Exploring Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Denver: A Mindful Approach to Healing
I’m excited to share insights into my work with psychedelic-assisted therapy here in Denver. If you’re curious about this innovative approach to mental health, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re seeking new ways to address mental health challenges or simply want to explore the possibilities, I’ll guide you through the essentials of this transformative practice.
What is Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) leverages the therapeutic potential of substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine to facilitate profound psychological healing and growth. These substances, when used responsibly and under professional guidance, can help clients access deeper levels of their psyche, promoting emotional well-being and self-discovery.
Why Psychedelics?
Many people ask, “Why use psychedelics in therapy?” The answer lies in their unique ability to alter consciousness and provide new perspectives. Studies have shown that psychedelics can help break down mental barriers, allowing individuals to confront and heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. For a deeper dive into the science, check out this comprehensive guide on psychedelic research.
My Approach: Transpersonal, Mindfulness, and IFS
In my practice, I integrate transpersonal psychology, mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to enhance the healing potential of psychedelic experiences.
Transpersonal Psychology
Transpersonal therapy transcends traditional therapy by exploring the spiritual aspects of human experience. It’s about connecting with something greater than ourselves, which can be particularly enlightening when combined with psychedelics. This approach helps clients tap into their innate wisdom and the broader human experience, facilitating profound healing. In our sessions, we might explore:
Transcendence: How do psychedelic experiences help you connect with something greater than yourself?
Ego Dissolution: What happens when the sense of self melts away, and how can this contribute to healing?
Integration of Spiritual Experiences: How can you bring back the wisdom from these profound states into your daily life?
For a deeper dive into transpersonal psychology, check out this article.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being present in the moment and observing thoughts and feelings without judgment. During a psychedelic experience, maintaining a mindful state can help you navigate intense emotions and thoughts, turning potentially overwhelming experiences into opportunities for growth.
In our work together, mindfulness practices might include:
Breath Awareness: Using the breath to anchor yourself in the present.
Body Scanning: Tuning into bodily sensations to stay grounded.
Mindful Reflection: Reflecting on insights gained during and after the psychedelic experience.
Learn more about mindfulness practices in this resource.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
IFS is a therapeutic approach that sees the mind as composed of different “parts,” each with its own emotions and roles. During psychedelic sessions, you might encounter these parts more vividly, allowing for profound inner dialogues and healing.
With IFS in psychedelic therapy, we might explore:
Identifying Parts: Discovering the different parts of yourself that come to the forefront.
Healing Exiled Parts: Addressing wounded or neglected parts with compassion.
Self-Leadership: Cultivating your core Self to guide and harmonize your internal system.
For an overview of IFS, this article is a great starting point.
A Comprehensive Guide to Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT)
Preparation
Preparation is a crucial phase in psychedelic-assisted therapy, setting the foundation for a successful therapeutic journey. I require multiple sessions before the psychedelic journey session. This enables our relationship to flourish and for trust to be built so that I can best understand what you as the client are working through, and I can hold the space with compassion and knowing.
1. Initial Assessment
Comprehensive Evaluation: This involves medical, psychological, and social history assessments to determine if you are a suitable candidate for PAT.
Screening for Contraindications: Potential contraindications, such as certain mental health disorders or medications, are evaluated to ensure safety.
2. Setting Intentions
Clarifying Goals: Clients articulate their goals and what they hope to achieve from the therapy. This can range from processing trauma to exploring consciousness.
Psychoeducation: Clients are educated about the effects of the psychedelic substance, what to expect during the session, and how to navigate the experience.
3. Building Trust and Rapport
Therapist-Client Relationship: Building a strong therapeutic alliance is essential. This involves multiple preparatory sessions to foster trust and comfort.
Setting Expectations: Discussing the process, potential outcomes, and answering any questions to reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations.
4. Preparing the Mind and Body
Mindfulness Practices: Clients are encouraged to engage in practices such as meditation or breathing exercises to enhance their readiness.
Dietary Restrictions: Specific dietary guidelines might be provided to prepare the body for the psychedelic experience.
The Journey
The journey phase is the core of psychedelic-assisted therapy, where the client undergoes the psychedelic experience under the guidance of the therapist.
1. The Setting
Environment: The therapy room is designed to be comfortable and soothing, often decorated with calming elements like soft lighting and comforting textures.
Safety and Privacy: Ensuring the space is private and secure is paramount to facilitate a sense of safety and openness.
