*Under medical prescription. The client must meet the criteria of Health Canada's Special Access Program. We can collaborate with your physician or refer you to one.

Psilocybin-containing mushrooms (better know as “magic mushrooms”) grow naturally in every corner of the globe, and are widely used in many cultures. The therapeutic use of psilocybin is rooted in a long shamanic tradition from Central America, notably by the Olmec, Zapotec, Maya, Mazatec and Aztec peoples.

Unlike pharmacological treatments traditionally used in psychiatry, psychedelic medicines significantly alter your state of consciousness. This unique experience can maximize the impact of psychotherapy, notably by promoting psychological flexibility and neuroplasticity.

Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is usually a short-term approach (approximately 10 sessions), according to your needs. The process can be repeated as needed. On a case-by-case basis, the initiation of traditional psychotherapy may be recommended. Psychedelic-assisted therapy can be integrated into your ongoing psychotherapy.

Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy takes place in four phases:

1. Assessment

• Exploring the reason for consultation;

• Risk assessment (such as medical contraindications, pharmacological interactions and general risks to physical safety and psychological integrity);

• Setting up a support plan, according to your needs;

• Medical assessment.

2. Preparation

• Developing a trusting therapeutic relationship;

• Reflecting on your therapeutic intention;

• Mobilizing resources in preparation for what may emerge during the psychedelic experience;

• Optimizing the set & setting (mindset and environment).

3. Assisted psilocybin session

Professional accompaniment by two therapists in a safe environment that encourages the therapeutic dimension of the psychedelic experience. A nurse may be present, if your medical condition requires it. When needed and deemed suitable, home care may be an option.

4. Integration

Integration is the action of incorporating one or more foreign elements into oneself, of assembling diverse elements to form an organic whole; it is the passage from a diffuse state to a coherent one.

Psychedelic experiences can be destabilizing and lead to you feeling fragile and vulnerable. Through integration, we help you to make sense of your experience and metabolize its components (emotional, symbolic, somatic, relational and spiritual) so that you can (re)discover a sense of balance.

Integrating your psychedelic experience helps you to put into practice the learning and fresh perspectives acquired in order to bring about the desired changes in your life and enhance your well-being. This is done in line with your original intention.

As psychedelic experiences are unique, integration is different for each person.

Mycelia offers referrals to other professionals and interventions if the use of psychedelics is inadvisable due to your circumstances.

Warning: psilocybin is a controlled substance and no treatment is currently approved by health authorities. However, Health Canada recognizes the therapeutic potential and usefulness suggested by the results of clinical studies, and allows the medical prescription of psilocybin through their Special Access Program.