FAQ
About Psilocybin
What is psilocybin?
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms (magic mushrooms). It belongs to a class of substances that can temporarily change perception, mood, cognition, and awareness.
After ingestion, the body converts psilocybin into psilocin, the compound primarily responsible for its psychedelic effects. Psilocin interacts with serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which plays an important role in perception, emotion, and cognition.
During an experience, people may notice changes in sensory perception, including enhanced colors, altered patterns, changes in the perception of time, and a heightened awareness of thoughts, emotions, memories, or bodily sensations. Some people describe experiencing new perspectives, increased emotional awareness, a sense of connection, or meaningful personal insights.
Psilocybin does not produce the same experience for everyone. The effects can vary based on factors such as dose, individual physiology, mindset, environment, expectations, and personal history. Experiences can range from gentle and reflective to deeply emotional or psychologically challenging.
Is psilocybin legal in Colorado?
In November 2022, Colorado voters approved Proposition 122, the Natural Medicine Health Act.
Colorado law established a regulated framework for adult access to certain natural medicines, including psilocybin, for people 21 and older. The law also distinguishes between personal use and regulated natural medicine services.
Psilocybin is not unrestricted in Colorado, and it remains illegal under federal law. Where, how, and by whom natural medicine services may be provided is governed by state regulations.
I operate within the requirements that apply to my Colorado license and practice.
Do I need a diagnosis or prescription?
No.
Colorado’s natural medicine program is not limited to people with a particular medical diagnosis or prescription.
However, everyone must meet the applicable eligibility requirements and complete the screening process before participating.
Who can participate?
Participants must be 21 or older and meet the applicable eligibility and assessment requirements.
The assessment process helps determine whether a natural medicine experience appears appropriate for you and whether additional professional or medical guidance may be recommended.
What if I’m nervous or unsure about having a psilocybin journey?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous, curious, or even uncertain. A psilocybin journey can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory, and you don’t have to know exactly what to expect.
We’ll spend time preparing beforehand so you understand the process, discuss your intentions and concerns, and establish what helps you feel safe and supported. You are never expected to force an experience or “do it right.” The journey is your experience, and you’ll be supported through whatever arises.
Before Your Journey
Do I need previous experience with psychedelics?
Not at all.
You do not need to have used psychedelics before. Preparation is provided for every participant, whether this is your first experience or you’ve been on this path before.
What happens during preparation?
Preparation is an important part of the process.
We talk about what to expect, your questions and concerns, relevant safety considerations, consent and boundaries, and how support will be provided during the experience.
It is also an opportunity for you to decide whether moving forward feels right for you.
What is an intention?
An intention is something you may choose to bring with you into the experience.
It isn’t a goal you have to accomplish or an outcome you should expect.
Your intention might involve:
Curiosity
Self-understanding
Personal growth
Grief or a life transition
Relationships
Openness
Simply being present
And you don’t have to have an intention an intention at all.
During Your Journey
What happens during a psilocybin journey?
A psilocybin journey is a supported, intentional experience that typically unfolds in stages. After preparation and dosing, effects gradually begin and may include changes in perception, emotions, thoughts, and body sensations. The experience may deepen into periods of introspection, emotional processing, or new perspectives before gradually easing.
You may experience moments of joy, connection, insight, or challenging emotions. There is no specific experience you are expected to have or outcome you need to achieve. Your role is to experience; my role is to provide a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental presence throughout the journey.
What if I become uncomfortable, emotional, or scared?
Sometimes difficult emotions, memories, or unexpected experiences arise.
If that happens, we can slow things down, reconnect with the breath and present moment, and create space for whatever is happening without trying to force it away or make it mean something.
You won’t be judged for what comes up.
Preparation also includes talking about what challenging moments can look like and how support is provided if they occur.
Can I change my mind?
Yes. You can communicate your needs and boundaries at any point.
