70. What No One Tells You About Consent in Psychedelic Therapy

Psychedelics can open new worlds—but without clear boundaries and informed consent, they can also expose deep vulnerabilities. In this powerful close to our three-part series, April Pride speaks with journalist Jennifer Chesak, author of The Psilocybin Handbook for Women, about the complex terrain of psychedelic therapy consent. They address an urgent, often unspoken truth: sexual abuse is happening in the psychedelic space, and women are disproportionately impacted. From vetting your guide to the FRIES consent framework, this episode offers real talk for anyone considering psilocybin-assisted therapy. Clear-eyed and compassionate, this conversation is essential listening for women navigating healing in altered states.

🔵 Key Takeaways

-Sexual abuse is an open secret in psychedelic therapy. The lack of regulation and secrecy around facilitators creates risk, especially for women.

-Always vet your guide. Look for facilitators who ask detailed intake questions, work in pairs (ideally gender-balanced), and respect boundaries without pushback.

-The FRIES model reframes consent: Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific.

-Set the tone before the trip. All touch or physical proximity should be discussed before the session begins. Anything said under the influence doesn’t count as consent.

-Safety isn’t just physical. Emotional, spiritual, and psychological safety are just as critical in psychedelic settings. Choose your setting—and people—wisely.

Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/consent-in-psychedelic-therapy

Hosted by April Pride

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