Altered States Series: Seminar One (Psychological Preparation)

Overview

The Altered States Series is a collection of seminars, symposia and workshops in Perth that was launched by the Australian Psychedelic Society in August 2020. Altered States aims to provide the Perth community with the opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience about how to best utilise altered states of consciousness to manage mental health issues and improve psychological wellness. This will be approached using the same framework that is used to provide psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy: preparation, altered state and then integration.

Following the successful launch of the Altered States Series by Dr Stephen Bright at Hillaries Boat Harbour in August, the Australian Psychedelic Society warmly welcomes the Perth community to the first official Altered States event.

Session 1 - Journey Preparation

The first seminar in the Altered States Series aims to create dialogue within the Perth community regarding the importance of intention and discipline to maximise the benefits of altered states of consciousness, such as those occasioned by psychedelics, while minimising the potential for harm. The session will be led by Paul Holliday and Tobias Penno who both have personal and professional experience in preparing for journeys into altered states. They will provide their own stories to encourage an interactive dialogue. Participants can ask questions, though will also be encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and share these at the event. Sharing can occur formally during the interactive session, or informally afterwards when snack and drinks will be provided to allow people the opportunity to connect with members of existing networks and develop new connection.

Paul Holliday is the founder of the not for profit organisation The Human Excellence Project, a free 365-day support group. They meet each morning, come rain or shine, at 5.30am, 7 days a week. The key feature of the meetup is a cold dip in the ocean, and on alternate mornings they offer short introduction to meditation, yoga and breathwork sessions. Over the past two years they’ve had over 30,000 people jump into the ocean here in WA and inspired over 20 other groups around the world to follow their lead. These communities are helping people to realise their own potential and change their outlook on alcohol and other drug use, health, nutrition and exercise. Through the healing power of community and connection, The Human Excellence Project offers the opportunity to create healthier relationships and enables a culture of growth encouragement and contribution. They encourage people to get up, get out and experience everything this life has to offer!

Tobias is a social worker who is undertaking a PhD at UWA where he completed his Masters charting the phenomenology of the Ayahuasca experience. Tobias currently works in private practice where he provides consultative services to people who are seeking out psychedelic experiences in an effort to support their emotional health.

Altered States Terms and Conditions

By purchasing a ticket, you agree to our terms and condition:

1. We are not promoting, condoning or advising drug taking of any kind.
2. We will not tolerate dealing or the promotion of medicine circles of any kind.
3. We will not tolerate offers of coaching or mentoring individuals.