Author: Sara Gael
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When virtual reality meets psychedelic therapy
While Gael is unfamiliar with Enosis, she said its technology could hold promise if used in “client-centered” ways. This means avoiding overstimulation. VR has the potential to flood a person with stimuli like light, noise, color, and movement, which can undermine a patient’s natural ability to interpret the sensations of their trip. An over-the-top VR…
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Intrapersonal Development for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapists: An Ethical Imperative By Sara Gael MA, LPC
In psychedelic-assisted therapy, self-care is not just a buzz-term but an ethical imperative. Burned out psychedelic therapists are more likely to be misattuned, make mistakes, and cause rupture or harm with clients who are in a vulnerable and impressionable state.
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MAPS Harm Reduction Department Initiates Psychedelic Response Training for Denver First Responders
In February 2020, MAPS Harm Reduction Officer and former MAPS Director of Harm Reduction Sara Gael was appointed as the harm reduction advocate for this effort. The panel is comprised of two members of city council, two proponents of Ordinance 301, one certified addictions counselor, one harm reduction advocate, one representative from the Denver Police…
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How to have a safe psychedelic trip
‘If you have underlying mental health concerns or are experiencing depression, anxiety, or any medical issues, talk to a psychedelic-friendly therapist or doctor before taking substances,’ advises Sara Gael, director of harm reduction at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) in the United States.
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Introduction to MAPS and Harm Reduction with Sara Gael
The Zendo Project’s approach to working with challenging psychedelic experiences is rooted in the philosophies and principles of harm reduction. We aim to invite honest conversations about drug use which facilitate understanding and change the way we respond to those in need of support. We advocate for a compassionate response informed by clinical research and…