Psychedelic Integration: Bridging Indigenous Wisdom and Western Practice
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Authors
McGregor, Bellgene
Issue Date
2025
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
counselling , psychedelics , psychedelic therapy , psychedelic-assisted therapy , psychedelic integration , Indigenous knowledge , holistic approaches , Western paradigms , constructivism , qualitative research
Alternative Title
Abstract
Psychedelic integration is the crucial aftercare phase of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), providing a bridge between expanded states of consciousness and their application in daily life. While current models are largely rooted in Western, cognitively oriented frameworks, this capstone project, viewed through a constructivist lens, argues that holistic and culturally grounded approaches may offer greater potential for lasting transformation. Through a comprehensive literature review and a proposed qualitative study comparing client experiences of integration in both clinical and ceremonial contexts, the project critically examines the limitations of existing models and highlights the need for more inclusive practices. Tracing the historical development of integration from Indigenous healing traditions - where it is embedded in ritual and community - to the Western systematization of the three-stage preparation-dosing-integration model, the project contrasts individualistic, psychotherapy-adapted methods with holistic approaches that emphasize relational, spiritual, and ecological balance. By centering clients’ perspectives, the proposed research aims to identify practices that support meaningful change, enhance outcomes, and address limitations in current approaches. Ultimately, this project calls for a more pluralistic and connection-centered model of integration, advancing best practices in psychedelic counselling and care.
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess