Therapy with psychedelics (PAT)

PAT stands for Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, a form of psychotherapy in which psychedelics are used to achieve a therapeutic effect. This form of therapy is currently being investigated as a treatment for various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders and addiction. Psychedelic therapy or psychedelic therapy is often spoken of when talking about this form of therapy.

The idea behind PAT is that the psychedelic experience can help to reach deeper levels of consciousness and address emotional problems. The psychedelic sessions are done under the guidance of a trained professional and in a safe environment to minimize risks and achieve optimal therapeutic results.

Psychedelics as medicine

In the Netherlands, psychedelics are currently not classified as medicine. A lot of research is still being done to demonstrate its effectiveness and safety. At the moment, there are still a lot of psychedelic substances on a prohibited list and it is only possible to work with a few that are not on it.

In Australia, progress has already been made in classifying some psychedelics as medications. For example, MDMA has recently been approved as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psilocybin is used to treat depression.

Psychedelics as medicine

In the Netherlands, psychedelics are currently not classified as medicine. A lot of research is still being done to demonstrate its effectiveness and safety. At the moment, there are still a lot of psychedelic substances on a prohibited list and it is only possible to work with a few that are not on it.

In Australia, progress has already been made in classifying some psychedelics as medications. For example, MDMA has recently been approved as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psilocybin is used to treat depression.

Psychedelics sessions in the Netherlands

The sessions with psychedelics that are done in the Netherlands cannot be called medical treatments due to legislation. Legal psychedelic sessions are possible. Psilocybin sessions are legal as long as magic truffles are used as a base. Legal sessions are possible for MDMA and LSD by working with analogues or prodrugs. Use the buttons below for more information.

Psychedelics under supervision

Psychedelics, such as LSD and psilocybin, have a different effect under supervision than with party use. Party use usually involves taking a high dose, without supervision and in an unfamiliar environment. This can lead to overwhelming and intense experiences, sometimes even with negative consequences such as paranoia and anxiety.

Under supervision, however, psychedelics are used in a controlled environment, with the correct dosage and under the watchful eye of an experienced therapist. This can help to explore deeper layers of consciousness, making it possible to gain insights and personal growth.

For psychedelic therapy

When preparing for psychedelic therapy, several steps are taken to make the experience as safe and effective as possible. First, an extensive screening is carried out to determine whether the person is suitable for treatment with psychedelics. This includes looking at the medical history, current medication use and any contraindications.

In addition, dietary adjustments are often advised, such as avoiding certain foods such as red meat, alcohol and caffeine. It may also be advised to use supplements, such as magnesium or omega-3 fatty acids.

Reading books and watching videos can help you gain more knowledge about the therapeutic uses of psychedelics and build confidence in treatment. A preliminary conversation with the practitioner can help to answer questions and discuss fears, so that the person can best prepare for the experience.

The therapy session with psychedelics

During the therapy session you will take one of the well-known psychedelics. However, before you continue with the intake, preparatory work will take place so that you learn to deal with certain situations. During the first conversation, the objectives of the session can be discussed and you can be introduced to certain concepts that can take on a life of their own during the trip. After taking the psychedelic you will experience an initial effect, depending on the chosen substance, followed by conversations alternating with introspective moments. At the end of the session there will be an opportunity to discuss the insights you have gained.

After the psychedelic session

The integration of therapy with psychedelics is an important element in the treatment of mental health problems. Using psychedelics can be an intense and profound experience and it is therefore important that patients are given the opportunity to process the experience and integrate it into their daily lives. This often involves telephone consultations, where the therapist calls the patient a week after the session to evaluate how the patient is feeling and to discuss any concerns or questions. This form of aftercare is essential to ensure that the patient gets the most out of psychedelic therapy and is able to process the experience in a way that is positive and valuable to their personal growth and well-being.

Sign up for psychedelic therapy

The intake required to request a session with psychedelics can be reached via the button below. The intake page also lists a number of important contraindications so that you can quickly check whether it is suitable for you to use psychedelics.

FAQ psychedelic therapy

What do psychedelics do to you?

Psychedelics are drugs that cause someone to see and experience the world differently. During a trip, everything someone sees, smells and feels can be different than normal. Colors can appear brighter and things can often appear to be moving. The way someone thinks can also be different. The duration of a trip varies per drug.

Which drugs are considered psychedelics?

Most drugs that induce hallucinations fall under psychedelics, including psilocybin, DMT, LSD and substances similar to these three. MDMA is also seen by many as a psychedelic, but it works in a completely different way.

What is the danger of psychedelics?

A bad trip, lasting negative feelings, psychosis, permanent visual disturbances and worsening of existing complaints are some of the risks.

Which psychedelics are the most dangerous?

Which psychedelic is the most dangerous varies per user. MDMA and ayahuasca have higher risks of side effects and drug interactions. The dosage of the substances used also plays a role

Which psychedelics are legal?

Psilocybin is only legal in the Netherlands as magic truffles, MDMA as an analogue and LSD as a prodrug.