What is psychedelic preparation and integration coaching?

Psychedelic preparation and integration are important aspects of the psychedelic experience that aim to maximise the potential benefits and minimise the risks associated with the use of psychedelic substances like LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and MDMA. These two phases, preparation and integration, are often considered essential for achieving meaningful and therapeutic outcomes from a psychedelic journey. Here’s an overview of each:

  • Preparation: Preparation refers to the activities and mindset that a person adopts before taking a psychedelic substance. It involves several key elements:
    • Set and Setting: This concept emphasizes the importance of one’s mental state (set) and physical environment (setting) during the experience. Being in a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment with a positive and open mindset can greatly influence the outcome of the journey.
    • Research and Education: Individuals should educate themselves about the specific psychedelic substance they plan to take, its effects, potential risks, and benefits. Understanding what to expect can reduce anxiety and foster a sense of readiness.
    • Intentions: Setting clear intentions for the experience can guide the journey toward desired outcomes, whether it’s personal insight, healing, or spiritual growth. Intentions provide focus and purpose to the experience.
    • Support Network: Having a trusted sitter or guide, preferably experienced with psychedelics, can provide emotional support and ensure physical safety during the trip.
    • Physical Health: Ensuring good physical health and addressing any medical concerns is essential. Certain medications and health conditions may interact negatively with psychedelics.
    • Abstinence: Avoiding certain substances, especially alcohol and recreational drugs, in the days leading up to the trip is recommended.

  • Integration: Integration is the process that follows the psychedelic experience. It involves reflecting on and making sense of the insights, emotions, and experiences that occurred during the trip. Key elements of integration include:
    • Journaling: Recording thoughts, feelings, and insights during and after the experience can help individuals process and make sense of their journey.
    • Therapy or Counseling: Many people find it beneficial to work with a therapist or counselor who has experience in psychedelic integration. They can help individuals explore and integrate their psychedelic experiences into their everyday lives.
    • Community Support: Engaging with a supportive community or attending group integration sessions can provide a sense of belonging and shared understanding, helping individuals feel less isolated in their experiences.
    • Behavioral Changes: Integration often involves making positive changes in one’s life based on the insights gained during the psychedelic journey. This could include changes in lifestyle, relationships, or personal habits.
    • Continued Mindfulness: Maintaining a mindfulness practice or other contemplative activities can help individuals stay connected to the insights and benefits of the psychedelic experience over time.

Psychedelic preparation and integration are seen as essential steps in maximizing the therapeutic and transformative potential of these substances. They can help individuals make the most of their experiences, gain valuable insights, and foster long-lasting personal growth and healing. It’s important to note that these practices are often used in therapeutic or ceremonial settings and should be approached with care and respect for the potential risks associated with psychedelics.

When facilitating this coaching Mel draws from her own personal relationship to psychedelics such as psilocybin mushrooms, DMT, ayahuasca, LSD and MDMA, as well as her clinical experience working with the subconscious, and altered states to achieve therapeutic outcomes. She has also completed 85hr Trauma Informed Plant Medicine Facilitation with Atira Tan of Aya Healing Retreats, and Bad Trip Integration Training with Wild Mind Institute founded by Sean O’Carroll, as well as extensive research on the latest treatment and outcomes of clinical trials.

Disclaimer:

Legal and safety considerations should always be taken into account. It is important to note that currently in Australia these substances are still considered illegal and can only be administered as prescribed by an authorised Psychiatrist in a clinical setting (such as a phase three clinical trial.)

This coaching is provided as a means of harm reduction and ongoing support and education for those individuals who have undertaken these journeys of their own volition.

Melinda King and Inner Alchemy take no responsibility for the actions or consequences of actions of those individuals choosing to participate in illegal activities either in Australia or overseas. We also do not supply or provide access to illegal substances.

However we do help clients to research and apply for clinical studies in Australia or access safe and guided retreats and experiences overseas in countries such as Peru, Jamaica and the Netherlands.