Find answers to common questions about online MDMA therapy, trip sitting services, and in-person psychedelic sessions to help guide your healing journey.

MDMA-assisted therapy is an innovative treatment approach that combines the use of MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) with psychotherapy. In this therapy:

• MDMA is administered in a controlled, therapeutic setting
• A therapist guides you through the experience
• The therapy typically involves preparatory sessions, MDMA sessions, and integration sessions

MDMA can help by:

• Reducing fear and anxiety
• Increasing feelings of trust and empathy
• Enhancing introspection and emotional processing

This approach has shown promising results in treating PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

MDMA-assisted therapy is still undergoing clinical trials in many countries, but has shown remarkable potential for healing and personal growth when conducted by trained professionals in a safe, supportive environment.

See more info on:

guidinggrowth.me/mdma 

An MDMA therapy session with me typically lasts 4 to 5 hours. This time frame allows us to work through emotional processing at a pace that feels safe and supportive, while ensuring the effects of the MDMA are fully integrated into the session.

Many clients experience great improvements after just one MDMA therapy session. However, depending on individual needs and goals, some clients choose to continue for 3 to 5 sessions. Each session builds on the previous one, allowing for deeper healing and integration over time.

In preparation for your MDMA therapy session, you’ll receive all the necessary information from me as part of the process. However, a few key points to keep in mind:

– Avoid eating and drinking anything but water for 3 hours before the session.

– Get a good night’s sleep prior to your journey.

– Create a comfortable, distraction-free environment.

– You may want to incorporate a calming ritual, such as yoga, meditation, or gentle stretching, before starting.

I’ll guide you through everything else to ensure you’re fully prepared for the experience.

The therapeutic effects of MDMA can last well beyond the session itself. While the immediate effects of the medicine typically last around 4 to 6 hours, you may still feel subtle effects for the rest of the day. Many clients report feeling the emotional and psychological benefits for days, weeks, or even months afterward, as the insights gained during the session continue to integrate into their daily lives.

No, you won’t be alone during your online MDMA session. I’ll be present with you via video call throughout the entire experience, offering personalized support. You’ll be in your own comfortable space, but I’ll guide you through the process, ensuring you feel safe and supported. We’ll also set up a safety plan before the session, and afterward, I’ll be available if you need help to begin the integration process.

Integration support is a crucial part of the MDMA therapy process. Here’s what you can expect after your online session:

1. Immediate Post-Session Care:

   – We’ll have a brief integration talk right after the active phase of your session.

   – I’ll ensure you’re grounded and provide immediate guidance for self-care.

2. Follow-up Integration Sessions:

   – We’ll schedule one or more online integration sessions in the days and weeks following your MDMA experience. These sessions help you process insights, navigate emotional responses, and apply learnings to your daily life.

3. Personalized Integration Plan:

   – I’ll work with you to develop strategies for incorporating your insights into your everyday life. This may include mindfulness practices, journaling prompts, or other personalized recommendations.

4. Email Support:

   – Limited email support is available between sessions for urgent questions or concerns.

5. Ongoing Guidance:

   – Recommendations for long-term practices to sustain and build upon the benefits of your MDMA session.

Remember, integration is a personal journey. My role is to provide support and guidance, but the most meaningful integration work happens through your own commitment to growth and self-reflection.

If you experience any concerning symptoms or prolonged difficulties after your session, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional or medical doctor.

MDMA therapy has shown promising results for a range of conditions, including PTSD, anxiety and depression. Many clients with these challenges report significant improvements, as MDMA can help create a sense of safety, reduce fear, and promote deep emotional processing. However, each person is unique, and I’ll work closely with you to determine if this therapy is a good fit for your specific needs.

No, MDMA is not a miracle cure, but it can significantly shorten the therapeutic process by creating breakthroughs that might take years in traditional therapy. It accelerates healing, helping you to access deep emotional layers and foster self-awareness in a shorter time.

The interaction between MDMA and other medications is a critical safety consideration. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Screening Process:

As part of our intake process, I conduct a thorough screening of your current medications and health history. I will assess, to the best of my knowledge and experience, which medications might be contraindicated with MDMA. This screening helps identify potential risks or contraindications.

