Safety · Harm Reduction

Safety through harm reduction.

Navigating your journey with confidence. Our vetted guides are selected for their experience with harm reduction, and these are the principles we hold to.

A seeker reclines with eyes closed as an attentive guide sits nearby in a warm room, reflecting psychedelic harm reduction.
Safety first, always

Held, with care, every step of the way.

At JourneyŌM, your well-being is our top priority.

We are dedicated to reducing potential harm and creating a safe environment for your transformative journey. Although our vetted guides are specifically selected for their experience with harm reduction and safety principles, below are some common rules or principles to follow when considering your journey.

01

Work with a Vetted Guide

The single most important safety decision you can make is who sits with you. Vetting a guide on your own is hard: credentials are inconsistent, references can be cherry-picked, and the qualities that matter most don’t show up on a website.

This is the gap JourneyŌM exists to close. Every guide in our network has been through a multi-step vetting process that includes background checks, credential verification, reference calls, and direct interviews. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

How we vet guides
02

Personal Suitability

Mind-altering substances may not be suitable for everyone. If you have a personal or family history of mental health challenges or are currently on prescribed medication, it is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before considering a journey.

03

Reverence and Respect

Approach these substances with the utmost reverence and respect. Recognize their power and potential impact on your life. Treating these substances with respect can minimize risks and lead to more positive outcomes.

04

Informed Decision-Making

Knowledge is your best ally. Before embarking on any journey, invest time in comprehensive research. Understand factors such as dosage, duration of the experience, potential risks, and contraindications. Resources like Erowid can provide valuable information and serve as a starting point for your research.

05

Substance Testing

Always ensure the substances you intend to use are what you believe them to be. Testing kits, such as those offered by DanceSafe, can help verify the authenticity of your substances, reducing the risk of unintended harm.

06

Mindful Set and Setting

Your mindset (set) and physical environment (setting) play crucial roles in your experience. Cultivate a calm, equanimous mindset leading up to your journey. Engage in practices that resonate with you, such as meditation, spending time in nature, journaling, or creating art. Be prepared for the possibility of revisiting past traumas, as this can be a part of the healing process.

Consider every element of your external setting, including the location, lighting, sounds, and people you’ll be with. Create an environment that fosters trust, acceptance, and psychological safety. Avoid public settings that may introduce unnecessary distractions.

07

Avoid Solo Journeys

High-dose journeys are best undertaken with a trusted, sober friend nearby who can provide a supportive, grounded presence. If you decide to journey alone, ensure you have access to the Fireside Project app or their contact number (62-FIRESIDE / 623.473.7433) for added support.

08

Attend to Basic Needs

Ensure you have access to essential necessities such as water and restroom facilities during your journey. Dress comfortably, and have a blanket nearby for added comfort.

09

Flexible Setting Adjustments

Small changes to your environment, such as altering your music playlist, adjusting lighting, or stepping outside, can significantly impact your experience. Be open to making adjustments that enhance your journey’s comfort and safety.

10

Establish Clear Agreements

Before your journey begins, discuss boundaries and intentions with your guide. Create an agreement that includes respecting their guidance and decisions during the experience for safety purposes.

11

Integration and Reflection

After your journey, take time to integrate your experience. Share your insights with trusted individuals who were present during your journey or with a supportive community. Utilize expressive arts, journaling, meditation, or nature to help unpack and understand your experience. Avoid making major life decisions immediately after your journey.

These safety principles guide us in providing you with a secure and supportive environment for your transformative journey.

We are here to help you navigate your path with confidence, prioritizing your safety and well-being.

Two hikers near a misty summit, one steadying the other over rocky ground.
Ready when you are

Walk it with someone vetted.

Book a complimentary 15-minute call, or take the two-minute self-evaluation to see if this is your moment.