Psychedelic Integration is a unique service, separate from the Psychedelic Psychotherapy services offered at the Expio Center. This psychological service does not include the use of psychedelic drugs or the facilitation of such experiences.
The term “psychedelic integration” generally refers to the reflection that a person engages in in the days and weeks following a psychedelic journey. This allows the person to “make meaning” of the experiences that arose 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 step for those who choose to participate in psychedelic sessions outside of medical settings. Psychedelics such as LSD, psibilicybin mushrooms, DMT and others have long been used by people for consciousness expansion and spiritual development. Although today these substances are still prohibited in Ukraine and in most other countries, over the past decade science has accumulated much evidence of their effectiveness in mental disorders, so the process of legalizing their medical use is gradually taking place (more). Contemporary 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, psychedelic substances have become a source of new insights, improved self-knowledge and personal growth, the discovery of new depths of consciousness and healing. However, sometimes, especially after recreational use of psychedelics, even a positive psychedelic experience can become a challenge, and especially if it leads to difficult experiences (the so-called bad trip). For those who have experienced negative aspects of a 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 one's mind, anxiety about trying to maintain control, or psychological blocks. Some people may experience flashbacks or recurring intrusive thoughts and images from past psychedelic experiences, even long after the trip ends. These memories can be disturbing and painful. Other people with unresolved trauma may find that psychedelics bring traumatic memories to the surface, leading to distress and a 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 type of therapy involves working with a psychotherapist who is skilled in helping clients integrate the problems and ideas that arose during the psychedelic experience into their daily lives. Therapists can help people understand and cope with memories by offering grounding and coping strategies 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 can do psychedelic integration work with therapists who were not directly involved in their psychedelic experience. For example, people may have psychedelic experiences on their own or with friends, at music festivals and events, and subsequently find it difficult to cope 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, since 2018, has been providing legal psychedelic therapy using the surgical anesthetic ketamine. We have the most experience in the country in helping patients integrate their journey and use it for healing and growth.
Our team of trained professionals offers psychological support for those who have difficulty understanding or processing their psychedelic experiences, especially those who have experienced negative aspects of them. Our psychologists provide advice to those seeking understanding and support in overcoming the difficulties associated with a bad trip. We provide you with a safe and confidential environment where you can feel understood and supported without judgment or preaching.
Integration therapy can also lead to improvements in overall mental health and well-being. Some people report a decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially when they have been on a psychedelic trip. In addition, the process of integration can lead to positive changes in behavior, habits and attitudes, promoting ongoing personal growth and empowerment of the individual. Ultimately, such therapy provides a valuable resource for those seeking to change their lives after profound psychedelic experiences.
Our Psychedelic Experience Integration Services
1. Individual consultations and, if necessary, psychotherapy, taking into account your personal needs and experience. We help you understand your own emotions, work through traumatic aspects and develop self-discovery strategies, achieve desired behavioral changes, and bridge the gap between the deep knowledge gained during a 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 been through similar experiences. Group support can provide you with new opportunities and strategies for successful integration. By creating community, we help you feel connected and understood.
3. Development of psychological stability and the ability to solve difficulties associated with psychedelic experiences. You will gain tools to effectively manage stress and anxiety 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 the psychedelic experience is an individual process, and we tailor our psychological services to your unique experience. Our open approach takes into account the diversity of personal needs and provides effective tools for your internal improvement. Our team welcomes anyone seeking support and growth after a psychedelic experience, whether it was a positive trip or a severe one. However, we do not refer clients to underground therapists and are not in any way involved in the search for illegal psychedelic substances.
Contact us for help!
If you are looking for psychological support after taking psychedelics or having a bad trip, we are ready to become your companions in this important stage. Call us on 07373 080 88 for individual consultations, group sessions and practical skills in integrating psychedelic experiences.