Immersive training retreats: Opportunities and challenges of experiential training in the psychedelic field

Experiential learning in non-ordinary states is increasingly recognized as essential for developing the ethical grounding, presence, and attunement required of psychedelic-assisted therapists. This panel explores the opportunities and challenges of immersive ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) training retreats, drawing from years of experience facilitating both introductory and advanced programs. Panelists will reflect on the power of alternating therapist-client roles, group dynamics, and the integration of transpersonal and archetypal material within supportive learning containers.Key themes include co-creating safe, ethical, and inclusive group environments; managing individual and collective transference; and working with various dosing strategies—from low to hybrid—in both individual and group formats. The conversation will also address the evolving dynamics of leadership in these spaces, emphasizing transparency, mutuality, ceremony, somatic awareness, and non-hierarchical collaboration. This panel offers a deep look into how immersive retreats can shape competent, compassionate, and self-aware psychedelic therapists prepared to navigate complex healing spaces.