Psilocybin therapy - Psychedelic therapy

Investigating psilocybin therapy

The popularity of psilocybin therapy in mental health care has increased because of recent completed studies. For example, a study published in 2023 showed the effectiveness of psilocybin therapy in treating depression and anxiety. Another study in the same year focused on the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and showed that psilocybin therapy can lead to significant improvements in patients. In addition, a third study was published examining the effectiveness of psilocybin therapy in treating alcohol dependence, where significant decreases in alcohol use were observed in patients who had undergone psilocybin therapy. These promising results have led to increased interest in psilocybin therapy as a potentially effective treatment option for depression, anxiety symptoms and addictions, for example.

What is psilocybin therapy?

Psilocybin therapy is a form of therapy in which psilocybin is taken to help reduce various symptoms. Psilocybin therapy is not just about taking the psychedelic, but consists of three main components: preparation, psilocybin session and integration.

During the preparation phase, attention is paid to improving overall health and the client and therapist build a relationship and discuss the client's goals and intentions for therapy.

The session itself involves consuming a consented dose of psilocybin in a comfortable and safe environment together with the counselor of the client's choice. During the introspective phase, the client is encouraged to turn inward and explore their thoughts and emotions.

After the session, the client and therapist work together to reflect and integrate the insights gained during the experience. During the integration conversation, we consider how the psychedelic experience can be used to maintain the client's progress.

What does psilocybin do to you?

After taking psilocybin it is converted by the body to psilocin, which then binds to serotonin receptors in the brain. This leads to increased stimulation of serotonin receptors (5HTR) that affect mood, emotions and perception.

This interaction can cause changes in the way the brain processes information, leading to visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perceptions of time and space, and heightened introspection and spiritual experiences. The effects of psilocybin can last for several hours and can vary depending on the dosage and the state of the brain.

Where can you buy psilocybin?

In the Netherlands, psilocybin is an illegal substance and it can only be used with government permission during clinical trials. There is no exemption for therapeutic sessions with psilocybin. However, a psilocybin session can be done legally by taking psilocybin-containing truffles. These are the tubers of magic mushrooms that grow in the soil. Magic truffles can be legally used in the Netherlands for this type of session.

Is a guided psychedelic experience better?

A guided psychedelic trip on psilocybin can work better than an unguided trip because the experience is fully guided by an expert therapist who can provide the right environment and context. Proper preparation is essential for a successful psychedelic trip. By creating a comfortable and safe environment, clarifying intentions and taking the right dose, results are often better. An experienced therapist can also help process emotions and thoughts that may surface during the trip, making the experience more likely to remain positive. During the trip, the therapist can provide calmness that reduces anxiety and restlessness.

Is psilocybin suitable for everyone?

Psilocybin is one of the safest substances that can alter consciousness. However, there are a few combinations with conditions or medications that can be dangerous. Some of these contraindications include:

- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Severe kidney or liver problems
- Cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure
- Severe mental illness, such as depression, psychosis or schizophrenia
- Taking different drugs

So it's wise to get screened for safety before booking a psilocybin session.

Psilocybin therapy in the Netherlands

Triptherapy is an organization operating in the Netherlands since 2018, offering psilocybin sessions using legal alternatives. Triptherapy has already helped more than 2000 clients with their sessions. These sessions are guided by experienced counselors can take place at home or at Triptherapy's location.

To request a psilocybin session at Trip Therapy, it is required to first complete the online intake. This intake serves as an initial check for safety and is also the basis for preliminary advice. Please use the buttons below for more information.