As of July 1, 2025, we will no longer be able to supply MDMA analogues

Please note: For MDMA sessions, we often provide a legal analog until July 1, 2025. Due to an amendment to this Opium Act, these MDMA analogs have also become illegal to distribute, possess, or trade. Click on the link if you're curious about alternative solutions and conditions for how we can guide you during a session with substances like MDMA or similar substances.

Properties of MDMA

MDMA, which can be taken as part of MDMA therapy, is considered hallucinogenic even though it is less likely to cause hallucinations. The chemical name MDMA stands for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, an organic compound with the chemical formula C₁₁H₁₅NO₂. MDMA is sometimes confused with XTC (ecstasy) because it also contains MDMA in addition to a drug like speed. Only pure MDMA or similar substances (analogues) are used for therapeutic purposes.

In recent years, MDMA therapy has become increasingly popular and, in addition to being used as a treatment for PTSD and trauma, is also increasingly used in relationship therapy. This is because the drug is considered an anti-anxiety agent and gives people more freedom to express themselves. Why MDMA can be an effective tool in psychotherapy can be found on this page.

MDMA during therapy

Due to the increased release of serotonin and dopamine in particular, many receptors are stimulated more than usual after taking MDMA. This increased receptor activity in the brain causes some changes in impulse conduction, resulting in several effects we can use to our advantage during a therapeutic session.

During MDMA-assisted therapy, the MDMA therapist will utilize the following modifications. If possible, exposure therapy may also be used to change triggers.

Better mood

Feelings of connection, happiness, euphoria, and contentment are relatively common when using MDMA. If you talk about your trauma or PTSD triggers during this contentment phase, the brain stores it differently. This might seem a bit strange to the brain, as you feel content and safe while talking about your trauma. You can also be gently exposed to your anxiety triggers while you're in that safe state. Over time, the brain will associate the triggers with the positive state you're in. Exposure therapy works very well under the influence of MDMA because the triggers no longer immediately result in an anxious state.

Less ego/self-awareness

With less self-awareness/ego, things seem more connected because you're less likely to distinguish between yourself and the rest of the world. When you look at yourself with less self-awareness, it sometimes feels like it's about someone other than yourself. From this perspective, it's easier to talk honestly about yourself without emotional blockages, and there's less self-protection that can hinder the conversation. A lower ego and less self-awareness can therefore lead to more openness, which can be a major advantage for processing the past, as well as for talk therapy, self-exploration, and personal growth.

Increased empathy

Letting go of trauma often involves forgiving the perpetrator and yourself as the victim. The victim needs to forgive themselves for the situation they were in, and for that, empathy for yourself is also necessary to be able to let go. Forgiving the perpetrator can also help in the process of healing the trauma. A greater capacity for empathy with the perpetrator, without the self-protection of the ego, can often make forgiveness easier and more effective.

New insights

Using MDMA or an MDMA analog causes the brain to function differently than it is used to in a sober state. New insights can potentially be gained because perspectives on certain matters can temporarily shift. While this effect is impossible to predict in advance, shifting perspectives can play a role in progress. An added benefit of these types of sessions is that curiosity for new insights is sparked and can persist long after the session.

Spiritual experience

It's more common with other psychedelics, but a spiritual experience can also occur during an MDMA session. During the onset and peak effects of MDMA, the diminished sense of self can lead to a mystical experience. Spirituality can contribute to general well-being and is considered a bonus during MDMA therapy.

Better memory

The anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effect of MDMA offers many possibilities during an MDMA session. One advantage is that it can improve memory function. Without the inhibition of anxiety, certain difficult memories can be more easily retrieved and discussed.

Scientific research on MDMA

The use of MDMA as an aid in psychotherapy is not new. In the mid-20th century, many experiments were conducted with psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA to determine whether these substances could help with certain mental health conditions. Unfortunately, these studies were halted by new laws. Since the beginning of this century, research has slowly resumed, and with MDMA, the focus is primarily on trauma and PTSD. These studies all have very positive outcomes, often with high success rates.

MDMA sessions aren't for everyone

MDMA and substances similar to MDMA are not suitable for everyone. Combining certain medications with MDMA can be hazardous to your health. Certain conditions can also be exacerbated by the use of psychedelics, including MDMA. MDMA cannot be combined with the following medications, drugs, conditions, and/or situations.

