Creating the Ceremony within KAP

The course “Creating the Ceremony within Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy” delves into the ancient practice of using ceremony to facilitate healing and how this can be integrated into modern ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Drawing on the concept of ‘Ecstasis’—a term borrowed from ancient Greeks to describe a ‘non-ordinary state of consciousness’—the course explores how KAP can create psychological flexibility and neural plasticity, allowing individuals to reevaluate their sense of self, others, and the world. The curriculum covers a brief history of ceremony, the elements and importance of rituals, and the specificities of KAP, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to incorporate ceremonial elements into therapeutic sessions.

Designed for aspiring psychedelic therapists, guides, and clients interested in psychedelic therapy, the course aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to create meaningful ceremonies for medicine sessions. It discusses the importance of ‘set’ and ‘setting’ in creating a safe therapeutic container and offers insights into how a sense of awe and transformative experiences can be encouraged during non-ordinary states. Participants will leave with a nuanced understanding of the role ceremony can play in enhancing the therapeutic outcomes of KAP.