Question 1

Will my problems be resolved?

Accepted Answer

While our Psychedelic Pathways can offer profound insights, new perspectives, and a deeper connection to yourself, it's important to understand that they are not a quick fix or a guaranteed solution to all of life's challenges. Our experiences are designed to provide a catalyst for personal growth and understanding, empowering you to approach your "problems" differently.

We believe that lasting change comes from within, and the real work of integration happens as you weave the insights gained during your experience into your daily life. Our licensed team is here to support you through every phase of this journey, but the ultimate responsibility for implementing changes and addressing challenges rests with you.

Question 2

Why can't I register for a retreat during registration?

Accepted Answer

We believe every individual's journey is unique and deeply personal. We've moved away from retreat registration because your readiness and individual process are our top priority, not a pre-set schedule. We'll discuss and decide on the most suitable experience dates with you only after your assigned licensed therapist feels you are fully prepared to participate, ensuring your pathway is truly tailored to you.

Question 3

How often do you organize group experiences?

Accepted Answer

We organize 6 group experiences per year, offering consistent opportunities for those seeking a shared transformative journey. The specific dates for these experiences are discussed and decided upon individually with participants after the intake and preparation process.

Question 4

How many experiences will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of journeys an individual needs varies greatly from person to person, as every experience is deeply personal and unique. For us, we've observed that most people feel they've achieved significant insights and growth after just one experience. However, some individuals choose to return for 2-3 additional journeys, continuing their exploration and personal development at their own pace.

Question 5

Are there any restrictions on medications, alcohol or other drugs before and after the retreat?

Accepted Answer

For your safety, please do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours before your experience.
Regarding any other prescribed medications or drugs, it is essential to discuss these thoroughly during your intake session with your assigned licensed therapist. We also strongly advise consulting with your prescribing doctor or psychiatrist. Depending on the specific medication (such as, but not limited to, those for sleep, anxiety, anti-psychotics, anti-epileptics, and antidepressants), you may either continue its use or need to safely taper off before the experience. Some medications might require only a few days to taper, while others could take weeks. It's crucial to understand that combining psychedelics with certain medications (like Lithium) can be extremely dangerous, while others may simply diminish or "block" the psychedelic journey.

For your personal integration and to fully benefit from the "afterglow" effects, we also advise you to abstain from alcohol for a few days after your experience.

Question 6

Is there a list of medications that should be avoided before the retreat?

Accepted Answer

Yes. These matters are discussed during the intake interview. As with other drugs & medications, it’s important to note that the effects of psychedelics may be increased or reduced by combining them with other drugs or medications . We advise you to consult a doctor or your psychiatrist before the retreat if you are taking medications such as Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants or lithium. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

A non-exhaustive medication list can be provided on demand.  The ability to participate while taking mood stabilizers or antidepressants depends on the specific medication. Some individuals may be allowed to continue their medication, while others may need to taper off under the guidance of their psychiatrist or physician.

Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can be continued. For all other painkillers and medication, please talk to the ERĒMIA team.

Question 7

What dietary restrictions should I be aware of before the psychedelic truffle consumption?

Accepted Answer

During the retreat we ask you to refrain from eating any food within four hours prior to the psychedelic truffle consumption and avoid all caffeine-containing products. However, if you are used to having coffee in the morning, it is ok to drink one or two cups.

Question 8

What are the criteria for participating with an ERĒMIA Pathway?

Accepted Answer

To participate you must be over 21 years old, sign the provided liability release, comply with safety procedures, have normal blood pressure (with or without medication) and adhere to specific dietary and substance/medication restrictions.

Question 9

What can I expect during the psychedelic experience with psilocybin truffles?

Accepted Answer

Psilocybin can induce changes in (sensory) perception, emotion, awareness and thought. In general, we accord a lot of importance to set and setting. The experience can last up to six hours.  The dosage is decided on by our therapeutic lead. Our facilitators are experienced psychologists and medical healthcare workers that create and hold a container for your experience.

Question 10

What are some potential adverse events of a psilocybin experience?

Accepted Answer

Although psilocybin is considered to be very safe from a physical point of view, its consumption is not free from potential risks or adverse events.
For instance; 
- During the session, participants may experience anxiety, restlessness or panic. These reactions are transient. 
- Psilocybin can moderately elevate heart rate and blood pressure. These physiological changes may cause discomfort, but are usually short-lived.
- A session may bring forth unconscious psychological material, including unresolved traumas or emotions. Emotional release is a common aspect of the therapeutic process, allowing participants to explore and process deep-seated emotions.

It's important to note that experiences are individual, and adverse events are influenced by factors such as dosage, set and setting, individual susceptibility, and mental health conditions.

Question 11

What are the potential risks and side effects of psilocybin truffles?

Accepted Answer

While psilocybin has low physiological toxicity, participants may experience somatic effects like dizziness and nausea.

Psychological risks include the possibility of a "Challenging Experience" usually characterized by intense anxiety, fear, dysphoria, or paranoia. We prefer to name this kind of experience as challenging, not as bad. We offer the proper support and a safe environment that is crucial in managing "Challenging Experiences".
It's crucial to emphasize that these challenging states are transient and that we consider them to be integral to the individual's therapeutic process.

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