Psychedelic Integration Circle

Following the Saturday lecture (15th July 2023 on The Fundamentals of Psychedelics) this Psychedelic Integration Circle is a structured group discussion aiming to provide support and guidance for individuals who have had transformative experiences with psychedelics. The term "integration" refers to the process of incorporating and making sense of these experiences in one's life.

Since the reclassification by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of psilocybin and MDMA as legal medicines, we hope to promote a safe, non-judgmental adult conversational space where participants can openly share their psychedelic experiences, insights, challenges, and emotions. This circle will be facilitated by Voytek Bereza a GPhC licenced (UK Ph*rm*cy regulatory body) facilitator who has a wide array of knowledge and understanding of psychedelic experiences and their potential impacts.

Participation during the event is optional, however, it is hoped that attendees will take turns sharing their experiences and reflections, allowing others to listen attentively without interruption or judgment. The focus is on providing emotional support, developing community, offering different perspectives, and sharing practical tools for integration. Integration may involve various aspects, including:

• Making sense of the experience: Participants share their interpretations and insights gained from their psychedelic journeys. They may explore the symbolism, archetypal patterns, or personal revelations that emerged during the experience.
• Emotional processing: Psychedelic experiences can be intense and emotionally charged. Integration circles provide a space to express and process emotions that arose during the journey, such as joy, fear, grief, or awe.
• Integration into daily life: Participants discuss how they can translate the insights gained from the psychedelic experience into practical changes in their lives. This may involve setting intentions, making lifestyle adjustments, cultivating new habits, or improving relationships.
• Challenges and difficulties: Participants may share any challenges or difficulties they encountered during or after the psychedelic experience. This could include dealing with intense emotions, integrating challenging memories or insights, or navigating any unexpected shifts in worldview or belief systems.
• Support and community: Integration circles foster a sense of community and connection among individuals who have had similar experiences. Participants can offer support, validation, and encouragement to one another, reducing feelings of isolation and normalizing the integration process.

It's important to note that psychedelic integration circles are not intended to replace professional therapy or counselling. They serve as a supplemental support system and community for individuals who have had psychedelic experiences. Seeking professional guidance from licensed therapists or counsellors with expertise in psychedelic-assisted therapy can be beneficial for more complex or challenging integration needs.

Host or Publisher Mike Bereza