The Value of Coaching in the Psychedelic Space

Author: Laura Small

Psychedelics and coaching don’t traditionally go together. Here’s why we’re combining them.

The traditional use of psychedelic plant medicines, such as psilocybin, Ayahuasca, San Pedro, and even marijuana, has deep roots in indigenous cultures. These practices have been passed down through generations and, in some communities, are still alive today. However, most people are far removed from these traditions.

For those exploring plant medicines today, coaching can be a powerful tool to help make meaningful sense of these experiences.

When we look at how these medicines have been used in indigenous settings, we see that the experience is far more than a psychedelic afternoon on the beach or a weekend retreat. These ceremonies were steeped in cultural tradition, shared within a close-knit community, and supported by ritual and intention. Participants had a built-in support system of family, peers, elders and spiritual leaders, to help them integrate their experiences and share in the collective wisdom of the group.

In today’s modern society, many of us lack that kind of community. Even compared to just a few generations ago, many of the traditional communal gatherings that once provided connection and guidance are missing. As a result, people return from a profound psychedelic journey to an environment where their family or community has little understanding of what they’ve experienced and is unable to provide meaningful support.

This is where coaching can play a vital role. A skilled coach can serve as a supportive guide, helping individuals bridge their psychedelic experiences with day-to-day life and explore what they want to take forward with them into the future. Coaching creates a safe space to process insights, explore new perspectives, and decide how to integrate those lessons into one’s life.

Ultimately, coaching provides a structure that honors the some of the traditional practices of plant medicine through support and integration. Its a powerful process that allows someone to be witnessed in their growth, to speak openly about their journey, and to feel supported by someone who can help them navigate the depth and complexity of these experiences.