In recreational settings, psychedelic substances are often mixed, taken in combination with alcohol, and used as a way to escape from daily life and have a bit of fun. However, this approach can sometimes go wrong and result in very challenging experiences. It is important to highlight that there is a significant difference between recreational use and therapeutic use of psychedelics.
When approaching psychedelics with therapeutic intentions, (such as at Compassionate Self), we prioritize safety, professionalism, and the creation of a safe set and setting. This approach ensures that your journey is conducted in a supportive and controlled environment, maximizing the potential for personal growth, healing, and expanded consciousness.
Set and setting are fundamental elements in determining the outcome of a psychedelic experience. The "set" refers to your mindset and emotional state. It involves your intentions, expectations, and readiness to engage in the experience. The "setting" encompasses the physical environment, including the location, atmosphere, and the presence of supportive individuals.
At Compassionate Self, we curate a safe and supportive setting that prioritizes your emotional, psychological, and physical safety. The space we create is carefully designed to promote relaxation, introspection, and emotional healing. We pay meticulous attention to factors such as lighting, soundscapes, and overall comfort to ensure that you feel secure and at ease during your session. This environment fosters trust and facilitates the exploration of your inner landscape.
Having a skilled facilitator by your side is crucial during a psychedelic journey. We are trained in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin truffles, having completed many journeys ourselves, following seminars, reading books, and participating regularly in peer supervision. We have the knowledge and skills necessary to guide you through your journey safely and supportively. We approach each participant with empathy, compassion, and personalized care, creating a trusting and non-judgmental space. We actively listen, provide emotional support, and offer guidance when needed, always respecting the unique trajectory of your experience.
Proper preparation sets the foundation for transformation during a psychedelic experience. Before your session, we conduct a thorough suitability screening process to assess your medical history, current medications, and psychological well-being. This process helps us determine if participating in a psilocybin group retreat is appropriate for you, ensuring your safety and optimizing the therapeutic potential of the session.
In addition to the screening process, we provide information and support to prepare you mentally and emotionally for the journey. We encourage you to explore your intentions, develop a mindset of openness and receptivity, and engage in practices such as meditation, journaling, and self-reflection. These practices enhance your readiness for the experience and contribute to a positive outcome.
Integration is a vital phase that follows the psychedelic experience. It involves incorporating the insights, revelations, and healing that occurred during the journey into your everyday life. We offer integration support to help you make sense of your psychedelic journey and integrate it into your daily life. We believe this is as important as the psychedelic journey itself. We provide guidance, resources, and tools to assist you in processing your experience, exploring its meaning, and making practical changes based on the insights gained. Through techniques like Internal Family Systems, we listen to different parts of you that may arise after your psychedelic journey, supporting your integration process.
For us, safety and professionalism are our top priorities. As active members of the Guild of Guides, we adhere to strict ethical guidelines and participate in peer supervision with a network of professional psychedelic guides in the Netherlands. This ensures that we maintain a high level of professional competency and accountability, guaranteeing your well-being throughout your psilocybin truffle therapy journey.
In conclusion, prioritizing a safe set and setting, along with proper preparation, integration, and skilled facilitation, is crucial for a positive and transformative psychedelic experience.
So, if you're considering diving in and exploring psychedelic assisted journeys, we highly recommend doing this with this in mind.
We would gladly support you on this journey and share our wisdom and tips. Should we find that we're not a good fit or that you do not (for any reason) completely feel safe journeying with us, we can happily recommend other professionals in this field.
Curious? You can read more about our individual psilocybin sessions here.