Finding the divine within: exploring the role of the sacred in psychedelic integration therapy for sexual trauma and dysfunction

Abstract During the last two decades, psychedelic-assisted therapy has emerged as one of the most promising novel treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. These medicines have also been used in sacred, ritual settings for, in some cases, centuries. Often referred to as entheogens (meaning “creating the divine within”), psychedelic plant medicines such as psilocybin mushrooms, mescaline-containing cacti, and ayahuasca are unique for their ability to induce a direct and personal experience of the divine. In my work as a psychedelic integration psychotherapist who specializes in sexual trauma as well as issues around gender and sexuality, I have seen my clients transform trauma and develop a healthy relationship to their identity after these profoundly sacred experiences with psychedelic plant medicines in ritual settings. Clients who have sought healing with plant medicines describe an experience of the ineffable, direct communication with divinity or ancestors, and deep felt experiences of embodied pleasure free from shame. Psychedelic integration therapy for sexual trauma uses the experience of ecstasy, direct communication with the divine, and sacred embodied pleasure as vehicles to achieve sustained trauma healing, increased sexual satisfaction, and wellbeing.