“Integration is a process in which a person revisits and actively engages in making sense of, working through, translating, and processing the content of their psychedelic experience. Through intentional effort and supportive practices, this process allows one to gradually capture and incorporate the emergent lessons and insights into their lives, thus moving toward greater balance and wholeness, both internally (mind, body, and spirit) and externally (lifestyle, social relations, and the natural world)”
–(Bathje, 2022)
This week, we looked at important considerations for the Integration Sessions. Integration is one of the distinguishing features of psychedelic medicines used for therapeutic purposes in comparison with recreational purposes. We also looked at recommended Integration Needs Framework which included the following features:
Regulation
Normalizing
Metabolizing
Meaning-Making
Committed Actions
Keeping it Alive
Connection to Others
Spiritual Needs
The following assessments are due shortly.
Module 7 Knowledge Check due at the end of Week 7
See the Course Schedule for all due dates.
As you progress throughout your week, reflect on the following question(s). There is no required written response, rather it is a key takeaway to reflect on. If you would like, you can share your response on Flip.
Clients have already spent a lot of time and money on Preparation and Medicine Sessions. Integration Sessions are a key component to psychedelic-assisted therapy. How can therapists help clients understand the value of Integration Sessions in their overall healing journey? Consider the utility, intention, and potential outcomes of Integration Sessions for clients. Record some of your thoughts as it may be useful when having conversations with future clients.
Bathje, G. J., Majeski, E., and Kudowor, M. (2022). Psychedelic integration: An analysis of the concept and its practice. Frontiers in Psychology, 13(824077).