Stories of Guests from MycoMeditations Psilocybin Retreat

By MycoMeditations

This interview series brings you inside the experiences of people who joined us at our psychedelic retreat to heal with psilocybin therapy.

We asked Beverly—a woman in her 60’s from Florida—six questions to understand what a typical day was like for her before MycoMeditations, how she made the decision to try psilocybin therapy, the key moments of her transformative week, and more.

. . . . .

What was a typical day like for you before attending the retreat?

Looking back, what moment or event signaled to you that you needed a change?

Can you describe an eye-opening moment you experienced during the retreat?

Was there a particular session or moment that stands out as pivotal to your experience?

How has your self-esteem or self-image changed since completing the retreat?

Guest Interview Series – Beverly

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Stories of Guests from MycoMeditations Psilocybin Retreat

By MycoMeditations

This interview series brings you inside the experiences of people who joined us at our psychedelic retreat to heal with psilocybin therapy.

We asked Kenny—a man in his 30’s from Washington—six questions to better understand his life before attending MycoMeditations, key insights from the retreat, how life has been since returning home, and more.

. . . . .

Guest Interview Series – Kenny

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By MycoMeditations

What We Have Learned About Treating Depression with Psilocybin

• The MycoMeditations psilocybin-assisted retreat model shows comparable positive outcomes for the treatment of depression as found within clinical research.
• MycoMeditations survey data shows better outcomes than biopharmaceutical company Compass Pathways in their Phase 2 studies of their proprietary psilocybin analog one month after psilocybin session(s) in Major Depressive Disorder.
• Clinically significant improvements in depression maintained one year following retreat.
• Support for multiple, short-term psilocybin doses; potential for unique psilocybin-assisted treatment protocols.
• Data supports the need for tailored dosing on numerous physical and mental factors rather than standardized dosing based on bodyweight.
• Psilocybin in group therapeutic retreat settings may be a viable treatment for depression when supported with individual therapy.

MycoMeditations is proud to share these results in order to further demonstrate the validity and safety of psychedelic-assisted therapy in naturalistic contexts and retreat settings. The MycoMeditations retreat model demonstrably provides comparable levels of positive, lasting outcomes when compared to clinical settings for psychedelic-assisted therapy and clinical trials.

One month after retreat, MycoMeditations clients (n = 121) experienced 59.60% reduction in depression symptoms (15.84 at baseline to 6.40 one month post-retreat). In the research summary for Compass Pathways’ Phase 2 psilocybin analog study, participants (n = 79) experienced 37.62% reduction in symptoms three weeks after treatment, where least-squares mean changes from baseline to week three were −12.0 on the MADRS (31.9 to 19.9). 

Retreat outcomes remained clinically significant one year after the retreat experience, indicating sustained effectiveness in the MycoMeditations psilocybin-assisted retreat model to treat depression. Few psilocybin clinical trials examine outcomes this far from treatment, which advocates for the long-term efficacy of psilocybin in general.

The survey outcomes highlight the benefit of three psilocybin sessions within one week when supported by trained psychedelic-assisted therapists during sessions and integration. The matching efficacy of multiple, short-term psilocybin sessions when compared to single treatments with prolonged periods between sessions as shown in clinical research indicates the safety, viability, and flexibility for varying courses of psilocybin-related treatments. This advocates for custom treatment options depending on unique patient needs.

MycoMeditations dosing protocols take into account numerous factors when determining the ideal psilocybin dose for a client. The optimal dose for each person varies significantly, and the MycoMeditations protocol realizes the need for a tailored approach to dosing in order to maximize benefits.

This data also emphasizes the utility of group psychedelic-assisted therapy, as MycoMeditations retreats are group experiences with up to 12 people assisted by therapists, with a typical facilitator-to-client ratio of at least 1:1.5, team to guests.

Population: Real-World Clients

MycoMeditations clients involved in this survey, while seeking therapeutic outcomes for depression, frequently suffer from comorbid conditions such as anxiety, PTSD, OCD, substance use disorder, other forms of addiction, and other mental illnesses.

This population is a more accurate representation of real-world sufferers in need of therapeutic intervention than is otherwise found in the participant cohorts of clinical trials, in which such comorbidities are often screened out.

Preparation, Dosing, and Integration Protocols

The optional surveys were completed by clients enrolling in the seven-day psilocybin-assisted retreat program at MycoMeditations, where they received preparation for their psilocybin sessions, three dosing sessions spaced on alternating days, and group integration on the days between each dosing session. After the retreats had concluded, clients were also encouraged to participate in two group integration sessions via Zoom. 

Clients were administered dried Psilocybe cubensis, which is cultivated on-site and encapsulated into 0.5g capsules. MycoMeditations’ dosing regimen is standardized around the use of encapsulated psilocybin mushrooms with an escalating dosing protocol over the course of the three (3) sessions. The dose for Session 1 is virtually identical for all clients, however, the MycoMeditations protocol takes many physical and mental factors into account when determining the ideal dose for Session 2 and Session 3, as a tailored dosing method was found to be most beneficial.

The average dose in dried, encapsulated grams of psilocybin mushrooms from Session 1 has an average SD of 3.71 ± 1.06. Session 2 has an average SD of 7.00 ± 1.73 and Session 3 has an average SD of 8.97 ± 3.33. The total dose over the duration of the retreat has an average SD of 19.67 ± 5.28.

Results for the Treatment of Depression at MycoMeditations Psilocybin Retreats

The depression dataset was examined using the PHQ-9 rating scale. A PHQ-9 minimum score of 10 (considered moderate levels of depression) was selected as inclusion criteria for a baseline response to be included in the dataset. The baseline results included 241 participants.

The baseline dataset, verified by a third-party source, determined that people suffering from moderate to extreme levels of depression (average PHQ-9 score of 15.84) experienced clinically significant reductions in symptoms at the below time points following the retreat, with average PHQ-9 scores along with percentage changes in symptoms relative to baseline and sample size (n) shown below:

The data presented here do not account for a number of post-retreat lifestyle factors, including therapeutic support and approach to self-care undertaken by clients once back at home. Some clients did not complete or have not reached all follow-up assessment time points. MycoMeditations is continually exploring ways to support the ongoing therapeutic treatment of its clients and always recommends full follow-up and integration procedures as well as continual, conventional mental health support and care in order to ensure the best long-term psychological outcomes.

Survey Set-Up Details

These longitudinal surveys assess the long-term outcomes of guests who attend psilocybin-assisted retreats offered by MycoMeditations in Jamaica.

