Psychedelic Integration is a unique service, separate from the psychedelic psychotherapy services offered at the Expio Center. This psychological service does not involve the administration of psychedelic drugs or the facilitation of such an experience.

The term “psychedelic integration” generally refers to the reflection that a person engages in in the days and weeks following a psychedelic trip. This allows the person to “make sense” of the experiences that occurred during the psychedelic experience by relating it to their life experiences or current life issues they are facing.

Integration (awareness) of the psychedelic experience is an important stage for those who decide to participate in psychedelic sessions outside of medical institutions. Psychedelics, such as LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, DMT and others, have long been used by people to expand consciousness and spiritual development. Although today these substances are still banned in Ukraine and most other countries, over the past decade science has accumulated a lot of evidence of their effectiveness in mental disorders, so the process of legalizing their medical use is gradually taking place ( More ). Modern research often emphasizes the importance of preparatory and integrative therapy, and the number of studies has increased dramatically over the past decade and continues to grow.

For many people, psychedelics have been a source of new insights, improved self-knowledge and personal growth, the discovery of new depths of human consciousness, and healing. However, sometimes, especially after using psychedelics recreationally, even a positive psychedelic experience can be challenging, especially if it leads to difficult experiences (the so-called bad trip). For those who have encountered negative aspects of the psychedelic experience, it is important to get support and understand how to cope with these emotions.

A bad trip can cause unpleasant emotions, anxiety, panic, and disorientation. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including previous trauma, fear of losing your mind, anxiety about trying to maintain control, or psychological blocks. Some people may experience flashbacks or intrusive thoughts and images from past psychedelic experiences long after the trip has ended. These memories can be distressing and painful. Other people with unresolved trauma may find that psychedelics bring up traumatic memories, leading to distress and the need for therapeutic support.

Our goal is to help you navigate these challenges and use them for personal growth. Psychological support after a psychedelic experience – psychedelic integration counseling or therapy – can be a key factor in successful integration. This therapy involves working with a therapist who is skilled at helping clients integrate the issues and ideas that emerged during the psychedelic experience into their daily lives. Therapists can help people understand and cope with memories by offering strategies for grounding and overcoming difficulties when intrusive thoughts or visual images arise.

Psychedelic integration sessions are a standard part of most overseas psychedelic therapy protocols conducted as part of clinical trials; however, such therapy can exist separately and independently of the full protocol. This means that clients may be doing psychedelic integration work with therapists who were not directly involved in their psychedelic experience. For example, people may have a psychedelic experience on their own or with friends, at music festivals and events, and later find that they have difficulty dealing with strong emotions, unresolved issues, and even trauma that may have surfaced during or after their psychedelic journey.

Our center is the only medical institution in Ukraine that has been providing legal psychedelic therapy using the surgical anesthetic ketamine since 2018. We have the largest experience in the country in helping patients integrate their journey and use it for healing and development.

Our team of qualified professionals offers psychological support for those who are having difficulty understanding or processing their psychedelic experience, especially those who have encountered negative aspects of it. Our clinical psychologists advise those who are looking for understanding and support in overcoming the difficulties associated with a bad trip. We create a safe and confidential environment for you where you can feel understood and supported without judgment or moralizing.

Integrative therapy can also lead to improvements in overall mental health and well-being. Some people report a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially when they were the focus of a psychedelic journey. In addition, the process of integration can lead to positive changes in behavior, habits, and relationships, promoting ongoing personal growth and empowerment. Ultimately, such therapy provides a valuable resource for those seeking to transform their lives after profound psychedelic experiences.

Our services for integrating the psychedelic experience

1. Individual consultations and, if necessary, psychotherapy, taking into account your personal needs and experiences. We help you understand your own emotions, work with traumatic aspects and develop self-knowledge strategies, achieve desired behavioral changes, and bridge the gap between the deep knowledge gained during the psychedelic experience and its practical application in everyday life.

2. Group sessions. Participating in group sessions takes place in a welcoming and safe environment where you can discuss your journey, share your experiences, and receive support from others who have also gone through similar experiences. Group support can provide you with new opportunities and strategies for successful integration. By creating a community, we help you feel connected and understood.

3. Development of psychological resilience and the ability to solve problems associated with psychedelic experiences. You will receive tools for effective stress and anxiety management to ensure the positive development of your inner world. By teaching you to know yourself and developing your inner resource, we create conditions for your psychological growth.

Our approach

We understand that integrating psychedelic experiences is an individual process, and we tailor our psychological services to your unique experience. Our open approach accommodates the diversity of personal needs and provides effective tools for your inner growth. Our team welcomes anyone seeking support and development after a psychedelic experience, whether it was a positive or difficult trip. However, we do not refer clients to underground therapists and are in no way involved in the search for illicit psychedelic substances.

Contact us for help!

If you are looking for psychological support after taking psychedelics or a bad trip, we are ready to become your companions in this important stage. For registration and details: contact the administrator by phone 07373 080 88 (Kyiv), 063 88 600 60 (Lviv).