2. Professional Medical Advice:

While I have experience, I am not a licensed medical professional and cannot provide definitive medical advice about drug interactions. In certain cases, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional, especially for complex medical histories or specific medication concerns. If necessary, I can provide contact information for professionals with extensive knowledge in this area.

3. Common Concerns:

Certain medications, particularly some antidepressants (like SSRIs), can interact dangerously with MDMA. Other medications may reduce the effectiveness of MDMA therapy.

4. Individual Assessment:

The safety and appropriateness of combining MDMA with your current medications depend on various factors, including the specific medications, dosages, and your overall health.

5. Potential Adjustments:

Based on our assessment, you may need to consult your doctor about temporarily adjusting your medication regimen before MDMA therapy. Never change or stop your medications without professional medical supervision.

6. Full Disclosure:

It’s essential to be completely honest about all medications, supplements, and substances you use during our screening process.

7. Ongoing Communication:

If there are any changes to your medications between our initial screening and the MDMA session, please inform me immediately.

Remember, your safety is paramount. If combining MDMA with your current medications poses any significant risk, we will explore alternative approaches to support your healing journey or seek additional professional guidance.

Always prioritize your health and well-being. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and seek professional medical advice. I’m here to support you in making informed decisions and can help connect you with appropriate resources when needed.

MDMA therapy and traditional talk therapy are both valuable approaches to mental health and personal growth, but they differ in several key ways:

1. Altered State of Consciousness:

MDMA therapy involves an altered state of consciousness, which can facilitate deeper introspection and emotional processing. Traditional talk therapy occurs in a normal waking state.

2. Duration and Intensity:

MDMA sessions are typically longer (4-6 hours) and more intense than standard therapy sessions. Talk therapy usually involves shorter, regular sessions (often 50-60 minutes) over a longer period.

3. Emotional Openness:

MDMA can enhance empathy and reduce fear, potentially allowing for more open exploration of difficult emotions or memories. Talk therapy relies on building trust over time to achieve emotional openness.

4. Trauma Processing:

 MDMA may help access and process traumatic memories with less emotional overwhelm. Talk therapy approaches trauma gradually, often using techniques like CBT or EMDR.

5. Frequency:

MDMA sessions are typically spaced weeks or months apart, with integration work in between. Talk therapy often occurs weekly or bi-weekly.

6. Physiological Effects:

MDMA has direct physiological effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Talk therapy doesn’t directly affect physiology, though relaxation techniques might be used.

7. Legal and Accessibility:

MDMA therapy is currently not widely legally available outside of clinical trials and in creation areas or countries. Traditional talk therapy is widely available and covered by many insurance plans.

8. Complementary Approaches:

MDMA therapy often works best when combined with preparatory and integration talk therapy sessions. Many find that these approaches can complement each other effectively.

It’s important to note that while MDMA therapy shows promise, especially for conditions like PTSD, it’s not suitable for everyone. The choice between these approaches (or a combination) should be made in consultation with qualified professionals, considering your specific needs, medical history, and treatment goals.

Remember, my role is to provide support and facilitate your journey, not to replace the care of licensed mental health professionals when needed.

MDMA therapy and other psychedelic therapies (like those using psilocybin, LSD, or ayahuasca) share some similarities but also have distinct differences:

Effects on Consciousness:

MDMA produces an alert, emotionally open state without significant perceptual changes. Other psychedelics often induce more profound alterations in perception and consciousness.

Emotional Processing:

MDMA is known for enhancing empathy and reducing fear, making it particularly useful for processing emotional trauma and other difficult feelings. Other psychedelics may offer broader insights but can be less specifically focused on emotional processing.

Duration:

MDMA sessions typically last 4-6 hours. Other psychedelic sessions can range from 4-12 hours or more, depending on the substance.

Therapeutic Focus:

MDMA therapy is often used for PTSD and relationship issues. Other psychedelics may be used for a wider range of conditions, including depression, addiction, and existential concerns.

Interaction with Guide:

During MDMA sessions, clients often remain verbally interactive. With other psychedelics, internal experiences may be more pronounced, with less interaction.

