Frequently Asked Questions
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PSILOCYBIN JOURNEYS WITH CHARIOT
Humans have been using psychedelic mushrooms ceremonially for thousands of years, although it has only recently been legalized in parts of the United States. Oregon was the first state to pass legislation allowing for the regulated use of psilocybin in 2020. Since then, the state has established a robust regulatory framework, which is managed by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). Oregon law does not allow people to purchase or consume psilocybin outside of a licensed service center, and the requirements in statute and administrative rules must be followed by all licensees.
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Because psilocybin offers a natural gateway to personal transformation and an alternative to conventional therapeutic approaches that may have left you stuck.
As stated by the National Institute of Health: “Psilocybin offers a wide range of possible medical applications, according to clinical studies. Addiction medicine, depression, and end-of-life mood disorders are among the areas with the most evidence of benefit.”
In our experience, therapeutically supported psilocybin can begin your journey to a more joyful & fulfilled life.
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Psilocybin is a naturally occurring, non-addictive psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms. Eating mushrooms that contain psilocybin can have a variety of effects, ranging from euphoria to hallucinations. Depending on the amount consumed, journeys typically last anywhere from 2-6 hours.
A landmark study published by Johns Hopkins in 2006 on the safety and enduring benefits of a single dose of psilocybin sparked a renewal of psychedelic research and interest world-wide. Since then, much has been learned about the potential of psilocybin in treating issues such as smoking or alcohol cessation, treatment resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. Research is ongoing, and enthusiasm continues to mount around the vast potential of this natural compound.
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Caring for someone while they are in an altered state is important work, and we take it very seriously. Your comfort and safety are always our top priority. All facilitators working with Chariot are experienced professionals licensed by the Oregon Health Authority or Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
While the use of psilocybin is generally considered safe, there are some associated risk factors. For example, it is generally not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. If you have specific health-related questions, we encourage you to speak with your primary care physician.
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Studies have demonstrated psilocybin to be an effective option for many suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorder, cluster headaches and other illnesses. It can also offer a mystical experience, an increased sense of well-being and connectedness, or opportunities for self-discovery and growth.
There are some individuals for whom psilocybin is not recommended. During the intake process, a Licensed Facilitator will determine whether or not an individual is a good fit for psilocybin. If you have specific health-related questions, we encourage you to speak with your primary care physician.
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The cost of a psilocybin journey with Chariot varies based on several factors. We partner with independent facilitators to conduct individual or group journeys in our centers. Collectively, we provide diverse expertise and experience with psilocybin to address a range of complex issues. Cost varies based on the facilitator you choose to work with, the room you book in our center, the number of guests participating in a session, and the psilocybin dosage. Generally, you can expect a series including preparation, psilocybin administration, and follow up integration with Chariot to range from $1,800-$3,000.
In an effort to make services accessible, Chariot provides several no- or reduced-cost rooms each month, in partnership with facilitators offering discounted or sliding scale options to clients.
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The Psilocybin Access Fund (PAF) provides financial assistance to help individuals from underserved communities access psilocybin therapy within the Oregon state-regulated model. This fund aims to overcome financial barriers and expand healing opportunities for those in need. Apply here.
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Each experience is custom-designed between the client(s) and their facilitator, with support from Chariot’s Client Care team.
You may find your facilitator in one of two ways:
By registering for a free consultation with a member of our team to answer your questions and determine fit. Should you decide to proceed, our team will thoughtfully match you with a licensed facilitator to further explore your needs and goals, and make a plan for your journey.
A licensed facilitator with whom you are already working may register to provide your psilocybin session in our space.
Preparation:
All clients undergo at least one preparation session with their facilitator a minimum of 24 hours prior to their journey. Each facilitator’s process is different, but you will generally explore your background, desired outcomes, and set intentions for your experience. These sessions may be completed in person or virtually. Facilitators and our team are always here to answer your questions and help determine whether this experience is right for you.
The Psilocybin Journey:
On the morning of your session, you will meet your facilitator at our center and be given a tour before settling into your room for your journey. By this point, you will have a pre-set plan with your facilitator designed for your safety and comfort, as well as an understanding of your psilocybin dosage and the expected amount of time you will be at Chariot. All of us are here to make your experience as comfortable as possible every step of the way.
* Follow-up Integration: Follow-up integration session(s) are highly recommended for the most benefit, though not required by law. These sessions help clients talk through their experience and begin interpreting the meaning and intention to carry forward. Oftentimes, a series of several journeys with integration is recommended.
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It’s important to note that state legislation has not created a medical model. State-licensed facilitators must take a non-directive approach to facilitating psilocybin services, which is grounded in supporting safe, client-centered experiences.
Therefore, a prescription or referral from a medical or clinical provider is not necessary, however, a client must participate in a preparation session with a licensed facilitator before they can consume psilocybin.
