What’s The Difference Between Psychedelic Therapy and Psychedelic Coaching?

The Nascent Landscape of Psychedelic Services

The psychedelic services sector in America is still in its early stages. While some may refer to it as an industry, it’s important to note that it lacks the oversight, governance, standards, and protocols typically associated with established industries. Terms like “Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT)” often act as umbrella terms, encompassing various approaches, modalities, and licensures, further adding to the confusion.

Recommended Reading: Ceremonial Psychedelic Experiences: 3 Most Common Types 

Currently, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy as a formal, approved practice does not exist. Clinical trials and studies are underway, but official approval is still pending. Over the next decade, we expect to see the formalization of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. In the meantime, several precursor services are paving the way:

• • Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP): This term is often used, but technically, PAP doesn’t exist in a formal sense yet. Although there are clinical trials and studies, no official approval has been granted. However, some precursor services are emerging to build pathways toward its formalization.

• • Ketamine Clinics: These often include psychotherapy or at least preparation and integration sessions. These are a prominent example of existing services. They often include some form of psychotherapy or at least preparation and integration support for clients. These clinics serve as a model for what future psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy might look like.

• • Oregon and Colorado Programs: These programs have their own training requirements, but the practitioners are often not licensed mental health professionals. They undergo state-mandated training and provide services within those guidelines.

• • Clinical Trials: Organizations like MAPS are conducting trials, such as the MDMA-assisted psychotherapy trials, to explore the efficacy of psychedelics in conjunction with traditional psychotherapy.

This ambiguity allows for a range of practitioners to operate under titles like “Psychedelic Therapists” or “Integration Therapists,” often without formal licensure or oversight. 

This issue extends beyond the psychedelic space to the broader wellness industry, where holistic health influencers make unverified claims. People call themselves shamans or other titles that lack clear definitions, contributing further to the confusion.

Psychotherapy vs. Psychedelic Therapy

Understanding the difference between psychotherapy and what is often referred to as psychedelic therapy is crucial for those seeking mental health support. Psychotherapists are licensed mental health professionals, while psychedelic therapy often involves a broader, less regulated set of practices.

Psychotherapists:

• • Licensure: Psychotherapists hold formal mental health licenses, such as MSWs, MFTs, psychiatrists, and psychologists. Their licensure allows them to practice psychotherapy within specific states.

• • Scope of Practice: They can diagnose mental health conditions and, in some cases, prescribe medication. Psychotherapy is often covered by insurance and regulated by accreditation boards.

• • Ethical Standards: They adhere to strict ethical guidelines, including maintaining professional boundaries and avoiding dual relationships.

• • Legal Considerations: Providing psychedelic substances is generally illegal for psychotherapists. Those who act as sitters or spaceholders during psychedelic sessions are often operating outside their professional licensure.

Psychedelic Coaches:

• • Diverse Backgrounds: Psychedelic coaches come from various fields, including indigenous medicine, harm reduction, holistic health, academia, and spirituality. This diversity allows for a wide range of approaches and modalities.

• • Comprehensive Support: They offer support across multiple stages of the psychedelic experience, including preparation, in-person support during ceremonies, and integration.

• • Holistic Practices: Coaches may incorporate complementary practices such as meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, bodywork, and other holistic therapies.

• • Trauma-Informed: Effective psychedelic coaches should be trauma-informed and knowledgeable about mental and emotional states.

Navigating the Ambiguity

The ambiguity in the terminology and practices within the psychedelic services landscape can make it challenging to understand what different providers offer. This confusion can lead to individuals receiving care that does not meet their expectations or needs. Unlike established fields, such as massage therapy or physical therapy, where professional roles and services are clear, the interchangeable language in the psychedelic space can be misleading.

If a licensed mental health professional provides both the psychedelic substance and acts as a sitter or practitioner during the experience, they are not functioning within the capacity of their licensed role. Practitioners with mental health or medical backgrounds should clearly communicate their role and the scope of their services.

