Individual or Group Psychedelic Therapy: What’s the Difference?
by Mark Haden
As researchers continue to explore a variety of approaches to psychedelic therapy, group therapy is increasingly brought into the conversation (Trope et al., 2019).
When choosing a psychedelic experience you may be on the fence about “individual” or “group” therapy. From our experience, most individuals initially inform us that they prefer individual therapy. However, those who engage in group therapy often find it more effective and are glad they made this choice.
As an experienced group therapist, I have observed the dynamics of group therapy often add to the healing experience. Groups at Qi are small – usually about four people experiencing the medicine together. To facilitate this there are about three nurses and therapists leading the process. As you will be sharing personal experiences with strangers, groups can be intimidating initially, but everyone is in the same boat and equally challenged.
Techniques like meditation and grounding exercises are commonly used in both group and individual therapy to alleviate anxiety and foster a sense of calm among participants. Starting with simple exercises like sharing one's first name helps gradually ease participants into the group process.
Often, we feel very alone when we are struggling with a mental health issue and a group experience shows us that our experience is actually shared with others. Witnessing other participants successfully confront similar issues helps us realize we are not alone, fostering a sense of connection and facilitating healing. The shared humanity within the group fosters a supportive environment.
Isolation amplifies distress
Human beings are inherently social creatures, and prolonged isolation or a sense of disconnection from others can amplify psychological distress. Conditions like depression anxiety and PTSD, which are isolating by nature, benefit from the communal aspect of group therapy. Conversations and shared insights within a supportive group setting provide a vital sense of connection, contributing to mental well-being. While some may form long-term friendships through group therapy, the primary goal remains therapeutic. Seeing one's issues in others and watching them heal can facilitate healing for all group members.
Conversations within the group setting can offer validation and encouragement, which are essential components of the healing process for individuals grappling with depression and other mental health concerns. By sharing their experiences and learning from others, participants in group therapy can explore valuable insights and coping strategies that contribute to their overall well-being. You are not just being helped but you are helping others.
In this way, group therapy not only complements individual therapy but also addresses a fundamental aspect of depression treatment: the need for connection and support from others. By creating a supportive community within the therapy setting, group therapy helps individuals build meaningful relationships and develop the resilience needed to overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety or PTSD.
Individual program
Individual psychedelic-assisted therapy typically involves one person and two therapists, allowing for a very private exploration of personal issues. Individual therapy may be more suitable for individuals experiencing severe anxiety or a high level of discomfort in group settings, such as those with social anxiety. In such cases, one-on-one treatment allows for focused attention on managing anxiety without the added stress of group dynamics.
While Qi offers both group and individual programs often, we encourage clients to consider the healing which is offered in group experiences. It is also notable that indigenous cultures have always offered psychedelic experiences in group contexts. While the ceremonies using peyote, ayahuasca or mushrooms, the group context is the same. Perhaps indigenous peoples knew something we are just learning.
Mark Haden
Mark Haden is the Clinical Supervisor of Psy-Qi, the Ketamine Assisted Therapy programs here at Qi Integrated Health.
A major figure in the field of psychedelic medicines, Mark has published numerous articles in respected Journals, has presented at conferences and training events around the world.
Additional Reading
Trope, A., Anderson, B. T., Hooker, A. R., Glick, G., Stauffer, C., & Woolley, J. D. (2019). Psychedelic-assisted group therapy: a systematic review. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 51(2), 174-188.
