Specialist Services
Our Services
Read MoreA 6-day retreat for MSM to explore self, heal deeply, and connect with others authentically.
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Read MoreTherapist who understands some things about the nature of expat and third culture life
Read MoreThis community with their psychological, emotional and relational needs.
Read MoreWorking in the corporate world brings its own specific set of stresses and pressures.
LGBTQI+ Psychotherapy in Soho, Central London: A Collective Space for Authentic Growth
Finding a therapeutic environment where you feel truly seen, heard, and understood is the cornerstone of effective psychological work. For members of the LGBTQI+ community, the need for a non-judgmental, knowledgeable space is not just a preference—it is often a necessity for safety and healing.
Our private practice is located in the heart of Soho, Central London, a district historically synonymous with diversity and liberation. Here, we offer specialized psychotherapy and psychology services designed to support individuals navigating the complexities of modern life, with a specific clinical focus on those who identify as Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse (GSRD).
The Human Experience vs. The Queer Experience
The therapy needs of the LGBTQI+ community are, in many ways, no different from the heterosexual community. Regardless of how we identify, we all face universal human struggles: we experience grief, navigate career stress, suffer from anxiety, endure relationship breakdowns, and search for meaning in our lives.
However, in other ways, the needs of the community are distinct and require a specialized clinical approach. Living in a heteronormative society can create a specific set of psychological stressors that—if left unaddressed—can impede your wellbeing.
We bring extensive clinical experience to working with these unique dynamics. We understand that "Minority Stress"—the chronic, high levels of stress faced by members of stigmatized minority groups—can manifest in subtle and pervasive ways. You might experience this as hyper-vigilance, a lingering sense of internalized shame, or a pressure to "over-perform" in your professional life to compensate for your identity.
Beyond "Coming Out": Navigating Complex Identities
While many assume LGBTQI+ therapy focuses solely on "coming out," our work recognizes that identities are far more complex. In our Soho practice, we support clients through the entire lifespan of their identity development.
We provide a safe, affirming space to explore:
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Gender Identity and Dysphoria: Whether you are trans, non-binary, or gender-questioning, we can explore your relationship with your gender and your body in a way that prioritizes your autonomy and comfort.
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Relationship Diversity: Relationships in the LGBTQI+ community often look different from the "traditional" script. We have extensive experience working with non-monogamy, polyamory, and open relationship structures. We offer a space where these dynamics are understood and respected, rather than pathologized.
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Internalized Homophobia and Transphobia: Even after coming out, many of us carry old narratives that tell us we are "less than." Therapy provides the tools to dismantle these internalized beliefs and build a robust sense of self-worth.
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Intersectionality: You are not just your sexuality or gender. We will look at how your queer identity intersects with other aspects of who you are, including your professional life, family background, and social circles in London.
Our Clinical Approach: Knowledge and Empathy
One of the most significant barriers to therapy for GSRD individuals is the fear of having to "educate" their therapist. There is often a worry that you will have to spend valuable session time explaining terminology or justifying your lifestyle choices.
In our practice, this barrier is removed. We bring a wealth of clinical knowledge and lived understanding to our sessions. This means:
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You don’t have to explain the basics: We are fluent in the language of the community. You don't need to define terms or explain the mechanics of your relationships; we can dive straight into the emotional work.
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A Non-Pathologizing Lens: We view your identity as a strength, not a symptom. Our work is not about "fixing" who you are, but about removing the obstacles that prevent you from enjoying who you are.
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Holistic Support: We look at the whole person. While your identity is a crucial part of our work, we also support you with the general psychological, emotional, and relational needs that bring anyone to therapy.
Therapy in the Heart of Soho
There is a unique power in accessing therapy in Soho. For decades, this area has been a sanctuary for those who live outside the mainstream. Our practice reflects that history—offering a confidential, discreet, and professional haven amidst the energy of Central London.
Living in London can be exhilarating, but it can also be isolating. The fast pace of the city often leaves little room for introspection. Our consultation rooms offer a pause button—a quiet, consistent space where you can unravel your thoughts and feelings without the noise of the outside world.
Whether you are seeking support for a specific crisis, looking to heal from past trauma, or simply want to understand yourself better, we are here to help. Our goal is to help you integrate all parts of your self—psychological, emotional, and relational—so that you can move through the world with confidence and authenticity.
To book your free initial call please go to our 'Get in Touch' page .
