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The Path to i-Liv

Historical Context As many of you are aware, the "War on Drugs" that began in the 1970s effectively shut down scientific research on psychedelic substances. This included synthetic substances such as LSD and MDMA, but also plant-based medicines like psilocybin, peyote, and ayahuasca—substances that have been central to Indigenous cultures for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. These cultures have used these natural substances safely and to great benefit. The halting of research robbed us of the opportunity to safely understand and regulate these agents; instead, they were relegated to the "underground," where the potential for unregulated use increased.

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The Current Landscape

Today, many states and municipalities are considering or have enacted legislation to decriminalize, legalize, or otherwise regulate plant-based psychedelics. Both Oregon and Colorado have established programs to standardize the use of psilocybin and the training of facilitators who accompany individuals on their journeys. Psilocybin, in particular, has emerged as a safe and effective adjunct to personal growth. Research indicates it is very well tolerated by most individuals, with a few important exceptions. These exceptions are why trained and experienced facilitators are crucial to screening processes that maximize the potential for safe and effective journeys.

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The Formation of i-Liv

The formation of i-Liv grew out of an awareness that even though psilocybin remains illegal in most of the United States, its use is widespread. During my facilitator training in Oregon, I saw just how vast the underground psilocybin community is. Many of the facilitators in my cohort had been working with these substances for years and possessed a deep knowledge of what is often called "the Medicine." I noted significant differences in the training, experience, and backgrounds of these practitioners—some were therapists, others were nurses or doctors, while some came out of the hippie movement and others from scientific research. This disparity in technical and ethical training inspired me to step in and help.

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Bridging the Gap

As I completed my training and obtained my license, I realized that while I was now legally accredited to do this work in Oregon, I was also in a position to address the needs of people elsewhere. Back home in New York, I saw a path where I could use my skills to assist individuals preparing for psilocybin experiences outside of regulated environments. My goal is to ensure people understand the nature of psilocybin, how best to prepare for a journey, and how to screen for potential risks. Most importantly, I provide professional services for processing and integrating the experience in the days and weeks following a journey.

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Please note: Through this work, I am neither recommending nor promoting the use of illegal substances.