Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Psychedelic Assist Therapy. How can it be helpful?
In short, psychedelic assisted therapy involves the use of a non-ordinary states of consciousness to increase neuroplasticity to catalyze making emotional, behavioral, spiritual, physical and/or relational changes. It involves several sessions of screening, informed consent and preparation. Once fully prepared an individual is treated with a mind-altering substance - legal in Colorado is Ketamine and Psilocybin ("magic mushrooms") that leads to an extended or intensive journey. The licensed facilitator or therapist is always there to provide safety, support, and ethical guidance. Following the "trip" or altered state of consciousness is a commitment to Integration or attention and intention setting about how to incorporate the insights into your life.
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Dr. Jana Lomax
Etc Hospitality Healing Center
This is my first time considering talk therapy. I’m used to handling things on my own. How can therapy be helpful?
As is true for many areas of our lives, we seek knowledge and guidance from specialists/experts when we don’t have the answers or solutions ourselves. Think about going to an accountant, a mechanic, a lawyer, or a medical provider; each offers a skill or service to overcome a challenge or address a particular need. Psychologists are able to help individuals assess the nature of their stressors and determine the most adaptive responses or behavior changes to make to reduce distress and improve overall well-being. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, therapists can help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A licensed mental health professional is an unbiased individual with advanced training and experience in human behavior. At Shift Healing, we are a team of seasoned and compassionate psychologists with extensive experience in working with individuals from all walks of life. Our focus is on YOUR individual goals and well-being. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others thinking differently of you as you start to gain insight and evolve in multiple ways. If your stressors provoke significant negative emotion, and you confide in a friend or family member about them, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life. Friends and community are essential elements to overall health and well-being. Therapists are not a replacement for deep and meaningful relationships in your life. However, through therapy, you may find deeper connection with yourself and your loved ones.
Can a medication have the same effect as therapy?
Medication can be effective management of symptoms but it alone cannot solve all emotional or social issues. Sometimes medication is beneficial in conjunction with psychotherapy. Our work together is designed to explore and understand the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths to respond differently to those concerns. We regularly collaborate with prescribers (physicians, NPs, DOs, psychiatrists, and other licensed prescribing psychologists) to develop the best plan for you to reach your well-being goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different concerns and hopes for psychotherapy, it will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Generally speaking, we recommend weekly or bi-week therapy for 4-6 sessions to get started. In order to be considered an active client in our clinic, we require that you meet with your therapist a minimum of monthly. However, that infrequency of therapy only follows after a more consistent and intensive therapy treatment course.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
We deeply value and appreciate collaborating with clients who are committed to making meaningful changes in their lives. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Reflecting, note taking, and healthy habits can help to enhance the outcomes of therapy. Of note, some individuals find that they may begin to feel worse and have increased distress for a time as they start to face some concerns that they have long avoided. It is usually a good sign that change is happening.