Is There a Role for Psychedelics when Using IFS Therapy

The Use of Psychedelic Drugs Over the Ages

Psychedelic drugs have been used for thousands of years by various cultures for spiritual, medicinal, and recreational purposes. The use of these substances dates back to prehistoric times when shamans and spiritual leaders used them to connect with the divine.
 

One of the most well-known examples of psychedelic drug use is that of the ancient Greeks, who used a potion called kykeon during their Eleusinian Mysteries rituals. The potion contained a mixture of psychedelic ingredients, including ergot, and was consumed by participants to induce hallucinations and mystical experiences.
 

In the modern era, the use of psychedelic drugs became more widespread in the 1960s and 70s, particularly among the counterculture movement. LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, became popular among youth who were looking for new experiences and ways to break free from the norms of society.
 

The use of psychedelic drugs in the US reached its peak in the 60s and 70s, but it became illegal in 1970 with the passage of the Controlled Substances Act. This act classified LSD, psilocybin, and other hallucinogens as Schedule I substances, alongside heroin and methamphetamine, making them illegal to possess, distribute, or manufacture.
 

The Efficacy and Use of Psychedelic Drugs with Internal Family Systems Therapy

In recent years, however, scientific research has recorded definitive data that certain psychedelic drugs may have potential therapeutic benefits for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The recognition and adoption of their use in the psycho-therapeutic setting is rapidly growing.

I would like to share some observations and thoughts regarding the expanding use of psychedelic drugs in the counseling of clients using the Internal Family Systems (IFS) process. Measured, minimal dosages of a variety of psychoactive drugs in an extended therapeutic session is proving to be very beneficial in helping clients who are struggling to find their core being, called Self in IFS therapy. This is accomplished by easing the voices of the various part that are competing for dominance of consciousness. As this occurs clients who have been struggling to find Self are able to make the connection and to sense the qualities that Self encompasses. 

With this change in orientation they enlist Self in the process of working with parts to discover the origins and specific traumas of each part, to provide appropriate support that the part may unburden their old beliefs, and to alter their behaviors in the present to be productive. 

Once Self is firmly in place at the center of the client’s consciousness it is significantly more difficult for manager and exiled parts to gain control over mental and emotional feelings, thoughts and overt actions. Self’s ability to stay focused in the present state of awareness creates an environment that is not clouded by past traumas. Acceptance of the present state and the reduction of resistance to face and deal with what is occurring in the present state shows the client that releasing past emotions, thoughts and overt reactions improves their ability to cope with and manage difficult situations as they arise.

With Self at the center of consciousness the need for psychedelic enhancement can be easily replaced with meditation to further the strength and effectiveness of Self throughout the daily activities of the client. As a result, clients experience rapid improvement in overall psychological health and well-being.

The use of psychedelic drugs is not necessary or advisable with most clients. I find a majority of clients are able to identify Self, with some guidance and assistance, on their own. In addition, if clients have had significant, negative experiences with psychedelic drugs in the past they will usually have a part that will react to and resist the use in even a well-defined clinical setting. 

In considering the use of psychedelics for Self identification and conscious utility with Internal Family Systems therapy the IFS therapist must proceed with caution and use after establishing a clear understanding of the dynamic processes currently occurring with the client in their internal world.
 

Overall, the use of psychedelic drugs has a rich and complex history, with different cultures and time periods having different attitudes towards these substances. While much of the use of these drugs in the modern era has been associated with counterculture movements and illegal activity, some scientists are once again exploring their possible benefits. 

For therapists, whose therapeutic approach is centered in IFS, there is a place for limited use of psychedelics to improve the overall goal of Self-identification, central to creating and developing a strong and effective, present focused internal family.