Psychedelic Integration

Psilocybin-assisted therapy is an emerging therapeutic approach that combines psychotherapy with altered states of consciousness to support healing, insight, and emotional processing. Research in this field has shown promising results for concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and existential distress. In Canada, psilocybin remains a controlled substance and is only legally accessed in limited circumstances, such as through approved medical or research pathways. My role is to provide therapeutic support related to psychedelic experiences where legally appropriate. This may include preparation sessions to clarify intentions, build internal safety, and explore readiness, as well as integration sessions to help make sense of experiences and translate insights into meaningful change. I do not provide psilocybin or assist clients in obtaining substances. This work emphasizes reflection, safety, and integration—supporting you in making meaning from significant experiences and bringing those insights into everyday life.

Ketamine-assisted therapy (KAP) is a therapeutic approach that combines psychotherapy with the medical use of ketamine in a carefully supervised clinical setting. Ketamine has been used safely in medical environments for decades and is now being used therapeutically to support people experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health challenges. Ketamine is prescribed and administered by a licensed medical professional, while psychotherapy supports the emotional and psychological aspects of the process. This includes preparation before treatment and integration afterward to help make sense of the experience and support lasting change. Ketamine sessions are provided through a licensed medical clinic, with psychotherapy support offered as part of the therapeutic process.

Ketamine has been shown to support brain plasticity—meaning it can open new ways of thinking, feeling, and relating. It’s used in therapeutic settings because it can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma, especially when other treatments haven’t helped. When used intentionally and with support, ketamine can help shift old patterns and allow new clarity or perspective to emerge.

Each session begins with grounding and intention-setting. The ketamine is typically taken as a lozenge that dissolves in your mouth or through injection. You’ll be in a safe, private space—often lying down with eyeshades and music—and I’ll be present throughout to offer support and care. After the medicine experience, we’ll spend time integrating what came up through gentle conversation and reflection.

Not everyone is a candidate. A medical and psychological screening process is required to ensure that ketamine is safe and appropriate for you. It’s not recommended for those with certain heart conditions, active substance use disorders, or unmanaged psychosis. We’ll work closely with the team at Upstream to assess your readiness and ensure the process is tailored to your needs.

Ketamine has its own antidepressant effects, often easing symptoms and creating a sense of openness or relief. It can loosen the grip of long-held patterns and bring forward new insights, emotions, or perspectives. In the context of therapy, this creates a powerful opportunity to explore what arises with care and support—allowing healing, clarity, and meaningful change to unfold.

People seek Ketamine-Assisted Therapy for a range of reasons, including: • Depression or anxiety that hasn’t shifted with other approaches • Chronic stress or burnout • Loss, grief, or life transitions • Emotional numbness or stuckness • A desire for deeper self-understanding or personal growth

I offer Ketamine sessions in partnership with Upstream, a BC-based clinic that provides medical screening and prescription. You’ll start with an intake through their team, and then we’ll move into preparation sessions to help you feel grounded, informed, and ready for the experience. To get started: 1. Click here to learn more or begin the intake process through Upstream. (https://www.upstreamtherapeutics.ca/) 2. When completing the form, include "Leah Hartman Counselling" in your description.