Understanding Psychedelics

& Altered States of Consciousness

When speaking about psychedelics or altered states of consciousness (ASC), it is important to clarify how Grow Kind Mind is using these terms.

What does “psychedelic” mean?

The word psychedelic means mind opening or mind expanding.

Although psychedelic experiences are often associated with states induced by substances, it is important to know that these experiences can also occur without any substances.

So, if we think about Altered State of Consciousness as mind opening experiences, these may be things that shift our belief systems such as: a moment of insight, transitional times in life, grief, illness, or feeling deeply connected to things outside of ourselves such as nature.

These ASC experiences can be induced in a variety of ways:

    • Float tanks

    • Meditation

    • Hypnosis

    • Breathwork

    • Ceremonial practices such as sweat lodges

    • Sex

    • A runner’s high

    • Psilocybin

    • Ketamine

    • Cannabis

    • DMT

How Grow Kind Mind supports clients

At Grow Kind Mind, individuals are supported in their preparation for psychedelic experiences using methods such as:

  • Intention setting

  • Education around harm reduction

  • Tools to support you during the experience

Clients are also supported in the integration of altered states of consciousness, where insights from these experiences are applied to everyday life, whether the experience was intentional or unintentional, substance-induced or not.

Close-up of a woman with blonde hair and blue eyes, wearing a black sweatshirt with white floral illustrations and motivational text.

Lila chose to train in psychedelic-assisted therapy after experiencing altered states of consciousness during meditation and energy work. She also observed these experiences arise naturally for clients while meditating, coaching, or hosting groups.

She pursued training and education with the MIND Foundation in Berlin, successfully completing their multi-year Augmented Psychotherapy Training program to become a certified Psychedelic Integration Coach and Co-Therapist.

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A ladder framework for understanding ASC

Another helpful framework for thinking about psychedelic experiences is a visual representation of a ladder.

Practices closer to the bottom represent more familiar and accessible ways of experiencing altered states of consciousness. Becoming familiar with these experiences can be helpful, supportive, and potentially harm-reducing before introducing substances with stronger effects.

List of topics related to mental health and well-being, including 5-MeO-DMT, LSD, psilocybin, MDMA, ketamine, breathwork, virtual reality, guided imagery, meditation, and music trance, displayed on a light blue background with a silver ladder on the right side.
“I initially sought out Lila with the intention of integrating my experiences with plant medicine journeys into my day-to-day life. From our very first session, she approached my story with openness and genuine curiosity, making me feel safe, seen, and understood… through our work together, she has helped me develop a deeper understanding of my inner wisdom, and has helped me make pivotal changes in my life… resulting in meaningful and lasting behavioural changes.”
— Coaching Client

Interested in working together?

If you are curious about altered states of consciousness or seeking support with preparation or integration, you are welcome to explore working with Grow Kind Mind.

Book a Complimentary Introductory Call