Contraindications conditions/situations

Contraindications to medication

Lithium
Heart and/or blood pressure medication
Opioids (tramadol, morphine and codeine)
TCA (Tricyclic antidepressants)
MAOi (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
SSRI (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
SNRI (Selective serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors)
Antipsychotics

Start the intake

Are you a new client and interested in using our services? Please complete the intake form first so we can check for any safety risks. We also base our personalized advice for preparing you for MDMA therapy on the information you provide.

Start intake

Legal MDMA therapy

MDMA is an illegal substance in the Netherlands. Therefore, before July 1, 2025, we worked with a substance closely related to MDMA, the so-called MDMA analog. In chemistry, analog refers to a substance chemically similar enough that its molecular structure is identical, albeit with subtle differences. This is also the case with the MDMA analog. The structure is virtually identical, and this minimal difference makes it legal, less energetic than MDMA, and more positive and empathetic. Most people experience less of the familiar mid-week blues that often accompany MDMA use in the days following the session. In our opinion, these differences make it even more suitable for MDMA sessions. An advantage and disadvantage of the MDMA analog is that the effects last slightly longer.

Properties	MDMA	MDMA Analogue
Duration of effect	4-6 hours	5-7 hours
Energy	Increasing	Unchanged/dreamy/relaxed
Emotional	Stronger emotions (all), Empathy, Ecstasy, more social	Stronger emotions (all), More empathy and euphoria than MDMA, more social
Visual	Very small chance of hallucinations	A little more visual effects (color, geometry)
Memory	Better memory	Better memory
Music	Stronger experience/appreciation	Stronger experience/appreciation

MDMA analogue information page

For more information about the MDMA analog, its legal status, risks, break time between sessions, and how the body metabolizes MDMA, please refer to the information page below.

Which therapist do you choose?

Choosing the right MDMA therapist is an important and personal decision, one that requires consideration of experience and expertise, the therapist's background and training, their personal connection, location and availability, and possibly their gender. The overview below provides a preview of the available MDMA therapists.

Marcel van der Putten

Founder of Triptherapie & Psychedelic Guide

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Sessions

2327

With a background in chemistry, a passion for philosophy, and extensive knowledge of psychology and health, his approach is holistic. Marcel is a full-time trip leader. With over 2,300 guided sessions, Marcel is the most experienced member of our team.

Ronald Hochstenbach

Psychosocial therapist

RBCZ registration with AGB code 90115669

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Sessions

352

Ronald is a psychosocial therapist and has completed the following training: Jungian Philosophical Therapist, Psychodrama Therapist, Master Voice Dialogue, Transformational Psychology, Internal Family System (IFS), Mindfulness and Compassion Trainer.

Janneke from Geijn

Confidential Counselor & Psychedelic Guide

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Sessions

326

Janneke is studying Applied Psychology, is a lifestyle coach, handles initial client contact, develops lifestyle plans, and performs administrative tasks. She also acts as a confidential counselor. In addition to these duties, she is available to facilitate sessions on a limited basis.

Reineke Brandt

Psychologist

NIP number: 17907

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Sessions

161

As a psychologist, Reineke combines both conventional and alternative care methods. She utilizes various techniques, such as talk therapy, yoga, breathing exercises, and EMDR, combined with the therapeutic effects of psychedelics.

Sascha de Waal

Psychologist

NIP number: 247448

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Sessions

153

Sascha has a solid foundation as a psychedelic therapist, thanks to her psychology studies, Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, and experience working in addiction treatment, (specialized) mental health care, and rehabilitation as a psychologist. She also has additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.

Gijs Tecklenburg

SPV-er

VMBN registration with AGB code: 90036329

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Sessions

Gijs has 20 years of experience in outpatient mental health care. He taught and supervised the Mental Health and Addiction Care program at the HAN University of Applied Sciences Arnhem Nijmegen. He also has extensive experience in mindfulness, talk therapy, neurofeedback, meditation, compassion training, and ACT.

Ylva Doorewaard Boekhout

Clinical psychologist

BIG number: 19930515225

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Supportive therapist

Ylva is a BIG-registered GZ psychologist and supports Triptherapie as an advisor in the areas of psychological care, mental health frameworks, safety, and integration. Ylva does not offer psychedelic sessions but is available for additional support.