Once the medicine has been fully ingested, however, the psychedelic experience cannot simply be stopped. If it has not been fully ingested, you can choose not to continue.
Consent, expectations, boundaries, and available support are discussed before the journey begins so you understand your choices beforehand.
Will I be alone?
No.
Administration sessions are supported and supervised within the regulated natural medicine framework. I remain present and attentive throughout the session.
Safety & Assessment
Is psilocybin safe for everyone?
No.
Psilocybin is not appropriate for everyone, and psychedelic experiences can involve physical, psychological, and emotional risks.
An initial assessment and preparation process helps determine whether a psilocybin journey may be appropriate and safe for you.
What does the assessment involve?
Assessment may include questions about your:
Physical and psychological health
Medications and supplements
Medical history
Previous psychedelic experiences
Current life circumstances
Reasons for seeking natural medicine services
Potential risk factors
Being open and honest during your assessment is an important part of making an informed decision about participation.
Can I participate if I take antidepressants or other medications?
Medication considerations are evaluated individually.
Some medications may affect the experience or create additional safety considerations. You will be asked to provide a complete list of your current medications and supplements.
Never stop, reduce, or change a prescribed medication in order to participate without first speaking with the healthcare professional who prescribed it.
What if I am pregnant or have a significant medical or psychological history?
Please disclose this during assessment.
Certain circumstances may require additional evaluation or may mean that natural medicine services aren’t appropriate. When necessary, you may be encouraged to speak with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before proceeding.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
Candidacy is determined through the assessment and preparation process. We’ll discuss your health, history, medications, intentions, and readiness to determine whether participation appears appropriate and whether additional professional guidance may be helpful.
Is This Therapy?
Do you provide medical or mental health treatment?
No.
Natural medicine journeys are not a replacement for:
Medical care
Psychiatric care
Licensed psychotherapy
Emergency services
Other professional healthcare
If you already work with a therapist, physician, psychiatrist, or another healthcare professional, continuing that relationship can be an important part of your overall support system.
Can psilocybin cure depression, anxiety, PTSD, or trauma?
Research into psilocybin and mental health continues to evolve, and individual experiences vary significantly. I will give you case studies upon request.
The research is promising but I do not claim to cure, treat, or resolve medical or psychological conditions.
The focus is on creating a safe, intentional, supported space for your experience, not promising a particular result.
Your Natural Medicine Journey Day
Where does the journey take place?
Your administration session takes place in a setting permitted under Colorado’s natural medicine regulations and selected to support privacy, comfort, safety, and a grounded environment.
Specific location and session details may be discussed during assessment and scheduling.
Is the natural medicine provided?
Natural medicine is handled and administered according to the requirements governing the service.
The medicine used for your session is lab tested for potency and weighed before being provided for the supported experience.
You’ll receive information about the medicine and the process during preparation so you know what to expect.
Can I choose my dose?
Administration takes place within the regulated framework and the individualized facilitation process.
Dosing is approached as part of a structured, safety-focused experience rather than as a recreational choice. Relevant regulations, your circumstances, informed consent, and safety considerations are taken into account.
How long does a journey last?
The length of a session can vary depending on the experience, the amount administered, and other circumstances. You’ll receive an expected timeline during preparation so you can plan your day accordingly.
Plan for approximately 6–8 hours from arrival to completion. Each journey unfolds differently, so there is flexibility in the timing.
Your day includes:
- Arrival & preparation: Settle in, review intentions, and prepare for the experience.
- Journey: The experience gradually builds, reaches its peak, and gently comes back down.
- Support & reflection: Continuous support throughout, followed by time to talk, ground yourself, and reflect.
- Closing: I’ll make sure you feel ready before leaving and discuss next steps for integration.
There’s no need to rush the process. The goal is to provide the time and space your experience needs. Plan to keep the remainder of your day free.
Can I drive myself home?
No.
You must arrange transportation in advance.
