Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy – Preparation, Integration and Harm Reduction
I work extensively with dreams from a Jungian perspective and have, over the course of my career, offered workshops to therapists who wish to explore their own and clients’ dream material.
This approach ties in well with exploring the images that emerge through the use of psychedelics, bringing a richness and depth to the work as we explore archetypal, mythical, and symbolic figures as they arise in therapy.
Current and Ongoing Work
My current and ongoing primary work is preparation and integration therapy for those attending clinical trials or finding their own private retreat ceremonies in legal settings. Psychotherapy is also offered to those who wish to explore at a deeper level and begin to address the layers of trauma held in the body since conception and before.
A psychodynamic history is taken during the initial assessment, where we decide together whether I am the right therapist for you. If we agree to work together, we begin a journey toward true understanding of who you are — warts and all.
Structure and Commitment
After an initial assessment (during which notes may be taken), we decide together if we are right for each other — there is no obligation to continue. Should we both decide to proceed, each session will last one hour, preferably at the same time and on the same day each week.
Encouragement will be offered to journey into the inner world as and when the time feels right. I work with whatever each client brings at any given time — which may include exploring issues from infancy and childhood, family dynamics from birth to present, and relationships old and new.
Please note that I do not and cannot offer any illegal substances before, during, or after the course of our work together.
I am frequently approached by those who have experienced a challenging time whilst using psychedelics — whether at a festival, alone, or on retreat — and have not been given the tools or support necessary to integrate their traumatic experience.
The use of plant medicine is in no way a quick fix, and the work is sometimes misunderstood as a ‘cure-all’ for many issues ranging from depression and anxiety through to obesity, eating disorders, and addictions. It is not.
Once we begin this journey toward true healing, it becomes a lifelong process through many layers of unprocessed trauma — leading ultimately toward our own healing, the healing of the planet, and all forms of life.
“It is not about one journey to Nirvana but rather an ongoing exploration of who you are, why you are, and ultimately, what you are.”
This is not an easy route, and it is not for everyone. I work on the premise of:
“If it ain’t broke, don’t try fixing it.”
In other words, if you are happy where you are and simply feel like having an experience for the sake of it, then fine — go ahead — but be aware that what emerges may not necessarily be very pleasant.