Physical Effects:

MDMA can increase heart rate and body temperature. Other psychedelics may have different physiological effects, varying by substance.

Integration Process:

While all psychedelic therapies emphasize integration, the specific approaches may differ based on the nature of the experiences induced by each substance.

Research Status:

MDMA is in late-stage clinical trials for PTSD. Research on other psychedelics is also progressing but may be at different stages for various conditions.

Each type of psychedelic therapy offers unique benefits and considerations. The choice between them depends on individual needs, medical history, and therapeutic goals. As your coach, I specialize in MDMA therapy, but I also offer psychedelic assisted therapy using LSD or psilocybin.  I’m happy to discuss how these compares to other options you may be considering.

Remember, all psychedelic therapies should be approached with careful preparation, respect for the powerful nature of these experiences, and proper integration support.

No, I am not a medical professional. The information provided here is intended for educational and coaching purposes only, and should not be considered a substitute for medical or legal advice. It’s essential to consult a qualified medical professional regarding your physical and mental health before embarking on any treatment or therapeutic journey. Always prioritize your health by getting the appropriate screenings and advice from a licensed professional. 

Portugal’s progressive drug policy has decriminalized the personal use of substances, including psychedelics. While this doesn’t mean psychedelics are fully legalized, the decriminalization framework allows individuals to engage more openly in personal therapeutic work with a greater sense of security, making Portugal a safe and discreet location for psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Psychedelics are widely illegal in many parts of the world and individuals should always be informed about local regulations regarding psychedelics or other compounds. While personal use is decriminalized in Portugal, it’s important to be aware of and respect local laws. Psychedelics are not supplied by Guiding Growth nor do we encourage any illegal behaviours.

While MDMA therapy can be very beneficial, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. As your coach, I’m committed to ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

Common Side Effects:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Elevated body temperature
• Jaw clenching and teeth grinding
• Nausea or loss of appetite
• Mild visual distortions
• Sensitivity to cold
• Difficulty concentrating

It’s important to note that these side effects are typically very transient in the majority of cases, often subsiding as the MDMA wears off.

Risk Mitigation:

We take several steps to minimize risks and manage side effects:

1. Thorough Screening: We’ll conduct a comprehensive screening process to assess your suitability for MDMA therapy and identify any potential risk factors.

2. Preparation: I’ll provide detailed guidance on how to prepare for your session, including dietary recommendations and stress-reduction techniques.

3. During the Session: We’ll establish protocols for handling challenging situations that may arise during the session. I’ll be available throughout to provide support and guidance.

4. Post-Session Care: I’ll provide you with information on supplements, self-care practices, and other helpful strategies to mitigate any negative physical side effects in the days following the session.

5. Integration Support: We’ll work together to integrate your experience and address any psychological after-effects.

Potential Risks:

While rare, more serious risks can include psychological challenges like anxiety or mood fluctuations, and physical risks such as hyperthermia or dehydration. However, these risks are significantly reduced in a controlled, therapeutic setting with proper screening and support.

As your online coach, I’ll guide you through each step of the process, from preparation to integration, to help you navigate the experience safely and effectively.

Your safety is my top priority. We’ll discuss these risks and mitigation strategies in detail during our preparation sessions, ensuring you feel fully informed and comfortable before proceeding.

MDMA therapy isn’t suitable for everyone, and certain medical conditions or medications may make this treatment inappropriate. During the intake process, I assess both physical and mental suitability to ensure the safety and well-being of my clients. For more details on potential contraindications, please visit the FAQ page.

One of the great advantages of doing this therapy the Guiding Growth way is that you can receive it from the comfort of your own home. By choosing the right quiet, comfortable space, there’s no need to worry about driving afterward—you can relax and fully integrate the experience without the hassle of travel.

