Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy

Psychedelic Integration offered by Valentina Chichiniova

At Emergence Counselling and Wellness, we offer specialized Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy and Integration services. Our aim is to educate and guide individuals on the safe and informed use of psychedelic substances such as psilocybin, MDMA, ketamine and cannabis.

Understanding Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy

Valentina Chichiniova is dedicated to educating clients about the safe use of psychedelics. Research and clinical practice show that the most effective and safest way to use these substances is under the guidance of mental health professionals, such as therapists, trained MDs, nurses, as well as elders and teachers.

While there is much excitement around the potential of psychedelics, it is important to approach them with caution and realistic expectations. These substances are not miracle cures, and their benefits are best realized through comprehensive preparation and integration within the framework of ongoing psychotherapy.

Psilocybin and MDMA Therapy

Psilocybin and MDMA have shown promising results in clinical trials for various mental health conditions. Psilocybin is being studied for its potential to alleviate depression, anxiety, and PTSD. MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, has shown significant effectiveness in treating PTSD by allowing patients to process traumatic memories without the associated distress. Valentina specializes in both psilocybin and MDMA therapy, utilizing these substances to facilitate deep therapeutic work and emotional healing.

Valentina is trained in psilocibin use by Therapsil (2022) and MDMA by MAPS (2022). 

Special Access Program

Valentina is also a graduate of the inaugural Psychedelic Assisted Therapy program at Vancouver Island University (2022-2023), the first Canadian university to offer such accreditation. She works collaboratively with a team of doctors and nurses to provide comprehensive support for individuals seeking psychedelic therapy. Valentina can assist those looking to apply for the Special Access Program (SAP) in Canada, which is designed to help individuals experiencing end-of-life distress, treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and more. If you are not yet connected with a prescribing doctor, Valentina can facilitate that connection. Please note that only MDs and Nurse Practitioners are authorized to prescribe these medicines under the SAP.

Are Psychedelics Right for Me?

Psychedelics may not be suitable for everyone. They are not recommended for individuals dealing with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, or personality disorders, nor for those seeking quick fixes or shortcuts in their mental health journey. Additionally, those in a state of desperation or with unrealistic expectations influenced by popular media should approach psychedelics with caution.

However, psychedelics might be beneficial for individuals who:

• Understand that healing is a process and are willing to engage in therapy alongside psychedelic experiences
• Can invest in their mental health and personal growth
• Have a supportive social network
• Maintain a basic level of stability

Psychedelic therapy works best as part of a regular psychotherapy process to provide continuous support and growth. Valentina’s specialized training in psychedelic integration offers a deeper dive into understanding these experiences than mainstream psychology typically provides.

What to Expect

Preparation

Effective psychedelic therapy begins with thorough preparation. For each psychedelic session, you will participate in at least three (3) preparatory sessions to ensure you are fully ready for the experience. These sessions help you build a solid foundation and mindset for the journey ahead. 

Medicine Session

The medicine session itself typically lasts around 6 hours. The cost of these sessions ranges between $1700 to $2500, depending on the rate of the prescribing doctor or attending nurse. During this time, you will be guided and supported to ensure a safe and meaningful experience. Please note that while the actual medicine session is not covered by benefits, the preparatory and integration sessions are.

Integration

Integration is the essential process that follows a psychedelic journey. If a psychedelic journey is like opening a door, then integration is about walking through it. You will engage in at least three integration sessions to help process and incorporate your experience. This step is even more important than the journey itself, as it allows you to fully understand and benefit from the insights gained. As Dr. Huberman stated at the Psychedelic Science Conference in Denver 2023, “neuroplasticity is not an event. It is a process.”

Next Steps

To learn more about whether psychedelics are right for you, Valentina offers a 20-minute free consultation. To book a consultation, email Valentina at info@emergence-counselling.com. Please note that Valentina offers both individual and private group sessions.

I am committed to continuous growth and thrilled to share my knowledge with you.

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