Psychedelic-assisted therapy is rapidly gaining recognition as a groundbreaking tool in mental health care. Though research in ongoing, substances like psilocybin, MDMA, ketamine, and others are showing promise in treating conditions such as depression, PTSD, and addiction. In most cases, ketamine is currently the only medicine that is legally available for psychedelic-assisted therapy, but others will likely become clinically available in time. As clinicians work to harness the potential of these powerfully amplifying substances, we must approach them with deep respect and humility for the massive impact they can bring. Psychedelics can serve as catalysts for profound healing, but they can also stir up intense emotional and psychological experiences. To fully harness their therapeutic potential, we must handle them with thoughtful intention, containment, and with the appropriate support systems in place.
Psychedelics are Powerful Amplifiers of the Psyche
Psychedelics can be thought of as “non-specific amplifiers” because they do not guide us toward any particular experience or outcome. Instead, they magnify the inner experience of the mind by bringing feelings, memories, and emotions to the surface that might otherwise have remained unstirred. Think of this process as being similar to what happens when a plow stirs up the soil, leaving behind newly exposed earth that was previously unseen. There are opportunities to grow something new from the turned-up soil, but the process has exposed and disrupted much of what used to be in place. This disruption can be useful in that it could lead to deep insights and breakthroughs, but it can also expose unresolved traumas, fears, or emotional wounds we might be carrying as a part of the growth process. This can understandably be quite intense and impactful, thus necessitating the need for structured containment for the experience.
The Need for Thoughtfulness and Intention
Given the unpredictable nature of psychedelic experiences, it is vital to approach them with mindfulness and clear intention, particularly when using them for therapeutic aims. Journeys should be approached with the understanding that they have the power to deeply affect our minds and emotions in long-lasting and memorable ways. There are many different ways to set thoughtful intentions, and a basic example could be asking, “What do I hope to gain from this experience?” Another approach could be setting an intention to learn more about patience and acceptance by remaining open to what comes up during a psychedelic journey rather than setting a more specific aim. Being intentional doesn’t guarantee a particular outcome, but it does help to ground the experience in a meaningful context, creating a framework for how to interpret and integrate the insights that may arise. This thoughtfulness around intention should also extend to the preparation and setting for the experience. The concepts of “set and setting” are crucial aspects of respecting the power the psychedelics both amplify and disrupt. A clear, grounded mental state (set) and a calm, supportive environment (setting) can help create a container where amplified emotions and thoughts can be processed safely and productively.
The Importance of Support and Containment
As psychedelics can unquestionably stir up powerful emotions and experiences, it is essential to have layered support systems in place both during and after the experience as a way of containing the immensity of what might come up. One core component of setting a proper “container” is working with a specially trained therapist or guide who understands the complexities of psychedelic experiences and can help foster a safe and supportive space during and after the journey. This support person serves as someone who can offer guidance, reassurance, and containment during the entirety of the experience, but especially during challenging moments. Sometimes, psychedelic experiences take an unexpected or overwhelming turn, and trying to manage this alone in an altered state without support can not only be terrifying but potentially create an unnecessary traumatic experience. Humans are inherently relational entities and benefit greatly from the connectedness and containment that come when we hold one another in dark or difficult emotional spaces. When psychedelics expose and amplify the darkness inside us, we deeply need the relational anchor that comes from having a knowledgeable and compassionate guide alongside.
Another important aspect of therapeutic containment for psychedelic journeys comes from the ongoing integration work that occurs afterward. Integration work involves various pieces, but among them are setting aside time and space to reflect on insights from the experience and, ideally, working with the therapist/guide who can assist in this process. This may look like ongoing therapy sessions where time is spent deeply reflecting on material related to the experience and engaging in introspective activities such as journaling or meditation. This phase of the work is at least as important as the psychedelic session itself. Without proper integration, the emotional and psychological material that is uncovered during a session is much less helpful to us, and any gains that are achieved tend not to be sustained for long. In other words, integration therapy helps to metabolize raw insights into meaningful change.
Final Thoughts
Psychedelics hold immense potential for facilitating deep therapeutic work, opening the door to emotional and psychological healing in ways that few other therapies can. However, this power must be approached with respect and thoughtfulness. To truly benefit from their therapeutic potential, individuals must approach psychedelics with clear intention, ensuring they have access to the proper support systems both during and after the experience. Containment, guidance, and integration are crucial components of the process, helping to turn a psychedelic journey into an opportunity for lasting and meaningful change.
About the Author
Joey Tadie, PhD, LCP
Dr. Joey Tadie is a talented psychologist with a gift for connecting with people. He is trained in EMDR and psychedelic-assisted therapy. He brings his high-energy, encouraging style to his work with clients dealing with depression, relationship problems, and trauma. He has special expertise in exploring spirituality and religion in therapy.
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