While I have training and experience related to psychedelic-assisted therapy, including MDMA therapy, it’s important to note that I am not a licensed medical professional or therapist. My qualifications include:

1. Over 25 years of experience exploring altered states of consciousness, including work with psychedelic substances.

2. Completion of various courses focused on psychedelic therapies, including:

• Foundations of MDMA therapIntegration strategies
• Psychedelic exploration guidance
• Internal Family Systems (IFS) with psychedelic therapy
• Polyvagal theory

3. Training with Jonathan Robinson, an experienced MDMA guide and facilitator, focusing on integrating MDMA therapy with personal growth, mindfulness, and trauma healing practices.

4. Certification as a Health Coach, providing a foundation in holistic well-being.

5. Training across several psychotherapeutic techniques, which complement my work with psychedelic-assisted therapy.

6. Ongoing study and staying up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

My approach combines this training with my personal experience in overcoming life challenges and engaging in continuous personal growth. I strive to create a safe, respectful, and compassionate environment for your journey.

The risk of addiction to MDMA in a therapeutic context is generally considered to be low, but it’s an important concern to address. MDMA therapy involves carefully controlled dosing and frequency, unlike recreational use. Sessions are typically spaced months apart, which significantly reduces the risk of physical dependence.

In this therapeutic setting, the focus is on processing emotions and experiences, not on the drug experience itself. This approach, combined with proper supervision and integration support, helps prevent misuse and doesn’t promote the associative behaviors often linked with addiction.

However, personal history of substance abuse may increase risk, which is why we conduct thorough screenings to assess individual risk factors.

Clinical trials have not shown evidence of MDMA addiction when used in therapeutic contexts, although long-term studies are still ongoing. This is in contrast to recreational MDMA use, especially frequent or high-dose use, which carries higher risks of problematic use patterns.

While physical addiction is unlikely, some individuals might develop a psychological attachment to the therapeutic experience. Our integration work is designed to help process the experience and reduce this risk.

It’s crucial to approach MDMA therapy with respect for its potency and to follow all guidelines provided. If you have concerns about addiction or a history of substance abuse, please discuss this openly during our screening process.

Remember, the goal of MDMA therapy is to enhance your overall well-being and self-understanding, not to create reliance on the substance itself. Our focus is always on your long-term healing and growth.

Determining if you’re a good fit for online MDMA coaching involves a careful assessment process:

1. Initial Consultation: We’ll have an in-depth video chat about your mental health history, current challenges, and goals.

2. Medical Screening: I’ll review your medical history and current medications. While I’m not a doctor, I can identify potential risks based on my experience and knowledge. In some cases, I may recommend consulting a medical professional.

3. Psychological Evaluation: We’ll discuss any mental health conditions to ensure MDMA is appropriate for you.

4. Support System: We’ll talk about your support network, which is crucial for integration work.

5. Readiness Assessment: I’ll gauge your readiness for the intense emotional work involved in MDMA therapy.

6. Risk Assessment: Based on our discussions, I’ll assess potential risks and benefits for you.

7. Informed Consent: I’ll ensure you understand the process, risks, and current legal status of MDMA therapy.

My primary concern is your safety and well-being. If online MDMA coaching isn’t the right fit, we’ll explore other options to support your personal growth journey.

Remember, this is a collaborative process. Your honesty and openness are crucial for a thorough assessment and the best possible outcome.

Music plays a crucial role in MDMA therapy, even in an online setting. It helps create a supportive environment, facilitates emotional release, and can guide the journey. Here’s how we approach music in our online sessions:

Curated Playlists:

I use carefully curated playlists specifically designed for MDMA therapy sessions. These playlists have been thoughtfully composed to support different phases of the MDMA experience and facilitate emotional processing and introspection.

Technical Setup:

We’ll ensure you have a good audio setup for your session. This might involve using headphones for immersion or setting up speakers for a room-filling sound, depending on your preference and living situation.

Shared Control:

Through screen sharing, I can manage the playlist during your session. This allows me to adjust the music based on your emotional state and the phase of the session.

Flexibility:

While we’ll primarily use the curated playlists, we can make adjustments if needed. You’ll have the ability to communicate if something doesn’t feel right, and we can adapt accordingly.

Integration:

After the session, we’ll discuss how the music influenced your experience. This can provide valuable insights for integration and for understanding your journey.

Remember, while music is important, it’s also okay to have periods of silence if that feels right for you. The goal is to create an auditory environment that supports your therapeutic journey in the most effective way possible.

