When you use entheogenic substances, you achieve altered states of consciousness, which can rock your world in both positive way and disruptive ways, post-journey.
These substances can alter your perception of reality and prompt you to question what you think you know, or believe about life. For some people, this can be a liberating and healing experience, helping you to access parts of the mind that were previously inaccessible. This can help you to ‘think outside the box’ and give you alternative and creative ways of approaching problems and difficulties in your life.
For other people, it can feel like you have opened Pandora’s box, leaving you with a sense that your whole world has been deconstructed. This is known as an existential crisis, and it can take time, effort and recalibration to come to terms with your newfound perceptions. Ultimately, it is not a bad thing - it is just something to be reorganised within the psyche, which is the purpose of psychedelic integration.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
”
Psychedelic integration is a therapy in which you talk about your experience in a safe and confidential setting.
This helps you to process what occurred during your journey and understand what meaning it has for you. It can be helpful to explore your thoughts and feelings about your experience and to discuss ways you might assimilate what you have learned into your life.
THERE’S no such thing as a bad trip
There is a saying within the psychedelic community that there is ‘no such thing as a bad trip’. The premise is that a difficult experience can be just as beneficial and illuminating as a mystical or pleasant one - if not more so.
Research shows that psychedelics are not physically addictive and are showing promising potential in current studies being conducted in the U.S.A, UK and Europe (as outlined in the links below) for treating common mental health problems, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), addictions and end of life anxiety.
Although psychedelics have the capacity for great healing and personal growth, they remain illegal in several countries, including here in the UK. Although I don't encourage illicit drug use, I do advocate harm minimisation. I will, therefore, provide support and information to anyone intending to use psychedelics, whether you are an experienced ‘psychonaut’ or new to such substances.
“The mind is like an umbrella - it functions best when open.
”
I also provide preparatory support for anyone planning on going to a psychedelic retreat (for example, ayahuasca, San Pedro cactus, magic mushrooms, etc.) and integration upon return.
The psychedelic experience is unpredictable, and the type of experience you have may very much depend on your internal and external environment and your intention. This is known as ‘set and setting’.
I can offer support and guidance in preparing for any psychedelic journeys so that you can minimise the risk of an uncomfortable experience and get the most out of using sacred medicines.
In order to qualify as a psychedelic integration coach, I completed the Soul Coaching Training Module 1 with The Sacred Voyage in February 2020 and Module 2 in October 2020. For more details, you can watch the video here.
“I am grateful for meeting Paula, who has been an essential companion on my psychedelic integration journey and beyond. Her skill in pre and post-experience work, together with her skilful use of parts work, has positively influenced my personal growth.
From our initial interactions, her blend of compassion and professionalism set up a safe environment where I was able to navigate the intricacies of integrating my psilocybin insights. Her inquiries and reflections constantly resonated with me, which shows her deep comprehension of my experiences and emotions. Her precise questioning and techniques led to breakthroughs that were empowering and enlightening.
Our sessions were consistently focused and goal-oriented, making the most of our time together. This created an environment of progress and growth, where I felt supported and positively challenged. Because of our work together, I was also able to accept my highly sensitive nature more as well as work through trauma.
I recommend Paula to anyone seeking guidance in psychedelic integration, inner child work, and anyone who wants to understand themselves better. Her expertise, compassionate approach, and professionalism have been an important part of my journey, and I’m deeply appreciative of her for that.
”
Useful Links
Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies
The Beckley Foundation - Psychedelic Research
Mycomeditations - Psilocybin Wellness, Creative & Spiritual Retreats
Erowid Archives - A Collection of Trip Reports
Recommended Reading
The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys - James Fadiman Ph.D
How to Change Your Mind: The New Science of Psychedelics - Michael Pollan
Listening to Ayahuasca: New hope to Depression, Addiction, PTSD & Anxiety - Rachel Harris
LSD The Wonder Child - Thomas Hatsis
Psychedelic Mystery Traditions: Spirit Plants, Magical Practices, Ecstatic States - Thomas Hatsis
LSD and the Mind of the Universe: Diamonds from Heaven - Christopher M Bache, PHD
Recommended Retreats
PSYCHEDELIC INTEGRATION FEES
An integration is 50 minutes to an hour long.
Online: £60