Psilocybin can affect perception, coordination, judgment, and reaction time. You’ll receive guidance about leaving the session and making transportation arrangements.
Can I stay overnight?
Overnight arrangements may be available depending on the location and structure of your experience.
Availability, expectations, and policies will be discussed before scheduling.
Friends, Support People & Groups
Can I participate with a friend or group?
Group experiences may be possible when permitted and appropriate.
If you’re interested in sharing the experience with a friend or participating in a group, mention it during your initial conversation so we can discuss the available options.
Can someone accompany me?
If you’d like someone involved in your preparation, integration, or another part of the process, please discuss it in advance so privacy, consent, expectations, and boundaries can be established.
What are the boundaries around touch?
Your boundaries always matter.
Any physical contact must be based on informed consent and established boundaries and must comply with applicable requirements.
You are never required to engage in physical contact.
Preparing for Your Journey
What should I bring?
You’ll receive specific preparation instructions before your session.
Generally, bring:
Comfortable clothing
Anything that helps you feel physically comfortable
Personal grounding items, if helpful
Any requested information or documentation
The goal is simple: create an environment where you can settle in and focus on your experience.
Should I change what I eat or drink beforehand?
You’ll receive preparation guidance specific to your session.
Follow those instructions and disclose relevant medications, supplements, and substances during assessment.
Please do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or other non-approved substances.
What should I plan for afterward?
Give yourself some room.
Whenever possible, avoid scheduling demanding activities immediately after your session. Arrange transportation ahead of time and allow yourself space to rest, reflect, and transition back into everyday life.
Integration
What is integration?
Integration is the process of reflecting on your experience and exploring how, or whether, it connects with your life afterward.
It might involve:
Reflecting on what you experienced
Exploring emotions or memories that surfaced
Sitting with unanswered questions
Considering a shift in perspective
Connecting what you noticed with everyday life
Simply allowing the experience to exist without needing to explain it
Integration isn’t about telling you what your experience meant.
It’s about giving you space to explore what it means to you.
How many integration sessions will I need?
There isn’t a universal number but one is required.
Some people may want one conversation. Others may find that additional support is useful.
Integration is based on your individual needs and circumstances.
What if I don't have a profound or life-changing experience?
That’s completely okay.
Not every journey is dramatic.
An experience can be subtle, quiet, emotional, confusing, reflective, neutral, or simply different from what you expected.
There is no particular outcome you need to achieve.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Is everything confidential?
Your privacy and confidentiality are treated with care and in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Before participating, you’ll be informed about privacy practices, confidentiality, recordkeeping, and any applicable limitations.
Licensing & Regulation
Is Krista Meinert licensed?
Krista Meinert received her BA from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside and operates legally within Colorado’s natural medicine framework under Colorado state license NMIT.0000687.
Who regulates natural medicine in Colorado?
Colorado’s natural medicine program includes state licensing and regulatory oversight of natural medicine businesses and facilitators.
Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — Natural Medicine
Because regulations can change, current state requirements should always be reviewed.
The Heart Behind the Work
Why should I work with you?
Because I know what it is like to hurt, feel lost, hold grief, to carry things that no one else can see and wonder if life can ever feel different.
I also know that healing isn’t about erasing what happened or becoming someone new but listening to what your heart has been trying to tell you and discover more of you waiting to be lived.
I don’t come into this work believing I have all the answers. I come as a human being who has been changed by my own experiences and I would be honored to share this journey with you.
Still Have Questions?
What if my question isn't answered here?
Ask.
Seriously.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Natural medicine is personal, and questions are part of the process.
There is no pressure to proceed.
You don’t need to know where you’re going to begin exploring where you are.
A Note About This Work
Natural medicine experiences are deeply personal and can vary significantly from one person to another. No specific physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, or therapeutic outcome is guaranteed.
Colorado’s natural medicine laws and regulations may change. This FAQ is provided for general informational purposes and should not be considered legal or medical advice.
