Find A Psychedelic Therapist in Portland
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Psychedelic Assisted Therapy in Portland
Navigating Psychedelic Assisted Therapy in Portland
Oregon has been a pioneer state in terms of the recent “psychedelic renaissance.” In 2020 Oregon became the first state to fully legalize psilocybin-assisted therapy while also decriminalizing all drugs. This feat was marked by the passing of Measure 109 or the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act which outlines all the rules and regulations for psilocybin therapy. Measure 110, A.K.A. the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act was passed, greatly reducing penalties of drug possession. This act, however, was recently repealed after the increase in addiction and overdose. Measure 109, on the other hand, remains in effect, allowing Oregon to continue exploring the waters of legal psilocybin therapy.
JourneyŌM is at the forefront of this movement, offering well-vetted guides to ensure safe and transformative experiences in psychedelic therapy. Out rigorous selection process guarantees that only highly qualified and experienced guides are matched with clients. For more information about our guides and the vetting process, visit our Guide Information Page. With growing public and political acceptance, psychedelic medicine continues to gain momentum in Oregon, offering new hope for those seeking alternatives to traditional mental health treatments.
Variations of Psychedelic Medicines
- Psilocybin: Derived from certain types of mushrooms, psilocybin is known for its ability to induce altered states of consciousness, which can help address deep-seated emotional issues. Current clinical trials are further exploring its efficacy for mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD.
- MDMA: Often associated with recreational use, MDMA has shown significant promise in clinical settings for its ability to foster trust and reduce fear, making it particularly effective in treating PTSD. Clinical trials continue to investigate its therapeutic potential.
- Ketamine: Originally used as an anesthetic, ketamine has been found to have rapid antidepressant effects, making it a valuable tool in treating depression and suicidal ideation. Ketamine clinics are increasingly available, offering hope for individuals with treatment-resistant depression.
- Ayahuasca: A traditional Amazonian brew made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the Psychotria viridis leaf, Ayahuasca is known for its powerful hallucinogenic properties. It is often used in ceremonial settings to facilitate deep introspection and emotional healing. Current research is exploring its potential benefits for mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD.
- LSD (Lysergic acid diethylamide): Commonly known as LSD or acid, this potent psychedelic can induce profound changes in perception, mood, and thought. Known for producing visual and auditory hallucinations as well as mystical experiences, ongoing research is examining its potential therapeutic benefits for conditions like anxiety and depression.
- San Pedro: A cactus native to the Andes, San Pedro contains mescaline, a powerful hallucinogen. Traditionally used in shamanic rituals to induce spiritual experiences and promote healing, modern studies are investigating its potential to treat mental health disorders such as depression and PTSD.
- 5-MeO-DMT: Found in certain plants and the venom of the Colorado River toad, 5-MeO-DMT is a potent psychedelic known for its intense and short-lived effects. It can induce profound mystical experiences and ego dissolution. Research suggests it may have therapeutic potential for anxiety and depression.
- Kambo: Derived from the secretions of the giant monkey frog, Kambo is used in traditional Amazonian medicine for its purgative and detoxifying effects. Believed to enhance physical and mental well-being, though scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.
- Cannabis: Known for its relaxing and euphoric effects due to compounds like THC and CBD, cannabis is widely used both recreationally and medically. Medical cannabis is prescribed for conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy.
- Peyote: A small cactus containing mescaline, Peyote has been used for centuries in Native American spiritual ceremonies. It induces vivid hallucinations and altered states of consciousness. Current research is exploring its potential benefits for mental health and addiction treatment.
- Ibogaine: Derived from the root bark of the African shrub Tabernanthe iboga, ibogaine is a powerful psychoactive substance known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. Traditionally used in West African spiritual ceremonies, modern research is exploring its potential to treat addiction and other mental health conditions. However, it carries significant risks and is not widely approved for medical use.
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Different Therapy Experiences in Portland
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Mental Health and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy in Portland
- Depression PAT can alleviate symptoms of depression by helping individuals confront and process unresolved emotional pain.