MycoMeditations’ longitudinal surveys are not and do not attempt to constitute either an academic study or a registered clinical trial in their procedure, structure, or review process. However, insights drawn from this data convey a need for additional research into the mental health therapeutic benefits of psilocybin and points toward efficacy of treatment models outside of standard clinical and laboratory contexts. All data shared by MycoMeditations was analyzed and verified by a third-party academic partner.

This report shares the retreat outcomes in guests who joined us to overcome depression that contributed to our longitudinal surveys over the course of a year following their retreat.

MycoMeditations’ psilocybin-assisted retreat model led to clinically significant outcomes in the treatment of depression according to client surveys. These results also suggested long-term efficacy, with significant positive results remaining one year after the retreat experience.

All data represented here was collected between July 2021 and December 2024 with the consent of MycoMeditations clients. 

Review our Guest Outcomes for Other Conditions

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  
• Generalized Anxiety
• Social Anxiety

Psilocybin Retreat Outcomes for Depression

Read More

By MycoMeditations

What We Have Learned About Treating PTSD with Psilocybin

• MycoMeditations results are comparable to the MAPS PBC Phase 3 trial outcomes. MAPS PBC data, utilizing the CAPS-5 scale, showed the baseline score of 44.0 fell to 19.6 (-55.5%) after 18 weeks. At three months post-retreat, MycoMeditations data, utilizing the PCL-5, showed a 52.7% reduction in symptoms between baseline (44.1) and three months post retreat (20.9). This is sustained at six months post-retreat with 53.1% reduction in symptoms, and one year post-retreat with 51.8%.
• MycoMeditations survey reveals one of the first samples of long-term data revealing efficacy for psilocybin-assisted therapy in assisting with PTSD.
• Clinically significant improvements in PTSD maintained one year following retreat.
• Data supports the need for tailored dosing on numerous physical and mental factors rather than standardized dosing based on bodyweight.
• Psilocybin in group therapeutic retreat settings may be a viable treatment for PTSD when supported with individual therapy.

MycoMeditations guest outcome data for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with psilocybin shows similar results to the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) clinical research trails utilizing MDMA to treat PTSD when comparing results three months after the therapeutic sessions.

While there is significant data showing MDMA’s effectiveness in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, clinical trials examining the effects of psilocybin on PTSD are limited in number. MycoMeditations surveys reveal first-of-its-kind outcomes in the fight against PTSD with psilocybin.

Retreat outcomes remained clinically significant one year after the retreat experience, indicating effectiveness in the MycoMeditations psilocybin-assisted retreat model in treating PTSD. Few psilocybin clinical trials examine outcomes this far from treatment, which advocates for the long-term efficacy of psilocybin in general.

MycoMeditations dosing protocols take into account numerous factors when determining the ideal psilocybin dose for a client. The optimal dose for each person varies significantly, and the MycoMeditations protocol realizes the need for a tailored approach to dosing in order to maximize benefits.

This data also emphasizes the utility of group psychedelic-assisted therapy, as MycoMeditations retreats are group experiences with up to 12 people assisted by therapists, with a typical facilitator-to-client ratio of at least 1:1.5, team to guests.

Population: Real-World Clients

MycoMeditations clients involved in this survey, while seeking therapeutic outcomes for PTSD, do frequently suffer from comorbid conditions such as various forms of depression, anxiety, and/or alcohol use disorder (AUD) or other forms of addiction, among others.

This population is a more accurate representation of real-world sufferers in need of therapeutic intervention than is otherwise found in the participant cohorts of clinical trials, in which such comorbidities are often screened out.

Preparation, Dosing, and Integration Protocols

The survey, which was optional to participate in, was completed by clients enrolling in the seven-day psilocybin-assisted retreat program at MycoMeditations, where they received preparation for their psilocybin sessions, three dosing sessions spaced on alternating days, and group integration on the days between each dosing session. After the retreats had concluded, clients were also encouraged to participate in two group integration sessions via Zoom.

Clients were administered dried Psilocybe cubensis, which is cultivated on-site and encapsulated into 0.5g capsules. MycoMeditations’ dosing regimen is highly standardized for utilizing whole psilocybin mushrooms with an escalating dosing protocol over the course of the three (3) sessions. The dose for Session 1 is virtually identical for all clients, however, the MycoMeditations protocol takes many physical and mental factors into account when determining the ideal dose for Session 2 and Session 3, as a tailored dosing method was found to be most beneficial.

The average dose in dried, encapsulated grams of psilocybin mushrooms from Session 1 has an average SD of 3.68 ± 1.08. Session 2 has an average SD of 6.76 ± 1.90 and Session 3 has an average SD of 8.51 ± 3.62. The total dose over the duration of the retreat has an average SD of 18.95 ± 5.52.

Results for the Treatment of PTSD at MycoMeditations Psilocybin Retreats

The PTSD dataset was examined using the PCL-5 rating scale. A PCL-5 minimum score of 31 (considered moderate levels of PTSD) was selected as inclusion criteria for a baseline response to be included in the dataset. The baseline results included 164 participants.

The baseline dataset, verified by a third-party source, determined that people suffering from moderate to extreme levels of depression (average PCL-5 score of 44.07) experienced clinically significant reductions in symptoms at the below time points following the retreat, with average PCL-5 scores along with percentage changes in symptoms relative to baseline and sample size (n) shown below:

The data presented here do not account for a number of post-retreat lifestyle factors, including therapeutic support and approach to self-care undertaken by clients once back at home. Some clients did not complete or have not reached all follow-up assessment time points. MycoMeditations is continually exploring ways to support the ongoing therapeutic treatment of its clients and always recommends full follow-up and integration procedures as well as continual, conventional mental health support and care in order to ensure the best long-term psychological outcomes.

Survey Set-Up Details

These longitudinal surveys assess the long-term outcomes of guests who attend psilocybin-assisted retreats offered by MycoMeditations in Jamaica.

MycoMeditations’ longitudinal surveys are not and do not attempt to constitute either an academic study or a registered clinical trial in their procedure, structure, or review process. However, insights drawn from this data convey a need for additional research into the mental health therapeutic benefits of psilocybin and points toward efficacy of treatment models outside of standard clinical and laboratory contexts. All data shared by MycoMeditations was analyzed and verified by a third-party academic partner.

This report shares the retreat outcomes in guests who joined us to overcome PTSD that contributed to our longitudinal surveys over the course of a year following their retreat.

MycoMeditations’ psilocybin-assisted retreat model led to clinically significant outcomes in the treatment of PTSD according to client surveys. These results also suggested long-term efficacy, with significant positive results remaining one year after the retreat experience.

All data represented here was collected between July 2021 and December 2024 with the consent of MycoMeditations clients. 