About Psilocybin
What is psilocybin?
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms (magic mushrooms). It belongs to a class of substances that can temporarily change perception, mood, cognition, and awareness.
After ingestion, the body converts psilocybin into psilocin, the compound primarily responsible for its psychedelic effects. Psilocin interacts with serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor, which plays an important role in perception, emotion, and cognition.
During an experience, people may notice changes in sensory perception, including enhanced colors, altered patterns, changes in the perception of time, and a heightened awareness of thoughts, emotions, memories, or bodily sensations. Some people describe experiencing new perspectives, increased emotional awareness, a sense of connection, or meaningful personal insights.
Psilocybin does not produce the same experience for everyone. The effects can vary based on factors such as dose, individual physiology, mindset, environment, expectations, and personal history. Experiences can range from gentle and reflective to deeply emotional or psychologically challenging.
Is psilocybin legal in Colorado?
In November 2022, Colorado voters approved Proposition 122, the Natural Medicine Health Act.
Colorado law established a regulated framework for adult access to certain natural medicines, including psilocybin, for people 21 and older. The law also distinguishes between personal use and regulated natural medicine services.
Psilocybin is not unrestricted in Colorado, and it remains illegal under federal law. Where, how, and by whom natural medicine services may be provided is governed by state regulations.
I operate within the requirements that apply to my Colorado license and practice.
Do I need a diagnosis or prescription?
No.
Colorado’s natural medicine program is not limited to people with a particular medical diagnosis or prescription.
However, everyone must meet the applicable eligibility requirements and complete the screening process before participating.
Who can participate?
Participants must be 21 or older and meet the applicable eligibility and assessment requirements.
The assessment process helps determine whether a natural medicine experience appears appropriate for you and whether additional professional or medical guidance may be recommended.
What if I’m nervous or unsure about having a psilocybin journey?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous, curious, or even uncertain. A psilocybin journey can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory, and you don’t have to know exactly what to expect.
We’ll spend time preparing beforehand so you understand the process, discuss your intentions and concerns, and establish what helps you feel safe and supported. You are never expected to force an experience or “do it right.” The journey is your experience, and you’ll be supported through whatever arises.
Before Your Journey
Do I need previous experience with psychedelics?
Not at all.
You do not need to have used psychedelics before. Preparation is provided for every participant, whether this is your first experience or you’ve been on this path before.
What happens during preparation?
Preparation is an important part of the process.
We talk about what to expect, your questions and concerns, relevant safety considerations, consent and boundaries, and how support will be provided during the experience.
It is also an opportunity for you to decide whether moving forward feels right for you.
What is an intention?
An intention is something you may choose to bring with you into the experience.
It isn’t a goal you have to accomplish or an outcome you should expect.
Your intention might involve:
Curiosity
Self-understanding
Personal growth
Grief or a life transition
Relationships
Openness
Simply being present
And you don’t have to have an intention an intention at all.
During Your Journey
What happens during a psilocybin journey?
A psilocybin journey is a supported, intentional experience that typically unfolds in stages. After preparation and dosing, effects gradually begin and may include changes in perception, emotions, thoughts, and body sensations. The experience may deepen into periods of introspection, emotional processing, or new perspectives before gradually easing.
You may experience moments of joy, connection, insight, or challenging emotions. There is no specific experience you are expected to have or outcome you need to achieve. Your role is to experience; my role is to provide a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental presence throughout the journey.
What if I become uncomfortable, emotional, or scared?
Sometimes difficult emotions, memories, or unexpected experiences arise.
If that happens, we can slow things down, reconnect with the breath and present moment, and create space for whatever is happening without trying to force it away or make it mean something.
You won’t be judged for what comes up.
Preparation also includes talking about what challenging moments can look like and how support is provided if they occur.
Can I change my mind?
Yes. You can communicate your needs and boundaries at any point.
