In recent years, the conversation around psychedelics has shifted dramatically. Once buried under stigma and misconception, these substances are becoming recognized for their potential in therapy and self-discovery. Research shows that psychedelic therapy can lead to significant improvements in mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. In studies, patients have reported reductions in depressive symptoms by as much as 50% after a single psychedelic session. But as exciting as this may sound, it is essential to determine whether these powerful substances are right for you.
We talked with Linden Schaffer, founder of Reveal, a global women's community that bridges the gap between psychedelic seekers and providers. Her work ensures women have greater agency and informed consent throughout their journey.
Linden's recent webinar, The Psychedelic Journey: How To Know If It's Right for You offered several pieces of advice for people interested in psychedelic therapy, including:
Questions to ask in self-reflection
Learn what dysregulation is and how to handle it
Understand how a well-prepared journey provides greater outcomes
Why is preparation important?
Psychedelics are substances that can significantly alter how you perceive the world, feel emotions, and think. They work on the brain in unique ways, often leading to powerful insights and new perspectives. However, experiences can vary widely from person to person. Understanding your mental health history, personal goals, and readiness for such an experience is crucial before considering psychedelic therapy.
Here's a clip from the webinar, where Linden discusses how you can use your voice to ground and stabilize yourself during a plant medicine journey:
You can watch the full webinar on the Reveal Community
It's one of dozens of resources available to the Reveal Community. Membership is invite-only, so each member is connected by one degree of separation. Consider this blog your personal invite: Reveal is only $5 per month and opens up a world of connection to a global psychedelic community. We're proud to partner our clients with an informative, trusted group. (Not ready to join? Follow Reveal on Instagram.)
Here are some of the topics covered in the webinar and the larger Reveal community:
Assessing Your Readiness for Psychedelic Therapy
Before embarking on a psychedelic journey, it’s important to ask yourself important questions. Do you have a support system in place? Are you dealing with unresolved trauma or anxiety that could worsen under the effects of these substances? Reflect on your intentions: Are you seeking emotional healing, spiritual connection, or creative inspiration? A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that 90% of participants felt more connected to themselves and others after psychedelics. Knowing what you are looking to achieve can confirm whether you are ready for this transformative experience.
Setting Intentions and Expectations
Setting clear intentions is vital for preparing for a psychedelic experience. Your intention acts like a compass, guiding your journey. By defining what you hope to explore or heal, you create a focused environment that maximizes therapeutic benefits. Managing your expectations is equally important—as every journey is unique, being open to different outcomes can lead to unexpected, yet enlightening, insights.
Integration: The Key to Lasting Change
The psychedelic experience does not conclude once the substance wears off. Integration is about making sense of your insights and applying them to daily life. This stage can be challenging, and support from coaches, integration circles, communities like Reveal, or trusted friends is crucial during this phase. Research shows that engaging in integration therapy can lead to more lasting changes in mood and outlook on life.
The Path to Personal Growth
In the search for healing and self-discovery, understanding whether psychedelics are right for you is a critical first step. By taking the time to prepare, assess your mental health, and set clear intentions, you can create transformative experiences that extend beyond the session itself. As the landscape of mental health continues to evolve, embracing the potential of psychedelic therapy—armed with knowledge and preparation—may unlock doors to profound personal growth. Whether you are facing mental health challenges or simply seeking deeper understanding, the journey into psychedelic therapy could be the catalyst for the change you have been looking for.
Not sure where to start? Book a free 20-minute call with a specially trained psychedelic integration coach. There's no obligation, we'll just chat about what you're looking for. 👇
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