As more people explore the potential beneficial uses of psychedelics, many will seek therapists who understand the ins and outs of working with these substances. In some cases, therapists may become trained to administer psychedelic-assisted therapy. In others, therapists may choose to specialize in working with clients after they have self-administered a psychedelic. Many therapists may not be interested in psychedelics until a client expresses a desire to discuss insights gained from a psychedelic experience. In any of these cases, it is important to know how to support or refer to another provider with the necessary expertise to support your client during the process known as psychedelic integration.
Integration is about more than just psychedelics
In the realm of therapy, understanding the process of integration extends far beyond the context of psychedelic experiences. Integration, at its core, is about incorporating various aspects of one's experiences – ordinary or non-ordinary – into a cohesive understanding of the self. This process is pivotal in many therapeutic models, particularly when dealing with non-ordinary states of consciousness. These states, whether induced by psychedelics, meditation, or spontaneous occurrences, can bring forth a wealth of subconscious material. Therapists with training and experience in this approach can support clients through the intricate process of weaving these insights into their daily lives, ensuring their journey leads to constructive self-discovery and personal growth.
One therapeutic approach that aligns closely with the concept of integration is Internal Family Systems (IFS). IFS views the psyche as composed of various sub-personalities or 'parts', each with its own unique perspectives, feelings, and memories. Integration in this context involves helping clients recognize and harmonize these parts, fostering an internal environment of balance and self-compassion. As quoted by Richard Schwartz in No Bad Parts, Dr. Dan Siegel reminds us that “"Health comes from integration. It’s that simple, and that important. A system that is integrated is in a flow of harmony. Just as in a choir, with each singer’s voice both differentiated from the other singers’ voices but also linked, harmony emerges with integration."
This approach may be beneficial in the aftermath of a psychedelic experience, as these experiences often bring to light previously hidden or suppressed aspects of the self. Similarly, Jungian therapy's emphasis on shadow work – the exploration and acceptance of the unconscious, darker aspects of one's personality – aligns closely with the integration process. Jungian therapy encourages individuals to confront and integrate these shadow elements, a process that is often catalyzed and amplified by psychedelic experiences.
Furthermore, integration is a key component in processing and making sense of significant life events and experiences. Whether it's a traumatic incident, a major life transition, or a profound personal realization, integrating these experiences involves more than just acknowledging them. It requires a deep, often challenging reevaluation of one's beliefs, values, and self-concept. For therapists, facilitating this integration means providing a supportive space for clients to explore these experiences, helping them to draw meaning and insight from them, and supporting them in applying these insights in a way that promotes healing and personal development. In essence, integration is a fundamental process in therapy, essential for achieving a harmonious and conscious state of being.
Integration is defined in many ways
Integration, within the context of therapy and personal development, can be interpreted through numerous lenses, each offering a distinct perspective on this multifaceted process. For some, it's the psychological incorporation of complex experiences into one's life narrative. In a spiritual context, it might mean aligning profound insights with everyday existence. Others view it as a neurological process, where new neural connections formed during significant experiences are reinforced. Despite these varied interpretations, all definitions of integration share a common core: harmonizing new knowledge, experiences, or states of consciousness with one's ongoing life. This unifying theme underscores the universal goal of integration - to create a cohesive, enriched understanding of the self and one's place in the world.
The Synthesized Model from Bathje et al, adopted by MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) in its Integration Station materials, offers a comprehensive approach to understanding integration. This model skillfully combines various theoretical perspectives, incorporating elements from psychology, neuroscience, and spiritual practices. It emphasizes the importance of processing and embodying the insights gained from psychedelic experiences, encouraging a holistic approach that addresses the cognitive, emotional, and somatic aspects of integration. By providing a framework that is both inclusive and adaptable, the Synthesized Model serves as a valuable guide for individuals and therapists alike, aiding in the meaningful incorporation of psychedelic experiences into everyday life. This model, along with its practical applications, is detailed further on the related [MAPS Integration Station pages], which serve as a rich resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the integration process.
Concluding this exploration of integration, it's evident that while the concept may be defined in various ways, its essence remains constant - a transformative process of making sense of and incorporating profound experiences into the tapestry of one's life. Whether viewed through a psychological, spiritual, or neuroscientific lens, integration is a vital journey toward self-discovery and healing. The models and methods discussed, particularly the Synthesized Model from Bathje, et al. utilized by MAPS, offer valuable insights and tools for this journey. Ultimately, the path of integration is deeply personal, yet universally resonant, playing a crucial role in our continuous quest for growth, understanding, and fulfillment.
Considering Practice as a Psychedelic Therapist?
You can get training in Integration specifically as it applies to psychedelics
As the therapeutic potential of psychedelics gains wider recognition, there has been a significant increase in resources and training opportunities specifically designed for therapists. This burgeoning field is rapidly evolving, with academic institutions, research organizations, and private entities developing specialized programs and courses. These resources aim to equip mental health professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively navigate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by psychedelic-assisted therapy. From understanding the pharmacological aspects of these substances to mastering the nuances of integration techniques, these educational platforms are opening up new avenues for therapists to deepen their expertise and expand their practice in this exciting and transformative area of mental health care.
