The Trauma-Informed Psychedelic Therapist
with DaeEss 1Drea Pennington Wasio, MD

Course Agenda
3.5 CEs

Pre-recorded Module 1 - Introduction to Psychedelic Therapy - TOTAL TIME: 53m
Overview -
Dive into the fascinating history and cultural context of psychedelic substances in our first module, "Introduction to Psychedelic Therapy." This journey spans ancient traditions to modern scientific research, exploring the sacred use of psychedelics across different cultures and their resurgence in contemporary mental health practices. Understand the early use of natural psychedelics, the mid-20th-century scientific exploration, controversies, and the current psychedelic renaissance aiming at integrating these ancient tools into modern therapy.

Module 1 Content:

• Psychedelic Substances and their Historical and Cultural Context - Overview of the ancient and indigenous use of psychedelics across cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. (6 minutes)
• Specific Use Cases - Conditions Treated with Psychedelics - Examine Specific Use Cases - Conditions Treated with Psychedelics the rise, fall, and resurgence of psychedelic research from the 1950s to the present, highlighting key studies and their implications for therapy (8 minutes)
• Basic Neuroscience of Psychedelics and their Effects on the Brain - Discuss the impact of political and social factors on psychedelic research and use, including the War on Drugs and its consequences. (7 minutes)
• Hallucinogenic Psychedelics - Understand the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in treating conditions like depression, PTSD, and addiction, supported by contemporary research and personal narratives. (16 minutes)
• Non-Hallucinogenic Psychedelics - Highlight Non-Hallucinogenic Psychedelics. (6 minutes)
• Introduction to the Concept of Psychedelic Therapy - The importance of set, setting, and integration in the therapeutic use of psychedelics, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of psychedelic-assisted therapy. (10 minutes)

Pre-recorded Module 2 - Trauma and Its Impact- TOTAL TIME: 35m
Overview -
Module 2 delves deep into the complexities of trauma, its various forms, and the profound effects it has on individuals. It explores the science behind trauma's impact on the mind and body, offering insights into how trauma shapes our emotional and physical well-being. Through a compassionate lens, this module also introduces the groundbreaking potential of psychedelics in healing trauma, presenting a hopeful narrative supported by scientific studies and personal stories. Emphasis is placed on understanding and navigating the nuances of trauma within queer and BIPOC communities, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive therapeutic approaches.

Module 2 Content:

• Understanding Trauma- Types, Effects, and the Body-Mind Connection - Explore the definitions and types of trauma, including acute, chronic, complex, developmental, historical, secondary, and trauma related to race and sexual identity (4 minutes)
• The Impact of Unhealed Trauma - Understand how trauma manifests physically, emotionally, cognitively, and relationally, impacting overall quality of life and health (7 minutes)
• How Trauma Shows Up in Psychedelic Journeys - Discuss the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in addressing trauma, focusing on their ability to access and process deep-seated emotional wounds (13 minutes)
• The Role of Psychedelics in Addressing Trauma - Examine case studies that highlight the unique considerations and transformative outcomes of psychedelic therapy for individuals from queer and BIPOC communities, stressing the need for culturally competent care. (5 minutes)
• Safety Considerations (2 minutes)
• Case Studies Illustrating the Impact of Trauma and its Treatment (4 minutes)

Pre-recorded Module 3 -Fundamentals of Psychedelic Therapy-  TOTAL TIME: 55m
Overview -
This module explores the essential components that underpin a successful and transformative psychedelic therapy experience: Set, Setting, Intention, and Integration. This module emphasizes the importance of preparing the mind and environment to foster healing, the power of setting clear intentions, and the critical role of integrating insights into daily life. It provides practical advice on creating a supportive setting, navigating the journey with purpose, and ensuring lasting benefits through thoughtful integration. Through expert guidance and evidence-based practices, this module lays the groundwork for a profound therapeutic journey.