Trauma Therapy at Soho Psychology London
Recover, Reclaim, and Rebuild in the Heart of Central London
Trauma can leave you feeling fragmented, stuck in the past, or disconnected from your true self. At Soho Psychology London, we provide a safe, confidential, and clinical space for individuals to process painful experiences and move toward meaningful recovery. Located in the vibrant centre of Soho (W1F), our practice specialises in evidence-based trauma therapy in London, offering expert support for PTSD, complex trauma (C-PTSD), and emotional dysregulation.
A Specialist Approach to Healing Trauma
We understand that trauma is not just a memory—it is a physiological and psychological response that can impact your relationships, career, and sense of identity. Led by Dr. Nick Wakefield and a team of registered Psychologists and psychotherapists, our approach is rooted in safety and stabilization. We do not believe in "one-size-fits-all" solutions; instead, we build a bespoke treatment plan that respects your pace and unique history.
Whether you are struggling with a single-incident trauma (such as an accident or assault), prolonged childhood neglect, or relational trauma, our Soho psychologists are trained to help you navigate the path to healing without re-traumatisation.
Evidence-Based Modalities We Use
Our clinicians integrate gold-standard therapeutic models to ensure clinical excellence. We specialise in:
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EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing): A leading treatment for PTSD that helps the brain process stuck memories, reducing their emotional charge and eliminating flashbacks.
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Schema Focused Therapy: An integrative approach particularly effective for Complex PTSD and childhood trauma. We help you identify and heal deep-rooted "schemas" (self-defeating life patterns) to break cycles of difficult relationships and low self-worth.
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Informed Support: Practical, skills-based work focused on emotion regulation and distress tolerance. This is essential for survivors who feel overwhelmed by intense emotions or struggle with self-destructive urges.
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Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT): Cognitive tools to challenge distorted beliefs about safety and trust, helping you manage intrusive symptoms in the here and now.
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Somatic & Attachment-Informed Approaches: Healing the nervous system and repairing the ability to trust and connect with others.
LGBTQ+ Affirmative Trauma Support
Minority stress and identity-based trauma require a therapist who truly understands. Soho Psychology London is proud to be a fully LGBTQ+ affirmative practice. We have extensive experience working with the specific trauma intersections faced by the queer community, including shame, discrimination, and "chemsex" recovery support. We offer a non-judgmental environment where your identity is validated as part of your healing journey.
Why Choose Soho Psychology London?
Finding the right private trauma therapist in Central London is a critical step. Our practice offers:
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Highly Qualified Team: All practitioners are HCPC registered or chartered psychologists.
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Central Location: Discreet, comfortable consulting rooms on Broadwick Street, Soho.
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Flexible Options: In-person sessions in W1F and secure online trauma therapy for clients across the UK.
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Insurance Accepted: We work with major insurers to make mental healthcare accessible.
Begin Your Recovery Today
You do not have to carry the weight of your past alone. If you are looking for expert trauma therapy in Soho, contact us to schedule a free initial consultation. Let us help you find safety, stability, and a renewed sense of self.
Contact Soho Psychology London to discuss your needs with a specialist today.
Protecting Your Mental Health in a High-Performance Environment
London is a global powerhouse of business, finance, and media. For those working in the corporate sector, the rewards can be significant—but so can the psychological cost. The culture of the corporate world is often defined by relentless urgency, high stakes, and an expectation of unwavering resilience. While you may thrive on the adrenaline of this environment, the cumulative pressure can eventually take a toll on your mental and emotional wellbeing.
At Soho Psychology London, we offer specialist psychological support designed for the unique realities of the corporate world. Located in the heart of Soho, Central London, our private psychology and psychotherapy practice provides a discreet, confidential space where professionals can decompress, strategize, and recover from the demands of their careers.
Understanding Professional and Work-Related Stress
"Stress" is a word often thrown around lightly in office environments, but clinically, professional and work-related stress is a serious condition that can have profound impacts on your physical and mental health. It is not simply about "having a bad day"; it is a chronic state where the demands placed upon you exceed your capacity to cope.
In the high-pressure ecosystem of London’s corporate sector, work-related stress often manifests in subtle ways before it becomes overwhelming. You might find yourself unable to switch off even when on holiday, constantly checking emails at midnight, or feeling a sense of dread on Sunday evenings.
At Soho Psychology London, we treat Professional and Work-Related Stress as a primary focus. We recognise that the architecture of modern corporate life—whether in finance, law, tech, or the creative industries—often rewards traits that can be psychologically damaging if left unchecked, such as perfectionism, hyper-vigilance, and self-sacrifice.
