Written By: Kate Pauley

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the therapeutic use of psychedelics, a group of substances known for their mind-altering properties.  While psychedelics have a long history of recreational use, their potential as powerful tools in the therapeutic space has been gaining recognition and validation through a growing body of scientific research. In this blog post, we will explore the promising benefits of psychedelics in the field of therapy and mental health.

  1. A Brief History of Psychedelics:

Before we delve into their therapeutic potential, let’s briefly touch on the history of psychedelics. Substances like psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, commonly known as ecstasy) have been used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual practices. They often induce altered states of consciousness, which some believe can facilitate profound personal insights.

  1. Psychedelics as Catalysts for Healing:

In a therapeutic context, psychedelics are administered in a controlled and supportive environment under the guidance of trained professionals. This setting allows individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and traumas more deeply, often leading to profound breakthroughs and personal growth.  Sometimes, talk therapy only gets clients so far.  They can logically understand what needs to change, and can see the patterns that exist in their lives that no longer serve.  However, sometimes there is a block between seeing these things logically, and embodying the change.  This is where psychedelics really come into play.  They allow people to experience a new way of being,  which once felt, leaves the person forever changed.  This allows people to interrupt old patterns and actually change, rather than simply see what needs to change.

  1. Unlocking the Subconscious:

The word “psychedelic” comes from the Greek words for “psyche” meaning mind or soul, and “dyeu” meaning to shine or reveal.  The word psychedelic literally means soul revealing.  Psychedelics can provide access to the subconscious mind, enabling individuals to confront repressed memories and emotions. This process can be instrumental in healing from conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.

  1. Enhanced Self-Awareness:

Many individuals report experiencing increased self-awareness and introspection during psychedelic-assisted therapy sessions. This heightened awareness can lead to a greater understanding of one’s thought patterns, behaviors, and the underlying causes of mental health issues.

  1. Altered Perception of Time:

During a psychedelic experience, individuals often perceive time differently, feeling as though they have more time to reflect and process their thoughts and emotions. This altered perception can lead to significant insights and a sense of timelessness that allows for deep reflection.

  1. Enhanced Emotional Connectivity:

Psychedelics can promote feelings of empathy, compassion, and emotional connectivity. This can be especially valuable in couples therapy or for individuals looking to improve their relationships and communication skills.

  1. Breaking Patterns and Addiction Treatment:

Research suggests that psychedelics may be effective in breaking patterns of addiction by helping individuals confront the root causes of their addictive behaviors. This breakthrough can be crucial for long-term recovery.

  1. The Importance of Integration:

Psychedelic experiences can be intense and transformative. Integration, which involves processing and applying insights gained during a psychedelic session to everyday life, is a crucial part of the therapeutic process. Therapists play a vital role in helping individuals integrate their experiences for lasting benefits.

  1. Ethical and Legal Considerations:

It’s important to note that the therapeutic use of psychedelics is not yet legal in Colorado, however, some therapists are choosing to work underground because they have seen the immense power of these medicines, while other therapists are preparing for potential legalization in 2024.

Conclusion:

While the therapeutic use of psychedelics is still in its infancy, the promising results from recent studies are sparking hope in the mental health community. Psychedelics, when administered responsibly and under the guidance of trained professionals, have the potential to revolutionize the field of therapy by offering new avenues for healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. As research continues to advance, we may see more widespread acceptance and integration of psychedelics into mainstream therapeutic practices, offering hope to those seeking transformative healing experiences.

If you are curious about doing psychedelic preparation or integration work, please reach out to Kate Pauley.