Here are some brief definitions of terms that are commonly used in psychedelic conversations, research, and clinical trials.
Psychedelic– mind-manifesting
Entheogen– substance that allows inspiration and contentedness from within
(the terms psychedelics and entheogens are often used interchangeably)
Facilitator/guide/therapist (these terms are also used interchangeably)- The trained professional who sits with you before, during, and after medicine use. They create a container of safety and provide sensitive guidance throughout the entire process.
- “Effective entheogen guides act to facilitate the journey into conscious awareness with full empathic presence and integrity toward the individual, toward science and medicine, toward the evolution of society and culture, and towards themselves. Instead of acting as active interventionists, guides serve to provide security and comfort without intrusion by establishing rapport and trust, and by maintaining an aesthetic, comfortable setting in which the volunteer feels safe, accepted, and not judged for any material or behaviors that arise. When non-ordinary states of consciousness are occurring, guides remain steady and centered.” Karen Cooper, Usona Guide Manual, 2016
- Guides will have integrity, competence, will promote health and safety, will establish healthy boundaries, will work in service to individuals and society, and will be present.
Set– The clients mindset, attitude, and overall personality traits (beliefs, hopes, fears). This is all explored during “prep” sessions. Expectations and intentions are explored. Understanding of entheogens, history of relationships, health issues, mental health history are also explored.
Setting– The physical space which should be safe, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. Clinical trials typically take place in hospitals where lights have been softened and furniture has been made more comfortable so clients don’t feel they are under examination.
Inner healing intelligence– The innate inner ability and wisdom to move towards wholeness and well-being. A deep sense of knowing. An understanding of what needs to be healed from within. This is all client driven!
Prep (preparatory sessions)– Develop rapport, alliance, and trust between client and therapist. The therapist will gain familiarity with the client by understanding their biographical narrative (life story), identify the support systems and sources of strength, and go over their “set.” They will also orient the client towards the approach and logistics of the medicine use, creating physical and psychological safety. In total, these sessions typically accumulate 6-8 hours of work between the client and therapist.
Integration– These are arguably more important sessions than the medicine session itself since it is an opportunity to process and make sense of the experience. This is an active and ongoing process. Client will look at what is learned from the non-ordinary states of consciousness and how they can bring that into day-to-day functioning. Research protocols allow several hours for integration yet for some, integration can occur over months and years while psychological and spiritual growth takes place.
A note:
Psychedelics are still federally controlled substances and you assume all the risk associated with possessing and consuming these medicines. I cannot advocate or advise the use of illegal substances. In Connecticut, psychedelic use is only permitted through clinical trials and not available to the general public.
I do not assume any responsibility for physical, psychological, legal, or other consequences arising from the use of these substances.
