It seems so counterintuitive, so seemingly disloyal to their sobriety, for an individual struggling with substance misuse to even consider using plant medicine as treatment for their addiction. And yet, there are those who turn to psychedelics in an effort to quell their desire to use and get to the root of why they use. Perhaps other treatments have failed or 12-step isn’t working for them. Or maybe they are just sick and tired of being in the downward spiral that is addiction.

Through various grapevines they’ve heard of plant based therapies and are curious to see if this vehicle is the opportunity to get to the underlying trauma that is so often the source of the addiction. The trauma that can lead to availing themselves of the numbing effects of drugs and alcohol. They use to cover the pain, then the addiction causes more pain and they’re stuck in a vicious cycle. They’ve reached that point where they’re willing to try plant medicine to break through the thoughts and patterns of addiction, clear their mind and learn how to live drug and alcohol free.

The decision to turn to plant medicine takes thoughtful consideration. Clinical trials need to be investigated as the use of plant medicine is illegal in most parts of the United States. There’s a great deal of stigma around using psychedelics. There’s the risk of disapproval from friends and family, of being shunned in the rooms since non-medical use of drugs is deemed as a relapse. And maybe there’s an underlying feeling that experiencing this type of therapy would embolden their addiction tendencies.

Fortunately there are places people struggling with substance misuse can go for help. One of the groups that offers guidance for those in recovery who are curious about using plant medicine is Psychedelics in Recovery. The founders of this group recognized a need for a safe and accepting space where people in 12-step programs who have an interest in using psychedelics as a part of their recovery can meet. It’s a place where those who question themselves about psychedelic use conflicting with their abstinence and/or have found personal benefit from using psychedelics can gather in a welcoming forum to share experiences and find support.

Curiosity about incorporating plant medicine as a part of their recovery journey is a big step. It involves careful planning as to legality, location, safety and a connection to a trusted certified integrationist. Whether the decision is based on using it as an addiction interrupter or to delve deeper into their psyche to discover what could be the underlying cause of their addiction, it’s important for them to recognize that sustaining the benefits that plant medicines can bring requires work, practice and integration. It’s an immersion into self, an ongoing crusade of caring enough about themselves to make the good choices that lead them to their sobriety goal.

 

If this sounds like you, someone you know or someone you work with, Cindy Feinberg, President and Founder of the Recovery Coach NY is a Certified Psychedelic Integration Coach and available to answer your questions. You can reach out to Cindy via phone or text at 631-921-4085 or via email at recoverycoachcindy@gmail.com

Please note that Cindy does not provide psychedelic or illicit substances, does not provide referrals to illegal psychedelic services and does not encourage their use where it is against the law.

 

The Recovery Coach NY provides individual and family coaching, companions & transport, Intervention and emergency services for you and your loved ones. For more information and additional services, go to our website: www.therecoverycoachny.com

The Recovery Coach NY has years of experience and a vast array of resources that can help those in need find the path to the life they deserve, filled with joy and purpose. We come with an empathetic ear and solution-oriented actions that can begin to bring the relief you and your loved one seek.