- PTSD For those suffering from PTSD, PAT can reduce the intensity of traumatic memories and associated anxiety.
- Psychedelic therapy for anxiety helps in addressing the root causes, providing lasting relief.
- Psychedelic Therapy for Veterans Veterans, in particular, have found significant benefits in psychedelic therapy for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions.
How to Get Ready for Your Psychedelic Journey in Portland
Find A Psychedelic Therapist In Portland
Preparation Phase
Setting Intentions Patients work with guides to set clear, therapeutic goals for their PAT sessions.
Creating a Safe Environment Ensuring a supportive, controlled environment is essential for a positive psychedelic experience.
Vetting and Matching with Guides At JourneyŌM, we understand the critical role that guides play in the success of psychedelic therapy. That’s why we have a rigorous vetting process to ensure our guides are highly qualified and experienced. Our process involves thorough background checks, professional evaluations, and continuous training. We match each client with the right guide to meet their specific needs and goals, fostering a safe and transformative experience.
Psychedelic Sessions
Dosage and Administration Guides carefully monitor dosage to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Therapeutic Guidance Professional guidance during sessions helps patients navigate their experiences.
Integration Phase
Processing Insights Post-session therapy focuses on integrating insights gained during the psychedelic experience into daily life.
Continued Support Ongoing therapy helps maintain the benefits achieved through PAT.
10 Questions to Ask Your Guide
Harm Reduction in Psychedelics
At JourneyŌM, we prioritize harm reduction to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals undergoing psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) in Portland. Our comprehensive screening procedures include thorough suitability assessments to determine if a candidate is appropriate for PAT. We evaluate each individual’s medical history, psychological state, and potential contraindications to ensure they are well-suited for this therapeutic approach. Regular health evaluations and check-ups are conducted to monitor the patient’s well-being throughout the journey, providing continuous support and safety.
Education and awareness are key components of our harm reduction strategy. We provide patients with comprehensive information about psychedelic therapy, including its benefits and risks. By offering detailed insights into the process, we empower individuals to make informed decisions about their mental health treatment. Additionally, we engage in community outreach in Portland to raise awareness about the potential of PAT, addressing common misconceptions and promoting the therapeutic benefits of psychedelic substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine.
Through these efforts, JourneyŌM ensures that each patient’s experience with psychedelic-assisted therapy in Portland is safe, supportive, and transformative. Our commitment to harm reduction helps individuals navigate their healing journey with confidence and clarity, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of psychedelic medicine.
Is Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Right for Me?
Resistance to Traditional Treatments
Individuals who have not found success with conventional mental health treatments, such as talk therapy or medication, may benefit from psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). The unique properties of psychedelic substances like psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine can offer new avenues for healing and transformation.
Desire for Personal Growth
For those seeking deeper self-understanding and personal development, PAT can be a powerful tool. The transformative potential of psychedelic therapy helps individuals explore their subconscious, confront unresolved emotional issues, and achieve profound insights.
At JourneyŌM, we understand that finding the right guide is crucial for a successful psychedelic experience. As a dedicated concierge service, we take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring a perfect match with one of our rigorously vetted guides. Our personalized approach guarantees a safe and supportive journey, tailored specifically to you.
If you’re considering psychedelic-assisted therapy and want to learn more about how we can help you find the best match, visit our Guide Information Page for detailed information on our selection process and available guides.
Understanding Risk Factors
Risks
• Psychological Distress: Some individuals may experience intense emotions, anxiety, or panic during sessions.
• Hallucinatory Experiences: Unpredictable hallucinations can occur, potentially leading to confusion or distress.
• Flashbacks: There is a risk of experiencing flashbacks or re-experiencing traumatic events.
• Physical Side Effects: Elevated blood pressure and heart rate are common, which can be dangerous for some individuals.
• Dependency: Although rare, there is a potential for psychological dependency on the therapy.
