Exploring the world of psychedelic assisted therapy
February 27, 2023
It’s no secret that mental health is a major part of our overall wellbeing. We live in an age where we are more aware of the importance of taking care of our minds, as well as our bodies. But what if we told you that there was a new way to tackle mental health? A way that could help you get to the root of your issues and break through barriers? That’s exactly what psychedelic assisted therapy can do. Let’s learn more about this incredible treatment option.
How Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Works
Psychedelic assisted therapy is a form of psychotherapy that combines traditional therapy with the use of psychedelics. This can include organic psychedelics such as psilocybin mushrooms, bufo alvarius or ayahuasca, which come from nature and have been used for thousands of years by indigenous cultures. There are also synthetic psychedelics such as MDMA, LSD and DMT.
The goal is to explore any underlying issues or core beliefs that may be blocking progress in resolving mental health issues like depression or anxiety. The psychedelic helps to create an altered state of consciousness which can open up new pathways for exploration and healing within the mind. This unique approach allows individuals to gain insight into their behaviors and beliefs, allowing them to make positive changes in their lives.
Who Can Benefit from Psychedelic Assisted Therapy?
Psychedelic assisted therapy is not for everyone; it should only be used under medical supervision after careful consideration by an experienced therapist or doctor. Research shows that psychedelic assisted therapy can be beneficial for people who have not responded to traditional talk therapies, such as those with PTSD, addiction, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. It can also be helpful for those looking to break through creative blocks or explore spiritual growth opportunities.
What a Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Program Looks Like
Here is an example of psychedelic-assisted therapy programming, based on the Catbird coaching program:
- (1) Holistic health evaluation of mind+body+spirit
- (1) Dedicated Concierge to support your healing journey
- (1) Intake consultation with Catbird team (virtual)
- (1) Introductory session with Therapeutic Coach (therapist engaging as a Coach) to assess mental and physical health issues and set healing goals (virtual)
- (1-2) Pre-psychedelic treatment Coaching sessions (virtual)
- (2-3) Training Sessions with Catbird team during Preparation Phase
- (1) Level 1 psychedelic session with Guide (onsite) Note: surcharge of $599-1199 for Levels 2 and 3 depending on Coach recommendation
- (1-2) Post-psychedelic treatment Coaching sessions (virtual)
- (2-3) Training Session with Catbird team during Integration Phase
- Support materials: resources, literature, guides, and courses
- Optional add-ons include detox nutritional cleanse, personal yoga/breathwork/meditation classes, acupuncture, reiki energy healing, bodywork and more
Understanding the Various Intensity Levels of Psychedelic Experiences
Getting comfortable with the different intensity levels of psychedelic experiences is key. After all, you must feel safe, secure and supported in order to have a fulfilling, transformative therapy session. here are some examples of the intensity spectrum that is offered via psychedelic substances.
LEVEL ONE
This is a low level experience. It is rarely dramatic and often very comfortable.
Sacred Rape Treatment
Duration: Half day
Best for: Those that have not experienced severe traumas that want to deepen their spiritual practice, receive clarity on following their unique dharma / soul journey, and enjoy time to relax and reflect on their life goals.
Cost: $300-500
Microdose Mushroom Treatment
Duration: Half day
Best for: Those with some trauma (small to medium) that want a gentle “onramp” to psychoactive plants and heal in a milder way, without entering a deep altered state of consciousness.
Cost: $400-600
LEVEL TWO
This is a mid-level experience. It usually involves strong physical and emotional responses, some closed and open eye visual effects, and subconscious exploration.
Kambo Detox Treatment
Duration: Half day
Best for: Those with health issues (digestion, inflammation, autoimmune), eating disorders or addiction challenges that want a full, internal “reset” and detoxification.
Cost: $200-300
Intermediate Mushroom Treatment
Duration: Half day
Best for: Those with some trauma (small to medium) that want a gentle “onramp” to psychoactive plants and heal in a meaningful way, without fully entering an intense altered state of consciousness.
Cost: $400-600
LEVEL THREE
This can be a higher-level experience (depending on dosage) with strong visual hallucinations, deep thoughts of the internal Self and universe, breakage of harmful thought loops, physical and emotional purging, and heightened sensitivities.
Bufo Enlightenment Treatment
Duration: Half day
Best for: Those experiencing anxiety, depression or emotional trauma (medium or large) that want to access deep, profound levels of healing and transformation in a shorter amount of time.
Cost: $300-400
Ayahuasca Treatment
Duration: Full day
Best for: Those with strong self-awareness that are experiencing anxiety, depression or emotional trauma (either small or large) that want to access deep, profound levels of healing and transformation in a longer amount of time but milder, more controlled way.
Cost: $600-800
Hero Mushroom Journey
Duration: Full day
Best for: Those with strong self-awareness that are experiencing anxiety, depression or emotional trauma (either small or large) that want to access deep, profound levels of healing and transformation in a longer amount of time but milder, more controlled way.
Cost: $500-700
In Conclusion: Psychedelics as a Catalyst for Intense Growth and Healing
Psychedelic assisted therapy represents a promising new frontier in mental health treatment and has been gaining traction over the past few years as research continues on its potential benefits. If you think you might benefit from exploring this option further, it’s important to speak with a qualified professional about your specific needs before moving forward. With the right guidance and support, psychedelic assisted therapy can offer powerful insights into your mental wellbeing — we strongly recommend exploring this nascent healing modality with the support of a therapist or experienced psychedelic coach.