Module 3 Content:

• (Mind)Set, Setting, Intention, and Integration - Unpack the concept of 'Set' and its significance in preparing one's mindset for a psychedelic journey, including emotional and psychological readiness.  Explore 'Setting' and its influence on the therapeutic experience, detailing how to create a safe and conducive environment for psychedelic therapy. Discuss the importance of 'Intention' in guiding the psychedelic experience, offering strategies for setting and surrendering to intentions.  Examine 'Integration' as a key process in translating the psychedelic experience into meaningful personal growth and change, highlighting techniques for successful integration. (15 minutes)
• Safety Considerations and Contraindications in Psychedelic Therapy - Highlight safety considerations and contraindications in psychedelic therapy, ensuring a responsible approach to healing (6 minutes)
• Safety Considerations with Specific Psychedelic Substances (5 minutes)
• Emergency Considerations and Therapist Responsibilities (10 minutes)
• Spiritual Emergencies (19 minutes)

Pre-recorded Module 4 - Preparation and Harm Reduction - TOTAL TIME: 40m
Overview -
Module 4 underscores the vital steps and considerations in setting the stage for a transformative psychedelic therapy experience. This module focuses on the importance of thorough preparation, addressing both psychological readiness and practical safety measures. Through detailed exploration of harm reduction strategies, setting adjustments, mental health assessments, and the nuanced needs of diverse client populations, this module equips practitioners with the knowledge to create a supportive and healing environment. Emphasizing culturally sensitive approaches and the integration of shadow work, the content is designed to foster deep, meaningful, and safe psychedelic explorations for clients from all backgrounds.

Module 4 Content:

• Harm Reduction Strategies - Setting, Support, and Mental Health Considerations - Disucss harm reduction strategies emphasizing the significance of setting, support systems, and mental health considerations for a secure psychedelic journey (9 minutes)
• Preparing Clients for Psychedelic Experiences with a Trauma Timeline, and Shadow Work - Highlight the importance of tailored client preparation, incorporating trauma-informed practices and the construction of a therapeutic timeline to navigate past experiences (5 minutes)
• The Anatomy of a "Bad Trip" (5 minutes)
• Supporting Clients Through Challenging Psychedelic Experiences - Introduce nervous system regulation practices to assist clients in managing the emergence of disturbing material and navigating the psychedelic experience with resilience (4 minutes)
• Techniques for Managing Anxiety and Fear Pre-Experience - Explore techniques for managing pre-experience anxiety and fear, including breathwork, meditation, and understanding the anatomy of challenging trips (11 minutes)
• Culturally Sensitive Preparation Methods for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Clients -  Examine culturally sensitive preparation methods for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients, ensuring practices honor their unique experiences and address specific fears and traumas (6 minutes)

Pre-recorded Module 5 - Introduction to IFS and Parts Work- TOTAL TIME: 31m
Overview -
In Module 5, "Introduction to IFS and Parts Work," participants will delve into the
Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, a transformative approach to understanding the psyche's multifaceted nature. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS illuminates the complex interplay of parts within us, providing a roadmap for navigating the internal landscape with empathy and insight.
This module emphasizes the significance of integrating IFS into psychedelic therapy, preparing therapists to guide clients through their journeys with a focus on healing and self-discovery. Participants will learn to recognize and work with various parts, including managers, firefighters, and protectors, fostering an environment where the Self's compassionate qualities can lead toward integration and wholeness. In addition, self-care with an IFS lens encourages therapists to engage in their own healing work, where they can explore and heal their own parts, ensuring that their triggers do not interfere with their clients' processes.

Module 5 Content:

• Overview of IFS Foundations of IFS: Overview of the IFS model, its origins, and the theory of multiplicity of the mind. The Role of the Self: Discuss the concept of the Self as the core of consciousness and its qualities such as compassion, curiosity, and connectedness.  Practical Applications: Strategies for incorporating IFS into preparation and integration phases of psychedelic therapy. (6 minutes)
• Parts Work in Preparation Sessions - Understanding Parts: Exploration of different types of parts (managers, firefighters, protectors) and their roles in the psyche. Navigating Challenges: Guidance on addressing resistance and emotional storms during psychedelic sessions with an IFS-informed approach.(2 minutes)
• Case Study - Justine and The Protector Part Studies: Examination of real-world applications of IFS in psychedelic therapy through detailed case studies (3 minutes)
• Integration Sessions with IFS - Integration Techniques: Tools for post-journey work, focusing on achieving harmony among parts and reinforcing the Self's leadership.  Insights into how IFS principles can enhance the therapeutic potential of psychedelic experiences, especially for those with trauma. (2 minutes)
• Case Study - Liberated Exiled Parts (3 minutes)
• Therapist Self-Care and Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Therapist Self-Care and Internal Family Systems (IFS): By acknowledging and addressing our own needs and triggers, we safeguard our well-being and uphold the integrity of the therapeutic relationship.  Preventing Dual Relationships: Understanding and managing these relationships is crucial to maintaining ethical standards, ensuring the therapy's integrity, and protecting both the client and therapist from potential harm. (10 minutes)
• Ethical Considerations in IFS for Psychedelic Therapy (5 minutes)