Rates and reservations

There are several ways to use MDMA therapy. An individual session is the most popular option, and with these sessions, you can choose your therapist and location. To calculate the price and make a reservation, you can use the tool below. We also offer group MDMA sessions at our Schiedam location. These sessions are attended by two therapists and have a maximum of five participants. More information is available via the buttons.

On-site price calculation session

Easily calculate the price here for a private psychedelic session for one to three participants at your own location or at one of ours. Sessions at Triptherapie locations always include one overnight stay plus food and drinks.

White text: The supervisor works at your location.
Orange textThe supervisor lives just outside your work area, but it is often possible to arrange a meeting.
Red text: You live too far away. Consider renting accommodation closer, a different supervisor, or participating in a group ceremony at one of our locations.

Enter your desired location:

Number of people:

One Two Three

Map view:

Own location Triptherapie location

Explanation of all options within this selection tool

This tool is designed to provide quick insight into the various ways a session can be scheduled via Triptherapie. The tool combines three things in one overview. You can choose the number of people, enter a starting location to have distances and travel times calculated, and switch between a map view for sessions at your own location or sessions at a Triptherapie location. As a result, you get not only a price indication but also an immediate, practical picture of which instructors or locations make the most sense.

The structure is as follows. On the left, you see the selection for the number of people, and below that, the two tables. The first table lists the facilitators for sessions at your own location. The second table lists the fixed Triptherapie locations. On the right, you see the map. With the map view, you choose whether you want to see the facilitators or the locations on the map. The tables remain visible so that you can always compare both types of options side by side.

Enter and calculate starting location

At the top, enter a city or address, for example Amsterdam. Then press the Calculate button. The tool uses that input to display two types of information.

For on-site supervisors, distance, travel time, travel expenses, and the total amount are taken into account. As a result, you see not only who is available or logical in terms of work area, but also what that means financially.

For the Triptherapie locations, the distance and travel time from your entered location to the chosen fixed location are taken into account. No additional travel cost calculation for the supervisor is added to this, as it concerns a session at a fixed Triptherapie location.

If you do not enter a starting location, the tool still displays all guides and all locations with their base prices for the selected number of people. As soon as you enter a location, the calculations are added.

Number of people

The Number of people option is located above the tables in the left column. This determines the number of people for whom the price is calculated. The tool calculates with three choices.

The basic price applies for 1 person.

For 2 people, 500 euros is added to the base price.

For 3 people, a total of 1,000 euros is added to the base price.

This means that the tool automatically adjusts when you switch between one, two, or three people. Both the facilitator table and the location table are then recalculated. This way, you immediately see the difference between an individual session, a duo session, or a session for three people with one facilitator.

Session at own accommodation

When looking at the counselors, the sessions take place at the client's location. This could be, for example, at home, in a hotel, in an Airbnb, or in another suitable private setting. In the table, you can see the place of residence for each counselor, or, after calculation, the distance, travel expenses, travel time, and the total amount.

The tool also takes practical limitations into account here. Some escorts can be deployed more quickly within a larger area, while for others, the maximum travel time is more limited. As a result, you sometimes see escorts in normal text, sometimes in orange, and sometimes crossed out in red. This helps to distinguish between a good fit, just barely possible, or less practically suitable.

This table is particularly useful for people who prefer to work in their own familiar environment, or who want to investigate which support worker best suits their location, both financially and practically.

Session at a Triptherapie location

The second table shows the fixed locations of Triptherapie. These are locations you travel to, rather than a guide coming to you. In this overview, you can see the town and, after calculation, the distance and travel time from your starting location. The total amount changes with the number of people.

This option is useful when you prefer to use a fixed setting that is already suitable for the session. In that case, you compare facilitators not so much based on travel time, but primarily on the different locations and their total price.

Map view

The map is on the right. Above the map, you use the map view to choose what you want to see on the map.

If you select Own accommodation, the map shows the guides. You will then see approximately where the various guides are located. If you have entered a starting location and pressed Calculate, routes can also be displayed.

If you choose the Triptherapie location, the map displays the fixed locations. This allows you to visually see which location is geographically most convenient in relation to your starting point.

The map view changes only the map. The tables on the left both remain visible, so you do not have to switch between screens while comparing.