2. The Mask
Use of Eye Shades: I encourage my clients to wear eye shades or a mask to block external visual stimuli, encouraging introspection and immersion in the internal experience.
Optional Use: If the client feels uncomfortable, the use of the mask can be adjusted or omitted based on their needs.
3. Music
Curated Playlists: Therapeutic playlists are often used to guide the experience. The music is selected to evoke specific emotional responses and support the client’s journey.
Adjusting the Soundscape: The volume and type of music can be adjusted in response to the client’s state, facilitating deeper emotional processing or calming anxiety.
4. Possibility of Touch
Consent and Sensitivity: Physical touch, such as a hand on the shoulder, can be offered but only with the client’s explicit consent. This can provide grounding and reassurance.
Non-intrusive Presence: The therapist remains physically present and available without imposing, ensuring the client feels supported and safe.
5. Therapist's Role
Holding Space: The therapist’s role is to hold a non-judgmental, empathetic space, allowing the client to explore their experience freely.
Guiding and Grounding: They provide gentle guidance if the client seems distressed or disoriented, helping to navigate challenging emotions or visions.
Integration
Integration sessions after a psychedelic journey are crucial because they capitalize on the heightened neuroplasticity of the brain induced by the psychedelic experience. This increased neuroplasticity—where the brain becomes more adaptable and open to forming new neural connections—creates a prime window for reshaping thoughts, behaviors, and self-perceptions. During this period, individuals can effectively address entrenched habits and negative self-talk, translating insights from the psychedelic session into lasting positive change. By processing and embedding these experiences in a supportive therapeutic context, clients can reinforce new, healthier patterns of thinking and behavior, fostering enduring personal growth and psychological well-being.
1. Post-Session Debrief
Immediate Reflection: Shortly after the session, a debrief is conducted to discuss the experience while it is fresh in the client’s mind. I also take notes for the client during the journey session, which can be helpful in recalling major themes during the journey.
Expression: Clients are encouraged to express their initial thoughts, feelings, and any significant moments from the journey.
2. Continued Therapy
Follow-up Sessions: Multiple follow-up sessions are held to delve deeper into the experience, exploring its implications and relevance to the client’s life and therapy goals.
Supporting Integration: I assist clients in understanding and integrating the insights gained, which can involve cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes.
3. Practical Applications
Action Plans: Clients develop practical plans for incorporating the insights into their daily routines and long-term goals.
Community and Support: Encouraging participation in support groups or continued therapy can help sustain the benefits of the psychedelic experience.
4. Ongoing Self-Care
Mindfulness and Self-Compassion: Clients are guided to continue practices that promote mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional resilience.
Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular check-ins with the therapist to monitor progress and make adjustments to the therapeutic approach as needed.
Common Questions About Psychedelic Therapy
Is psychedelic therapy legal in Denver?
In Denver, the legal status of psychedelic therapy varies by substance: ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin. Here's a breakdown of their current legal statuses:
Ketamine: Legally used in clinical settings for therapeutic purposes in Denver.
MDMA: Under clinical trials and expanded access programs, not yet generally available for therapeutic use.
Psilocybin: Decriminalized for personal use; regulated therapeutic use expected to begin under state guidelines in 2024.
LSD: remains illegal and no therapeutic legal application is used outside a research context
What conditions can be treated with psychedelic-assisted therapy?
Conditions such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD and substance abuse have shown promising responses to PAT.
What should I expect during a psychedelic therapy session?
Sessions are conducted in a safe, controlled environment. You'll have a preparatory phase, the actual psychedelic session, and integration sessions to process and apply your insights.
How do I prepare for a psychedelic session?
Preparation involves setting intentions, discussing your medical history, and understanding the effects of the substance. It's crucial to approach the experience with an open mind and a sense of curiosity.
Are there risks involved in psychedelic therapy?
While generally considered safe under professional supervision, risks can include intense psychological experiences, and it’s not suitable for everyone. A thorough assessment is essential.
For more answers, visit this FAQ on Psychedelic Therapy.
Conclusion
Integrating psychedelics with transpersonal psychology, mindfulness, and IFS offers a holistic approach to healing, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of mental and emotional distress. If you’re in Denver and curious about how psychedelic-assisted therapy can support your journey, I invite you to reach out and explore this transformative path together.
Feel free to connect with me for a consultation or learn more about my practice on my website.
Stay mindful,
Laura Burnett-Tubbs, MA, LPC
