Dr. Jennifer Christian Supports Senate Bill 519
“Research shows that one way psychedelics support individuals is by integrating and processing the traumatic experiences that contribute to mental disorders.”
I, Dr. Jennifer Christian Psy.D., am in full support of the SB-519. As a licensed transpersonal psychologist and psychedelic integration therapist in California, I work with individuals seeking support around integrating psychedelic experiences or preparation for these experiences. In the last ten years, 10% of the US population reported using psychedelics. This population continues to grow as reflected in legislation and grassroots movements of the psychedelic renaissance. In my work, I support this population of people who are looking for safe and transformative healing experiences through the use of psychedelics.
A root cause of psychological disorders is untreated or unprocessed traumatic experiences. This can manifest as a mental disorder as seen in addiction, depression, anxiety, or mood disorders. Research shows that one way psychedelics support individuals is by integrating and processing the traumatic experiences that contribute to mental disorders. There is a wisdom that these sacred medicines carry. They provide a shift in consciousness that allows the individual to uncover and integrate old traumas, heal psychological defenses, and bring awareness to habitual self-defeating patterns. Individuals often report an invitation to let go of childhood fears and psychological wounding. Research indicates that psychedelic experiences are associated with decreased psychological symptoms and disorders. Individuals report an increased capacity for self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a spiritual understanding in the cosmic order of their lives. These meaningful experiences can bring about great peace for the individual, offering transformation and a significant reduction in symptoms seen in psychological disorders.
Unfortunately, one part of my job is turning away individuals looking to work with these medicines, since I am not legally able to recommend illegal activities. They are hoping to find safe underground psychedelic assisted therapists, trained facilitators, or guides. These individuals call me with debilitating depression or anxiety, often feeling defeated by the “black box” of finding an underground psychedelic practitioner. They report feeling exhausted or desperate to work with someone that can help them. The absence of a public directory or referral source in my work makes these individuals suffering from mental illness that much more vulnerable to finding safe and experienced psychedelic practitioners. The legalization of this bill would increase the safety and transparency of qualified and ethical psychedelic practitioners in California. This bill will support public safety in the direction of harm reduction through safe access, safe spaces, and above ground education and training for the public.
