Transformative Mushrooms Trip: The Power of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

A dozen years prior, I embarked on a transformative journey into the world of psychedelics, which unveiled my authentic self. I was ignorant that this voyage into my subconscious would drastically alter my worldview, assist in managing my then-undetected ADHD, and motivate me to help others discover similar revelations that change lives.

On the day that changed everything, my guide in psychedelics handed me magic mushrooms and stated, “Behold the forest for the last time as you see it now; for your vision will soon be altered forever."

His words held more truth than I could have anticipated.

When I began, I had a simple mission: to understand myself better. The journey with psychedelics introduced me to parts of myself previously unknown and uncovered the root causes of my depression. It provided me with crucial insights into handling my emotional ups and downs; indeed, a true blessing given my struggles with intense mood disorders. Where traditional therapy had deemed unsuccessful, this enlightening journey transformed me entirely.

However, it is important to clarify that it was not an overnight solution that wiped away all my issues. But, this psychedelic journey did paint a picture of my destination, inspiring me to change the patterns that held me back.

Jump to 12 years later, after several psychedelic experiences coupled with therapy, I have attained emotional stability. My struggles with severe mood fluctuations and depression have become a thing of the past.

My ADHD diagnosis last year seemed to be the final piece in my personal puzzle. Today, I find it effortless to accept and love myself as I am. I have developed new methods to handle and embrace my ADHD brain without reliance on medication.

In 2016, I decided to pay it forward by becoming a psychedelic-assisted therapy facilitator. Since specialized training courses were not available at the time, I pursued rigorous training in diverse modalities. I opted for training in inner child work and trauma integration therapy, and I participated in seminars and workshops held by experts in the realm of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Since that time, I have co-founded a psychedelic-assisted therapy company, guiding hundreds of people on their psilocybin journeys in the Netherlands, where it's a legal practice. The transformations I have observed, particularly in individuals with ADHD and neurodiversity, are nothing less than breathtaking.

Many undergoing this form of therapy have experienced substantial changes in their lives, conquering addictions and depression, transforming self-doubt, and reducing their sensitivity to rejection.

It's crucial to note that this therapy is not suited for everyone, nor is it a universal remedy. Individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, those prone to psychosis, or anyone with a family history of these conditions should avoid this form of therapy.

Nevertheless, it assisted in redefining my life, inspiring hopes of benefiting individuals like me.

Alice Smeets, a co-founder of A Whole New High and a neurodivergent psilocybin-assisted therapy facilitator, offers guided personal psilocybin therapy sessions and group retreats in the Netherlands.

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