Integrating Traditional Therapy and Psychedelic Coaching

As the field of psychedelics continues to evolve, it’s essential to understand how traditional therapy and psychedelic coaching can complement each other, providing a holistic approach to mental health and personal growth. Rather than viewing them as separate or opposing practices, recognizing their synergies can offer individuals more comprehensive support.

Recommended Reading: The Benefits of Combining Psychedelic Therapy and Talk Therapy

Complementary Roles: Therapy and Coaching Working Together

Psychedelic therapy and coaching can be integrated to create a seamless support system. For instance, a licensed therapist can diagnose and treat mental health conditions, providing a clinical foundation. At the same time, a psychedelic coach can offer preparation and integration support, as well as in-person guidance during the psychedelic experience.

Example Case Studies: Real-World Applications

To illustrate the benefits of integrating these approaches, here are some example case studies:

1. Case Study 1: Overcoming Depression

   • Client Background: A 35-year-old client with a history of major depressive disorder.
   • Therapist Role: Provides regular therapy sessions focusing on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns.
   • Coach Role: Prepares the client for a psilocybin session, focusing on setting intentions and managing expectations. Post-session, the coach helps the client integrate new perspectives into their daily routine.

2. Case Study 2: Enhancing Creativity and Personal Growth

   • Client Background: A 28-year-old artist experiencing creative blocks and self-doubt.
   • Coach Role: Guides the client through a psychedelic journey aimed at unlocking creativity and confronting fears. Follows up with integration sessions to help the client channel newfound inspiration into their work.
   • Therapist Role: Assists the client with the long-term integration of the psychedelic experience, addressing revelations and questions as they come up.

Broadening the Scope: Beyond Mental Health Treatment

Psychedelics are not only used for mental health treatment but also for spiritual exploration and personal development. It’s important to acknowledge this broader scope and avoid restrictive gatekeeping.

Example: An individual may seek psychedelic experiences not just to alleviate anxiety but also to explore deeper spiritual questions or enhance their overall well-being. A psychedelic coach with a background in spirituality can provide valuable support in this context, helping the individual navigate their journey with a focus on spiritual growth.

Recommended Reading: How to Build Your Personalized Psychedelic Care Team

Ethical and Safe Practices

Both therapists and coaches must adhere to ethical standards to ensure safety and efficacy. Coaches should be trauma-informed and knowledgeable about mental and emotional states, while therapists must maintain professional boundaries and follow legal guidelines.

Practical Steps for Clients:

1. Research and Verify Credentials: Ensure the practitioner has relevant experience and training.
2. Understand the Services Offered: Clarify whether the practitioner provides preparation, in-person support, integration, or all three.
3. Check for Licensure: If seeking psychotherapy, verify the practitioner’s licensure.
4. Ask About Ethical Guidelines: Ensure the practitioner follows clear ethical standards.
5. Look for Trauma-Informed Practices: Confirm the practitioner understands and can handle various mental and emotional states safely.

By understanding how psychedelic therapy and coaching can work together, clients can make informed decisions and find the most suitable support for their unique needs. The integration of these approaches can lead to more effective and transformative experiences, whether for mental health treatment, personal growth, or spiritual exploration.

The Role of Psychedelic Passage

At Psychedelic Passage, we recognized the need for safe and effective therapeutic psychedelic experiences and sought to address this gap by creating a self-regulated community. We established our own standards and ethical practices to ensure the safety and efficacy of our services. Our approach is to complement traditional psychotherapy with psychedelic coaching.

Our stance is that in lieu of formal psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, the best option is for a psychedelic specialist to act as an adjunct to psychotherapy. 

For those seeking a mental health-oriented psychedelic approach, working with a licensed mental health professional who is knowledgeable or friendly towards psychedelics, in conjunction with a psychedelic coach or practitioner, offers the most comprehensive support. Ideally, the psychedelic specialist has a mental health background but operates clearly outside the realm of traditional psychotherapy.

