After a life-altering experience with magic mushrooms in June 2023, I found myself in complete awe of the world of psychedelics. I became obsessed with understanding how these substances could profoundly impact thought patterns, behaviors, mood, spiritual development, and even addictions. My quest for knowledge led me to discover an entire universe of podcasts, documentaries, underground suppliers, therapists, books, and even Shamanic organizations and churches. It became clear that I had only just begun to explore this fascinating new world.s
In December 2023, I decided to formally educate myself on the proper application and integration of plant medicines. Initially, I considered earning a master’s degree in psychology to become a clinical psychoanalyst. However, at 51 years old, the thought of three more years of schooling felt overwhelming. I then looked into obtaining a counseling diploma, which would take only 20 months of full-time study to become a certified counselor. Yet, I hesitated for a couple of reasons. First, psychedelic therapy might not be legal in Canada for another 5 to 10 years, meaning I would either have to risk my newly acquired license or refrain from offering psychedelic treatments.
After much thought, I reminded myself of how I had come to appreciate the power of plant medicine. Despite spending many hours and thousands of dollars on social workers, counselors, and psychotherapists, the progress I made with them didn’t come close to what I achieved with a single dose of magic mushrooms. I became my own therapist, and the ground I covered during a 4-5 hour trip brought me the peace and acceptance I hadn’t managed to achieve in traditional therapy.
I certainly don’t want to dismiss the value of seeing a therapist. I truly believe that some of the tools I gained through therapy stayed with me during my journey and allowed me to see things from the right angle. In fact, if I were to give advice to anyone considering the therapeutic use of psychedelics, I would strongly recommend they work with a therapist for a few sessions first, with an emphasis on the word work. Whatever therapy you are doing, it’s important to remember that the therapist won’t do the work for you. The same is true of plant medicines – while they can provide insights, clarity and opportunity for neuro-plasticity, things will only improve to the extent that you are willing to put in the work.
So where does this leave me? At the time of writing this post, I am about 1/2 way through my training to become an integration guide. I have learned about indigenous healing techniques, the importance of consent, trauma-informed approaches, potential contraindications, psychopharmacology, Jungian psychology, transpersonal psychology, spiritual emergencies, microdosing, eco-psychology and my favourite; psychedelics for chronic pain. The more I learn, the more hesitant I am to begin guiding others through their healing journey (despite the fact that I have been helping people heal their bodies for over 20 years now!). I have learned that we are never done learning – especially in a sector that is just getting established and has very real potential associated risks. When I was a brand new, inexperienced bodywork practitioner, the worst that could have happened was a client not recovering, or perhaps a temporary spike in pain. The potential side effects of a poorly managed psychedelic trip can be much longer lasting and even life-altering. This is something I have to get my head around.
I’m looking forward to learning more, and to seeing where this journey takes me.
If you are interested in the Vital training, or even taking a single course, feel free to click here for more information.
Psychetopia 
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