PPS Knowledge Portal

A profound psychedelic experience in which ordinary perception dissolves completely, often leading to a sense of entering another dimension, encountering entities, or experiencing ego dissolution.

May also refer to a mental-health breakthrough - gaining significant insights or resolution of psychic issues.

A medical or psychological condition, medication, or circumstance that makes the use of a particular psychedelic substance potentially unsafe or harmful.

The removal or reduction of criminal penalties for the possession or use of certain substances, such as psychedelics—typically meaning personal use is no longer prosecuted, though sale and distribution may remain illegal.

A psychoactive substance used in spiritual, ritual, or religious contexts to facilitate altered states of consciousness, insight, or connection with the divine.

A clear, affirmative, and voluntary agreement to participate, given freely and with genuine eagerness. In psychedelic spaces, this means ensuring all interactions are mutual, respectful, and continually reaffirmed.

Also refered to as ego dissolution; the temporary loss of the sense of self or personal identity, often experienced during high dose psychedelic journeys. It can feel like dissolving into the universe, merging with all that is, or letting go of the boundaries of the “I.”

A person who holds space and supports individuals or groups during a psychedelic experience, preparation, or integration, offering guidance, safety, and presence without directing or controlling the journey.

In states and communities with legal psychedelic service centers, a facilitator may obtain special licenses to operate.

A mental state of deep focus, ease, and immersion in an activity, often described as “being in the zone.” In psychedelic or creative contexts, flow states can enhance insight, intuition, and a sense of timelessness.

An experienced individual who supports and accompanies someone through a psychedelic journey, often offering emotional grounding, reassurance, and a safe container—distinct from a facilitator in that they may be more personally involved in the experience itself.

A set of practical strategies and principles aimed at minimizing the risks and potential negative effects of drug use while respecting individual autonomy. In psychedelic spaces, this includes education, safety planning, peer support, and integration resources.

A very high psychedelic dose—typically 5 grams or more of dried psilocybin mushrooms—coined by Terence McKenna to induce deep, intense, and often transformative experiences.

The term "heroic" might be misleading, as these doses carry significant risks and potential dangers. Due to the intense nature of the experience, a heroic dose should not be taken lightly and requires careful preparation and potentially, supervision.

The process and ongoing practice of reflecting on and incorporating insights, experiences, and lessons from a psychedelic journey into everyday life for lasting growth and healing.

An integration coach guides individuals through processing and making meaning of their psychedelic experiences, offering personalized support and tools for growth. Integration circles are group gatherings where participants share, reflect, and support one another’s journeys in a safe, communal space.

A term commonly used to describe the active psychedelic experience; the period of altered perception, emotions, and insights while under the influence of a psychedelic substance. A personal voyage of exploration, insight, and transformation beyond everyday reality.

Taking a full or high dose of a psychedelic, enough to produce significant perceptual and cognitive effects, often leading to intense, transformative experiences.

Taking very small, sub-perceptual amounts of a psychedelic—too low to cause noticeable hallucinations—often used to enhance mood, creativity, focus, or well-being without a full trip.

A spiritual practice or experience focused on direct, personal connection with the divine, ultimate reality, or a deeper truth, often involving feelings of unity, transcendence, and profound insight.

Healing substances derived from plants, fungi, or other natural sources, used traditionally or therapeutically to support physical, mental, or spiritual health—including many psychedelics used in ceremonial contexts.

The brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections throughout life, enabling learning, adaptation, and recovery, often enhanced by certain psychedelic experiences.

Psychoactive plants or herbal remedies used for healing, spiritual growth, or consciousness exploration, often within sacred or traditional practices, especially in ceremonial, indigenous, or shamanic contexts.

A principle rooted in many Indigenous traditions, emphasizing mutual exchange, respect, and care within the community, and by one community or organization to another.

It involves giving back as much as one receives, fostering balance, trust, and harmony—especially important in psychedelic spaces honoring ancestral wisdom. It is vital that the benefits that originate from indigenous knowledge are shared with such communities.

A plant revered for its spiritual, healing, or ceremonial significance, often used in Indigenous or traditional practices to facilitate connection with the divine, gain insight, or promote holistic well-being.

Key factors that influence the outcome of a psychedelic experience that together help shape the safety, tone, and depth of the journey.

• Set refers to your mindset—thoughts, emotions, and intentions going into the journey.
• Setting refers to the physical and social environment in which the experience takes place.

An ancient spiritual practice found in many Indigenous cultures, centered around healers or shamans who enter altered states of consciousness with the aid of sacred plants to access wisdom, perform healing, and communicate with the spirit world.

A sensory phenomenon where stimulation of one sense triggers experiences in another—such as "hearing" colors or "seeing" sounds—commonly reported during psychedelic experiences.

The minimum dose of a psychedelic needed to produce noticeable effects, marking the transition from baseline awareness into an altered state of consciousness.