings. Continuing education is ongoing, with studies in complex trauma prominent: certification pending from the Trauma Research Foundation’s Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies, under the tutelage of Bessel van der Kolk, PhD, who is a national leader in trauma therapy; and in Internal Family Systems- “No Bad Parts” with Richard Schwartz, PhD, also a national leader in trauma education). Sustaining me through the roller coaster of life is a 55-year practice of meditation that I continue to be devoted to, in conjunction with ongoing and longstanding study & practice with skilled Intuitives & Shamans. Living in Costa Rica gave me the gift of life-changing experiences with Ayahuasca, and psilocybin mushroom journeys continued with the most powerful experiences that I’ve had the privilege to experience in my life. Even at micro-doses. And even with challenging journeys. All the journeys have been taken with intentional and thorough preparation and integration that goes to the heart of the lessons offered. It is this focus and intentionality I feel I would be able to assist you with, along with holding safe & sacred space for you during journeys. It is essential that you feel safe. The time we would spend together would create that. And we would take the time that’s needed. One focus as a psilocybin facilitator is in helping people, especially women, with long-standing trauma, who would like the added confidence of working with a skilled healer and medical professional. I am happy you have found me. Eureka! The work on a psilocybin journey can be challenging, confronting, mind bending, fun, uplifting, life- changing, life-affirming, healing, life-affirming and transformative. You have a precious opportunity to make a difference in your life, with the effects rippling out into our world, at a time when we need it more than ever. With the work done during preparation and integration of your journey, I believe your life, and our world will be better off, and indeed more wonderful as a result. As we begin this journey together, there are profound possibilities, as individuals and as a connected global community. One step at a time. (In my free time I may be tango dancing, practicing yoga or Tai Chi, volunteering at SOU Plant Clinic as a Master Gardner, overseeing Kiva.org zero interest global crowdfunded loans as a Trustee, and, as a would-be musician- playing my ukulele, mandolin, guitar or piano. Last but not least- enjoying my 3 very talented and wonderful daughters and 8 grandkids. Free consultation available. All are welcome Click here for fee details and scholarships. “The Earth has a way of communicating to us through her plants. It is our duty to listen, to learn, and to heal, so that we may give back to her.” ~ Indigenous Andean Proverb