Get Matched With Our Pre-Vetted Network of Psychedelic Facilitators

At Psychedelic Passage, we have developed a robust network of experienced psychedelic facilitators who are committed to providing safe and effective support for individuals seeking psychedelic experiences. Our facilitators come from diverse backgrounds, including holistic health, indigenous medicine, and harm reduction, ensuring a wide range of approaches and expertise.

Our matchmaking services are designed to connect individuals with the right facilitator for their needs. We understand that finding a trustworthy and experienced guide can be daunting, especially in a landscape with so much ambiguity. Our process involves:

1. Free 15 Minute Path-Finding Call or Matchmaking Form: We start with anfree initial consultation or matchmaking form to understand your specific needs, goals, and preferences. This helps us identify the most suitable facilitator for your journey.
2. Facilitator Matching: Based on the information gathered during the consultation or with the matchmaking form, we match you with a facilitator who has the appropriate expertise and approach to meet your needs. Our network of facilitators are vetted for their experience, ethical practices, and trauma-informed care.
3. Ongoing Support: Our network provides comprehensive support throughout your psychedelic experience, including preparation, in-person support during the session, and integration afterward. They are committed to ensuring your safety and maximizing the therapeutic potential of your journey.

By leveraging our facilitator network and matchmaking services, you can navigate the complex landscape of psychedelic services with confidence, knowing that you are in capable and compassionate hands.

Practical Steps for Individuals Seeking Psychedelic Support

To help navigate the landscape of psychedelic services, here are some practical steps individuals can take to ensure they receive the right support:

1. Research and Verify Credentials: Look into the background and credentials of any practitioner you consider working with. Ensure they have relevant experience and training.
2. Understand the Services Offered: Clarify what specific services the practitioner provides. Are they offering preparation, in-person support during the psychedelic experience, integration, or all of these?
3. Check for Licensure: If seeking psychotherapy, verify that the practitioner is a licensed mental health professional in your state. Understand that if they are providing psychedelic substances, they may be operating outside their professional capacity.
4. Ask About Ethical Guidelines: Inquire about the ethical guidelines the practitioner follows. Ensure they have clear boundaries and professional standards.
5. Look for Trauma-Informed Practices: Ensure the practitioner is trauma-informed and understands how to handle various mental and emotional states safely.
6. Seek Testimonials and References: Look for testimonials or ask for references from previous clients. This can provide insight into the practitioner’s approach and effectiveness.
7. Understand Legal Implications: Be aware of the legal status of psychedelics in your area and the legal implications of participating in psychedelic sessions.

Future Directions and Considerations

As the landscape of psychedelic services continues to evolve, it is important to stay informed about new developments and changes in regulations. Here are some considerations for the future:

1. Regulatory Changes: Keep an eye on state and federal regulations regarding psychedelic substances and their use in therapy. Changes in laws and regulations will impact the availability and legality of these services.
2. Emerging Research: Follow emerging research and clinical trials to stay informed about the efficacy and safety of different psychedelic therapies. Organizations like MAPS are leading the way in this area.
3. Community and Support Networks: Engage with communities and support networks that focus on psychedelic experiences. These groups can provide valuable resources and information. Check out our Events Page to join free community events every month!
4. Ethical Standards Development: Advocate for the development of ethical standards and best practices within the psychedelic services community. This will help protect individuals seeking these services and ensure high-quality care.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between psychedelic therapy and psychedelic coaching is crucial for anyone seeking support in this evolving field. Psychedelic therapy, as it stands, is not yet a formalized practice and often involves a variety of services under a broad umbrella. 

Psychedelic coaching, on the other hand, offers a holistic, comprehensive approach that bridges the gap while formal psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy continues to develop. By navigating these distinctions and seeking out reputable practitioners, individuals can find the support they need in this nascent landscape.

By following the practical steps outlined above and staying informed about future developments, you can make informed decisions about your psychedelic experiences and ensure you receive the best possible care.

