Article contents
Individual vs psychedelic group sessions
We are regularly asked whether an individual psychedelic session works better as therapy than a group session such as a truffle ceremony. However, we can never give one answer to this for everyone. Both options have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and choosing between the two is a very personal decision. In this article we give the advantages and disadvantages of both the truffle ceremony and psilocybin therapy. What does correspond is the preparation and integration that belongs to the Trip Therapy protocol. Another similarity is that psilocybin or truffle ceremonies always use the legal variants and that the magic truffle (from the mushroom) is used in both.
Truffle ceremony
Advantages
Sense of community: One of the greatest benefits of group ceremonies is the feeling of connection. You are surrounded by others who are on a similar journey, which can provide a sense of community and understanding. This in itself can be healing.
Accompaniment: There are several supervisors present to ensure a safe and structured environment. This can help reduce anxiety and maximize therapeutic benefits. If there are multiple supervisors, you can choose who you prefer to have with you in case you need attention.
The price: Group sessions are often more cost-effective than individual therapy because the costs are shared among multiple participants.
- More extensive ceremony: During group ceremonies, more time is spent on additional matters such as the introduction, group theme and healthy eating.
Diversity of experiences: Sharing experiences with others can lead to a broader range of perspectives and insights, increasing the potential therapeutic value.
Cons
Less individual attention: In a group ceremony, the supervisor's attention may be divided among several participants. This can result in less personal guidance and support.
Privacy and comfort: Some people may feel less comfortable sharing their deepest emotions and thoughts in a group setting, which can impact therapy.
Difference in needs: The needs and goals of individual participants can vary greatly. A group session may not be tailored to your specific needs.
Psilocybin therapy
Advantages
Personal attention: In an individual setting you will receive undivided attention from your therapist or supervisor. This can lead to deeper insights and a more customized therapeutic experience.
- Choose your own supervisor: For individual sessions you can choose the supervisor that suits you best.
- Free choice location: The psilocybin session can take place at a location of your choice. Using a hotel, Airbnb, holiday home or your own home is possible.
Privacy and comfort: You may feel more comfortable talking openly about your thoughts and emotions since there are no other participants present.
- Choose date: With individual sessions you have more freedom in choosing a date.
Custom guidance: The session can be fully tailored to your specific goals and needs, which can lead to a deeper personal transformation.
Cons
Cost: Individual psilocybin therapy is more expensive than group sessions, because you bear the full costs.
Lack of sense of community: Since you are alone with your therapist, the sense of community that group sessions can provide is missing.
Limited diversity of perspectives: You only have access to your therapist's insights and experiences, which can limit the breadth of perspectives.
Make your own choice
Choosing between a group truffle ceremony and individual psilocybin therapy is an extremely personal decision. There are no “one-size-fits-all” answers, because what works for one person may not work for another. Here are some considerations to help make the right choice:
Goals and needs: Think about what you want to achieve from the psychedelic experience. If you are looking for deep personal growth and insight, individual therapy may be preferable. If you are seeking community and connection, a group ceremony may be more appropriate.
Comfort level: Consider how comfortable you feel sharing your experiences and emotions in a group setting. Privacy and comfort can play an important role in your decision.
Financial considerations: Ask yourself if you are willing to bear the additional costs of individual therapy or if group sessions better suit your budget.
Intuition: Listen to your intuition and what feels best for you. The choice must be in accordance with your inner compass.
Small group truffle ceremony
The truffle ceremonies that we organize are with small groups. We prefer to work with two supervisors and a maximum of six participants. We also ensure that there is room to withdraw from the group and you can listen to your own music if you need to. This way, your own 'bubble' can be created if necessary. Read more about the truffle ceremony via the button below.
Individual psilocybin session
Are you more curious about what psilocybin can do for you during an individual psilocybin session? More information about the science, research and how we organize the psilocybin sessions can be read via the button below.