The structure of a guided psilocybin session
After the preparatory phase and before the integration phase of a psilocybin therapy program, the psilocybin session takes place under supervision. This session begins with an introductory conversation in which the therapist explains the structure of the day and sets intentions. After this initial conversation, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, the psilocybin is taken in the form of magic truffles. It usually takes another 15 to 30 minutes for the first effects to be noticeable. As soon as conversation becomes difficult, we move on to the introspective phase. After the peak has passed, conversation gradually resumes, and you can actively work on your goals together with the therapist.
What is the role of guidance with psilocybin?
The supervisor present has various tasks during the psilocybin session. The most important task is to keep the client/customer safe and to help with all needs. The second task is helping to achieve objectives by using knowledge and expertise in the therapeutic field. A good therapist will namely guide a part before the peak effects, let the peak happen as it goes, and after the peak focus again on personal growth.
Is a trained psychologist or therapist better?
For some of our clients, a trained therapist with a background in mental health can be a significant advantage. Psilocybin blends well with conventional therapies like psychotherapy. The beauty of psilocybin is that at higher doses, the healing clients report doesn't come from the conversations, but from the spiritual peak experience. The latter can also, or sometimes even better, be achieved without a trained mental health therapist. Furthermore, psilocybin acts as an anti-inflammatory in the brain, and you don't need a psychologist for that potential antidepressant effect.
However, having a trained therapist on hand can be more helpful than someone who simply provides physical safety, such as a trip sitter. Processing emotions and influencing behavior can become smoother and more effective thanks to a therapist. Furthermore, trusting someone's academic background can create a more peaceful experience during the session, leading to a deeper journey and better results.
Do you choose a psychologist or an expert by experience?
We have several guides to choose from for a guided psilocybin trip. For psilocybin sessions, we believe experience is more important than education. With MDMA, this is different, as an MDMA session focuses more on talk therapy. With guided psilocybin, feeling safe with your guide is paramount. If education is a factor, choose an experienced therapist.
Who would you like to be guided by?
The best counselor for you is a personal choice. We have both male and female counselors from diverse backgrounds. Our counselors/therapists can make home visits as long as they are within the Netherlands and their service area. For this on-site service, you can use your own home, vacation home, private Airbnb, or hotel.
With a background in chemistry, a passion for philosophy, and a wealth of knowledge about psychology and health, his approach is holistic. Marcel works full-time as a trip guide. Having led more than 2,450 guided sessions, Marcel has the most experience of anyone on our team.
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 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.
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 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 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.
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.