Review the Outcomes for Other Conditions

• Depression
• Generalized Anxiety
• Social Anxiety

Psilocybin Retreat Outcomes for PTSD

Read More

By MycoMeditations

What We Have Learned About Treating Generalized Anxiety with Psilocybin

• MycoMeditations survey reveals one of the first samples of long-term data revealing efficacy for psilocybin-assisted therapy in assisting with generalized anxiety.
• Clinically significant improvements in generalized anxiety maintained one year following retreat.
• Support for multiple, short-term psilocybin doses; potential for unique psilocybin-assisted treatment protocols.
• Data supports the need for tailored dosing on numerous physical and mental factors rather than standardized dosing based on bodyweight.
• Psilocybin in group therapeutic retreat settings may be a viable treatment for generalized anxiety when supported with individual therapy.

Clinical trials examining the effects of psilocybin on generalized anxiety are limited in number. MycoMeditations surveys reveal first-of-its-kind outcomes in the fight against anxiety disorders with psilocybin.

Retreat outcomes remained clinically significant one year after the retreat experience, indicating effectiveness in the MycoMeditations psilocybin-assisted retreat model in treating generalized anxiety. Few psilocybin clinical trials examine outcomes this far from treatment, which advocates for the long-term efficacy of psilocybin in general.

The survey outcomes highlight the benefit of three psilocybin sessions within one week when supported by trained psychedelic-assisted therapists during sessions and integration. The matching efficacy of multiple, short-term psilocybin sessions when compared to single treatments with prolonged periods between sessions as shown in clinical research indicates the safety, viability, and flexibility for varying courses of psilocybin-related treatments. This advocates for custom treatment options depending on unique patient needs.

MycoMeditations dosing protocols take into account numerous factors when determining the ideal psilocybin dose for a client. The optimal dose for each person varies significantly, and the MycoMeditations protocol realizes the need for a tailored approach to dosing in order to maximize benefits.

This data also emphasizes the utility of group psychedelic-assisted therapy, as MycoMeditations retreats are group experiences with up to 12 people assisted by therapists, with a typical facilitator-to-client ratio of at least 1:1.5, team to guests.

Population: Real-World Clients

MycoMeditations clients involved in this survey, while seeking therapeutic outcomes for generalized anxiety, frequently suffer from comorbid conditions such as other forms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, substance use disorder, other forms of addiction, and other mental illnesses.

This population is a more accurate representation of real-world sufferers in need of therapeutic intervention than is otherwise found in the participant cohorts of clinical trials, in which such comorbidities are often screened out.

Preparation, Dosing, and Integration Protocols

The optional surveys were completed by clients enrolling in the seven-day psilocybin-assisted retreat program at MycoMeditations, where they received preparation for their psilocybin sessions, three dosing sessions spaced on alternating days, and group integration on the days between each dosing session. After the retreats had concluded, clients were also encouraged to participate in two group integration sessions via Zoom. 

Clients were administered dried Psilocybe cubensis, which is cultivated on-site and encapsulated into 0.5g capsules. MycoMeditations’ dosing regimen is standardized around the use of encapsulated psilocybin mushrooms with an escalating dosing protocol over the course of the three (3) sessions. The dose for Session 1 is virtually identical for all clients, however, the MycoMeditations protocol takes many physical and mental factors into account when determining the ideal dose for Session 2 and Session 3, as a tailored dosing method was found to be most beneficial.

The average dose in dried, encapsulated grams of psilocybin mushrooms from Session 1 has an average SD of 3.52 ± 0.92. Session 2 has an average SD of 6.54 ± 1.45 and Session 3 has an average SD of 8.43 ± 3.02. The total dose over the duration of the retreat has an average SD of 18.49 ± 4.38.

Results for the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety at MycoMeditations Psilocybin Retreats

The generalized anxiety dataset was examined using the GAD-7 rating scale. A GAD-7 minimum score of 10 (considered moderate levels of generalized anxiety) was selected as inclusion criteria for a baseline response to be included in the dataset. The baseline results included 216 participants.

The baseline dataset, verified by a third-party source, determined that people suffering from moderate to extreme levels of generalized anxiety (average GAD-7 score of 14.97) experienced clinically significant reductions in symptoms at the below time points following the retreat, with average GAD-7 scores along with percentage changes in symptoms relative to baseline and sample size (n) shown below:

The data presented here do not account for a number of post-retreat lifestyle factors, including therapeutic support and approach to self-care undertaken by clients once back at home. Some clients did not complete or have not reached all follow-up assessment time points. MycoMeditations is continually exploring ways to support the ongoing therapeutic treatment of its clients and always recommends full follow-up and integration procedures as well as continual, conventional mental health support and care in order to ensure the best long-term psychological outcomes.

Survey Set-Up Details

These longitudinal surveys assess the long-term outcomes of guests who attend psilocybin-assisted retreats offered by MycoMeditations in Jamaica.

MycoMeditations’ longitudinal surveys are not and do not attempt to constitute either an academic study or a registered clinical trial in their procedure, structure, or review process. However, insights drawn from this data convey a need for additional research into the mental health therapeutic benefits of psilocybin and points toward efficacy of treatment models outside of standard clinical and laboratory contexts. All data shared by MycoMeditations was analyzed and verified by a third-party academic partner.

This report shares the retreat outcomes in guests who joined us to overcome generalized anxiety that contributed to our longitudinal surveys over the course of a year following their retreat.

MycoMeditations’ psilocybin-assisted retreat model led to clinically significant outcomes in the treatment of generalized anxiety according to client surveys. These results also suggested long-term efficacy, with significant positive results remaining one year after the retreat experience.

All data represented here was collected between July 2021 and December 2024 with the consent of MycoMeditations clients. 

Review our Guest Outcomes for Other Conditions

• Depression
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  
• Social Anxiety

Psilocybin Retreat Outcomes for Generalized Anxiety

Read More

By MycoMeditations

What We Have Learned About Treating Social Anxiety with Psilocybin

• MycoMeditations survey reveals one of the first samples of long-term data revealing efficacy for psilocybin-assisted therapy in assisting with social anxiety.
• Clinically significant improvements in social anxiety maintained one year following retreat.
• Support for multiple, short-term psilocybin doses; potential for unique psilocybin-assisted treatment protocols.
• Data supports the need for tailored dosing on numerous physical and mental factors rather than standardized dosing based on bodyweight.
• Psilocybin in group therapeutic retreat settings may be a viable treatment for social anxiety when supported with individual therapy.

Clinical trials examining the effects of psilocybin on social anxiety are limited in number. MycoMeditations surveys reveal first-of-its-kind outcomes in the fight against anxiety disorders with psilocybin.

