Retreat Research Journal

Questions to Ask Before Any Psychedelic Retreat

Essential questions to help you evaluate safety, suitability, and support before committing to a retreat experience.

Introduction

Asking the right questions before committing to a psychedelic retreat is essential for your safety and to ensure the retreat is appropriate for your needs. This guide provides a comprehensive list of questions organized by topic to help you make an informed decision.

Retreats are not medical treatment. They are not a substitute for professional mental health care, medical care, or crisis intervention. These questions help you evaluate whether a retreat is safe and appropriate for you, but they do not replace professional medical or mental health consultation.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for:

  • People considering attending a psychedelic retreat
  • People with mental health challenges, trauma, or addiction
  • People with medical conditions or taking medications
  • People seeking to make informed decisions about retreat participation

This guide is not for: Making medical diagnoses, providing medical advice, or determining specific contraindications. Always consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance.

Safety & Screening Questions

  • What medical and psychological screening is required before participation?
  • What medical conditions or medications are contraindicated?
  • What happens if someone has a medical emergency during the retreat?
  • Is medical staff present on-site? What are their qualifications?
  • What is the emergency protocol? How quickly can emergency services be reached?
  • What safety measures are in place during ceremonies?
  • What is the facilitator-to-participant ratio?
  • What training and qualifications do facilitators have?
  • How are difficult experiences handled during ceremonies?
  • What happens if someone needs to leave early or cannot continue?

Integration Support Questions

  • What integration support is provided after the retreat?
  • How long does integration support last?
  • Is integration support included in the price, or is it additional?
  • What form does integration support take? (Individual sessions, group calls, app, etc.)
  • Who provides integration support? What are their qualifications?
  • What happens if I need additional support beyond what's provided?
  • Are there resources or referrals for ongoing therapy or support?
  • How do I access integration support if I'm struggling after returning home?

Preparation & Expectations Questions

  • What preparation is required or recommended before the retreat?
  • Are there dietary restrictions or requirements?
  • What should I expect during ceremonies?
  • What is the typical daily schedule?
  • How much time is spent in ceremonies versus other activities?
  • What happens if I have a difficult or challenging experience?
  • What support is available between ceremonies?
  • Can I speak with past participants about their experiences?

Policies & Practical Questions

  • What is the refund policy if I need to cancel?
  • What is the refund policy if I need to leave early?
  • What is included in the price? What is additional?
  • What are the accommodation arrangements?
  • What dietary accommodations are available?
  • What accessibility accommodations are available?
  • What languages are spoken by facilitators?
  • What should I bring? What is provided?
  • What is the cancellation policy for the provider?

Questions to Reflect On

Before contacting providers, consider these questions for yourself:

  • Am I currently in crisis or experiencing severe mental health symptoms?
  • Do I have medical conditions or take medications that may be contraindicated?
  • Do I have adequate support systems in place for before, during, and after the retreat?
  • Am I able to fully commit to the retreat and integration process?
  • Have I consulted with qualified healthcare providers about my readiness?
  • What are my goals and expectations for the retreat?
  • Am I prepared for the possibility of difficult or challenging experiences?

How to Use This Directory Safely

When researching retreats:

Common Pitfalls

  • Not asking enough questions: Don't hesitate to ask detailed questions. Reputable providers welcome thorough inquiries.
  • Accepting vague answers: If a provider cannot or will not answer specific questions about safety, screening, or support, consider this a red flag.
  • Ignoring red flags: If something feels off or if a provider is evasive, trust your instincts.
  • Rushing the decision: Take time to research, ask questions, and consult with healthcare providers.
  • Not consulting healthcare providers: Always discuss retreat participation with qualified healthcare providers, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.

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