Can a Psychologist Attend Ceremonies with Entheogens?
Understand the role of psychologists in entheogenic ceremonies and how their presence can enhance safety and emotional grounding.
Is it ethical or even legal for a psychologist to be present during an entheogenic ceremony?
This question reflects a growing intersection between psychology and ancestral or ceremonial medicine. In many parts of the world, there’s a new generation of therapists who don’t see these two fields as opposites—but as complementary.
A psychologist can support:
- Emotional safety before, during, and after a ceremony
- Grounding and containment for participants who face intense emotions
- Integration of the experience into the person's life and personal process
- Ethical observation of boundaries and consent within the ritual space
However, it’s essential that this presence is requested, culturally sensitive, and within legal and ethical frameworks. The psychologist is not a “shaman,” but rather someone who brings psychological knowledge into a sacred setting, often acting silently or as backup support.
Ceremonies involving substances like ayahuasca or psilocybin can bring up deep material. Having a mental health professional present—when aligned with the tradition—can be a great help for some participants.