I know the term 'guide' has been in use for about 60 years. I dislike the term. Words help define objects but they also help to define relationships. Terms like helper, experienced person, assistant, coach, even teacher, etc. seem less of an "I will show you the way" type of thing.
Some people are not ready for intense experiences. I think a good coach will also screen (assess) for that. If that doesn't happen I would question the skill level and/or motivation. I also think it is good to become familiar with each other over a few one and half to two hour non psychedelic sessions at minimal before moving on to deeper stuff. And then starting the deeper stuff with a relatively low amount, having sessions to process, moving on deeper - the speed of which is different for each person.
Another term I'm not fond of is 'boundaries'. I prefer the term ethics. Ethical standards should be laid out in advance. They can be simple and should include clear prohibitions on any type of exploitation.
I think that sloppiness in the 60's and 70's help set psychedelics back quite a bit. While there has been some recognition and improvement of that there is still a way to go.
I know the term 'guide' has been in use for about 60 years. I dislike the term. Words help define objects but they also help to define relationships. Terms like helper, experienced person, assistant, coach, even teacher, etc. seem less of an "I will show you the way" type of thing.
Some people are not ready for intense experiences. I think a good coach will also screen (assess) for that. If that doesn't happen I would question the skill level and/or motivation. I also think it is good to become familiar with each other over a few one and half to two hour non psychedelic sessions at minimal before moving on to deeper stuff. And then starting the deeper stuff with a relatively low amount, having sessions to process, moving on deeper - the speed of which is different for each person.
Another term I'm not fond of is 'boundaries'. I prefer the term ethics. Ethical standards should be laid out in advance. They can be simple and should include clear prohibitions on any type of exploitation.
I think that sloppiness in the 60's and 70's help set psychedelics back quite a bit. While there has been some recognition and improvement of that there is still a way to go.
I enjoy your posts Julia. Keep shining on.