Integration is an important and potentially complex component of psychedelic healing. In general, it refers to the idea of incorporating elements of the psychedelic experience into ordinary life/consciousness. However, there are dozens of definitions, several models, and a variety of critiques available for those seeking a deeper understanding of psychedelic integration. Here we highlight some of the studies our team finds interesting. If you are a person who enjoys academic papers, debate, and ideas, here are some entry points to the developing research in this field.
- Bathje, Majeski, & Kudowor (2022) present a Synthesized Model of Integration. This analysis provides background, reference, and comparisons of 24 definitions and 10 models before proposing a Synthesized Model of Integration which MAPS has adopted extensively in our own approach to integration content. It also introduces several important critiques examining Indigenous and Western mindsets and how they may relate in complicated ways to integration.
- Marc Aixala at Chacruna explores the future of integration (or a future without integration). This article raises the important point that “In shamanic cultures, the concept of integration does not seem to exist per se” and challenges the reader to consider why indigenous cultures may not see a need for integration and why Western cultures may experience more separation over the course of psychedelic experiences. It envisions a future where experiences are indeed so integrated that there is no need for a separate process called “integration”.
- Earleywine, Low, Lau, and De Leo (2022) examine recurring themes in interviews with 30 integration therapy providers. They hope their data can help with the standardization of integration therapy, inform people’s impressions of the integration process, and generate hypotheses for future research.
- Greń, Gorman, Ruban, Tylš, Bhatt, and Aixalá (2023) call for increased research into psychedelic integration to establish a clear evidence base. Their examination of existing integration models with a history of clinical application and/or a basis in theory also seeks to provide a list of promising avenues for future research.
One of the Original Books in the Psychedelic Movement contains an early exploration of the role of integration in psychedelic experiences. LSD Psychotherapy by Stan Grof is available from the MAPS Bookstore.