Retreat outcomes remained clinically significant one year after the retreat experience, indicating effectiveness in the MycoMeditations psilocybin-assisted retreat model for treating social anxiety. Few psilocybin clinical trials examine outcomes this far from treatment, which advocates for the long-term efficacy of psilocybin in general.

The survey outcomes highlight the benefit of three psilocybin sessions within one week when supported by trained psychedelic-assisted therapists during sessions and integration. The matching efficacy of multiple, short-term psilocybin sessions when compared to single treatments with prolonged periods between sessions as shown in clinical research indicates the safety, viability, and flexibility for varying courses of psilocybin-related treatments. This advocates for custom treatment options depending on unique patient needs.

MycoMeditations dosing protocols take into account numerous factors when determining the ideal psilocybin dose for a client. The optimal dose for each person varies significantly, and the MycoMeditations protocol realizes the need for a tailored approach to dosing in order to maximize benefits.

This data also emphasizes the utility of group psychedelic-assisted therapy, as MycoMeditations retreats are group experiences with up to 12 people assisted by therapists, with a typical facilitator-to-client ratio of at least 1:1.5, team to guests.

Population: Real-World Clients

MycoMeditations clients involved in this survey, while seeking therapeutic outcomes for generalized anxiety, frequently suffer from comorbid conditions such as other forms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, substance use disorder, other forms of addiction, and other mental illnesses.

This population is a more accurate representation of real-world sufferers in need of therapeutic intervention than is otherwise found in the participant cohorts of clinical trials, in which such comorbidities are often screened out.

Preparation, Dosing, and Integration Protocols

The optional surveys were completed by clients enrolling in the seven-day psilocybin-assisted retreat program at MycoMeditations, where they received preparation for their psilocybin sessions, three dosing sessions spaced on alternating days, and group integration on the days between each dosing session. After the retreats had concluded, clients were also encouraged to participate in two group integration sessions via Zoom. 

Clients were administered dried Psilocybe cubensis, which is cultivated on-site and encapsulated into 0.5g capsules. MycoMeditations’ dosing regimen is standardized around the use of encapsulated psilocybin mushrooms with an escalating dosing protocol over the course of the three (3) sessions. The dose for Session 1 is virtually identical for all clients, however, the MycoMeditations protocol takes many physical and mental factors into account when determining the ideal dose for Session 2 and Session 3, as a tailored dosing method was found to be most beneficial.

The average dose in dried, encapsulated grams of psilocybin mushrooms from Session 1 has an average SD of 3.65 ± 0.84. Session 2 has an average SD of 6.51 ± 1.65 and Session 3 has an average SD of 8.11 ± 3.49. The total dose over the duration of the retreat has an average SD of 18.27 ± 5.11.

Results for the Treatment of Social Anxiety at MycoMeditations Psilocybin Retreats

The social anxiety dataset was examined using the SM-SAD-10-Adult rating scale. A SAD-10 minimum score of 19 (considered moderate levels of social anxiety) was selected as inclusion criteria for a baseline response to be included in the dataset. The baseline results included 90 participants.

The baseline dataset, verified by a third-party source, determined that people suffering from moderate to extreme levels of generalized anxiety (average SAD-10 score of 25.44) experienced clinically significant reductions in symptoms at the below timepoints following the retreat, with average SAD-10 scores along with percentage changes in symptoms relative to baseline and sample size (n) shown below:

The data presented here do not account for a number of post-retreat lifestyle factors, including therapeutic support and approach to self-care undertaken by clients once back at home. Some clients did not complete or have not reached all follow-up assessment time points. MycoMeditations is continually exploring ways to support the ongoing therapeutic treatment of its clients and always recommends full follow-up and integration procedures as well as continual, conventional mental health support and care in order to ensure the best long-term psychological outcomes.

Survey Set-Up Details

These longitudinal surveys assess the long-term outcomes of guests who attend psilocybin-assisted retreats offered by MycoMeditations in Jamaica.

MycoMeditations’ longitudinal surveys are not and do not attempt to constitute either an academic study or a registered clinical trial in their procedure, structure, or review process. However, insights drawn from this data convey a need for additional research into the mental health therapeutic benefits of psilocybin and points toward efficacy of treatment models outside of standard clinical and laboratory contexts. All data shared by MycoMeditations was analyzed and verified by a third-party academic partner.

This report shares the retreat outcomes in guests who joined us to overcome social anxiety that contributed to our longitudinal surveys over the course of a year following their retreat.

MycoMeditations’ psilocybin-assisted retreat model led to clinically significant outcomes in the treatment of social anxiety according to client surveys. These results also suggested long-term efficacy, with significant positive results remaining one year after the retreat experience.

All data represented here was collected between July 2021 and December 2024 with the consent of MycoMeditations clients.

Review our Guest Outcomes for Other Conditions

• Depression
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  
• Generalized Anxiety
  

Psilocybin Retreat Outcomes for Social Anxiety

Read More

Psychedelic Retreats for End-of-Life Distress

Read More

By MycoMeditations

Below you can take a look at all media that involves MycoMeditations to help you stay up-to-date with all the stories and news that follows our psilocybin-assisted retreat program. This post will be continually updated, so if you would like to learn more about our retreats through media coverage and news surrounding MycoMeditations, bookmark this page!

AFAR Magazine

At a Magic Mushroom Retreat, a Comedian Reluctantly Embraces Her “Healing Journey”

For Negin Farsad, traveling to Jamaica for a psilocybin retreat started as a gig. After a week of tripping, she found it was about much more than getting high.

Read the Article

Robb Report

I Tripped on Mushrooms (Legally) at a Therapy Retreat in Jamaica. It May Have Changed My Life.

At Bluefields Bay Villas, a boutique resort, MycoMeditations assisted an editor in coming face-to-face with childhood despair—and a rush of joy.

Read the Article

Fortune Magazine

The new leadership retreat: taking psychedelics with your CEO

A growing body of research suggests that psychedelics promote changes in unyielding behaviors, which could benefit personal and professional life.

Read the Article

Sunday Times

Trip of a Lifetime

Nothing could help Decca Aitkenhead process her grief after her husband drowned in Jamaica. Until she returned there for a magic mushroom retreat.

Read the Article

VICE

The Battle Over Psychedelic Therapy’s Future

VICE correspondent Charlet Duboc joined us on retreat as part of this episode’s coverage of the emerging field of psychedelic therapy. Coverage of MycoMeditations begins at 35:22 of the video.

Watch the Video

FodorsTravel

I Took 28 Grams of Magic Mushrooms at a Retreat in Jamaica—Here’s Why

A guest’s heartfelt account of her experience at MycoMeditations.