Once the medicine has been fully ingested, however, the psychedelic experience cannot simply be stopped. If it has not been fully ingested, you can choose not to continue.
Consent, expectations, boundaries, and available support are discussed before the journey begins so you understand your choices beforehand.
Will I be alone?
No.
Administration sessions are supported and supervised within the regulated natural medicine framework. I remain present and attentive throughout the session.
Safety & Assessment
Is psilocybin safe for everyone?
No.
Psilocybin is not appropriate for everyone, and psychedelic experiences can involve physical, psychological, and emotional risks.
An initial assessment and preparation process helps determine whether a psilocybin journey may be appropriate and safe for you.
What does the assessment involve?
Assessment may include questions about your:
Physical and psychological health
Medications and supplements
Medical history
Previous psychedelic experiences
Current life circumstances
Reasons for seeking natural medicine services
Potential risk factors
Being open and honest during your assessment is an important part of making an informed decision about participation.
Can I participate if I take antidepressants or other medications?
Medication considerations are evaluated individually.
Some medications may affect the experience or create additional safety considerations. You will be asked to provide a complete list of your current medications and supplements.
Never stop, reduce, or change a prescribed medication in order to participate without first speaking with the healthcare professional who prescribed it.
What if I am pregnant or have a significant medical or psychological history?
Please disclose this during assessment.
Certain circumstances may require additional evaluation or may mean that natural medicine services aren’t appropriate. When necessary, you may be encouraged to speak with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before proceeding.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
Candidacy is determined through the assessment and preparation process. We’ll discuss your health, history, medications, intentions, and readiness to determine whether participation appears appropriate and whether additional professional guidance may be helpful.
Is This Therapy?
Do you provide medical or mental health treatment?
No.
Natural medicine journeys are not a replacement for:
Medical care
Psychiatric care
Licensed psychotherapy
Emergency services
Other professional healthcare
If you already work with a therapist, physician, psychiatrist, or another healthcare professional, continuing that relationship can be an important part of your overall support system.
Can psilocybin cure depression, anxiety, PTSD, or trauma?
Research into psilocybin and mental health continues to evolve, and individual experiences vary significantly. I will give you case studies upon request.
The research is promising but I do not claim to cure, treat, or resolve medical or psychological conditions.
The focus is on creating a safe, intentional, supported space for your experience, not promising a particular result.
Your Natural Medicine Journey Day
Where does the journey take place?
Your administration session takes place in a setting permitted under Colorado’s natural medicine regulations and selected to support privacy, comfort, safety, and a grounded environment.
Specific location and session details may be discussed during assessment and scheduling.
Is the natural medicine provided?
Natural medicine is handled and administered according to the requirements governing the service.
The medicine used for your session is lab tested for potency and weighed before being provided for the supported experience.
You’ll receive information about the medicine and the process during preparation so you know what to expect.
Can I choose my dose?
Administration takes place within the regulated framework and the individualized facilitation process.
Dosing is approached as part of a structured, safety-focused experience rather than as a recreational choice. Relevant regulations, your circumstances, informed consent, and safety considerations are taken into account.
How long does a journey last?
The length of a session can vary depending on the experience, the amount administered, and other circumstances. You’ll receive an expected timeline during preparation so you can plan your day accordingly.
Plan for approximately 6–8 hours from arrival to completion. Each journey unfolds differently, so there is flexibility in the timing.
Your day includes:
- Arrival & preparation: Settle in, review intentions, and prepare for the experience.
- Journey: The experience gradually builds, reaches its peak, and gently comes back down.
- Support & reflection: Continuous support throughout, followed by time to talk, ground yourself, and reflect.
- Closing: I’ll make sure you feel ready before leaving and discuss next steps for integration.
There’s no need to rush the process. The goal is to provide the time and space your experience needs. Plan to keep the remainder of your day free.
Can I drive myself home?
No.
You must arrange transportation in advance.
