Psychedelic Integration Group - Geelong

This Psychedelic Integration Group organised by The Transparent Company is a structured discussion aiming to provide support for individuals who have had transformative experiences with psychedelics or for newcomers interested in the subject. The group focuses on "integration," the process of weaving these profound experiences into everyday life. Research has shown that sharing in a group setting can boost psychological well-being and foster a sense of unity and openness, both during and beyond the sessions¹².

Since the reclassification by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of psilocybin and MDMA as legal medicines in 2023, we hope to promote a safe, non-judgmental adult conversational space where participants can openly share their psychedelic experiences, insights, challenges, and emotions.

Participation during the event is optional, however, it is hoped that attendees will take turns sharing their experiences and reflections, allowing others to listen attentively without interruption or judgment. The focus is on providing emotional support, developing community, offering different perspectives, and sharing practical tools for integration. Integration may involve various aspects, including:

1. Making sense of the experience: Participants share their interpretations and insights gained from their psychedelic journeys. They may explore the symbolism, archetypal patterns, or personal revelations that emerged during the experience.
2. Emotional processing: Psychedelic experiences can be intense and emotionally charged. Integration circles provide a space to express and process emotions that arise during the journey, such as joy, fear, grief, or awe.
3. Integration into daily life: Participants discuss how they can translate the insights gained from the psychedelic experience into practical changes in their lives. This may involve setting intentions, making lifestyle adjustments, cultivating new habits, or improving relationships.
4. Challenges and difficulties: Participants may share any challenges or problems they encountered during or after the psychedelic experience. This could include dealing with intense emotions, integrating challenging memories or insights, or navigating any unexpected shifts in worldview or belief systems.
5. Support and community: Integration circles foster a sense of community and connection among individuals who have had similar experiences. Participants can offer support, validation, and encouragement to one another, reducing feelings of isolation and normalizing the integration process.

It's important to note that psychedelic integration circles are not intended to replace professional therapy or counselling. They serve as a supplemental support system and community for individuals who have had psychedelic experiences. Seeking professional guidance from licensed therapists or counsellors with expertise in psychedelic-assisted therapy can be beneficial for more complex or challenging integration needs.

Please note all attendees will need to read, understand and sign our Integration Agreement before being able to participate in the session.

References

¹ Psychedelic Communitas: Intersubjective Experience During Psychedelic Group Sessions Predicts Enduring Changes in Psychological Wellbeing and Social Connectedness. H. Kettner, F. E. Rosas, C. Timmermann, L. Kärtner, R. L. Carhart-Harris, L. Roseman Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom. Front. Pharmacol., 25 March 2021, Sec. Ethnopharmacology, Volume 12 - 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar....

² The Psychedelic Social Club: a regulatory concept for people who use psychedelics? Henry Harder, Fabian Pitter Steinmetz & Maja Kohek. University Group for Interdisciplinary Psychedelic Research (HIPF), Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy Journal. Published 23 Oct 2023 via https://www.tandfonline.com/do...