Read the Article

Seeking Distruption

My Psychedelic Summer

A guest shares about he and his wife’s experience together at MycoMeditations.

Read the Article

CNBC

Here’s how much ‘magic mushroom retreats’ like Goop Lab’s actually cost

CNBC coverage about MycoMeditations in 2020. Prices referred to in the article have since changed.

Read the Article

Reuters

Psychedelic mushrooms expand Jamaica tourism beyond sunshine and reggae

An overview of MycoMeditations Psilocybin-Assisted Retreats alongside reflections of psilocybin’s emerging use in Jamaica.

Read the Article

MycoMeditations Media & Features

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By MycoMeditations

Below you can listen to podcasts that have interviewed Justin Townsend, the CEO of MycoMeditations. This post will be continually updated with all new appearances, so if you would like to learn more about our retreats by listening to podcasts with Justin, bookmark this page!

Soft White Underbelly with Matt Laita

Episode Description:

Soft White Underbelly (5.5+ Million Subscribers) interview and portrait of Justin Townsend, the CEO of MycoMeditations, a psilocybin mushroom retreat in Jamaica.

• YouTube

Dualistic Unity with Andrew & Ray

Episode Description:

In this latest episode, we delve into a transformative journey with our guest, Justin Townsend. Our discussion orbits around the enlightening power of present-focused attention and the rich, often untapped fullness of our experiences. We explore the transformative impact of psychedelics, not as an end but as a means to rediscover forgotten pathways within ourselves. Justin, CEO of MycoMeditations, shares his unique blend of corporate and psychedelic experiences, offering a nuanced perspective on the intersection of modern therapy and ancient wisdom.

This episode is a testament to the courage of confronting our inner darkness and the resilience found in self-acceptance and authenticity. We discuss the delicate balance between scientific rigor and the shamanic approach in psychedelic therapy, emphasizing the importance of living an integrative, authentic life. Our conversation is a deep dive into the nuances of psychedelic experiences, their therapeutic potentials, and the journey towards self-realization. This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the intersection of modern science and ancient wisdom, and for those seeking a deeper understanding of their own psyche. Join us in this enlightening discussion where the unspoken theme is the transformative power of self-awareness and the journey towards a unified self.

• YouTube
• Apple
• Spotify
• Google
• Pandora

The Creative Condition with Ben Tallon

Episode Description:

The science increasingly points to a very positive link between (responsibly and professionally administered) psilocybin – or ‘magic mushrooms’ – and mental health.

After reading American-Iranian comedian, writer, and actor Negin Farsad’s experience on a Jamaican psychedelic retreat, written for AFAR, I talked to both Negin, and CEO/Head-facilitator of Mycomeditations, Justin Townsend about psychedelics, mental health, and creativity.

This is a warm, deep, intriguing insight into the world of fungi and the human experience, which touches upon Jungian depth psychology, the default mode network, and the things that hold us back from our optimal creativity.

• Apple
• Spotify
• Pandora
• SoundCloud

Developing Meaning with Dirk Winter

Episode Description:

Are you curious about psychedelic retreats? Join us for an insider’s perspective with Justin Townsend, CEO of MycoMeditations, the oldest and largest psilocybin mushroom therapeutic retreat center in Jamaica. We discuss the process of safety screening, and the potential of using psychedelics to overcome trauma, ease depression, and reconnect with our authentic selves.

Justin shares his personal journey, from tech startups, to the European psychedelic underground, to learning and teaching breathwork and meditation, and then joining MycoMeditations in Jamaica. Having facilitated thousands of healing journeys, he shares how these retreats can provide unique insights into our individual and collective human condition. We probe the metaphysics of consciousness and healing and examine how psychedelics can influence belief and faith, which can alter our physiology and bring greater understanding and meaning to our lives.

As we conclude our conversation, we reflect on Carl Jung’s concept of Individuation and Integration, and the transformative stories of guests at MycoMeditations. We discuss life and work in Jamaica, and highlight the importance of surrender and authenticity. We invite you to immerse yourself in this captivating world of psychedelic therapy – a world that promises to challenge, inspire, and transform.

• Host Website
• Apple
• Spotify
• Google

Adventures Through the Mind with James W. Jesso

Episode Description:

The journey of bringing psilocybin therapy to the masses continues.

And the complexities of doing so as a retreat business, without being contorted away from your ethos by the economic force of the modern corporate world, while also maintaining the capacity to provide safe, positive, and effectively healing experiences for your guests, is the topic of this episode of the podcast.

Specifically, we feature an interview with Justin Townsend from MycoMediations retreat centre in Jamaica to talk about the complexities described above, as well as the nuances of his team’s therapeutic framework for group psilocybin therapy in natural contexts.

Justin Townsend is the CEO and Head Facilitator at the psilocybin therapy retreat centre MycoMeditations.

Throughout his career he has worked as a business leader across a range of industries, helping innovative companies identify opportunities, communicate their vision and deliver profitable products. But he has also been on a personal quest to explore alternative healing therapies to combat his own anxiety and depression.

Over the past 20 years Justin has delved into both transpersonal and Jungian depth psychology, explored psychedelic modes of healing and developed meditation and breath work techniques, which he taught in Germany.

After attending a private retreat with MycoMeditations in 2017, he saw the opportunity to combine his unique business skills with his interest in alternative healing methods. Justin joined the MycoMeditations team soon afterwards, becoming partner and CEO in 2019.

He is on the show for this episode to explore two specific topic themes:

1.  The business side of running a successful psilocybin retreat centre in the economic context of the modern corporate world without losing your ethics in the process
2.  The therapeutic framework and philosophy that MycoMeditations holds for their retreats and their guests.

In effect, these are the two sides of the conversation. Where the first half is all business, and the latter half focused in the therapeutic end of things (with a brief return business ethics at the very end).

Some of the things we cover on the first side of the conversation: Justin’s journey from the corporate world to running an psychedelic psilocybin therapy retreat centre; psychopathology and integrity in the corporate world and how good people end up doing bad things; the nuances around running a financially successful psychedelic retreat centre without ethical sacrifices; what it means to be building what they call “gold-standard for group-facilitated psilocybin therapeutics in natural settings”; data propriety; and supporting peer-reviewed research.

In the other half of the conversation we explore: why MycoMeditations holds an entity “non-shamanic” framework for their psilocybin work; how to support someone who has a beyond Western framework experience from a non-shamanic framework; helping to prevent post-psychedelic hypomania from evolving into psychosis; differentiating between psychosis and a “normal psychotomimetic response”; non-pharmacological interventions for psychosis and psychotomimetic responses; as well as The Golden Shadow and the dangers of golden-shadow projection in both psychedelic therapy and spiritual communities.

