The Zendo Project: A Sanctuary for Psychedelic Support

On this episode, we welcome Chelsea Rose and Valerie Beltran, CEO and Outreach Director respectively, with the Zendo Project! The conversation explores the Zendo Project, its origins, and its mission to provide emotional support and harm reduction services at festivals, particularly in psychedelic contexts. Chelsea Rose and Valerie Beltran discuss their roles within the organization, the importance of outreach, and the impact of their services on individuals experiencing difficult emotional states. They also address the challenges of stigma surrounding substance use and the significance of collaboration with medical services to enhance their support systems.

Chelsea and Valerie discuss the integration of psychedelic insights into mainstream mental health care, the importance of peer support, and the success stories that highlight the impact of their services. They emphasize the need for education and community engagement, address misconceptions about psychedelic harm reduction, and outline the challenges faced in providing services at large events. The conversation concludes with a vision for the future of the Zendo Project, focusing on inclusivity, accessibility, and the importance of integration after psychedelic experiences.

Takeaways

• The Zendo Project was founded in 2012 as a peer support service.
• 40% of individuals seeking help at Zendo are not using psychedelics.
• Zendo provides a safe space for emotional support at festivals.
• The organization emphasizes the importance of empathy and attunement in care.
• Zendo's services are crucial for individuals experiencing complex emotions.
• Collaboration with medical services enhances the support provided at events.
• Stigma around substance use remains a significant challenge.
• Zendo's outreach aims to educate and expand its impact.
• The organization operates under principles that promote acceptance of difficult experiences.
• Future partnerships are being explored to increase Zendo's presence at mainstream events. Building a standard of care that includes peer support services is crucial.
• Psychedelics can provide valuable insights for mainstream mental health care.
• Success stories from events like Burning Man highlight the impact of support services.
• Peer support is accessible and beneficial for everyone, not just those on psychedelics.
• Education is key to engaging communities and reducing stigma around psychedelics.
• Difficult experiences in psychedelics are not necessarily bad and can lead to growth.
• The Zendo Project aims to provide compassionate care and support to those in need.
• Inclusivity and accessibility are central to the Zendo Project's mission.
• Integration after psychedelic experiences is essential for personal growth and accountability.
• The future vision includes expanding educational initiatives and community outreach.

Forgot to mention on the episode, but big thanks to Future Boogz for letting us feature their track on this episode! Thanks to DylAlien for the intro music! Ach for the art, Brad for the help, and all of the Patreon Supporters! 

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