Psychedelics and Psychotherapy: The Healing Potential of Expanded States

The book explores the latest developments in modern psychedelic psychotherapy, including the therapeutic potential of expanded states, underground psychedelic psychotherapy, harm reduction, new approaches for healing individual and collective trauma, and training considerations. It also discusses the use of cannabis as a psychedelic tool, spiritual exploration with LSD, micro-dosing with Iboga, and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company

Therapy with psychedelics is a rapidly evolving field that is gaining increasing attention and research interest. This book explores the therapeutic potential of these substances, including expanded states, underground psychedelic psychotherapy, harm reduction, new approaches for healing individual and collective trauma, and training considerations.

One of the key areas of exploration is the therapeutic potential of expanded states, which can be achieved through practices such as meditation, yoga, and psychedelic drugs. These states of consciousness can provide a sense of transcendence, self-awareness, and healing, and have been used in traditional healing practices for centuries. Underground psychedelic psychotherapy is another area of interest, as it involves the use of psychedelics in a therapeutic setting outside of traditional medical or psychiatric care. This approach has been gaining popularity in recent years, with some researchers and clinicians reporting positive results in treating a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Harm reduction is another important aspect of psychedelic therapy, as it involves reducing the risks associated with drug use, including overdose and addiction. This can be achieved through education, harm reduction services, and the use of safer drug use practices.

New approaches for healing individual and collective trauma are also being explored, including trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychedelic-assisted therapy. These approaches aim to address the root causes of trauma and provide a more holistic and effective treatment approach. Training considerations are also an important aspect of psychedelic therapy, as it requires a high level of expertise and knowledge to work safely and effectively with these substances. This includes training in psychedelic safety, ethics, and clinical practice, as well as the integration of psychedelic therapy with other forms of treatment.

One of the key substances being explored in psychedelic therapy is cannabis, which has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Recent research has shown that cannabis can have therapeutic effects on a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Cannabis can be used as a psychedelic tool, allowing individuals to explore their inner selves and gain insights into their emotional and psychological states. Spiritual exploration with LSD and micro-dosing with Iboga are also being explored as potential therapies for a range of conditions, including depression and anxiety. LSD can provide a sense of transcendence and self-awareness, while micro-dosing with Iboga has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-depressive effects. MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD is another area of interest, as it has been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of PTSD, including anxiety, depression, and flashbacks.

However, it is important to note that psychedelic therapy is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the risk of adverse effects, including psychosis, hallucinations, and dissociation. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions or those who are vulnerable to these effects. Another challenge is the lack of regulation and oversight in the field, which can lead to unethical practices and harm to individuals.

In conclusion, the field of psychedelic therapy is rapidly evolving and has the potential to provide a new and effective treatment approach for a range of conditions. While there are challenges to be addressed, including safety and regulation, ongoing research and clinical practice are helping to shed light on the therapeutic potential of these substances. As the field continues to grow, it is important to ensure that individuals receive high-quality care and that ethical and responsible practices are followed.

Weight: 578g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644113325