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The Psychedelic Therapy Podcast with Maya Health

Episode Description:

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The Benzinga Interviews with Lara Goldstein

A business leader and startup advisor in several industries including the healthcare space, Justin’s 20 years of experience exploring psychedelic therapies for wellbeing -and current work as a facilitator- inform his quest for providing truly thoughtful experiences for people wishing to undergo psychedelic modalities of healing.

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The Mushroom Show with FreshCap

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In this episode of The Mushroom Show, we test 4 different types of mushroom jerky (so you don’t have to) and figure out which mushroom makes the best one. The answer might surprise you. We also cover everything you need to know about the growing trend of “psilocybin retreats”, what they’re like, how people are benefitting from them, and what’s the reason behind the increased popularity in recent years. Finally, we interview Justin Townsend, the head facilitator and CEO of MycoMeditations, a long standing psilocybin retreat in Jamaica.

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Funga with Milana Abensperg und Traun

Episode Description:

Justin is the CEO and Head Facilitator at MycoMeditations. Based in Jamaica, MycoMeditations is one of the few legal psilocybin retreats in the world. Over the past 20 years, Justin has delved into both transpersonal and Jungian depth psychology, explored psychedelic modes of healing, and developed meditation and breathwork techniques, which he taught in Germany.

I was introduced to Justin just as I was formulating the concept around Funga. I view him as a mentor because he has given me fantastic guidance and advice and is also one of the most knowledgable people I have come across surrounding psychedelics. This episode discusses topics such as the difference between ayahuasca and psilocybin, psychedelic synchronicities, and his imposter syndrome. I apologize for the slight background noise, as we needed to record this podcast remotely. Please don’t let that stop you from listening! There is so much to learn from Justin; he is one of the most knowledgeable people I have come across surrounding psychedelics.

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Mycopreneur with Dennis Walker

Episode Description:

Justin Townsend is the CEO of MycoMeditations, a world class psilocybin mushroom retreat center in Treasure Beach, Jamaica.

We learn about the dynamics of the legal magic mushroom industry in Jamaica, the practicalities inherent to running a premium operation in the mushroom retreat space, the flow of a week at a mushroom retreat with MycoMeditations, and the net positive benefits of having such an operation present on the island of Jamaica.

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In Pursuit of Better with Jordan Simon

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Justin Townsend is the CEO for Jamaica-based MycoMeditations, a pioneer and leader in wellness tourism that has been helping thousands of people through its legal psilocybin-assisted retreats. Through his expertise and leadership, Justin has helped shape the psychedelics renaissance. As psychedelics continue to play a larger role in mental health, more and more people are seeking effective therapies that address the root of their depression, anxiety, PTSD or other conditions. Many of these individuals are pursuing treatment through the trust of psilocybin-assisted retreats. Justin has worked in many aspects of the psychedelic industry, including as a retreat facilitator where he has personally led retreat-goers through psilocybin-assisted therapy. His firsthand knowledge and in-depth field experience has positioned him as an industry thought leader. Be it an expert or novice, Justin shares his wisdom with his colleagues, guests and media in thoughtful and visionary ways. He leads with education and makes surveys a part of the success story at MycoMeditations.

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Inside and Beyond Podcast with Natalia Fomichenko

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In this episode we discuss the benefits of psilocybin retreats for mental and physical health, the impact of psilocybin on the brain, and contemplate the nature of mystical experiences.

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Help Existing with Rachel Krantz

Episode Description:

Today I’m talking with Justin Townsend, CEO and Head Facilitator for MycoMeditations. His company operates legally in Jamaica doing psilocybin-assisted retreats. Participants attend for seven days, work with licensed therapists throughout, and trip three times.

You’ve probably heard about some of the potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin, and changes in states like Oregon, which legalized the medicine for therapeutic use. I’ve heard predictions that as psychedelic therapy spreads, there will soon be a huge need for tens of thousands of therapists trained in this modality.

I picked Justin’s brain about what people who are interested in working in this emerging industry should know. We also delved into why psilocybin is therapeutic in the first place, and the results his team has seen with attendees.

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Podcasts with MycoMeditations CEO, Justin Townsend

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Oregon or Jamaica: Where Should You Do Psilocybin Therapy?

Experiencing psychedelic therapy for healing and exploration is a balancing act between feeling safe, challenging ourselves and, of course, the costs involved.

Jamaica and Oregon are two of the very few places where you can receive legal psilocybin therapy across the whole world right now. For many, Oregon comes with the comfort and familiarity of home, while a tropical destination like Jamaica offers adventure and the time to shift away from the regular patterns of life.

You may be like many Americans, Canadians, Europeans, and others from countries beyond wondering which of these legal avenues for psilocybin therapy is best for you. Both have benefits, but which one is worth the trip?

How to Choose Between Psilocybin Therapy in Oregon vs. Jamaica

Psilocybin is a powerful medicine. The time, energy, money, courage, and commitment required to work with it is no joke. Investing in your well-being deserves serious contemplation.

The world of psychedelics is new and exciting. Some will brave the Amazon to drink ayahuasca with a shaman or take truffles in the streets of Amsterdam. Others will risk mushrooms in countries like Mexico and Costa Rica where psilocybin retreats exist in a legal gray zone. Navigating the hype requires making smart decisions about your safety and comfort to experience a meaningful and healing experience.

Oregon and Jamaica are the most popular legal options. However, what counts as “legal” differs between the two. If you hold a current medical license, security clearance, or professional certification that is regulated under U.S. federal law, consulting legal opinion before proceeding with treatment in Oregon is a good idea. The legal risk may be lower when you travel to a country where the treatment is fully legal, like Jamaica.

The U.S. Department of State occasionally releases travel advisories against countries like Jamaica due to concerns over crime, however, the country overall is a safe place with a positive regard towards tourism. Retreat locations are far from the crime in urban centers, which is the root cause of the advisories. There is minimal time spent in the larger cities beyond a quick airport pick up.

Before quickly assuming that either is better than the other, there are many variables to consider when choosing the right type of psilocybin experience.

Factors to Consider Between Oregon and Jamaica for Psilocybin Therapy

• Legality – What level of legal risk are you able to take? Are you comfortable accessing psilocybin where it’s legal under state law but illegal under national law, or would you rather travel to Jamaica where it’s legal nationally?
• Location – How far are you willing to travel? What makes you feel safe and comfortable? What makes for a fulfilling adventure?
• Dose – How much psilocybin might you need based on your background and the mental health condition you are seeking to treat? Can you access an adequate dose?
• Facilitation – Who is facilitating and what qualifies them to do so? Are the facilitators more from a clinical, mental health background, or a shamanic, Indigenous background?
• Cost – How many sessions of psilocybin therapy and how much psilocybin are you receiving? What else is included in the experience?
• Reputation – How long has this provider been offering psilocybin therapy? What are their outcomes and how do people review the experience with them?
• Group size – How many people are participating and how much support is there? How much privacy or group work will there be?
• Preparation and Integration – How does the provider assist with preparation before and after psilocybin therapy? How deep is the work they will offer?

