Psychedelic Integration: Psychotherapy for non-ordinary states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 16, 2023
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Psychedelic research is exploding, indicating substances like MDMA and psilocybin may soon be mainstream for conditions like PTSD and depression. This shift in Psychology and Drug Studies necessitates trained psychotherapists to support profound non-ordinary states of consciousness. Psychologist and psychotherapist Marc B. Aixalà, with a decade of experience, exemplifies this expertise. Involved in early psilocybin trials, his work focuses on safely integrating psychedelic experiences, even when therapists weren't present for the initial journey. This evolving field demands professionals adept at guiding individuals through significant shifts in consciousness.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a global explosion in the field of psychedelic research, popularizing of use of non-ordinary states of consciousness to aid in PTSD, anxiety and depression, end of life and a growing sense that the use of substances like MDMA, psilocybin and others may become mainstream approaches to treating persistent challenges in these marginalized populations.As we destigmatize these treatments, as we see more demand, we will also witness a need for more trained professionals who can support these experiences, capable of holding these spaces 1 and an emergence of programs designed to safely facilitate experiences of non-ordinary states of consciousness.Marc B. Aixalà is an engineer, psychologist and psychotherapist.His collaborative work with the International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research and Service (ICEERS) spans a decade of supporting psychedelic experiences, ensuring the relative safety and efficacy of client experiences, through practicing integration therapy.His training includes Holotropic Breathwork facilitator, MAPS certified MDMA assisted psychotherapy for PTSD and the therapeutic use of Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness.Involved in the first medical trials utilizing psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, he continues to be involved in clinical trials researching psychedelic substances and works as a psychologist in his private practice in Spain.This book review will focus on interpreting the core principles of Aixalà's exploration of the ways in which therapists might support clients undertaking psychedelic experiences, often when they themselves have not been present for the client's experience.