Full psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) training programs are increasingly accessible, offering both online and in-person formats to accommodate various learning preferences and lifestyles. For those seeking an online experience, Beckley Academy provides both cohort-based and self-paced training. Training online with a cohort allows therapists from around the globe to work together, fostering a diverse and collaborative learning environment. On the other hand, for practitioners who prefer a more traditional approach organizations like Fluence offer in-person training sessions. These sessions provide an immersive experience, enabling therapists to engage directly with experts in the field, participate in experiential learning, and connect with peers in a dynamic, face-to-face setting. Other programs, like the Certificate in Psychedelic Therapy and Research from the California Institute for Integral Studies, incorporate hybrid online and in-person learning opportunities. Each of these training options are designed to comprehensively prepare therapists for the nuanced and impactful work of PAT, ensuring they are well-equipped to support their clients through these profound therapeutic journeys.
For therapists interested in training that concentrates less on administering psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) and more on supporting clients who self-administer psychedelics, there are tailored programs available. The Beckley Academy offers a specialized course in psychedelic care, focusing on the skills needed to support clients through their self-administered psychedelic experiences. This training, accessible online, covers essential aspects such as harm reduction, integration techniques, and ethical considerations. Similarly, the MIND Foundation provides an in-person course that delves into the intricacies of working with clients following their psychedelic experiences. This program emphasizes the development of competencies in therapeutic support, integration strategies, and understanding the psychological mechanisms at play. Both the Beckley Academy's and MIND Foundation's courses are invaluable for therapists seeking to broaden their expertise in supporting clients through the transformative journey of self-administered psychedelic experiences.
7 Organizations Providing Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Training:
Integration is a critical and holistic component of the psychedelic experience
In many indigenous cultures, where the use of plant medicines is deeply rooted in tradition and ritual, the concept of integration as a separate entity from the psychedelic experience is often not explicitly recognized. This perspective can be attributed to the holistic way in which these societies approach plant medicine use. In these communities, psychedelic experiences are inherently woven into the fabric of daily life, community practices, and spiritual beliefs. The communal and ritualistic aspects of these practices ensure that individuals' experiences with psychedelics are inherently integrated into the broader context of their culture, nature, and life. This seamless integration is a testament to how these societies view and treat psychedelic experiences as an integral part of existence, rather than as isolated events requiring specific post-experience processing. The indigenous approach underscores the importance of viewing psychedelic experiences as interconnected with every aspect of life, offering a valuable perspective in understanding the holistic nature of integration.
Among the early pioneers of Western psychedelic research, there is a widely held belief that integration is essential for processing and deriving the full benefits of psychedelic experiences. These leaders in the field emphasize that integration is particularly crucial for navigating challenging experiences and reframing past traumas. They argue that without a dedicated process of integration, the profound insights and emotional breakthroughs encountered during a psychedelic journey might not fully translate into lasting changes in a person's life. Integration provides the necessary space and framework for individuals to make sense of their experiences, allowing them to incorporate new perspectives and understandings into their daily lives. This process is seen as key to transforming fleeting moments of revelation into enduring personal growth and healing, making integration an indispensable component of the psychedelic journey.
Integration following a psychedelic experience can take various forms, adapting to the needs and preferences of the individual. Some find solace and effectiveness in solo integration, where they reflect and meditate on their experiences, using tools like journaling or creative expression to process their insights. Others may opt for the guidance of a therapist or a trained psychedelic guide, benefiting from their expertise in navigating the complexities of the psychedelic experience and its aftermath. This one-on-one approach allows for personalized support, tailored to the individual's unique journey and challenges. Additionally, group settings offer a communal space for integration, where sharing and listening to others' experiences fosters a sense of connection and collective understanding. In these group sessions, participants can find comfort and insight in the shared nature of their journeys, enriching their own process of integration through relational reflection and discussion. Each of these approaches - solitary, guided, or group - provides valuable pathways for integrating psychedelic experiences, catering to the diverse needs of those seeking to fully embrace and embody the lessons from their journeys.
Integration of psychedelic experiences is a multidimensional process that extends across various domains of human existence: mind, body, spirit, nature, community, and lifestyle. It's not just about cognitive understanding or emotional processing; true integration involves a harmonious alignment of all these facets. Engaging the mind through contemplation and reflection, attuning the body with practices like yoga or somatic therapy, nurturing the spirit through meditation or spiritual rituals, reconnecting with nature, fostering healthier relationships, and adapting one's lifestyle to reflect newfound insights are all integral parts of this comprehensive process. Integrating deeply and meaningfully across multiple domains ensures a holistic transformation. It allows the profound effects of psychedelic experiences to permeate every aspect of one's being, leading to a more balanced, fulfilled, and authentic life. This multifaceted approach to integration not only enhances personal growth but also reinforces a sustained and profound impact on overall well-being.
Want to Learn More?
There is still much to learn about the science and practice of integration in psychedelic therapy and beyond. We hope that therapists (or those in training) like you will invest in learning this emerging domain so that, in the coming years, many more can benefit from the healing potential of psychedelics.