Assessing the above factors in your options for psilocybin-assisted therapy, whether at a retreat, clinic, or privately will allow you to make the most informed decision about what feels like the best fit for you.

Many of these factors can be deceptive because qualities not immediately obvious can make all the difference in your experience.

For example, two retreat centers may have a similar number of therapeutic support staff, but one may have a particular therapist with a background in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Therapy, or Transpersonal Psychology. There may also be a facilitator who you truly connect with who has faced similar struggles as you, shares your cultural background, or comes from a similar profession.

These details can make all the difference in psilocybin therapy progressing towards personal transformation. That particular therapist working from a certain therapeutic framework that resonates with you might strike the right cord amid a deep journey, opening doors that were previously closed. A facilitator you see yourself in and connect deeply to may spark profound realization. These nuanced factors can make all the difference when seeking healing, meaning, and a new, positive approach to life through psychedelic medicine.

Learn as much as you can about the providers you are considering to make the best choice. Study a retreat’s itinerary or a practitioner’s credentials deeply and establish familiarity with available options. Reading reviews can be a way to see a bit of yourself in somebody who had an experience with a certain provider and how it went for them, so read as many as you can.

Choosing an experience is not only an intellectual decision—tapping into intuition and checking in with how you feel in your heart matters too.

Psilocybin Dose for Depression or Anxiety: How Much Will You Need?

Psilocybin isn’t a quick fix. The vast majority of people will require multiple psilocybin sessions to get sustained benefits. One session can certainly be a catalyst for changing your life, but when done right, there is a compounding effect with each session of psychedelic therapy.

Maximizing your experience means finding your optimal therapeutic dose, which is unique for everyone across different moments and will vary depending on the context in which you are working with psilocybin.

For many, an initial session involves getting comfortable with what psychedelics are like. As one becomes more comfortable with psilocybin, it’s possible to use higher doses to go deeper. Over multiple sessions, comfort within a group and the facilitators grows and the individual learns to work with the medicine. With the resulting flow of emotions, new insights emerge and healthy patterns begin to take place.

Finding the right mushroom dose requires some experimentation. Everyone has a different response to psilocybin. Many folks need two or three grams of mushrooms for a threshold psychedelic experience. Others may want or need a stronger journey with between four and seven grams, or sometimes more.

Individuals who have recently been on—or are still on—antidepressants may require doses upwards of ten grams to enter a substantial enough altered state for therapeutic gains. Antidepressants numb one’s emotions, and also impact the receptor sites that psilocin (the active alkaloid in psilocybin) must bind with, causing disruptions to the usual process.

Psilocybin is most effective when it allows people to tap into important feelings, heighten neuroplasticity, and shift their belief systems. With the dosing range established, it can be dialed in to optimize the intensity and trajectory of the psychedelic experience. When treating long-term mental health conditions resistant to pharmaceutical interventions, multiple doses of mushrooms may be necessary, too.

What’s a “Heroic Dose” of Mushrooms? Is It Enough?

Oregon psilocybin laws have imposed regulations on what an acceptable dose of psilocybin is, which caps out at five grams of dried mushrooms, often called a “heroic dose” in some circles. In Jamaica, there are no limits on dose.

For many people, a single five-gram session will be impactful. It may even be overwhelming without adequate preparation or support. But for others with treatment-resistant depression and/or anxiety, multiple larger doses are often needed. These strong and often long-established neural patterns require a larger disruption to trigger change. Certain personality types, like folks who are highly analytical or less in touch with their emotions, will also typically require higher doses than others.

Learning how to navigate and surrender to high doses is also a skill to cultivate. Throughout multiple sessions and increasing doses, one can learn how to engage with and learn from mushrooms. By navigating multiple high-dose sessions, confidence and trust are built between you and the medicine. Single psilocybin sessions can certainly be impactful, but there is a depth that develops with multiple experiences arranged closer together.

Psilocybin has a dose-response relationship. All substances work in this manner, with a minimum effective dose required for effects like opening a window of neuroplasticity—the growth of new neurons and changing of circuitry in the brain—which research links with improvements in mental health.

Another important factor with dose is tolerance. The body rapidly develops a tolerance to psilocybin, making the compound less effective when sessions are close together.  Low to moderate doses for sessions in close succession may not be enough for some people to overcome the tolerance factor.

Mushroom retreats in Jamaica such as MycoMeditations regularly surpass the five-gram dose limit set in the state of Oregon. Taking tolerance into consideration and steadily increasing doses over three sessions, experienced therapists and facilitators in Jamaica have the flexibility to optimize each guest’s dose and maximize therapeutic outcomes.

Psychedelic Therapy in Jamaica or Oregon? No Substitute for Experience

Choosing the right facilitation is the difference between a beautiful, healing psilocybin experience and an uncomfortable or even dangerous one.

Skilled facilitators will make you feel comfortable before, during and after psychedelic experiences. By having their own psychedelic experiences and spending a great deal of time with people in altered states, they can empathize with your process. Many facilitators are drawn to their work because of their own transformational experiences and a desire for others to have the same opportunity.

Seasoned facilitators carefully design Set and Setting for the most therapeutic experience possible. Set and Setting heavily influence psychedelics. ‘Set’ is your mindset and ‘Setting’ is the environment where the journey takes place. Facilitators you want at your side will earn your trust and curate a safe environment that supports the process of working with psilocybin mushrooms, or any other psychedelic.

Skilled facilitators aren’t just folks who have taken a lot of mushrooms, though. Psychedelic use has a long history of mentorship, such as shamans teaching their apprentices.

Today, quality training programs keep the spirit alive with those who have years of experience guiding new facilitators—familiarizing them with navigating altered states, observing apprentices, giving feedback, and collaborating with colleagues for an ideal client experience. Many programs and books provide in-depth historical and technical knowledge of psychedelics and while this is of value, the most important piece of the puzzle is experience.

Translating personal psychedelic experience into skilled facilitation requires study, practice, and self-discipline. Modern facilitators are often psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors and social workers. Others are coaches or people who have completed psychedelic training programs. There is currently no standard for training globally and facilitators and psychedelic retreat centers are often recommended based on reputation and time spent in their field.

