Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Medical & Safety Considerations

Who should not participate in a psilocybin journey?
Psilocybin is not appropriate for everyone. Safety is essential, and in some cases, this work may not be the right fit. You may not be a candidate at this time if you:

  • Have a personal or family history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis

  • Have a serious cardiovascular condition (such as heart disease or unmanaged hypertension)

  • Are experiencing active suicidal ideation or a current mental health crisis

  • Have severe, unprocessed trauma or extreme anxiety that may be destabilizing without sufficient preparation

In all cases, I encourage a thoughtful, collaborative discussion to assess readiness.

Medication & Health Conditions

Can I participate if I’m taking antidepressants or other medications?
Maybe. It depends on your specific medication and your unique physiology.

  • SSRIs (e.g., Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro): May reduce or dull the effects of psilocybin, though some clients still find benefit.

  • MAOIs or tricyclics: These may have dangerous interactions. Do not stop taking prescribed medication without medical supervision.

  • Blood pressure medications: These may require adjustment; consult your physician.

We’ll discuss your medication history in the intake process and collaborate with medical providers if needed.

Are there physical side effects?
Psilocybin is generally considered physiologically safe. However, some common side effects may include:

  • Temporary increase in heart rate and blood pressure

  • Nausea or digestive discomfort during onset

  • A mild headache after the journey, often resolved with rest and hydration

Legal & Ethical Framework

Is psilocybin legal in Colorado?
Yes. Under the Natural Medicine Health Act, psilocybin is legal for personal use and supported facilitation in approved settings. It is still not legal to sell or purchase psilocybin outside of licensed or approved frameworks.

What kind of touch is legally permitted during a journey?
Licensed facilitators in Colorado are allowed to offer supportive touch only to:

  • Hands, feet, and shoulders

This is always done with prior consent. Full-body contact or bodywork is not permitted during the journey session. However, somatic practices and movement-based tools may be used during preparation and integration sessions.

What to Expect from a Journey

What does the psilocybin journey feel like?
Every journey is unique, but generally, it unfolds in three stages:

  • Onset (30–45 min in): You may feel shifts in perception, emotion, or sensation.

  • Peak (2–4 hours): Deep emotional processing, visuals, or profound insights are common.

  • Resolution (4–7 hours): A soft return to baseline, often with a gentle "afterglow" phase.

How does psilocybin affect the brain and body?
Psilocybin interacts with serotonin receptors and can:

  • Reduce activity in the Default Mode Network, linked to ego and self-referencing

  • Increase neural connectivity, allowing new perspectives and pattern disruption

  • Open access to suppressed memories or emotions, allowing release and reprocessing

These effects contribute to emotional breakthroughs and spiritual insight.

Navigating Challenging Moments

What if I feel fear or anxiety during the experience?
This is not uncommon and can actually be a meaningful part of the healing process.

If fear arises:

  • I will be there to ground and support you

  • You’ll have tools we practiced in advance: breathwork, somatic awareness, and surrendering techniques

Sometimes the most uncomfortable moments lead to the greatest clarity. You are never alone in the experience.

Preparing for Your Journey

How should I prepare?
Preparation is an important part of your process. Here are some key practices:

  • Eat clean (light, nourishing foods) 24 hours before

  • Avoid alcohol and recreational substances for at least 48 hours

  • Get rest and reduce stimulation leading up to the session

  • Spend time with your intentions — reflect, journal, or meditate

What should I eat or avoid the day of?

  • Avoid heavy or processed foods

  • A light meal 3–4 hours beforehand (fruit, veggies, healthy fats) is ideal

  • Hydrate well, but avoid caffeine or stimulants

Integration After the Journey

What is integration, and why is it important?
Integration is where the real healing unfolds. Without it, even a powerful journey can fade over time.

  • Your integration session (1 week post-journey) helps you digest insights and begin applying them in daily life

  • We may use movement, breathwork, or somatic dialogue to help anchor the work

  • Additional integration sessions are available if desired

Other helpful practices: journaling, meditation, nature time, gentle movement, and creative expression.

Duration & Afterglow

How long do the effects last?

  • The active journey typically lasts 4–7 hours

  • The afterglow may last days or weeks, with heightened clarity and emotional openness

  • Long-term impacts vary, but many report increased peace, resilience, and clarity for months or years afterward

❓ Still Have Questions?

Every journey is personal. If you have questions that weren’t answered here, I’d love to connect and help you feel informed, empowered, and supported.