The Integration of the Psychedelic Experience

Abstract

Since the psychedelic renaissance gained momentum, the main focus of research has been on unraveling and understanding the acute effects of psychedelics, on the one hand, and on figuring out how best to use psychedelics in the treatment of specific mental disorders, on the other. However, less attention has been paid to the aftermath: how people deal with psychedelic experiences, how they affect and change their lives, and what factors are helpful for successful integration into everyday life. Based on the practical experience as a psychedelic therapist and an informal survey of former patients, the typical course of integration of psychedelic experiences is described, as well as the circumstances and tools that were found to be helpful.

Biography

Medical School University of Basel, Switzerland. Specialist degree in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy 1988. Psychotherapeutic training in Guided Affective Imagery Therapy, Systemic Couple and Family Therapy and in Psycholytic Therapy. In private practice 1988-2020. Special interest in altered states of consciousness and psychedelic substances for more than 35 years. Member of the Swiss Medical Association for Psycholytic Therapy (SAePT). PI of Swiss phase II MDMA/PTSD-study. 2014-2020 licensed substance-assisted psychotherapy with MDMA and LSD in private practice.