Psychedelic Frequently asked Questions

How do psychedelics work?

Although there may be a more scientific way to describe it, my experience has been that the new insights and new ways of seeing ourselves – including body-trauma releases and energetic downloads – create enough motivational momentum to break free from negative thought patterns and self-sabotaging habits that a large portion of us engage in. Most importantly, psychedelic journeys will give you space to experience a much deeper and more loving relationship with yourself.

Will one journey change my life?

Short answer, no. But several journeys and your dedicated commitment to developing a more sustainable and loving relationship with yourself will absolutely change your life. Some journeys can be truly profound and will feel life-changing, but they will only “change your life” if you are willing to do the day-to-day work of integration, which is how the pathways in your brain change over time toward healthier and more positive thought patterns and life habits.

Why do I need psychedelics, can’t I just see a therapist?

Occasionally, traditional therapy will be enough for life’s difficulties. But in our ever-evolving world, heavier traumas and complex PTSD are becoming more and more frequent and are often failed by traditional therapies. Psychedelics are an invitation to achieve mental health differently and can offer a guiding hand past protective walls that are put in front of severe traumas.

What if I have a ‘bad trip’?

Sometimes, material may arise that could feel too emotionally overwhelming to the traveler. This is not random voodoo material that comes from nowhere but rather is stored trauma memories in our bodies that have a very good reason for being there. When we decide to go on a psychedelic journey, we are saying Yes to opening the curtain in our minds to see past the stories that keep us stuck. But if some part of our psyche does not want to receive or believe the material, it can feel scary. I’ve often said of journeying with psilocybin: “The only option is to strap on your seatbelt and hold on tightly.” In other words, be courageous. And openminded.

Does ‘set and setting’ really matter?

Absolutely! Our intentions and state of mind while starting a journey have everything to do with how the journey takes shape. To start a journey in a place of stress or distraction would 100% dictate what material would arise and would be doing a huge disservice to yourself on journey day. ‘Set’ applies to mindset – think of yourself as getting ready to enjoy a spa retreat where you want to leave all your worries at home and dedicate the day to self-care only. ‘Setting’ applies to the warm and safe place or setting where the actual journey will happen, including a trusted guide. Your psyche knows when it doesn’t feel safe, and to have an environment where there may be negative energy or possible disruptions would put you on alert, the opposite of what is ideal.

What is an ‘Inner Healer’?

Whether you believe in God or magic or nothing, I would argue that there is a scientifically proven force field that is a part of us and all around us. At any given time, we can choose to access and participate in that abundant field of energy that has our best interest in mind. When we collaborate consciously and intentionally, I’ve witnessed and experienced magical things. When we dedicate our time and attention to a journey day, our Inner Healer shows up with excitement that we have arrived, ready to do some work. Once inside the journey space, our Inner Healer acts as the best therapist we could ever hope for and feels like an all-knowing, full-of-wisdom co-partner who’s eager to help us heal. And always has a hold of the reigns inside any psychedelic journey. More on our inner healer here. 

Should I have a therapist before I begin psychedelic work?

Yes. Ideally, one with whom you have an established and trusting relationship where you’d feel comfortable talking openly about your psychedelic experiences. Sometimes the material that arises can feel de-railing or you will not be certain how to best integrate it. A good therapist will help you feel supported, which is exactly what’s needed when venturing into the unknown places behind the curtain.

Do I need to know Internal Family Systems Therapy before I plan a psychedelic journey?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy language was an integral piece in the success of my psychedelic journeys, and I prefer to work with clients who have some familiarity with this language. The singular “inner child” of the past feels like it could never encompass the complexities of the many levels of trauma we experience, and once inside the psychedelic space, knowing the IFS language helps you “meet your parts” with so much more ease and awareness. Learn more about IFS here. 

How will I feel the next day?

With MDMA medicine, the day after can be a varied experience. I don’t personally experience a depressive drop-off and rather feel more like “my gas tank is on empty.” The day after a journey should ideally be free of social plans or to-do tasks. You will want to nourish and nurture yourself with napping, journaling, and contemplating what you experienced the day before.

Can I be on other medications?

With MDMA specifically, you cannot be taking anything in the SSRI family (sustained serotonin reuptake inhibitors – anti-depressants and anti-anxieties like Paxil, Zoloft, and Lexapro), as there is a risk of Serotonin Syndrome. If you have previously taken SSRIs, evidence has shown that your brain may not be as receptive to the benefits of psychedelics, especially if there has been long-term SSRI use. MDMA can still be taken, but SSRIs will need to be slowly reduced and removed from your system under the care of the doctor who prescribed it. There are also contraindications with some heart medications and MDMA.

Where will the journey take place?

At my happy, bright, and nurturing cottage in Asheville, NC. If you don’t live in the area, I can pick you up at your hotel or air bnb and bring you to our journey space and deliver you back safely to reflect and relax with all your new insights.  

Can I do the journey at nighttime?

No. Mostly because I’m not a night person. For me, there is also something about the brightness of the sun that makes psychedelic work and any encountered trauma feel more manageable for the overwhelmed parts of us. Our day will start around 10 am and will round up no later than 5 or 6 pm.

Why do you use the words “medicine” and “journey”?

Because these medicines have had negative judgments attached for so long, I am dedicated to changing the attitudes and language around the entire experience of psychedelics. You will never hear me call anything a drug or a trip, as those words (to me) don’t give proper respect to the delicate magic that takes place while doing the emotionally hard work of rescuing and integrating our traumatized parts.

Are there any other ways to prepare for psychedelic journeying?

Yes, I’m so glad you asked! One of my favorite book titles for this work is Anne Other’s ‘Trust  Surrender Receive’ because you learn about the huge variety of experiences available from MDMA and read first-hand how it’s changed so many lives. Any other books on psychedelics will only prove to open your mind, which is one of the best things to begin with. Open your mind more by watching Michael Pollan’s series on Netflix, How to Change Your Mind.

What do you charge?

My current rate is $800 per journey. This includes a session to get to know you beforehand and a session a day or two afterward to discuss your journey’s key takeaways and how to best integrate the material. I am available for post-journey integration sessions that will feel very loving and supportive and will be along the lines of life coaching with heavy IFS language around integrating your retrieved parts.