In recent years, the use of psychedelics for mental health treatment has gained significant attention. While these substances can offer profound insights and healing, particularly when used under the guidance of trained professionals, there are areas where their application becomes problematic. One such area is the treatment of sexual concerns, where the risks can outweigh the potential benefits, especially when the practitioner lacks proper training.
The Vulnerabilities in Sexual Healing with Psychedelics
Psychedelics have been used by many cultures for centuries to address various sexual issues, ranging from erectile dysfunction and low libido in men to pain and desire issues in women. Because sexual dysfunction can be both physiological, psychological, and social, these concerns are often intertwined with deeper issues such as trauma, relationship difficulties, and the impact of conservative religious or societal programming. For some, psychedelics can also bring about an increased awareness of sexual orientation or identity, which can be both enlightening and challenging.
While psychedelics can help individuals process grief, acceptance, and other challenging emotions related to their sexual health, there is a significant risk when unlicensed and untrained individuals use these substances. Unfortunately, this group of practitioners is alarmingly large, and their lack of expertise can lead to harmful outcomes.
The Danger of Untrained Practitioners
One of the most troubling aspects of using psychedelics for sexual healing is the tendency of some untrained guides to engage in sexual experiences with their clients. These experiences are often justified as a way to help the client "traverse" their dysfunction or trauma. However, the altered state of consciousness induced by psychedelics can leave individuals extremely vulnerable, making them more susceptible to boundary violations.
The issue is compounded by the fact that many psychedelic guides are self-appointed, with little to no formal training. Many who do undergo some form of training focus on the psychedelic medicine itself rather than the ethical standards and mental health practices that should guide such work. This lack of proper training can lead to situations where the practitioner, whether intentionally or not, causes further trauma by breaching the client’s boundaries. Treating sexual issues is no different than treating depression, anxiety, addictions, or any other mental health condition, if not more complex. Please stay in your lane!
The Importance of Proper Boundaries
It is critical individuals using psychedelic medicines understand the vulnerabilities associated with the trip setting. Practitioners should operate within the scope of their experience and education, recognizing their sacred responsibility. Under no circumstances should sexual touch be part of a psychedelic session unless it involves consenting adults who are already in an established relationship, where the somatic activity is a natural and honest part of their connection, free from the power dynamics that exist between a guide and a client. When this happens, it should never be encouraged by a guide or therapist. And in almost every situation, clients should be asked to refrain.
It is severely alarming that a few training programs encourage practitioners to experience mild states of induced sexual arousal from a trainer with substances like MDMA or LSD to "understand" their clients’ experiences. While MDMA can be incredibly effective in therapeutic settings, any training approach that encourages sexual experiences during training is entirely inappropriate.
The Role of Somatic Sex Educators
There are somatic sex educators who work with clients on sexual healing, and some may incorporate psychedelic medicine into their practice. When done correctly, these educators are well trained, operate with strict boundaries, and under extensive supervision. They understand the delicate nature of combining somatic work with psychedelics and are committed to maintaining a safe, ethical environment for their clients.
However, these practices are exceptionally rare. The level of care, supervision, and ethical adherence seen in well-trained somatic sex educators contrasts sharply with the practices of untrained or self-appointed guides.
Adhering to the Six Principles of Sexual Health
All sexual encounters, especially those involving psychedelics, should adhere to the six principles of sexual health. Psychedelic guides, sitters, shamans, and specially licensed therapists must honor these principles and respect healthy boundaries with their clients. Because power differentials exist in therapeutic relationships, whether by therapists or psychedelic guides, these six principles cannot be adhered to if sexual activity exists in the therapeutic space. Sexual therapeutics should be the domain of certified sex therapists, not untrained individuals who might inadvertently cause more harm than good.
Psychedelics hold great promise in the realm of mental health, but their use in addressing sexual issues requires extreme caution. It is essential to ensure that those offering guidance are adequately trained, not just in the use of medicine but in their work's ethical and psychological aspects.
About Jeff
Jeff is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), AASECT-certified sex therapist (CST), and psychedelic-assisted therapy provider (PATP) based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Jeff earned an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. His expertise encompasses mental health counseling, sex therapy, and psychedelic-assisted therapy, with a focus on working with couples and adults.
He is the author of "Unfolding Eros: A Journey into Psychedelic-Assisted Sex Therapy," which explores novel approaches to addressing sexual concerns. Practicing in Utah,
Jeff has extensive experience working with the Mormon population. He offers culturally sensitive care that respects and understands this community’s unique challenges and perspectives.
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