Stokman, N. (2025). Self-led synergy: A grounded theory of healing with psychedelics and internal family systems [Unpublished Master’s thesis]. Alef Trust & Liverpool John Moores University.
This study explores the therapeutic mechanisms activated when Internal Family Systems (IFS) is integrated with psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT). Drawing on in-depth interviews with ten experienced IFS-informed psychedelic practitioners, the research investigates how healing unfolds across preparation, psychedelic experience, and integration phases. The resulting theory, Self-Led Synergy—identifies the synergistic operation of three relational intelligences as central to transformational change: the client’s Self-energy, the intrinsic intelligence of the psychedelic medicine, and the Self-led presence of the facilitator. A process model illustrates how these forces interact across treatment stages to support emotional safety, coherence, and durable integration. Findings highlight that Self, as defined by IFS, is not only a conceptual anchor but also a reliable therapeutic mechanism that bridges clinical and transpersonal domains. The model challenges mainstream psychotherapy’s emphasis on symptom management by affirming the value of inner wisdom, relational attunement, and non-directive facilitation. Implications include new competencies for facilitator training, ethical standards based on internal system dynamics, and expanded frameworks for psychedelic care. This study presents a theoretically grounded, practice-informed model that supports the safe, effective, and spiritually coherent application of PAT within psychotherapeutic contexts.
