Overview of psilocybin-assisted therapy

Psilocybin assisted-therapy sessions typically involve several stages that are carefully designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for the individual undergoing treatment.

A typical psilocybin-assisted therapy session can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with the effects of the psilocybin typically lasting for about 4 to 6 hours. The exact length of the session can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's body weight, previous experience with psilocybin, and the specific dose of psilocybin that is administered.

It is important to note that the therapy session is not limited to the time that the individual is under the influence of psilocybin. The preparation before the session and the integration afterward are also important components of the therapy process and may take several hours.

A typical psilocybin therapy session will involve:

  1. Preparation: Before the therapy session, the individual will meet with a therapist to discuss their goals for the treatment, as well as any concerns or fears they may have. It is important to have a medical screening to ensure that there are no medical conditions or medications that may interfere with the session. The individual should inform the therapist and medical provider of any medical conditions or medications. The therapist will then explain what to expect during the session and provide guidance on how to prepare mentally and physically (including diet and hydration) for the experience.

  2. Administration: The psilocybin is typically administered orally in the form of capsules or a tea. The individual will be given a specific dose based on their body weight and previous experiences with psilocybin. They will then lie down on a comfortable couch, put on an eye mask, and listen to music specifically chosen to enhance the experience.

  3. Experience: The individual will begin to feel the effects of the psilocybin after about 30 minutes. The therapist(s) will be present throughout the whole session to offer support and guidance as needed.

  4. Integration: After the session, the individual will have the opportunity to discuss their experience with the therapist. This is an extremely important part of the process, as it allows the individual to process their thoughts and feelings from the session and then develop a plan to integrate the insights gained from the experience into their daily life.