Psychedelics have been around since the dawn of human consciousness. In fact, some believe that psychedelic plants were an important part of human evolution. Indigenous cultures the world over have used plant medicine to seek spiritual and personal enlightenment, guidance and connection. Essentially, this is nothing new. Early scientific research on using psychedelics in therapy ended in 1970 as the Controlled Substances Act became law. Federal funding ended and the approval process became more restrictive. Beyond federal law, public perception of psychedelic substances shifted as well and interest waned as we began to label all psychedelic drugs as harmful. Politics aside, perception is shifting once again and research has begun anew.

 

At Wild and Wonderful Life, we are aligned with the perspective that the world is not black and white, rather that everything is helpful or harmful depending on the context. In the context of therapy, psychedelic substances are proving to be safe, effective and life saving for many who have lost hope.

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Can I do Psychedelic Assisted Therapy with Psilocybin or other Substances?
The passage of Proposition 122 in Colorado has created a pathway for therapists to legally be able to offer psilocybin (mushroom) assisted therapy by September 2024. Until that time, it is still illegal for a therapist to offer this service. Once the framework for licensing and accountability has been put in place, therapists will be able to demonstrate that they have had the necessary training and apply for the appropriate license. Until then, we cannot offer this service. Working within the law, we are able to offer Ketamine and Cannabis Assisted Psychotherapy.

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Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) & Cannabis-Assisted Psychotherapy
With over 50 years of medical use, Ketamine has a track record of safety when used with supervision. Commonly known as "Special K," Ketamine is an anesthetic drug that emerged first as a treatment for depression. The current, most probable, understanding of Ketamine’s mode of action is as an NMDA antagonist working through the glutamate neurotransmitter system. At the dosage level we use in a therapy session, clients experience analgesic (numbing), anxiolytic (anxiety reducing), antidepressant, and psychedelic effects. Ketamine also may bring about “transpersonal,” “mystical,” or “out-of-body” experiences that may also facilitate a shift in perspective and emotional state. Clients report feeling joy, peace and connection as well as a transformation of deep emotional experiences. Cannabis does the same, but by activating the endocannabinoid system. We have found through experience that Ketamine provides more of a cushioned experience, while Cannabis can be more activating. It is important to note that each individual's experience is unique, and each session is unique. We humans change from day to day, and so will your experience in therapy.  

Ketamine or Cannabis?
It depends! Cannabis is legal in Colorado, and easy to obtain. Some individuals, however, have had negative experiences with Cannabis - or their employment prevents them from using it. Ketamine is available through prescription only. We work with several psychiatrists who prescribe and monitor dose. The process of obtaining a prescription requires an evaluation by one of our prescribers, and usually takes more time compared to visiting a dispensary. Regardless of the substance, experiencing a non-ordinary state of consciousness is transformative. 

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