Psychedelic Assisted
Somatic Psychotherapy
What is Psychedelic Assisted Somatic Psychotherapy ?
"When we are able to fully grasp the depth of our body's wisdom, our experiences can become guideposts to our growth and healing."
- Peter Levine
Psychedelic-assisted somatic psychotherapy is very different than big macrodose Soul type journeys, divine transpersonal cosmic, ceremonial and deep journey work. It is different than microdosing as well. It is really not about the substance per se, and more about the approach. The substance is merely the tool or gateway that allows us to gain access to the level of deep work needed to address the many traumas people experience living as a modern human in our society today.
As the great Dr. Stanislav Grof says “Psychedelics are to the study of the mind what the microscope is to biology and the telescope is to astronomy.” In this model of healing Psychedelics are used to gain access to areas of our mind that we may not have access to in normal ordinary state of consciousness and that in-turn allows us to do this deep healing work.
This type of psychedelic assisted work is a type of therapy that combines the use of "expressive medicines" or psychedelics, with the practice of embodied mindfulness and somatic processing. This type of therapy is designed to help individuals release suppressed emotions and unresolved nervous system charges that can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms.
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Through the use of psychedelics in this particular model, individuals can access childhood programming, attachment styles, beliefs, and roles within their families that have deep subconscious influences. They can also access the non-ordinary mental terrain which helps them become hyper aware, noticing the feelings, sensations, and movements of the body, which in turn let's them understand themselves better.
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Psychedelic-assisted somatic psychotherapy can also help individuals resolve trauma by addressing dissociation. Trauma symptoms can be described as stored passive defense responses, and through the use of psychedelics, individuals can access their dissociative symptoms to process and integrate the encapsulations of memory or parts.
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This model of psychedelic therapy is referred to as psycholytic therapy with the use of psychedelic medicines as tools to get us to the places we aim to explore. Psycholytic therapy involves using mid-range doses of psychedelics to access the waking dream-like state, where people can steer the experience and address their personal subconscious. This type of therapy allows for permanent, bottom-up, body based or (somatic) releases or updates and does not rely on insight or management from conscious minds.
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A competent psychedelic therapist is someone committed to their own inner work, who knows the path they ask their clients to walk. I have been doing psychedelic work for almost a decade and have been to many places both light and dark, challenging, and euphoric, and most recently I began training to use this profound approach. My goal is to help individuals build a conscious relationship with their inner world, all their parts, and experience lasting resolution through careful therapeutic goals and support.
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In My approach, I strive to provide a safe and supportive, comfortable environment for individuals seeking psychedelic-assisted somatic psychotherapy. I am an experienced practitioner that is committed to doing my own inner work. It is an honor to help people build a conscious relationship with their inner world, to know themselves more deeply and gain mastery of the tools to navigate this complex, chaotic and messy human existence, free from trauma and wounds that can keep us stuck, small, and limited.
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These Sessions are 2hrs long and begin with a 1 hour consultation. Unlike traditional higher dose journeys or ceremony experiences, we do not do integration sessions after. Integration is done in the session. I can speak more to that. Packages do include coaching sessions as well as a way to gently walk beside you throughout this experience. Typical session packages begin with a minimum of 6 2hr sessions with 3 coaching sessions plus 1 prep/ consultation session.
Contact me today to learn more about my services and how I can help you.
Psychedelic therapy has shown promise in the treatment of various mental health conditions, although research in this field is ongoing. Some specific mental health conditions that can potentially benefit from psychedelic therapy include:
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Depression: Psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing symptoms of treatment-resistant depression and promoting long-lasting improvements in mood and overall well-being.
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): MDMA-assisted therapy, in particular, has shown promise in helping individuals with PTSD process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms.
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Anxiety: Psychedelic therapy may be beneficial for individuals with anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety. Substances like psilocybin and MDMA have been studied for their anxiolytic effects.
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Addiction: Psychedelics, such as ibogaine and ayahuasca, have been explored as potential treatments for substance use disorders, including addiction to substances like opioids, alcohol, and nicotine. They may help individuals gain insights into their addiction and facilitate lasting behavior change.
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Some research suggests that psychedelic therapy could help individuals with OCD by promoting introspection and reducing the severity of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
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End-of-Life Anxiety and Existential Distress: Psilocybin-assisted therapy has been investigated for its ability to ease anxiety and distress in individuals facing life-threatening illnesses, offering a more peaceful perspective on mortality.
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Eating Disorders: Psychedelics may help individuals with eating disorders gain a deeper understanding of the psychological factors driving their condition and promote changes in their relationship with food and body image.
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Mood Disorders: There is ongoing research into the potential benefits of psychedelic therapy for bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, although results are less established in these cases.
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Existential Distress and Meaning-Making: Psychedelics have the potential to help individuals explore and find meaning in their lives, grapple with existential questions, and gain a deeper sense of purpose and connection to the world.
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Creativity and Problem Solving: Some users have reported enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities following a psychedelic experience. It can be used as a tool for artists, writers, and innovators seeking fresh insights and inspiration.
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Relationship Issues: Psychedelic therapy may facilitate improved communication and understanding in couples and family therapy settings. It can help individuals gain insight into their relationship dynamics and patterns.
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Stress Reduction and General Well-Being: Psychedelics may promote relaxation, stress reduction, and a sense of well-being in some individuals. People often describe a "reset" or "rebirth" experience after a psychedelic journey.
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Spiritual Growth and Transcendence: Many users report profound spiritual or mystical experiences during psychedelic sessions. These experiences can lead to a sense of interconnectedness, spiritual growth, and personal transformation.
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Personal Development: Psychedelic therapy can be used as a tool for personal growth, self-exploration, and self-improvement. It may help individuals address unresolved issues from their past and gain a clearer understanding of their own identity.
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Cognitive Enhancement: Some studies suggest that psychedelics like microdoses of LSD or psilocybin could enhance cognitive function and focus, although this is a less explored area of research.
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PTSD in Veterans and First Responders: Psychedelic therapy has shown promise in helping military veterans and first responders cope with trauma and PTSD.
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Phobias and Anxiety Disorders: Psychedelic-assisted exposure therapy is being researched as a potential treatment for specific phobias and anxiety disorders.
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It's important to note that the use of psychedelics in therapy should be conducted under the guidance of trained professionals in controlled and supervised settings. The legal status of psychedelics varies by location, and their use should strictly adhere to legal and ethical guidelines. Additionally, individual responses to psychedelic therapy can vary, and not everyone may benefit from this approach. Research is continually evolving, and it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
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If you're feeling unsure of your next steps, or stuck in achieving your goals, know that you don't have to do it alone. I invite you to connect with me for a free discovery session where we can explore your vision, goals, and how we can work together to make them a reality.
During our session, we can assess if we are a good match for each other. Let's step out of our comfort zones and explore the infinite potential of what you can achieve. Reach out to me today and let's explore the possibilities together.
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