Andrew Feldmar - Psychedelic Therapy: Notes from the Underground

Psychedelic therapy is defined primarily by the interpersonal relationship between therapist and patient rather than the substance itself. Genuine therapeutic work relies on mutual trust and presence, which can be disrupted by clinical detachment or by over-scripting the session. Establishing a safe container allows deep, often traumatic, experiences to surface within a supportive framework. Careful selection of therapists is crucial due to the complexity of supporting someone in an altered state of consciousness. True care involves moving beyond rigid clinical roles to allow for a deeply human, shared experience where the therapist and patient can navigate the unfolding process together without attachment to predictable outcomes.