In Oregon, facilitators are granted psilocybin licenses through the Oregon Health Authority. Newly minted state regulations require 120 of training and forty hours of practical experience guiding psilocybin experiences and integration. Facilitators do not have to be therapists to be approved to work with psilocybin legally and are not allowed to call their work psychedelic therapy. The program is new, with about 600 people receiving psilocybin in Oregon in 2023.

In Jamaica, there are no set regulations for facilitators, although the Jamaican Psilocybin Industry Working Group, which includes leadership from local retreats, is working to standardize best practices. Instead, retreat centers are left to establish their standards, psychedelic retreat models and training programs.

Cost Benefit Analysis of Oregon Psilocybin Treatment Centers

The most obvious factor to examine is cost—but what might not be obvious is how to get one’s money’s worth. Do you travel abroad for an all-inclusive and evaluate the best options? See a therapist in Oregon? Or work with somebody underground in other States? Most will cost thousands of dollars, so it’s not an investment to take lightly.

One-on-One Psilocybin Therapy Clinics in Oregon

In Oregon, a single psilocybin session at a new clinic with a trained and licensed facilitator can cost up to $3400. Costs depend on the practitioner’s experience, training, location, overhead, licensing fees, and the price of grown or synthetic psilocybin.

At a minimum, a package should include a preparation session, six or more hours for the psilocybin experience and an integration session. This price may seem expensive, but holding space for a psilocybin trip is no casual affair for a single person and requires expertise, especially when dealing with mental illnesses related to trauma. These psychedelic treatments can be akin to surgery. Psilocybin therapy is a delicate process to be handled carefully by experts along with adequate time across preparation, the session(s), and integration.

One session can have a big impact, but it’s worth noting studies with psilocybin and depression involve multiple sessions and many hours of therapy. A single session with preparation and integration is a great start, but to explore deeper, compounding healing effects of psilocybin, multiple sessions along with additional therapy, or access to countries such as Jamaica may be required, which comes at extra cost.

One thousand dollars for a single session is often an entry-level price point for underground work. Underground guides or tripsitters might be found at lower costs, but a realistic budget for a trained, licensed psychedelic therapist is around $1500-$3000+. Hotels, transportation, food and time off work all need to be budgeted for as well, along with potential self-care practices often included in retreats. Even when traveling from neighboring states like Washington or California, let alone from states such as New York or Florida, the costs can add up.

Accessibility is also currently an issue, with waiting lists upwards of thousands of people at some psilocybin clinics in Oregon.

Psilocybin Retreats in Oregon

Licensed psilocybin retreat centers in Oregon are few and far between at the time of writing. The psychedelic industry stateside is still finding its legs, but retreats are a great escape from everyday life. At a retreat, healing has space and time to emerge, as opposed to being forced back into the bustle of daily life when a clinical session ends. Not to mention skipping awkward hassles like taking an Uber to a hotel after being in psilocybin therapy all day.

Oregon psilocybin retreat costs may broken down into three separate categories:

• Venue – The location of the psilocybin session starts at $500.
• Facilitation – Whoever guides the experience can cost anywhere from $500 to over $2500.
• Psilocybin – Depending on whether grown or bought synthetically, expect to pay $70 to $600+.

On the lower end, one can have a single psilocybin experience with a few others for $1000. These amount to a “day trip” with light preparation and integration with facilitators. These types of sessions should only be for wellness purposes, as this often is not an adequate amount of support for trauma work.

Multi-day, immersive Oregon mushroom retreats in 2024 range from $3500 to $5500 for three to five-day experiences with one or two psilocybin experiences at lodges in Oregon’s ancient forests and misty mountains. While costs for retreats are higher overall, the value of each dollar includes more than psychedelic therapy. Licensed guides and legal psilocybin are included, along with meals and additional activities like yoga, meditation, massage, and structured integration time. At the time of writing these centers are so new that public reviews of the retreats surveyed don’t exist.

Psilocybin Retreats in Jamaica

All-inclusive psilocybin retreats in Jamaica have been running for nearly a decade and fine-tuning their services and protocols. Due to the fact that many people are unaware of the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms in Jamaica, the retreats also often don’t typically have long waitlists.

Complemented by warm locals, crystal waters, vibrant flora, and integration in the sunshine, travel takes us outside of our usual routines, people and habits. Psilocybin mushrooms aside, travel has always helped put distance between us and our familiar lives to support our health and wellbeing in numerous ways.

Upon arrival, accommodation, food, activities, transportation, support staff, trained facilitators, specialized facilities and psilocybin mushrooms produced by master growers are all provided.

Take MycoMeditations, where pricing starts at $5950 for an 8-day retreat that includes:

• Three guided psilocybin therapy sessions
• World-class facilitation from trained and highly experienced therapists
• Zero limits on dosing to optimize outcomes
• 20+ hours of group therapy (preparation & integration)
• Experience, having guided over 2000 guests on successful journeys
• Utilization of the most effective therapeutic frameworks
• Dedicated hospitality teams
• Intimate group sizes
• Tropical retreat settings
• Massage, meditation, and yoga
• Authentic Jamaican cuisine
• In-depth post-retreat integration

MycoMeditations also works mostly with therapists who already have psychedelic certifications. Facilitators undergo on-site training, mentorship and observation. Only once completing six retreats, totalling 18 psilocybin experiences, upwards of 100 hours of facilitation, and over 100 hours of group integration, are staff qualified as facilitators. After training and working together for so long, the team works together seamlessly to provide the best care for each guest.

How to Choose Between Oregon vs Jamaica for Psilocybin Therapy

Both Oregon and Jamaica have their merits.

Oregon is familiar and close to home for North Americans, but still finding its legs. Expensive licensing for centers and facilitators have kept costs high, limiting the services that practitioners can feasibly offer. Limits on five-gram doses by the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act will prevent some people from breaking through long-held patterns and accessing the emotional content leading to the insight and growth they deserve.

Psilocybin facilitators in Oregon undergo state-approved training programs and hold official credentials, but are not necessarily therapists. Oregon is breaking important ground but is still in the early days of an experiment.

Traveling to Jamaica is a bigger journey that can be more expensive upfront. There is no licensing system in Jamaica, making a comprehensive review of retreat options essential.

The country has no limits on dosage and psilocybin is fully legal, meaning the protocols implemented are proven by real-world results—not committees and policy, but by what works.

The freedom of Jamaica has allowed MycoMeditations’ decade of experience to establish its own gold standard for psilocybin-assisted therapy, built from a continual refinement of methods, procedures, and delivering the outcomes their guests seek.

Psilocybin in Oregon or Jamaica: Which is Best for You?

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