Caruthers, C. (2024). Holding space for psychedelic experience: A phenomenological study of the lived experience of facilitators holding space for psilocybin journeys [Unpublished Master’s thesis]. Alef Trust & Liverpool John Moores University.
The resurgence of interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy has brought classic psychedelics like psilocybin to the forefront of modern mental health research and practice. Considerable attention has been given in recent years to determining contextual factors (set and setting) that influence the quality of psychedelic experience, focusing primarily on the mindset states of individual journeyers (Russ et al., 2019) and the characteristics of the physical spaces where journeys are carried out (Strickland et al., 2020). Little to no attention has been given to understanding the mental, emotional and energetic qualities cultivated by psychedelic facilitators, that inform the experience of holding space, a critically important skill set for facilitating non-ordinary states of consciousness (Peacock, 2024). This study employed a qualitative phenomenological approach to explore the lived experience of holding space for psilocybin journeys. In depth interviews were conducted with eight experienced psychedelic facilitators representing three practice contexts (i.e. clinical, non-clinical, indigenous/ceremonial). Thematic analysis yielded eight key themes illuminating the focus on providing multi dimensional safety and containment supported by deep presence and attunement. The necessity of self work, including personal work with psychedelics, was emphasized as critical for space holders in this context. Study results indicated, among other things, the need for facilitator training that emphasizes transpersonal and spiritual perspectives and includes somatic and energetic modalities.
