What is Set & Setting and why do they matter?
Set and setting are crucial factors in psychedelic medicine sessions because they significantly influence the outcomes and experiences of individuals undergoing these treatments. Here's why they matter:
1. "Set" refers to an individual's mindset, beliefs, expectations, emotions, and psychological state before and during the psychedelic session. This includes their intentions for the session, their mental and emotional well-being, and their level of psychological preparation. Here's why the set is important:
Emotional State: An individual's emotional state can strongly affect their experience during a psychedelic session. If someone is anxious, stressed, or fearful, these negative emotions can be amplified under the influence of psychedelics, leading to a challenging or even traumatic experience. Conversely, a positive and open emotional state can contribute to a more constructive and transformative experience.
Expectations and Intentions: The mindset and expectations an individual brings into a psychedelic session can shape their experience. Having clear and positive intentions can help guide the session toward productive outcomes. On the other hand, unrealistic or overly negative expectations can influence the session in undesirable ways.
Personal Beliefs: Pre-existing beliefs and attitudes can interact with the psychedelic experience. People with a more spiritual or open-minded perspective might find the experience more enriching, while those with rigid belief systems might struggle to integrate the experience into their worldview.
2. Setting: "Setting" refers to the physical and social environment in which the psychedelic session takes place. This includes factors such as the physical location, lighting, music, presence of experienced guides, and overall atmosphere. Here's why the setting is important:
Physical Safety: Ensuring a physically safe environment is crucial during a psychedelic session. Psychedelics can alter perception, and individuals might engage in risky behaviors if they are not in a safe setting.
Psychological Comfort: The ambiance of the environment can significantly impact the individual's psychological comfort. A calm, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable environment can help individuals relax and feel at ease during the session.
Guidance and Support: Having experienced guides or therapists present can provide reassurance and guidance throughout the session. These individuals can help participants navigate challenging experiences and provide a sense of security.
Sensory Stimulation: Elements such as lighting and music can influence the direction of the experience. The right sensory stimulation can enhance positive feelings and insights, while inappropriate or jarring stimuli could lead to discomfort.
Overall, the interaction between set and setting can profoundly shape the nature and impact of a psychedelic experience.
When set and setting are carefully considered and optimized, the potential for positive therapeutic outcomes, personal insights, and transformative experiences is greatly enhanced. However, neglecting these factors can lead to negative experiences, psychological distress, and reduced therapeutic efficacy.
Trisha Andrews, MA, LMFT, CST is currently offering in-office Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), with sublingual ketamine as well as post-journey integration sessions for Dalliance Sexual Wellness Collective clients interested in journeying with other non-legal psychedelics.
Trisha has completed Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Certification training through Integrative Psychiatry Institute in Boulder, CO as well as Skylight Psychedelics Ketamine-Assisted Therapist training.
*Please note that Trisha Andrews, MA, LMFT, CST nor Dalliance Psychedelics provides or sells psychedelic medicine. We have partnered with Skylight Psychedelics to provide sublingual Ketamine for KAP. While psilocybin is decriminalized for personal use in Denver, it is not approved for clinical use until 2024.
