Our Philosophy
SPS Peer-Led Integration Circles
Community
We believe that sharing and reflecting on the members’ psychedelic experiences within supportive, compassionate, non-judgmental, and respectful groups supports the community aspect of our mission.
Community is a vital part of integration, offering understanding, shared perspectives, and a sense of belonging as we navigate our healing and growth.
Transformation
Integration circles provide a safe space to explore and process altered states of consciousness, helping participants find meaning in their experiences. By working through emotions, images, and symbols, we unlock the transformational potential of psychedelics—embracing challenges as part of the journey.
Challenging is not bad.
Acceptance
We believe in a diversity of members, group techniques, and healing journeys. Acceptance fosters trust, connection, and growth, creating a space where everyone can feel seen, heard, and valued on their unique path to healing and self-discovery. All are welcome–we celebrate you as you are, and we look forward to meeting you!.
What should I expect at a circle?
An integration circle generally ranges from about 5-10 people who have gathered to share and offer reflections on experiences relating to altered states of consciousness. Sometimes individuals may want to process a recent journey, while others may still be unpacking the meaning of a journey from years prior. There is no obligation to share or to offer reflections–often the discussion of another’s journey can yield valuable insight into our own. We simply ask that you keep what is shared in the circle confidential.
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SPS circles begin with an intention to create a safe space for sharing, and depending on the facilitator, they may have an altar for participants to place objects and sharing tools such as a talking stick. They generally run for 1.5 hours. Please note: we will locking the doors closely after start time for security.
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Welcome by the facilitator
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Guidelines and agreements (may be different for each type of integration circle)
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Participant Introductions (we introduce ourselves by name at the beginning of the circle)
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Centering meditation/Mindful moment
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Sharing & Reflections
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Closing meditation
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Conclusion & final announcements
Participants are strongly encouraged to research their own path and do their own research on what may be the safest and best experiences for them. Sierra Psychedelic Society DOES NOT encourage, endorse, or promote any illegal activities or reckless drug use, and bears no responsibility for anyone's decision to do so. This material is provided for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional regarding any questions you have, and before making any healthcare-related decisions.
Agreements & Guidelines
Confidentiality
What is shared in a circle is to be held in strict confidence. Whatever is shared in the circle is not to be shared outside of the circle. This makes the circle a contained and protected space where participants can be open about their experiences.
Peer Support
The objective of the community integration circles is to offer a peer-support environment. While peer-led groups have a myriad of benefits they are not substitutes for therapy or professional mental health services, and do not attempt to provide either. If a situation arises that could be better addressed by a professional, we may refer you to a friendly resource such as Psychedelic Support Network or MAPS Integration List.
No Cross Talk
Keep reflections focused on the person who is sharing
Be Mindful of the Time
Please be aware of the allotted time so that everyone who would like to share has time to do so. Depending on the number in attendance, we often allot about 5 min per share, with about 2 min for reflections.
Respect
There is a difference between offering reflections and giving unsolicited advice. Avoid using phrases like “you should…” Instead, we encourage you to use language like “sometimes I find it helpful…”
Listen from the Heart
The circle commits to listening openly, attentively, and without judgment. Participants practice letting go of anything that may get in the way of being fully present. It is not necessary to agree with a person’s perspective, or even understand it, though people are encouraged to try to understand and listen with compassion and empathy. What’s most important is to honor the value of what is being shared and who is sharing.
Speak from the Heart
Everyone in the circle is given the opportunity to speak, if they choose to do so. When circle participants choose to speak, they do so from the truth of their own experiences. Rather than attempting to establish facts, voice opinions, or arrive at an objective truth, the circle space holds multiple truths and perspectives as equally valid. The emphasis is on telling one’s story deeply and authentically, without fear of judgement. Speaking one’s truth can be a very healing process and the intention of the circle is to provide safe space for healing to occur.
Trust the Process
Participants are asked to trust the circle process and the structure collaboratively established by the circle. This requires one to relinquish acertain sense of control over what exactly will happen in the circle or what the outcome might be. It also means the possibility of being vulnerable in order to allow genuine expression and connection.
Respect the Talking Piece
The circle acknowledges that the talking piece will regulate the circle dialogue by the right to speak only to the person who is holding the talking piece, except in the case that the talking piece has been suspended.
Attend to Your Needs
Use the restroom or get up and move around if you need to. No need to ask permission. Please try not to disrupt the group when moving around.If a topic causes you distress and you need to remove yourself from the circle, pleased o so and return when you feel comfortable. You can also approach the group leader privately after the circle if you need to. If you need to leave the circle altogether, and you feel safe doing so, please address the circle first if possible. No need to provide details, just notifying the circle you need to remove yourself will suffice. This will give participants an opportunity to support you and provide closure.
Accordance with the Law
This is not a place to source illegal substances. We are actively working to change the law, but in the meantime, we are abiding by the rules in order to keep our group safe.
Please note that we will be locking the doors shortly after the start time for security. Thank you, and looking forward to connecting with you!
We look forward to meeting you!
Please don't hesitate to reach out anytime. Our team is knowledgeable and friendly--we're passionate about this cause! You can email us at info@sierrapsychedelic.org, join our slack channel or visit our socials:
