What Is Psychedelic Therapy?

The use of psychedelic substances in therapy is not a recent concept. It’s a type of medicine that has been used in a variety of cultures for centuries. While a lot of the current research surrounding it is modern, we have a long history of its uses to back up its effectiveness. And its role in spirituality can’t be denied.

It’s possible we might have a lot of misconceptions about psychedelic therapy. We might not know how it works. We also might not know what psychedelics are used and what conditions they address. But we can learn. After all, this type of therapy can truly improve our well-being in lasting ways. So, why would we pass on this psychedelic therapy before finding out what it is?

How It Works

There are different methods of psychedelic therapy, depending both on the counselor and the patient. It’s common, however, to administer a low dose of psychedelics and engage in talk therapy while under its effects.

It’s very important that, as patients, we feel comfortable with both the therapist and the room where the session takes place. If any part of our surroundings makes us feel uncomfortable, it won’t help us as much as it should.

LSD

LSD is a psychedelic substance known to alter moods, perceptions, emotions, and thoughts.  It’s commonly used in psychedelic therapy to treat alcohol addiction and anxiety, particularly in those living with terminal illnesses.

It involves at least two sessions, and it works by changing our thought patterns. LSD helps us see beyond ourselves and look at the bigger picture. It gives us a sense of perspective that we might have had difficulty reaching before. And it makes us feel more optimistic about our future and helps us face the problems we want to run away from.

MDMA

MDMA is a substance that, while not psychedelic in nature, has similar effects. It alters our perception of the world around us, makes us feel more euphoric and sociable.

MDMA has mostly been researched as a treatment for PTSD and has been found to be effective. It involves attending at least three sessions and helps reduce anxiety and defensiveness. With reduced anxiety, we can also better address our trauma, which is why MDMA is mostly used to treat PTSD.

Psilocybin

Psilocybin is another common psychedelic substance used in this type of therapy. It’s the main compound in "magic mushrooms," and it works just like other psychedelics: by altering our mood and perception of the world around us.

Like other psychedelics, psilocybin is used to address addiction, anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, OCD, and it’s also used to help people with terminal illnesses. It involves at least two sessions, and its aim is to lower our distress and improve our mood.

Most importantly, psilocybin can give us a spiritual practice that helps us reconnect with the beauty of life and the world around us.

Knowing If It’s Right for You

Psychedelic therapy is not a new concept. It’s something that has been used for centuries. That’s how we know it can be effective. But the truth is, it’s also something that researchers are currently studying. While that sounds scary, it’s important to remember this type of therapy can improve our overall mood and optimism, and it can reduce all kinds of anxiety, particularly existential.

It’s also important to know this type of therapy isn’t for all of us. Some of us might not react well to it. Others might be too nervous to even attempt it. But that doesn’t mean psychedelic therapy isn’t worth trying. All we have to do is set up an appointment, and the rest will follow. Reach out to me to learn more about psychedelic therapy.