Psilocybin can affect perception, coordination, judgment, and reaction time. You’ll receive guidance about leaving the session and making transportation arrangements.
Can I stay overnight?
Overnight arrangements may be available depending on the location and structure of your experience.
Availability, expectations, and policies will be discussed before scheduling.
Friends, Support People & Groups
Can I participate with a friend or group?
Group experiences may be possible when permitted and appropriate.
If you’re interested in sharing the experience with a friend or participating in a group, mention it during your initial conversation so we can discuss the available options.
Can someone accompany me?
If you’d like someone involved in your preparation, integration, or another part of the process, please discuss it in advance so privacy, consent, expectations, and boundaries can be established.
What are the boundaries around touch?
Your boundaries always matter.
Any physical contact must be based on informed consent and established boundaries and must comply with applicable requirements.
You are never required to engage in physical contact.
Preparing for Your Journey
What should I bring?
You’ll receive specific preparation instructions before your session.
Generally, bring:
Comfortable clothing
Anything that helps you feel physically comfortable
Personal grounding items, if helpful
Any requested information or documentation
The goal is simple: create an environment where you can settle in and focus on your experience.
Should I change what I eat or drink beforehand?
You’ll receive preparation guidance specific to your session.
Follow those instructions and disclose relevant medications, supplements, and substances during assessment.
Please do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or other non-approved substances.
What should I plan for afterward?
Give yourself some room.
Whenever possible, avoid scheduling demanding activities immediately after your session. Arrange transportation ahead of time and allow yourself space to rest, reflect, and transition back into everyday life.
Integration
What is integration?
Integration is the process of reflecting on your experience and exploring how, or whether, it connects with your life afterward.
It might involve:
Reflecting on what you experienced
Exploring emotions or memories that surfaced
Sitting with unanswered questions
Considering a shift in perspective
Connecting what you noticed with everyday life
Simply allowing the experience to exist without needing to explain it
Integration isn’t about telling you what your experience meant.
It’s about giving you space to explore what it means to you.
How many integration sessions will I need?
There isn’t a universal number but one is required.
Some people may want one conversation. Others may find that additional support is useful.
Integration is based on your individual needs and circumstances.
What if I don't have a profound or life-changing experience?
That’s completely okay.
Not every journey is dramatic.
An experience can be subtle, quiet, emotional, confusing, reflective, neutral, or simply different from what you expected.
There is no particular outcome you need to achieve.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Is everything confidential?
Your privacy and confidentiality are treated with care and in accordance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Before participating, you’ll be informed about privacy practices, confidentiality, recordkeeping, and any applicable limitations.
Licensing & Regulation
Is Krista Meinert licensed?
Krista Meinert received her BA from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside and operates legally within Colorado’s natural medicine framework under Colorado state license NMIT.0000687.
Who regulates natural medicine in Colorado?
Colorado’s natural medicine program includes state licensing and regulatory oversight of natural medicine businesses and facilitators.
Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — Natural Medicine
Because regulations can change, current state requirements should always be reviewed.
The Heart Behind the Work
Why should I work with you?
Because I know what it is like to hurt, feel lost, hold grief, to carry things that no one else can see and wonder if life can ever feel different.
I also know that healing isn’t about erasing what happened or becoming someone new but listening to what your heart has been trying to tell you and discover more of you waiting to be lived.
I don’t come into this work believing I have all the answers. I come as a human being who has been changed by my own experiences and I would be honored to share this journey with you.
Still Have Questions?
What if my question isn't answered here?
Ask.
Seriously.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Natural medicine is personal, and questions are part of the process.
There is no pressure to proceed.
You don’t need to know where you’re going to begin exploring where you are.
A Note About This Work
Natural medicine experiences are deeply personal and can vary significantly from one person to another. No specific physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, or therapeutic outcome is guaranteed.
Colorado’s natural medicine laws and regulations may change. This FAQ is provided for general informational purposes and should not be considered legal or medical advice.