The Hidden Signs of Corporate Strain
Many of our clients are high-functioning individuals who feel they "should" be able to cope. You may find yourself maintaining a veneer of professional competence while internally struggling with specific symptoms of work-related stress, including:
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Burnout and Exhaustion: A state of emotional, physical, and mental depletion. You may feel drained, unable to meet constant demands, and increasingly cynical about your role.
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Impostor Syndrome: Despite objective success, you harbor a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud," leading to anxiety and overworking to compensate.
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High-Functioning Anxiety: On the surface, you appear calm and successful, but underneath, you are driven by a constant churn of worry, fear of failure, and an inability to rest.
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Toxic Workplace Dynamics: Navigating office politics, bullying, or aggressive management styles can lead to profound feelings of powerlessness.
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Erosion of Work-Life Balance: When the boundary between the office and home dissolves, relationships suffer, and your sense of identity becomes entirely tethered to your professional output.
Therapy That Understands the Corporate Context
Standard therapeutic approaches sometimes fail to account for the systemic nature of professional stress. Well-meaning advice to "just take a break" is often unrealistic in environments where stepping away feels like professional suicide.
At Soho Psychology London, we understand the ecosystem you operate in. We know that the "hectic demands of the office environment" are not just logistical challenges but psychological stressors that interact with your individual makeup.
Our approach involves:
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Contextual Understanding: We validate the reality of your environment. We understand the language of the corporate world and the specific pressures of London’s business districts.
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Individual Formulation: We look at how your personal history interacts with your work. Why do you react to pressure the way you do? Are old patterns of people-pleasing being triggered by your current boss?
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Strategic Coping Mechanisms: We help you develop robust psychological boundaries and emotional regulation techniques that are practical and applicable in the boardroom.
Why Choose Therapy in Soho?
For busy professionals, the location and atmosphere of your therapy practice are just as important as the therapy itself.
Central and Accessible: Time is your most valuable asset. Situated in Soho, Central London, our practice is easily accessible for those working in the City, the West End, and surrounding business hubs. You can fit a session into your day without navigating a long commute, making consistent therapy a realistic part of your routine.
A Shift in Perspective: Soho offers a distinct change of pace from the sterile glass towers of the financial districts. Stepping into the vibrant, creative atmosphere of Soho allows for a mental "gear shift"—a physical and psychological separation from the office that is essential for effective therapy.
Discretion and Privacy: We offer a high level of privacy that is often difficult to find in workplace wellness programs or insurance-led pathways. As a private practice, we are not beholden to corporate reporting structures. This is your space—neutral, confidential, and dedicated entirely to your agenda.
Reclaiming Your Professional and Personal Life
You do not have to choose between a successful career and a healthy mind. In fact, sustainable success requires psychological health. By addressing professional and work-related stress at its root and learning to navigate the corporate world with greater psychological flexibility, you can protect your longevity in the industry and, more importantly, your quality of life outside of it.
Whether you are on the brink of burnout, navigating a difficult transition, or simply want to understand yourself better to improve your leadership, Soho Psychology London is here to support you.
Take the first step toward a sustainable working life., go to the 'Get in Touch' page to book your initial consultation.
Corporate Stress and Wellbeing in Soho, Central London
Ex-pat Therapy in Soho, Central London
Navigating Life Between Cultures: Specialist Psychotherapy for the Expatriate Community
London is one of the world’s most transient and culturally diverse cities. For many, moving to the UK is a professional milestone or a personal adventure, offering immense opportunities for growth, enrichment, and discovery. However, the reality of living in a different country and culture from your place of origin is complex. Behind the excitement of a new life often lies a unique set of psychological challenges—from a limited sense of community to profound feelings of isolation.
At Soho Psychology London, we understand that the expat experience is not a single narrative. It is a layered journey of adaptation, identity, and resilience. As a leading private psychology and psychotherapy practice based in the heart of Soho, Central London, we specialise in supporting individuals who are navigating the emotional complexities of living away from home.
The Unique Challenges of Expat Life
Relocating to a new country is stressful. Even if the move was a choice you happily made, the process of uprooting your life can trigger unexpected psychological distress. The "honeymoon period" of a new city often fades, replaced by the stark reality of building a life from scratch without your usual support network.
Common difficulties our clients face include:
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Isolation and Loneliness: Without the safety net of family and long-term friends, you may feel adrift, even in a bustling metropolis like London.