Contraindications
• Cardiovascular Issues: Individuals with heart conditions or high blood pressure should avoid this therapy due to the risk of elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
• Psychotic Disorders: Those with a history of psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar and some personality disorders are generally advised against psychedelic therapy as it can exacerbate symptoms.
• Severe Anxiety Disorders: People with severe anxiety may find the experience overwhelming and counterproductive.
• Certain Medications: Some medications, particularly those affecting serotonin levels like SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, can interact negatively with psychedelics.
Other Considerations
Psychological Assessments
Clinical Interviews Detailed interviews (a.k.a intake) help guides understand the patient’s history and suitability for PAT.
Standardized Questionnaires Tools like the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) or the PTSD Checklist (PCL) provide quantifiable measures of symptoms.
Medical Evaluations
Physical Health Screenings Ensuring physical health is crucial before beginning PAT to avoid any contraindications.
Substance Interaction Tests Tests to determine how psychedelics might interact with other medications the patient is taking.
Personal Experiences with Psychedelics
I am so impressed with JourneyŌM’s professionalism and quality of service. From the very beginning, it was obvious that Nico and Susan cared about me and wanted the highest quality experience for me. They offered options and encouraged me to make my own choice on who to work with based on my feelings of comfort levels and connection. My facilitators were amazing, provided a safe space, and an open hearted experience. I will go back again for another healing journey sometime in the near future! Thank you all for being such wonderful guides and giving me this opportunity to heal, so I can live my best life! – Kim
Key Takeaways
Psychedelic-assisted therapy has been shown to effectively address a wide range of mental health conditions, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and addiction. By working in tandem with trained therapists, patients can experience profound insights and emotional breakthroughs that are often difficult to achieve through conventional therapies alone.
JourneyŌM’s approach is rooted in safety, compassion, and scientific rigor. Our therapy programs are designed to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner landscapes and work through psychological barriers. Each therapeutic journey is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual, ensuring a personalized and transformative experience.
Let’s embark on this path together.
FAQ: JourneyŌM Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
- What is Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT)?
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is a therapeutic approach that combines the use of psychedelic substances with psychotherapy to facilitate profound healing, self-discovery, and personal transformation. These substances, often referred to as psychedelics or entheogens, are used in a controlled and therapeutic setting under the guidance of trained professionals. PAT has shown promising results in treating various mental health conditions and supporting personal growth and spiritual exploration.
- What is the legality of PAT?
The legal status of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) varies by country and region. In some places, PAT is legally practiced under specific regulations and guidelines, while in others, it remains illegal. It is essential to be aware of and comply with local and national laws regarding the use of psychedelic substances in therapy. JourneyŌM adheres to all relevant legal requirements and strives to connect seekers with practitioners operating within the bounds of the law.
- Why is it important to integrate after an experience?
Integration is a vital aspect of the psychedelic journey. It involves processing and making sense of the insights and experiences gained during a session. Integration sessions help individuals apply newfound wisdom to their daily lives, and can lead to permanent transformation and personal growth.
- What qualifications should I look for in a psychedelic therapist?
When seeking a psychedelic therapist, it’s essential to look for the following qualifications:
Licensing and Certification: Ensure the therapist is licensed in their field (e.g., psychology, psychiatry, social work) and has certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Training and Experience: Verify that the therapist has completed specialized training in psychedelic therapy and has experience working with psychedelics such as psilocybin, MDMA, or ketamine.
Safety and Ethics: Check if the therapist follows ethical guidelines and prioritizes client safety. They should have protocols for screening clients, managing sessions, and providing aftercare.
- What should I expect during a psychedelic therapy session?
During a psychedelic therapy session, you can expect the following:
Pre-Session Preparation: The therapist will conduct a thorough assessment, discuss your goals, and prepare you for the experience. This may include setting intentions and addressing any concerns.
The Session: During the session, the therapist will provide a safe and supportive environment. You will be guided through the experience with the use of the psychedelic substance, with the therapist present to assist as needed.
Integration: After the session, there will be integration sessions to help you process and make sense of your experience. The therapist will support you in incorporating insights gained during the session into your daily life.