Ayahuasca: The Basics for Therapists

This course equips clinicians with insights into ayahuasca’s complexities and its potential for personal growth and healing. It includes a comprehensive exploration of ayahuasca, covering cultural, therapeutic, and pharmacological dimensions. The history, botanical components, pharmacology, psychological, and somatic effects–including altered perception, spiritual encounters, and transformative experiences–are all part of the course. Cultural contexts such as Peruvian Shipibo shamanism and Santo Daime are explored. The program highlights ayahuasca’s potential therapeutic benefits, safety considerations, and the concept of ego dissolution. It emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding of ayahuasca, incorporating cultural practices and spiritual aspects, especially important for therapists who may have clients who are interested in ayahuasca for healing or growth.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the history, cultural contexts, and botanical components of ayahuasca.

• Explain the psychological effects of ayahuasca, such as altered perception and transformative experiences.

• Assess the therapeutic potential and safety considerations of ayahuasca.