By incorporating these carefully designed playlists into our online MDMA therapy sessions, we can create a rich, supportive environment for your healing and growth, even from a distance.

Challenging experiences can occur during MDMA sessions, even in a supportive setting. Here’s how we’ll approach this in our online coaching context:

Remember, I’m Here: I’ll be available via video call throughout your entire session. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, simply reach out to me.

Trust the Process: Challenging moments often lead to significant insights. Try to stay open and curious about what you’re experiencing.

Grounding Techniques: Deep breathing, focusing on physical sensations, or describing your surroundings can help.

Change Your Environment: Adjust your setting – change the lighting, music, or move to a different room if possible.

Express Yourself: Speak your feelings aloud, even if I’m not actively responding. Sometimes, articulating the experience can provide relief.

Physical Comfort: Ensure you’re physically comfortable. Adjust your position, temperature, or use comfort objects we’ve discussed.

Remind Yourself: This is temporary. The effects will subside, and you’re in a safe space.

Integration is Key: Remember, challenging experiences often offer the most growth. We’ll work through this together in our integration sessions.

Emergency Contact: In rare cases where you feel unsafe, use the emergency contact we’ve established before the session.

Your safety is my primary concern. We’ll prepare for various scenarios before your session, ensuring you feel equipped to navigate any challenges that arise.

Remember, my role is to support your journey, even in difficult moments. There’s no judgment – all experiences are valid and can contribute to your growth and healing.

No, MDMA therapy is not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding. MDMA can have unknown and potentially harmful effects on both the fetus and the nursing child. It is important to prioritize the safety of both the mother and the child during this time. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and considering MDMA therapy, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for safe alternatives.

Safety is a top priority. Before any session, we go through a thorough preparation process, including reviewing safety precautions and understanding how to reduce risks during the experience. Additionally, I require that each client designates an emergency contact who is a phone call away and available during the session. This contact can assist if any urgent situation arises. While I provide emotional and psychological support, having someone physically close to the client ensures rapid response to any medical emergency.

Eat lightly before the session, have water on hand and ready, coconut water is great too or other electrolyte drink.

Have a light nutritious meal already prepared for when you start to come down and may begin to feel hungry. Food that is juicy or high water content will be most palatable (avoid dry or crunchy foods).

Let at least one other trusted friend or family member know the day and time of your medicine session – someone local is preferable in case you’d like them to come over for your aftercare – hugs, cuddle or to bring nice food.

Turn off all notifications on phones/personal devices. Maybe even a sign on your front door to not be disturbed (leave parcels with neighbor etc).

Plan on not leaving your home until the following day.

I’ll provide more specifics on things you can do, like supplements and seld care as we prepare for your session.

Yes, MDMA-assisted therapy can be conducted online, and it’s adapted to offer powerful therapeutic support in the comfort and safety of your own home. This approach eliminates the logistical challenges and travel expenses associated with in-person sessions, allowing you to relax more deeply in your familiar environment. Online MDMA-guided sessions, conducted over Zoom, are carefully structured to ensure that the therapeutic process remains effective and secure.

The nature of MDMA as a therapeutic tool helps clients open up and feel safe, even when working with a guide remotely. Safety protocols and emergency contacts are also put in place to ensure your well-being throughout the session. This format provides a cost-effective and convenient alternative to in-person therapy, while still delivering deep, meaningful results.

Yes, MDMA-assisted therapy can be suitable even if you’ve never used psychedelics before. MDMA is not a traditional psychedelic, but rather an empathogen, known for creating feelings of openness, safety, and connection, which can facilitate deep therapeutic work. Before starting, we will have thorough preparatory sessions to ensure you feel fully informed, comfortable, and ready for the experience. We will also discuss any concerns and ensure safety measures are in place to guide you through the process with care and support.

You can find detailed information about my legal and safety policies on the Legal & Safety page. It covers privacy, confidentiality, disclaimers, and the safety protocols I follow to ensure your well-being throughout the process. This includes health screenings, emergency contacts, and more. For a full understanding, please visit the page directly.