Key Considerations for Choosing Therapeutic Psychedelic Options

For more insight on important things to discern when considering therapeutic psychedelic use, explore the following articles:

• • What Does a Good Psychedelic Guide Look Like? Learn about the essential qualities and skills that make an effective psychedelic guide, and how they support individuals through their journeys.

• • The Ketamine Therapy Industry: The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly
    An in-depth look at the ketamine therapy industry, exploring its potential benefits and the challenges it faces.

• • The Psychedelic Therapy Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
    Understand the complete process of psychedelic therapy, from preparation to integration, and what to expect at each stage.

• • The Difference Between a Psychedelic Therapist & a Guide
    Explore the key differences between psychedelic therapists and guides, and how each plays a unique role in the therapeutic process.

• • Psychedelic Assisted Therapy vs. Psychedelic Integration
    Delve into the differences between psychedelic-assisted therapy and psychedelic integration, and their respective benefits.

• • What’s Best? Psychedelic Therapy or an International Retreat?
    Consider the pros and cons of choosing psychedelic therapy versus attending an international psychedelic retreat.

• • The Different Types of Psychedelic Integration
    Learn about the various types of psychedelic integration practices and how they can support your healing journey.

Find Confidence and Clarity with Psychedelic Passage’s Guidance

Hi there! We sincerely hope that you’ve found valuable takeaways that resonate with your current intentions. To explore research-based education, stay updated with psychedelic news, and benefit from practical how-to articles, we encourage you to head over to our resources page.

If you’re seeking personalized advice and are prepared to take the first step toward a therapeutic psychedelic experience, we invite you to a Free 15 Minute Path-Finding Call with our team of experienced psychedelic concierges or to fill out a matchmaking form.

This is an opportunity to be matched with a trustworthy local facilitator. You’ll be seamlessly connected to our rigorously vetted network of psychedelic guides, ensuring potential matches align with your needs.

Psychedelic Passage offers confidence and peace of mind by alleviating the burden of having to guess who’s right for you. If you want to discover how Psychedelic Passage can help you, we empower you to learn more about our services and check out client testimonials from those who’ve gone before you.

Your healing path is uniquely yours, and our commitment is to serve you at every juncture. Psychedelic Passage: Your Psychedelic Concierge — The easy, legal way to find trustworthy psilocybin guides, facilitators and psychedelic experiences near you in the United States.

Learn More About Our Network

• • Book a Free 15 Minute Path-Finding Call or Fill Out a Matchmaking Form

• • Meet Our Referral Network

• • Explore Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between psychedelic therapy and psychedelic coaching?

Psychedelic Therapy: Typically involves licensed mental health professionals who integrate therapeutic practices with psychedelic experiences. This field is still developing and lacks formal approval, although precursor services like ketamine clinics are emerging.

Psychedelic Coaching: Often provided by individuals from various backgrounds, including holistic health and harm reduction. Coaches support preparation, in-person experience, and integration but may not hold formal mental health licenses.

2. Is psychedelic therapy legal?

Currently, formal psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is not legally approved, though clinical trials are underway. Certain states like Oregon and Colorado have initiated programs that allow psychedelic services with specific training, but these do not always involve licensed mental health professionals.

3. What should I expect from a ketamine clinic?

Ketamine clinics typically offer preparation and integration sessions alongside the ketamine administration. They serve as a model for what future psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy might look like, providing structured support within a clinical setting.

4. Can I get insurance coverage for psychedelic therapy?

Traditional psychotherapy conducted by licensed professionals may be covered by insurance. However, services specifically labeled as psychedelic therapy or coaching often fall outside the realm of insurance coverage due to their current legal and regulatory status.

5. What are the risks associated with psychedelic experiences?

Risks include psychological distress, re-traumatization, and physical safety concerns if not taken in an intentional therapeutic setting. It’s crucial to work with practitioners who are trauma-informed and experienced in providing safe, supportive environments for these experiences.