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Loss of Identity: Your professional status, social standing, or role in your community may have shifted during the move, leading to a crisis of confidence or identity.
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Relationship Strain: Relocation often places immense pressure on intimate relationships. Whether you moved with a partner or are navigating dating in a new culture, the dynamic shifts can be destabilising.
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Cultural Adjustment: Navigating British social codes, workplace dynamics, and even the weather can contribute to a sense of not "fitting in."
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"Third Culture" Issues: You may find yourself in a space where you no longer feel fully at home in your country of origin, yet do not fully belong in your new home—a phenomenon often described as being a "third culture" individual.
These stressors can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions or trigger new struggles with anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Why Choose a Therapist with Expat Experience?
Therapy is most effective when you feel truly understood. While many therapists can offer empathy, there is a distinct advantage in working with a professional who has lived the experience of an expatriate.
Dr. Nick Wakefield, the lead therapist at Soho Psychology London, brings lived experience to his clinical practice. Having lived and worked as an expat in the Middle East for many years, he possesses a deep, personal awareness of the unique therapeutic needs of those residing away from their place of origin. He understands the nuance of "expat guilt"—the feeling that you should be grateful for your opportunities, which often silences your need to ask for help.
Having a therapist who inherently understands the nature of expat and third-culture life can significantly accelerate the therapy process. You won't need to over-explain the context of your struggles; instead, you can focus directly on healing and growth in a space where your specific context is already understood.
A Private Psychology Practice in the Heart of London
Convenience and accessibility are vital when you are balancing a demanding professional life with personal wellbeing. Our practice is situated in Soho, Central London, making it a discreet and easily accessible location for professionals working in the city, the creative industries, and the corporate sector.
We offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment where you can unpack the baggage of relocation. Our approach is grounded in evidence-based Clinical and Counselling Psychology. We do not offer a "one-size-fits-all" solution; rather, we tailor our therapy to your individual narrative, helping you to:
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Process Loss: Grieve the loss of your former life, support systems, and familiar comforts in a healthy way.
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Rebuild Community: Develop strategies to build meaningful connections and a new "chosen family" in London.
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Navigate Professional Pressure: Manage the high expectations often placed on expats in the corporate world.
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Integrate Identities: Find a balance between your cultural roots and your new life in the UK.
Taking the Next Step
You do not have to navigate this transition alone. Whether you have just arrived in the UK or have been living here for years and still feel unsettled, professional support can help you find your footing.
Soho Psychology London is committed to providing high-quality, specialist mental health support to the international community. If you are looking for a private psychology and psychotherapy practice in Soho, Central London that truly understands the expat journey, we invite you to get in touch.
Let us help you turn your time in London from a period of survival into a period of thriving. Go to our 'Get in Touch' page
Do you want to connect with yourself, and others, on a deeper more authentic level?
Join us, a small group of likeminded gay, bisexual and queer men who have sex with men * for a relationally focused transformative retreat where we explore the self, the collective and our individual and shared identities and relationships. Through a curated and clinically informed mix of individual and group practices, you’ll be empowered to uncover what it truly means to get to know yourself, and in return, be known to others. Whether you’re seeking clarity, connection, confidence or simple a moment to pause and reset.
This 6 day psychedelic retreat, facilitated by a team of expert psychedelic practitioners and qualified gay therapists, with extended group preparation and integration is for those who want to transform their relationships.
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Robbie wants a relationship, but only ever seems to meet guys who want to hook up or be friends with benefits. He feels like nobody seems to want a committed relationship.
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Amir has been using the dating apps for a long time, used to enjoy the casual meets with no pressure but it’s starting to feel boring and meaningless, and he just can’t seem to get out of the habit.
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Hugo has had had several two-to-three-year relationships, he gives his all, does everything the please his partner, spends less time with his friends but the relationship always seems to end the same way, he’s left feeling lost and alone.
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James has had too much heartbreak throughout his life, longs for a relationship but is overcome by fear of being abandoned so throws himself into work instead to fill the gaps in his relational world.
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Michael has just ended a decades long committed relationship, and realises that he’s no longer sure who he is by himself, or what it means to be a gay man anymore.
For many of us understanding, finding and maintaining the kind of relationship they would like is hard. Our life experiences with parents, family, peers, first attempts at relationships, gay culture and scene, social expectations, pressures and insecurities all have an impact.
Being able to form healthy and meaningful relationships with others, starts with being able to have a healthy and meaningful relationship with ourselves. Psychedelics (psilocybin, the active compound present within magic mushrooms) offer us a way to explore ourselves, new ways of relating to our past, present and future, bringing opportunities to create new ways of being in the world. Through an assisted psychedelic experience, we can connect with existence beyond just ourselves, allowing us to examine and challenge the narratives we tell ourselves about who we are and how we should be, creating a radicalised opportunity for change.
The retreat will be facilitated by Numinous Ways with activities designed to aid the exploration of ourselves and our relationships. The extended group preparation and integration sessions will be facilitated by Dr Nick Wakefield, Clinical Psychologist, and Alexis Caught, Psychotherapist and Clinical Sexologist.
* This includes trans men – facilitators previous group experience with MSM including trans men is that we share many personal and interpersonal dynamic issues which can benefit from the group format. We also acknowledge the possible differences in experience but believe there is a lot to be learnt by each other from the differences.
Got to Numinous Ways (external link) for more information and to book
Gay Men’s Psychedelic Relational Retreat
Grounding the Extraordinary: Professional Psychedelic Integration & Harm Reduction
A clinical space to process, understand, and integrate your experiences into a meaningful life.
The Journey After the Journey
A psychedelic experience can be one of the most profound events in a person’s life. It can offer moments of transcendent beauty, deep emotional release, or startling clarity. However, it can also be confusing, destabilizing, or simply difficult to translate into the language of everyday reality.
The "fade" that happens after an altered state of consciousness is common. You may feel a strong sense of insight while in the experience, only to have it slip away when you return to your job, relationships, and routines. Conversely, you may be left navigating a "bad trip," uncovering past trauma, or feeling ontologically shocked by what you witnessed.
Psychedelic Integration is the bridge between the experience and your life. As a licensed psychologist, we offer a non-judgmental, confidential, and clinical container where you can safely land, unpack your experience, and weave those insights into the fabric of your daily existence.
What is Integration Therapy?
Integration is not just about talking about what happened; it is about embodying what you learned. It is an active process of turning fleeting mental states into permanent personality traits and behavioral changes.
In our sessions, we will focus on:
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Making Meaning: Decoding the symbols, metaphors, and somatic sensations that arose during your experience.
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Emotional Processing: Working through grief, fear, or confusion that may have surfaced.
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Grounding: Using mindfulness and somatic techniques to stabilize your nervous system if you are feeling unmoored or "ungrounded."
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Actionable Change: Identifying specific, realistic steps to implement your insights into your career, relationships, and self-care.
A Focus on Harm Reduction
We operate from a strict Harm Reduction framework. I understand that people choose to use psychedelics for various reasons—spiritual exploration, self-medication, or curiosity. Our role is not to judge those choices but to help ensure your physical and psychological safety.
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Pre-Experience Consultation: If you are planning an experience, we can discuss safety protocols, "set and setting," intention setting, and how to navigate challenging emotions. We can also review potential contraindications regarding your mental health history or current medications to minimize risk.
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Post-Experience Support: If you have had a difficult or traumatic experience, we will work to stabilize your mental health, reduce anxiety, and contextualize the event so it does not become a source of lasting distress.
Important Legal and Clinical Distinctions
It is vital to be clear about the nature of this service to maintain a safe and ethical therapeutic relationship.
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This is NOT Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: I do not provide, prescribe, administer, or supervise the use of illegal substances (such as psilocybin, MDMA, LSD, or ayahuasca).
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No "Sitting" or Guiding: We do not act as a "sitter" or guide during your experience. All sessions take place distinct from the dosing session—either before for preparation or after for integration.
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No Encouragement: We do not encourage, recommend, or refer clients for the use of illegal substances.
Our practice adheres to the highest ethical and legal standards. Our sole purpose is to provide psychological support for the experiences you have legally or autonomously chosen to explore, ensuring you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone.
Who Is This For?
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Individuals who have had a recent psychedelic experience and feel overwhelmed, confused, or "blown open."
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Seekers looking to deepen their personal growth and retain more lasting value from their journeys.
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People who have had a challenging experience (a "bad trip") and are struggling with anxiety, derealization, or fear.
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Anyone curious about the intersection of altered states of consciousness and mental health who wants to discuss it in a safe, clinical environment.
Take the Next Step
You don’t have to leave your insights on the mat. If you are looking for a professional partner to help you navigate your inner world and ground your experiences in safety, please reach out.